Where you can go in Greece. Where to go for the first time to Greece? What is attractive about holidays in Greece?

In Greece with the whole family

Greece is the cradle of all European civilization. It attracts millions of tourists every year from all over the world with its gentle sun, clean beaches and warm sea. This is a country that amazes with the presence of historical monuments, so excursion tourism is very developed here. The climatic conditions of Greece allow you to relax on its beaches all year round.

O. Milos, Greece

The country is washed by four seas: Mediterranean, Aegean, Cretan and Ionian. There are three climatic zones on its territory: Alpine, Mediterranean and temperate. It is the Mediterranean climate that contributes to the development of beach tourism: summers are hot and winters are warm. The number of sunny days per year is 300 days. The hottest months are July and August. The alpine climate is common in the mountainous regions of the country. Winters in the temperate climate zone are relatively cold, and summers are hot but humid.

Greece has all the conditions for a comfortable holiday of various types. All that remains is to decide what you would like to get from the trip. The beach season in Greece lasts from April to October. In the north and center the season is shorter, starting in May and lasting until September. May is the best time to travel to Crete and Rhodes.

O. Rhodes, Greece

Rhodes is one of the most popular and sunniest islands. The sun shines here 310 days a year. According to legend, Zeus raised the island from the depths of the sea and gave it to Helios. The island has a lot of greenery and cozy sandy beaches with crystal clear water where you can swim and sunbathe. In addition, the island will be of interest to history buffs and simply curious tourists, as there are a large number of archaeological sites and monuments on its territory. The main city of the island is Rhodes. It harmoniously combines the features of an ultra-modern metropolis and numerous architectural monuments with winding ancient streets.

View of the city of Rhodes

Crete is the largest island of Greece. Its length is 260 km. The tourism infrastructure here is very developed, so you can find accommodation of any class and for every taste. The island has both expensive penthouses and villas on the coastal area, as well as cozy inexpensive apartments. The island has five airports, so getting to it is easy. Balos Bay attracts many tourists with its amazing beauty. Nature here has been preserved in its original form; it is here that three seas merge. Elafonisos beach is very popular among vacationers, thanks to the shallow, surprisingly clean sea and beaches with pinkish sand.

Balos Bay, o. Crete

In Crete, three ridges form a mountainous area that stretches across the entire island. In this part of the island you can only travel by jeep due to the lack of roads. A trip through this territory will provide an opportunity to communicate with the indigenous people and get to know better the life and traditions of the descendants of the great Hellenes. Crete has a lot of historical architectural monuments, including the well-known labyrinth of the Minotaur. There are many secrets and legends associated with the island, this is one of the reasons why the island is so popular among tourists.

The beaches of the Kalamaki resort on the island of Zakynthos are attractive to tourists for their numerous sand dunes - “ammoculums”. In spring, the sand is covered with sea lilies, the scent of which can be heard even far out to sea.

O. Zakynthos

Fans of beach holidays with excursions and families with children will have a good time relaxing in Halkidiki. Olive and pine groves grow on this peninsula. The cleanliness of the water and beaches of this area is confirmed by the Blue Flags of the European Union. Halkidiki has the appearance of Poseidon's trident crashing into the Aegean Sea. The two fingers of the trident represent places that are best suited for families with children. Prices at these resorts are relatively low; almost the cheapest hotels in Greece are located here. At the same time, the level of service and comfort is quite high. There is a very picturesque coastline with comfortable beaches and clean water. Basically, there are three and four star hotels on the peninsula; five star hotels are less common.

Chalkidiki Peninsula

On the third finger of Poseidon's trident there are monasteries. This place with its holiness and positive energy attracts numerous tourists who want to be saturated with the positive energy of these holy places. Here is the sacred Mount Athos, which is not only a holy place, but also a unique museum. It stores ancient icons, church utensils, manuscripts, frescoes, etc.

Katerini is one of the cheapest resorts in Greece. This town with a well-developed tourist infrastructure is located in the north of the country. The service, despite the low prices, is at a fairly high level. The resort is surrounded by beautiful nature with good beaches.

