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.
The diversity of flora directly depends on the area. The coastal region abounds in 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, on the most high peaks coniferous forest and wild flowers settled in. 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. The executive branch is 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 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.
Greece welcomes tourists throughout the year, but the most favorable time for those who like to sunbathe and at the same time get acquainted with the sights of the country is the period from March-April to September.
Summer in Greece quite hot. The average air temperature reaches +30 °C. Quite dry climate. It is thanks to this that even on the hottest day a person who arrives here feels comfortable.
It's not very warm here in winter. On average – up to +10 °C. It's raining. Therefore, a married couple who is planning to spend honeymoon in Greece, you should think about traveling in June – September. It is advisable to plan it in advance, 3 months in advance. And in order to determine where it is best to go, you need to think through everything that the couple wants to see in their wonderful vacation.
Islands in Greece
Each of them is unique and original in its own way. A holiday on any of the islands is very romantic. Hydra, Crete, Corfu, Mykonos and many more large and small cozy corners.
Newlyweds will be offered secluded hotels that are quite cozy. If you want to enjoy nature and the sea on vacation, the couple can enjoy an unforgettable cruise around the islands. The list includes the most romantic of them:
- Syros;
- Naxos;
- Skopelos;
- Andros.
The newlyweds will choose an active holiday or a pleasant solitude on the beach; interesting experiences and adventures await them. The hospitality of the Greeks will also please you. The main thing is that both of you like the travel and hiking routes. There are plenty of options. Consider, choose, think what is best, preferably several months before the trip.
On the islands there is the opportunity to go diving, take walks in the open sea, and fish underwater. Start family life in Greece will saturate the couple with impressions, delight them with luxury and romance. For a honeymoon, the Greek islands are primarily recommended: Crete, Mykonas, Santorini. A trip to any of the islands of the Aegean Sea will be unforgettable. Mainland Greece will provide no less vivid impressions.
Crete is perfect for the solitude of newlyweds. Its beaches are deserted, but hotels offer couples a rich entertainment program. Proceeding to the central part of Crete, you can get acquainted with the ancient settlements with the traditional and original culture of the Greeks.
Santorini will reveal unique landscapes to the eyes of the newlyweds and present the beauty of the rocks. The capital of the island is Fira. Here the couple will find a volcano, which is located in the water, but is clearly visible from land. Seafood dishes prevail in the island's restaurants.
Minokos is an island of entertainment. There are bars and clubs here 24 hours a day, it’s beautiful beach holiday.
There are about 1,500 islands in Greece and only almost 250 of them are inhabited or most often visited by tourists. An even smaller number are popular ones, whose prestige is achieved through visits by celebrities and influential people.
The most famous islands that newlyweds love so much
First group - Cyclades. It includes:
- Naxos.
- Paros.
- Mykonos.
- Santorini.
Second group - Dodecanese(Southern Sporades):
- Karpathos.
- Rhodes.
Third group - Ionian Islands:
- Kefalonia.
- Elafonissi.
- Zakynthos
- Lefkada.
Let's take a closer look at the brightest places. An island that is many times larger in territory than all the others is Crete. He is considered the best resort Greece. Without exaggeration, you can see any of the world's celebrities here.
Crete is full of attractions. Palaces, theaters, museums coexist with cozy and rich hotels. The weather pleases tourists with hot sun. In summer, the air temperature here rises to +30 °C, and you can swim in the warm sea until November.
On Crete there are old cities: Chania, Rethymno. There are also mountains, underwater caves, rocks, and coral reefs. In the southern part of the island, the water can be seen for 40 meters during a dive.
Euboea. This island has mountains, forests, and steppes. It is the second largest island of Greece with its capital Chalkida. In summer, the air temperature reaches +35 °C. The water warms up to +25 °C. In Euboea you can find a relaxing holiday, but extreme types of tourism are also common. Here are the ruins of the Temple of Apollo. The city is decorated with winding streets lined with ancient houses.
Edipso s, there is healing springs. One of the bottoms is the most famous, it has been gushing out of the ground for 3 millennia. This source is called “therma Silla”.
Zakynthos is famous for its natural beauty. According to ancient Greek myths, the god Apollo settled here. Due to the fact that the plain of the island is surrounded by mountains, there is a lot of greenery. In summer, the air temperature in Zakynthos reaches an average of +26 °C. The sea is very warm. Already at the beginning of the season, the water temperature is +24 °C. The main attraction of the island appears in August. Giants come to his territory Caretta-Caretta turtles to breed offspring. Perfect silence is required from tourists watching the egg-laying process. Oddly enough, they comply with it. Another miracle Zakynthos– caves. They are called “Blue” because the water in this area acquired this color. In the east of the island there are beautiful slopes to the sea. It is in the east that all the main hotels are concentrated.