Monastery on Mount Athos

For lovers of winter holidays, Greece has ski resorts. The largest and most popular of them is Parnassus, which is located in the very center of the country, 180 km from Athens. The resort got its name from the mountain peak, which, according to Greek myths, was the abode of the muses. The resort has 20 ski slopes with a total length of 14 km. The trails vary in difficulty and are distinguished by colors: red, black and blue.

The cheapest among the islands is Kos. If you choose a cheaper resort on the mainland, then you should pay attention to small seaside towns that are not very popular with tourists.

Review of the best beach resorts

Every year, holidays in Greece are becoming more and more popular among Russian tourists. Wide sunny beaches, warm sea currents, mountains, mineral springs - Greece has a lot to offer vacationers. Where exactly to go - BiletyPlus.ru will help you figure this out in its review of the most interesting and popular Greek beach resorts.

Crete

Crete is the largest Greek island, located in the very south of the country. The mild climate, various sandy and pebble beaches, mountains - all this attracts respectable tourists, young people, and couples in love. The best beach resorts, which boast ideal service, are located in the northern part of the island. And the water here warms up even faster than in neighboring Turkey.

Crete has several beaches that are considered the pride of a beach holiday in Greece. Firstly, this is Elafonisos, which the Greeks themselves recognize as one of the best in the country, thanks to the wonderful pinkish sand and shallow and clear sea. And secondly, these are the most magnificent beaches in Balos Bay, which are easiest to reach by ship. Here you can truly feel the beauty of a beach holiday - this is the confluence of three seas, which gives the water up to 12 shades of color. And besides relaxing on the beach, there is something to see here. An ancient fortress, pirate treasures, sea turtle dwellings. Maybe that’s why Balos became the place for Prince Charles and Princess Diana’s honeymoon?

Mykonos Island

Mykonos is preferred by noisy youth groups, since it is here on the island that a huge number of entertainment venues are located. Mykonos is all about parties, including beach parties, water parks, modern entertainment centers and nudist beaches. According to local residents, nothing should interfere with your vacation, this is the custom here.

The most famous youth beaches on the island are Paradise and SuperParadise. Numerous bars, restaurants, entertainment centers and souvenir shops can be found in every corner of the beaches.

Loutraki

One of the most popular resorts, located in the south of Greece near Mount Gerania, from Loutraki to Athens - 80 km. Both tourists with families and entertainment lovers will enjoy their holiday here. In addition to clean pebble beaches, where vacationers are offered a variety of water activities, Loutraki is famous for its hot mineral springs and Roman baths. There is a hydrotherapy wellness center and the beaches are surrounded by magnificent cypress and lemon groves.

Halkidiki

The peninsula of Halkidiki offers tourists majestic mountains and sandy beaches. Here men have a unique opportunity to climb the holy Mount Athos, where numerous Christian shrines are located. Halkidiki consists of a central part and three peninsulas, “fingers”, protruding into the Aegean Sea. The most popular “finger” for beach holidays is Cassandra. Snow-white sandy beaches and sea air mixed with the coniferous aroma of pine forests, excellent service, and a variety of entertainment for small and adult tourists attract family vacationers here every year.

Kos

The resort town of Kos is popular with fun groups, as entertainment is provided around the clock. On the coast you can find both sandy and small pebble beaches. Of particular note is the beach, located 10 km from Kos, covered with black volcanic sand, where in addition to a beach holiday you can enjoy swimming in thermal springs.

Rhodes Island

Both beach lovers and active tourists will find entertainment and relaxation here. The island is washed by two seas at once, so you need to choose a place to relax based on your preferences. If you are looking for a relaxing holiday on a sandy beach, then the east coast of Rhodes with its Mediterranean Sea is perfect for you. And if you are a lover of active water sports and windsurfing, welcome to the west of the island, where the often rough Aegean Sea creates ideal conditions for boarding. There are also various entertainment venues, an amusement park, a water park and windsurfing clubs located here.

Santorina

Santorini's beaches boast unique black lava sand mixed with volcanic pumice chips, and the sea is clear and calm. On Perissa Beach, when you buy a drink at a local bar, you will get an original sunbathing bed as a bonus. Badminton and volleyball games are popular among tourists here.