Corfu. This island has a huge number of olive and citrus trees. The most beautiful beaches located in rocky terrain. The most famous gastronomic attractions are local cheese and white wine. Most cold period in Corfu - January. This month the average air temperature drops to +16 °C. In summer it becomes twice as high, and the water is + 22 °C. most warm water in Corfu - in early autumn. The sea temperature reaches +28 °C. The holiday season lasts until October. Most auspicious month– August. In Corfu beautiful monasteries, cathedrals, fortresses. The island is also famous for its ancient Spianad square. The beautiful old town attracts tourists with its attractions and ancient streets with their majestic buildings.
Mykonos. The most expensive resort in Greece. Celebrities visit the island almost all year round. Beautiful beaches and an ancient city attract tourists. In summer it is not too hot here, and the water in the sea is like fresh milk. The administrative center of the island is Alefkandra city. The hotel houses are located here right next to the water. In this place alone there are up to 400 churches. It is also noteworthy that there are several nudist beaches on the island. They are located in the southern part.
Santorini. Newlyweds will be offered special services for their wedding ceremony on this island. And those who come here to spend their honeymoon will have a wonderful holiday. They start swimming in the sea as early as May. The most comfortable air temperature is +25°C. Fera– a city in which cultural values will appear to tourists. The most beautiful architectural structures and museums are located here. Among all this antiquity, modern cafes, sports clubs and fitness centers feel great. The restaurants here offer excellent Greek cuisine. Tourists will be offered original wines. There are several wine museums on the island that provide tasting rooms for visitors.
Rhodes. An island that combines ancient traditions and modern trends no less well than others. Thousands of tourists visit Rhodes every year, from March to November. It's quite hot here in summer. The sea is very warm. It warms up to +27 °C. Among the attractions are famous ancient monuments architecture. Street of Knights immerses tourists in the Middle Ages. There are majestic fortresses and palaces here. It is on Rhodes that there is a sand spit from which you can observe the confluence of two seas - the Mediterranean and the Aegean. The island has water parks, entertainment centers, casinos, and discos.
Mainland Greece
This part of the state is no less vibrant than the island part. This is where significant cultural attractions are concentrated. A huge number of excursion programs have been developed for tourists. Is in this parts of Greece and beautiful beaches. They are marked with a blue flag. Newlyweds can organize their holiday here on their own. You can rent a car and travel around cities and villages. It’s easy to find a quiet hotel and make forays from it to the most beautiful sights. There are many clean lakes on the mainland.
Opens its arms to tourists Central Greece, which is located between the Ionian Sea and the island of Euboea. Will receive the newlyweds and Attica, Thessaly, Peloponnese, Thrace.
Love poetry in Ancient Greece
Lakes in Greece
It’s not just the sea that’s beautiful in Greece. Dozens of beautiful lakes of different shapes and sizes have decorated the landscape of Hellas since time immemorial. In this article I want to tell you about the most visited and charming bodies of water in Greece.
Hilandar Monastery on Holy Mount Athos
In the northeast of the Athos peninsula of Greece there is the most ancient Orthodox monastery in this part of Athos - Khalindar or Hilandar. It was founded in 1197. The Khalindara Monastery is located in a very picturesque place and is surrounded on all sides by greenery.
Islands in the Ionian Sea
U west coast Hellas Greece belongs to a group of islands. They are often called the Seven Islands archipelago, although even the relatively large islands are eleven. But it just so happened: people appreciated only the most important objects. The total area of the Ionian Islands, included in the Greek “periphery” of the same name ( administrative District), is 2.3 thousand km2, and the permanent population exceeds 220 thousand people.
Greek saffron – the gold of the Greek land
Saffron is the most expensive spice in the world plant origin, which is obtained from the pollen and stigmas of the plant of the same name. According to botanists, it is not found in the wild in nature, because it has been cultivated since the beginning of the cultural history of mankind. The homeland of the plant is Asia Minor, Asia Minor, and India. Sometimes marigold pollen is passed off as a spice called saffron, which also has flavoring and coloring properties, but is much less valued.
This beautiful sunny country is open to tourists, down to the last island. You can relax and gain new impressions in almost any corner of it. Therefore, it is difficult to unequivocally answer the question of where is the best place to vacation in Greece. It all depends on what exactly you expect from your vacation.
Beach holiday
If you want to enjoy the sun, sea and air, then you have a very wide choice. A suitable place can be found both on the Greek mainland and on the island. But if your vacation falls at the end of April or the beginning of October, it is better to go to the islands. It is a little warmer there and therefore the holiday season lasts a little longer.
There is plenty of entertainment on both the mainland and the islands. But if you still want a quiet, secluded, measured rest, island resorts preferable. Young people who love nightlife often travel to the mainland.
And now – specifically for beach places.
- Crete. The eastern region of the island, called Lasithi, is intended for relaxation on the coast. There are many comfortable sandy and pebble beaches, amazingly beautiful nature (fir and cypress forests) and almost always clear weather. Quiet, calm, cozy.
- Kefalonia. There are several famous beaches on this island: Lourda, Gialos, Makris, Poros, Spartia, Skala and others. The most popular of them are Xi (here the sand is red) and Myrtos - pristine, surrounded by colorful rocks.
The beach, famous for its special reddish color of sand, is an extraordinary place
- Rhodes, Kos and other islands from the Southern Sporades series. They attract with a variety of beaches. There are beaches here with white, yellow and even black (volcanic) sand. Windsurfers love the beaches of the resorts of Ialyssos and Ixia on the island of Rhodes.
- Loutraki. This resort can be considered the answer to the question of where it is better to relax in Greece on the mainland. It is located 83 kilometers from Athens. The beaches here are as snow-white and clean as on the islands. In addition, the entertainment infrastructure is well developed here: many restaurants, discos, which makes this place very attractive for young people. It is also perfect for those who want to improve their health. This is facilitated by the presence mineral springs. Those who want to combine business with pleasure will also be satisfied: all historical attractions are very close.
- Chalkidiki. This peninsula is located in the north of Greece, it is washed by the waters of the Aegean Sea. It is considered one of the most environmentally friendly resorts in Europe. From it, like three fingers, grow the peninsulas of Kassandra, Sithonia and Athos. It's incredibly beautiful here! You look to the right - the blue sea plays in the sun, the bright yellow sand blinds your eyes, look to the left - the snow-capped mountain peaks shine.
Where is the best place to relax in Greece with children?
For family vacation The island part is more suitable. All conditions for this have been created here – both by nature and by the hospitable hosts. The warm, shallow sea, gentle slopes, many attractions, sports grounds, and parks make the resorts located on the islands very attractive for parents with children.
Rhodes, Crete and Lesbos. These large islands with well-developed infrastructure (there are shops and hospitals) are classic destinations for family holidays. In Crete, it is worth staying in the cities of Rethymno or Agios Nikolaos. While staying on this island, it is recommended to visit the Botanical Garden - children will have very vivid impressions. They will see how olives, avocados, passion fruits, pepino and other exotic fruits grow. You can admire the numerous waterfalls, lakes, and rivers located on the territory. And they will long remember the wild animals living in the zoo. And in Rhodes you need to see the Colossus of Rhodes - a giant statue of the Sun God and the Palace of the Grand Master.
Corfu continues the list of Greek islands where it is best to relax with a family. The local resorts of Benetsis and Glyfada will happily welcome little vacationers with their moms and dads. On the greenest Greek island, a whole complex with family hotels, restaurants and water parks has been built. For children there is a variety of entertainment. Hotels have game rooms with staff, and you can use babysitting services. So the children will have a good time, and the parents will be able to take a break from the children.
Hotels for family holidays - cottages right by the sea
Kos. Paradise Aegean Sea. The island offers an inexpensive and quiet holiday away from the noise of civilization. The resorts of Kardamena and Marmari have family hotels.
Peloponnese. Here is the Tolo resort, very cozy and comfortable for families. Safe beaches are located very close to the hotels. In addition, from here you can quickly reach Nafplion, a town with a rich history. It is here that sights such as the Plamidi Castle, ancient Mycenae, as well as the ancient theater in Epidaurus are located. Children will be delighted to see pictures from a history textbook come to life.
An ancient Greek castle with a centuries-old history simply attracts tourists with its secrets
Kassandra and Sithonia. The two “daughter” peninsulas of Halkidiki boast specially organized beaches for families. Shallow sea, gentle slope, pure water without jellyfish and other marine life, as well as safe sand for children's games are included.
The mainland part of the mythological country should be chosen by lovers of excursions. This is where the main cities of Greece are located: Delphi, Meteora, Athens Acropolis, Parthenon, Mount Athos, etc. You can visit them either by rented car, or with the help of tourist excursions or local transport.
Greece has a well-developed network of buses running between cities. Many of them “climb” into the most remote villages, where you can get acquainted with the life of the indigenous people and buy fresh products.
If you are a holder of a multiple-entry Schengen visa, it is from mainland Greece that you can travel to nearby countries. The main destination for tourists is usually Italy. Also, lovers of “long-distance” excursions go to Albania, Turkey, and Macedonia.
A distinctive feature of the mainland is its great shopping opportunities. This is especially true for vacationers in July/January. It is at this time that big sales begin in stores. Discounts on accessories, shoes and clothing from world brands reach 70%.
The island part of the country is the best choice for a beach holiday
The Greek islands are a place of true peace and tranquility. Here you are guaranteed a luxurious holiday. The local greets tourists sincerely, always comes to the rescue, and in the restaurant he listens carefully and accurately fulfills the order.