The red-hued Akrotiri beach is located in a remote part of the south of Santorini and is also covered with pumice and lava. Not far from the beach is the Faros lighthouse, which is famous for the fossilized turtle lying at the foot of the lighthouse, which is estimated to be 3.5 thousand years old.

The choice for a beach holiday in Greece is truly huge. To decide where to relax in Greece, you first need to decide for yourself with whom and why you are going on vacation. And then go to the website BiletyPlus.ru and organize your vacation according to your taste, starting with booking and purchasing tickets at the most attractive prices, choosing hotels and apartments, and ending with obtaining insurance and renting a car. And remember, Greece truly has it all. Have a nice holiday!

The list of holiday islands in Greece, where excellent seascapes are combined with ancient ancient artifacts, includes more than 100 items.

Tourists planning a trip may find this checklist useful:

1. Season. The optimal period for a beach holiday is from May to September. Comfortable air and sea temperatures will allow you to combine sea swimming with an excursion program. In autumn-winter, the mild climate and temperature within +10...+14°C give tourists the opportunity to take long walks.
2. Place. Upon arrival in Greece, a map with islands in Russian will help the tourist plan a route in such a way as to stop at one, but also visit other interesting places around.
3. Housing. When choosing it, you can focus not only on hotels and resorts that offer full board, but also on private apartments in small villages, thanks to which you can better feel the atmosphere of the ancient country. It is better to book this option in advance.
4. Visa. To visit Greece you need a visa, but you can only choose those resorts where entry permission is issued on the spot.
5. Religion. If the trip is not undertaken for the purpose of pilgrimage, it is better to avoid major religious holidays, during which access for tourists to many attractions is limited. Women are advised to take a scarf or head scarf when traveling so that they can visit churches.

How to get to the islands of Greece?

Direct flights from Moscow are available in the summer to Crete or all year round to major cities (Athens or Thessaloniki). From them, tourists go on vacation on domestic flights. The best price for tickets is in November.
List of airlines: Aegean Airlines, Ellinair, Aeroflot, UTair.

By adjusting the duration of connections between flights, you can have time to see the mainland attractions of the country. Flights with connections in European cities are possible.

The most picturesque islands

If, when choosing a destination to go on vacation, a tourist gives preference to beautiful landscapes, in Greece it is better to stay in Santorini or Skiathos. Although literally every corner of this country can compete for the title of the most picturesque.

Santorini

It is one of the most beautiful islands in Greece due to its interesting landscapes: the rocks are dotted with small cloudy white houses with azure roofs. Nearby are small temples with blue domes. You can appreciate the landscape by taking a boat trip on a ferry or yacht.

Despite the lack of fresh water, local residents grow fruits and vegetables, and vineyards and eucalyptus groves cover much of the land. Therefore, relaxation will take place among flowers and greenery.

The beaches of Santorini are impressive with black or red sand, the best of them being Perissa and Kamari.

Fans of archeology will be able to see architectural monuments of the Cycladic civilization on the island and visit the excavations of the ancient city of Thera (9th century BC) in the east. Here you can see the ruins of old Roman baths, theaters, markets, visit an 18th-century monastery, an archaeological museum, the monastery of the Prophet Elijah and the convent of St. Nicholas.

Skiathos

Monuments of ancient culture are located here along the entire coast, and the combination of interesting cuisine with seascapes and excellent beaches, of which there are more than 60, will suit visitors with different interests.

Skiathos is an island for active tourists: lovers of yachting, jet skis, parachutists. There are also attractions on Skiathos: the ruins of Kastro, the Venetian fortress of Bourtzi, the monasteries of Our Lady and Evangelistria. The latter are producers of local specialties. You can not only taste or purchase cheese, olive oil, wine, and liqueurs, but also try to make it yourself.

The best Greek islands for a beach holiday with children or couples

Resorts in Greece with sandy beaches and a mild climate are what you need for a holiday with children or a couple. And Crete is the eighth largest island in Europe and the largest island of Greece, located in the Aegean Sea, and it will introduce tourists to the world of Greek mythology.

Evia

Evia, located in the Northern Sporades archipelago, is best for travelers with children or small, quiet groups.

According to legend, the campaign against Troy began from here, and Hercules himself treated himself to mineral waters. This amazing climatic zone combines a centuries-old pine forest, sea beaches bordered by powerful rocks, healing mud, and hot springs among mountain gorges.

At the same time, the proximity to the mainland (only 80 km to Athens, there is even a 14-kilometer bridge across the Euripus Strait) makes the most intense excursion program possible.

Crete

The sandy beaches of Crete are especially good for families with children or couples in September, when the velvet season begins on the Greek islands. Although the mild climate and beautiful nature make sea swimming possible here already at the end of April.
Crete is an amazing place where all the ancient myths seem to come to life against the backdrop of the mesmerizingly beautiful local landscapes. This is the historical and cultural center of the ancient Cretan civilization, rich in ancient monuments.

Here King Minos kept the Minotaur in his palace called the Labyrinth. And in our time, visiting the Knossos Palace made of different types of stone in Heraklion will bring pleasure to tourists of any age. The first use of water supply, sewerage, ventilation, and heating is associated with its construction.

For children, Crete offers 4 water parks, a large CretAquarium aquarium and a wonderful family park “Labyrinth” with attractions.

The most frequently visited island among tourists among the Ionian Islands in the west of the country. The nature reserve attracts people from all over the world with its olive groves, citrus orchards, and lush greenery. Corfu is famous for its quality service and attracts many tourists during the season, which is worth considering when planning your trip.

When wondering which Greek resort to choose for a holiday with children, in Corfu, take a closer look at the cities of Moraitika and Messonghi - there are long sandy beaches with a smooth descent to the sea.

History buffs will be able to ride along the Lovers' Canal in Sidara, see the Byzantine churches in Kerkyra, and in the Old Town visit the royal palace, Empire style houses, and an ancient Venetian fort.

Belongs to the Greek Dodecanese archipelago and attracts many tourists. Hotels, bars, and restaurants are concentrated here. Teenage children and young people will appreciate the party atmosphere of the central areas. The island's beaches are shallow, safe, sandy places for the whole family.

The islanders respect medicine, because Hippocrates was born here. Therefore, tourists who are interested in medicine choose a holiday in this place among all the islands of Greece. Children will be interested to see the thousand-year-old plane tree, which, according to legend, was planted by Hippocrates in his youth, or take part in the traditional oath ceremony for future doctors.

Water parks Aquis Marine Resort, Lido Water Park, Go Kart karting centers, Baywatch water sports club - the choice of sports guys and young couples for a vacation on Kos. And very young travelers can interact with animals in the Physiko Parco tis Zias nature reserve.

Go to Zakynthos if you are thinking about which Greek island to choose for an intense children's vacation at the sea or a relaxing holiday for two. There are fewer tourists here than in other Greek resorts, which guarantees a measured pace of vacation.

The southernmost of the seven Ionian islands will offer visitors not only 123 km of comfortable pebble and sandy beaches, beautiful azure bays with grottoes and green gardens, but also a large list of hotels. In the south and southeast of Zakynthos there is a marine reserve with rare animals such as the caretta turtle and the monachus seal.

The island's landscapes are exquisitely complemented by Venetian towers and fortresses; the capital has a similar Venetian St. Mark's Square with a Catholic Cathedral.

A place that preserves national flavor and ancient buildings. Perfect for a couple's walk after relaxing on Myrtos Beach, during which you can see such attractions as:

• Drogarati cave - with a “front” hall decorated with “chandeliers” made of hundreds of stalactites;
• the mystical underground Lake Melissani, discovered after the ceiling of his cave collapsed, allowing sunlight to penetrate here;
• the Venetian town of Fiscardo, the only one that did not suffer from the terrible earthquake and therefore preserved its historical appearance.

Islands for young people and couples

Tourists call Rhodes among the most romantic holiday destinations, and young people will appreciate the nightlife of fashionable Mykonos.

An important tourism center off the coast of Turkey. European tourists consider Rhodes the best resort in Greece. According to legend, Zeus raised it from the bottom of the sea as a gift to the sun god Helios.

Rhodes has a variety of hotels and beaches: there are small hotels for couples looking for privacy, as well as chain hotels with night discos and round-the-clock parties for dance lovers.

At the same time, the island is also attractive for visitors who are interested in archeology and the ancient world. The list of places to visit should include the ruins of ancient Kameiros, the Rhodes Fortress, the castles of Archangelos and Monolithos.
Lovers in spring or summer should visit the Valley of Butterflies.

Located in the Aegean Sea, it is the center of Greek nightlife. The resort for wealthy tourists, including world stars, is famous for its tolerance to the whims of its guests. This is a place of entertainment, in a relaxed atmosphere where you can choose daily pleasures according to your mood: a party on the best beaches, shopping in stores of world fashion brands, a quiet beach holiday, watching the sunrise on a yacht, surfing, a Greek dinner under the stars.

Many of Symi's sandy or pebble beaches are located in such a way that they can only be reached by sea. This attracts lovers to the island, who can spend a vacation here together, away from other tourists.
Interesting Greek architecture and seascapes will be a good backdrop for photographs.

Ideal places for a secluded holiday with an authentic atmosphere

Small, sparsely populated Greek islands give travelers the opportunity to experience all the traditions of the region in their original form. For many, such a vacation is preferable to five-star service.

It is famous for its coastline, along which sandy or sand-pebble beaches stretch. Here you can choose a swimming place to suit your taste: from an organized one with bars and restaurants on the shore to a sports one, offering various types of water sports. Lovers of “wild” holidays will also find beaches here for themselves.

Chios

The island offers a secluded getaway. There are fewer tourists here than in other Greek resorts. The beaches of Chios are the spacious black-pebble Mavra Volia Beach, the small Vroulidia Beach, consisting of a mixture of pebbles and sand. The sandy beaches of Komi and Karfas, ideal for children, are noteworthy.

Ancient Orthodox shrines (the monasteries of Nea Moni, Ayia Markela and Agios Konstantinos) will be an interesting addition to your holiday. You can feel the closeness to Turkey by visiting the capital and visiting the 10th-century fortifications with Turkish baths and the Byzantine museum located in an old mosque.

Lefkada

The island is located in the Ionian Sea. It is connected to the mainland by a pontoon bridge, which gives tourists the additional advantage of not being subject to the vagaries of nature and enjoying the scenery almost all year round. Lefkada has a mountainous landscape and lush green surroundings.

The island is a center for water sports. Kitesurfers, divers, and windsurfers feel great here. In summer, lovers of an authentic atmosphere can take part in a large folklore festival.

Greece as a travel destination is indeed very multifaceted. There are resorts here to suit every taste and budget (not to mention attractions)!

Here, I’ve compiled a table to make it easier to navigate the main Greek resorts:

Resort	How to get there	Prices	Beaches	For whom
Athens Riviera	Athens international airport	$$$	sandy, pebble	for everyone, especially for those who have little time to relax and want to see the Acropolis of Athens
Thessaloniki	your own international airport	$$$	sandy	for everyone, and especially for those who want to buy a fur coat
Crete	two international airports and one local airport	$$$	sandy, pebbly, there are areas with an entrance to the sea on stone slabs	for all
Rhodes Island	your own international airport	$$$	pebble, sand, sand-pebble	for everyone, especially surfers
Corfu Island	your own international airport	$$$$	a narrow strip of sandy and sand-pebble beaches	for lovers of a relaxing holiday, as well as Orthodox pilgrims
Santorini Island	by plane from Athens, Mykonos, Rhodes or Crete by ferry from the port of Piraeus, Cyclades, Crete, Rhodes or Kos	$$$$	beaches with sand of different colors, especially popular beaches with black volcanic sand	for romantic couples, for active and curious people (not for families with children)
Kos Island	your own international airport	$$	sandy and small-pebble	for lovers of a calm, peaceful holiday and families with children
Zakynthos Island	your own international airport	$$	a narrow strip of sandy, pebbly and sandy beaches	for lovers of a relaxing holiday and families with children
Kefalonia Island	your own international airport (by charter or plane from Athens)	$$$	sandy and pebble	for connoisseurs of agritourism and lovers of “Greece without pizzerias and McDonald’s”
Mykonos Island	your own international airport	$$$$	in the West - the coast of the Aegean Sea - pebble; in the East - Mediterranean Sea - sandy	for everyone, especially for young people and tourists with non-traditional sexual orientation
Chalkidiki Peninsula	transfer from the airport in Thessaloniki (from 45 km and further)	$$$	sandy beaches with a gentle entrance to the sea, 95% of the beaches have been awarded the blue flag for cleanliness	for families with children and active tourists, youth, as well as for male Orthodox pilgrims
Peloponnese Peninsula	its own international airport (Araxos), as well as Kalamata airport, which receives local and charter flights	$$$	sandy and sand-pebble	for everyone, and especially for lovers of archaeological sites
Pieria(Paralia Katerini)	transfer from the airport in Thessaloniki (approx. 106 km)	$$	sand and pebbles	for lovers of mountain holidays and those who plan to buy a fur coat

Athens Riviera

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

The Athens Riviera is an ideal place for walking and swimming, as well as a variety of sports and outdoor activities, with the appropriate infrastructure.

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

The main resort towns of the Athens Riviera:

Faliro, Marina Flisvu

Flisvos has a delightful bay with stunning views of the Sardonic Gulf. The local marina and bay as a whole are the “calling card” of the Athens Riviera, and Flisvos Park is surprisingly good for relaxing walks or cycling.

Take into account: until September 30, from Wednesday to Saturday from 17:30 to 20:30, everyone is offered free bicycles for a three-hour walk, as part of the “Tram - Bicycle” program. Coastal routes".

Glyfada

Glyfada is one of the most beautiful suburbs of Athens, distinguished by its delightful sandy beaches, decorated with date palms. Here you can get immense pleasure from swimming in the clearest water, as well as partying until late in the famous clubs of the area.

Elegant villas, stylish shops, popular restaurants and luxury hotels - all this together creates 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 area of ​​Voulas, a real decoration of the Athens Riviera, with two well-equipped beaches and promenades: A' and B' Voulas. It is an ideal place for swimming and water sports, with excellent recreational conditions 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 right by the sea, continuing your day with refreshing cold cocktails - right up to the evening - in one of the nearby clubs.

A' Voulas beach was awarded the Blue Flag in 2011 - evidence that this is a great place for a family holiday.

Vouliagmeni

Vouliagmeni is an impressive suburb, with lush vegetation and beautiful beaches. Here are some of the most fashionable hotels and respectable restaurants of Attica, as well as famous night music and entertainment centers that can satisfy the needs of the most discerning visitors. Don’t miss the opportunity to swim in the crystal waters of Asteras Beach, awarded the Blue Flag in 2011, and serenely relax while admiring the beauty of the surrounding nature.

Please note: Lake Vouliagmeni is an area of ​​outstanding natural beauty, definitely worth a visit.

Varkiza

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

Be sure to sample unique fresh fish and seafood dishes in traditional taverns and ouzeri (drink bars).

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

The scenic coastal route along the Saronic Gulf also includes unique tourist resorts such as Lagonisi and Saronida, ending at Cape Sounion, dominated by the majestic Temple of 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 in the direction of Voula (stop “Asklpiio Voulas”).

Line Τ3– the Voula – Neo Faliro route 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(Acadimia - Glyfada, along Vouliagmeni Avenue)
• Ε22(Acadimia – Saronida, express).

Thessaloniki

The second largest city in Greece after Athens. Strictly speaking, it is not a resort, because 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 Galerius, Agora, Roman Forum), museums, a water park and amusement park, nightclubs, restaurants and family taverns, and many shops, including, fur shops

pros

• own airport
• many attractions
• an opportunity to see the sights of the Greek capital, which takes quite a long time to get to by ground transport from other resorts
• vibrant 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. There are the most hotels and a huge number of attractions here: archaeological excavations in Knossos, Malia, Festos and Gortyn, medieval Venetian buildings in Heraklion, Chania and Rethymno, the Samaria Gorge, the picturesque Lassithi plateau 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 the Aegean Sea by a 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 arts festival and a colorful carnival in Rethymnon. Active recreation enthusiasts 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 beauty and archaeological sites (the historical part of the city of Rhodes is included in the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List and, believe me, it’s worth it!). The history of the island is closely intertwined with the history of the Knights of Malta. It's no surprise that the island is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Greece.

In the summer, Rhodes hosts various festivals: the medieval one, where residents in historical costumes hold a fair, exhibition knightly fights and other exciting performances, and the watermelon festival, where you can see many amazing crafts made from this berry: plates, candlesticks, soccer balls, hats, and also ride on watermelon rinds.

pros

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

Minuses

• can be too windy, especially on the Aegean coast

Corfu Island

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

An interesting experience could 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 that organize kite surfing, jet skiing, parachute flights over the sea, diving, etc. For the Orthodox, in the center of the island’s capital, Kerkyra, there is a cathedral with unique incorruptible relics Saint Spyridon of Trimifuntsky.

pros

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

Minuses

• not many attractions and entertainment, can be a bit boring
• a rather narrow strip of beaches located along the highway; Not all beaches are sandy
• 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 became the island of Santorini. Because of this, there are black mountains and beaches of various colors all around - 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 sank to a depth of 300-400 meters after the earthquake, that the lost Atlantis is located. Many tourists choose this island for romantic dinners, wedding celebrations and honeymoons: the breathtaking views and 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 culprits could be the Achaean Greeks who invaded from the mainland.
2. Jules Verne visited Santorini with a group of volcanologists. What he learned here was used by him to describe a volcanic eruption in the novel The Mysterious Island.
3. Pumice from the quarries of Santorini was used in the 60s of the 19th century during 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 of the Greek cruise ship Sea Diamond in 2007 when it struck a volcanic reef on 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 on the list of the most beautiful islands in the world, leaving behind Bali (Indonesia), Cape Breton (Canada), Boracay Islands (Philippines), and the 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 carries danger and destruction. Here you instantly realize the full power of nature and our planet and get a sense 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 will definitely not have enough time to get acquainted with the beauties and attractions of the island.

Some attractions and walking routes on Santorini:

• Excavations of an ancient city near the village of Akrotiri, 15 km south of the island’s capital, 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-story houses, inside of which well-preserved frescoes were discovered, somewhat reminiscent of the 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 the top of a steep cliff.
• Perissa - Mass of Vuno - Ancient Thira. Following this route from Perissa Beach (with black volcanic sand) takes you to Mass Vuno, where ancient Thera, the capital of the island, stood, and now excavations are underway, visiting which you can see the agora, theater, Roman baths, sanctuary, Gymnasium.
• Be sure to take a boat trip around the caldera, visiting the islands of Palea Kameni, Nea Kameni and Ferasia. The uninhabited island of Nea Kameni is the most visited among tourists - it is, in fact, an active volcano that 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, since 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 is yellow-blue in color due to the high sulfur content. You can swim in them, but after that you will have to throw away your swimsuits and swimming trunks, because... This cannot be washed off.

pros

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

Minuses

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

Kos Island

A small cozy island (only 112 km of coastline), part of the Southern Sporades archipelago. Strong winds often blow here, which is why most of the northern coast is undeveloped. 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 quiet, measured holiday
• natural, architectural and historical attractions for every taste

Minuses

• it might 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 - the symbol of the island (can be seen 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 arched galleries 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” - like in many tourist destinations, there is a dominance of pizzerias and McDonald’s, for 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 peninsula, between the islands of Ithaca, Zakynthos and Lefkada. Picturesque, green and very clean island. Unfortunately, many of the architectural landmarks on the island from the Venetian occupation were destroyed in an earthquake in 1953, but there are many wonderful places to visit on the island. The “hallmark” of the island is the world famous Myrtos beach.

pros

• great beaches
• good for families with children
• here you can feel the “real” Greece, and not one adapted for the Anglo-Italian tourist

Minuses

• Transport accessibility of the island is relatively difficult for Russians

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 holidays and life “to the fullest”. Representatives of the world's bohemia and the offspring of noble families of Europe like to relax here. The destination is also very popular among gay tourists.

pros

• great beaches
• wonderful tourist infrastructure
• scenic views

Minuses

• Transport accessibility of the island is relatively difficult for Russians

Chalkidiki Peninsula

Chalkidiki is three quite 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 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 clear 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 there are 19 Orthodox monasteries). Entry into this “monastic state” is only possible for men, it is limited and requires a separate permit.

pros

• picturesque 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

The truly huge one (with an area of ​​22 million km2) is called “Greece in miniature”; it has everything for which we love this hospitable country: beautiful beaches, picturesque mountain ranges, busy 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 the Ionian Sea, and in the east by the Aegean Sea. The two seas are united by the 6-kilometer Corinth Canal, dug by hand in the 19th century.

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 amazed 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 a good option. In other cases, I’m not sure: the beaches that we saw here cannot fully compete with the beaches I have seen previously in other parts of Greece, in particular: the suburbs of Athens, the Halkidiki peninsula, the islands of Crete, Rhodes, Corfu, Santorini and others - neither the cleanliness of the coast and water, nor the tourist infrastructure.

Being in mainland Greece, it is definitely worth getting to know the beauties of Pieria: this is where the habitat of the ancient Greek gods is located - the famous Mount Olympus with a magnificent national natural park on the slopes. The picturesque villages and mountain resorts at the foot of Olympus are full of charm. The mountain village of Litochoro was especially striking with its extraordinary atmosphere.

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

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

pros

• an interesting destination for excursion holidays, as well as for all those interested in mountain sports

Well, if you are still afraid to join the ranks of completely independent travelers, here you can choose and buy at a discount an organized tour to Greece with departure from any city in Russia, from the most reliable tour operators

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When vacation time comes, every person probably thinks about which country to visit. And if the choice fell on the land of Hellas, the question arises: “Where is the best place to relax in Greece?”

As you know, Greece is a country of warm azure sea and golden sand. It is famous for its huge variety of resorts. There are all conditions for a comfortable holiday: clean beaches, Mediterranean climate, as well as a large selection of entertainment for every taste. You can visit this fabulously beautiful country at any time of the year, but the high season here falls at the end of summer. Greece owns many islands, so if you are a lover of sea air, we bring to your attention the best places to relax. The most famous of them are Corfu, Rhodes, Crete and Mykonos.

This famous resort will be remembered by you for its pristine beaches, rich cultural and historical heritage and beautiful scenery. The island is divided into 3 parts, so here every tourist will find what he is looking for. If you strive for peace and quiet, then the Nissaki area is suitable for you; Dasya is suitable for youth or family holidays. But if you're into fun and partying, you need the part of the island called Ipsos. It so happens that Corfu combines many different cultures, such as Turkish, French, Byzantine, Roman and others, which is reflected in local traditions and architecture. Here you can see the ruins of the Temple of Zeus - a monument of ancient culture. If you are wondering where is the best place to relax in Greece, then this island will surprise you.

It is the most visited and famous island in Greece. Here you will find medieval architecture that has survived to this day. Rhodes is also famous for its unique ceramics, fine wines and delicious cuisine. One of them - a statue - glorified the island throughout the world. Rhodes can also be divided into 2 parts: a medieval town surrounded by the walls of an ancient fortress, and a modern resort town with wide streets, shops and a vibrant evening life. This is also one of those places where you can relax in Greece.

Bordered by Libyan, Aegean and This is a unique holiday destination, one of the best places to relax in Greece. According to mythology, it is the homeland of the gods. The nature on the island is extremely picturesque; moreover, here you can find small mountain villages, clean beaches and which, of course, attracts tourists from all over the world.

The island is famous for its beautiful scenery and vibrant nightlife. There are many beaches here, so you won't see large crowds of people in one small area. Also among other attractions is a beach for water skiers and nudists called Paradise. At Psarou Beach you will find a scuba diving center and excellent surfing conditions. The main attractions of Mykonos are the archaeological museum, which houses an ancient amphora dating back to the 7th century. BC, which depicts the Aegean Museum, the Ethnographic Museum, as well as the Church of Our Lady of Paraportiani.

Greece is a country of unlimited opportunities for tourists, so you only need to choose where to relax in Greece and your vacation will be unforgettable!