Greece has approximately 6,000 islands. However, in the tourist world, Crete, Rhodes, Corfu, Santorini, and Zakynthos have gained the greatest popularity. These places are often chosen by world-famous stars to relax.
The Greek islands really have everything you need for quality relaxation. Beaches, food and souvenir shops, restaurants with luxurious cuisine. However, be careful: nightlife lovers may find the island part of Greece a little boring. The resorts of the island of Crete are the most suitable for such a pastime.
There is sea communication between the Greek islands. If you wish, you can visit not one, but several places and be surprised at their dissimilarity. A colossal contrast is presented, for example, by the volcanic, “black” Santorini, fashionable Mykonos and green Corfu.
Residents of the Greek islands - special kind of people. They are very welcoming, calm and kind to tourists. Even if you do not speak their language, they will always come to your aid if difficulties arise.
When choosing between the islands and the mainland, some tourists recommend starting from the time of year. For example, if you are planning a trip in autumn-winter, choose. This is the best time for sightseeing and shopping. For summer holiday By the sea, it is better to prefer islands where, due to the presence of winds, the heat is not felt so strongly.
Greece is a country where almost all corners have access to the sea. Its favorable climate and magnificent beaches, as well as its rich history, make it an ideal holiday destination.
The Chalkidiki peninsula consists of 3 smaller peninsulas (“fingers”). The third of them is closed to tourists - it is located there Saint Athos- a complex of monasteries. But there are open monasteries that are worth visiting during an excursion to the holy place.
First finger - peninsula Cassandra. This peninsula is closest to Thessaloniki. Life is always in full swing here, especially at night, shops are open until late at night, and bars and discos are always happy to welcome guests. The peninsula is full of fishing villages, and you can always taste fresh fish. Among the attractions are ancient city Afitis, where the national style of houses has been preserved, the city of Kallithea with the ruins of the Temple of Zeus, the ancient cemetery in Polychrono and the Temple of Poseidon in Kalandra.
Second finger - . It is also called “Park of Greece” for the abundance of greenery in which the peninsula is buried. This Greek resort will be ideal for families with children and lovers quiet rest. Sithonia is one of the favorite holiday destinations of the Greeks themselves. Cozy hotels of any star rating with clean beaches and delicious food everyone will remember for a long time.
Attica and Athens
Athens is the capital of Greece and a city that includes so many attractions that even a couple of weeks would not be enough. The city is surrounded by beautiful resort villages where you can combine a beach holiday with an excursion program. The birthplace of democracy will surprise you every day! We will not describe all the sights of this glorious city, we will only say that lovers of active life should pay attention to the place - Glyfada with beaches, clubs and restaurants, and for those who prefer aquatic species sports and relaxation - Vouliagmeni.
A favorite holiday resort in Greece for the Greeks themselves, especially for residents of bustling Athens. This peninsula is located in southwest Greece. Here, every house is a small ethnographic museum, and every tavern is a gourmet's dream. There are healing springs here; many Greek families come here with their children to receive treatment and tell the story of their native country. There is Olympia- birthplace of the Olympic Games, Sparta- the world's first totalitarian state, Corinth- the place from where the Apostle Paul communicated in his “letter to the Corinthians”, Mycenae- the city from where Agamenon led the Greeks to Troy. And a lot more! This peninsula is perfect for those who love to be amazed and walk, ride bicycles and spend time with family.
Paralia - Katerini (Pieria)
This South part Macedonia is the northern resort of Greece. This is a fairly economical holiday among the resorts of Greece, and the 70 km of beaches of the Olympic Embankment will satisfy the needs of even the most demanding beach lovers. In addition, this resort will be of interest to fur lovers - there are many shops where you can buy a fur coat at a very reasonable price.
Most hotels offer holidays on a breakfast basis, few have their own pools, so Pieria suitable for people who like to walk and spend time outside the hotel. There are amusement parks for kids, while adults will enjoy local taverns, music halls and other entertainment.
Thessaloniki is the second largest city and resort in Greece with a population of over a million people. It is a major port and a large metropolis. Thessaloniki's cultural history is extensive, full of attractions and convenient for excursions around northern Greece: Church of St. Demetrius, Rotunda, Archaeological Museum, Arch of Galleria, fortress ruins...
You will like Thessaloniki as business people, who came to the conference and are accustomed to high level service, and young people who need a large number of night entertainment. Families with children will also enjoy Thessaloniki - there is a lot of interesting things for young and old!
The variety of resorts in Greece is always amazing and it is very difficult to choose what you need without knowing all the features. Our operators will select the most best option from the resorts of Greece, taking into account your wishes in terms of relaxation and entertainment.
