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The Best Greece Travel Agencies

Greece › Travel Agents for UK/US/Canada/Australia Updated: June 6, 2023 By Santorini Dave

• Where to Stay in Santorini
• Where to Stay in Mykonos
• Where to Stay in Crete
• Where to Stay in Naxos
• Where to Stay in Paros
• Where to Stay in Milos
• Where to Stay in Delphi
• Where to Stay in Corfu
• Where to Stay in Rhodes
• Where to Stay in Athens
• Fantasy Travel – Excellent travel agency in Athens, Greece

My son doing a handstand in Santorini , which along with Mykonos , Naxos , Paros , and Athens are the most popular stops for first-time visitors to Greece.

The Best Websites for Greece Travel Planning in 2024

Fantasy Travel – Greek travel agency in Athens, good for the UK, Ireland, and Europe. Email at [email protected] . Kayak.com – Flight search Booking.com – Hotels in Greece, best prices and selection FerryHopper.com – Best site for booking ferries in Greece RentalCars.com – Best site for booking rental cars

What is the best luxury travel agent for Greece?

All of the travel agencies listed here can book both luxury and budget trips. There’s no need to use a specialty agency for luxury bookings.

What is the best tour company for Greece?

It’s not necessary to use a travel agency or tour company for planning travel in Greece. You’ll pay more and get a worse selection of hotels. The best way to book Greek ferries , hotels, flights, tours, and rental cars is through specialized websites that will find the best deals and most options. And regardless of how you book, please avoid doing a cruise to Santorini or Mykonos as they are an awful way to experience the magic of the incredible Greek islands . But if you still decide to use a travel company then the following list of travel agencies are good, reliable, and trustworthy.

Travel Companies that Specialize in Greece & the Greek Islands

City Travel Agency Phone Number Athens, Greece Fantasy Travel 30.210.3310530 NYC, New York Hellenic Holidays 212.944.8288 Washington, DC Homeric Tours 800.223.5570 Chicago, Illinois Windy City Travel 312.951.0710 Boston, Massachusetts Kutrubes Travel 617.426.5668 Atlanta, Georgia Homeric Tours 800.223.5570 Seattle, Washington Mike Salvadore 425.483.8687 Houston & Dallas, Texas Homeric Tours 800.223.5570 Los Angeles, California True Greece 800.817.7098 San Francisco, California True Greece 800.817.7098 Denver, Colorado Homeric Tours 800.223.5570 Toronto, Canada Mr Travel 416.461.2424 Vancouver, Canada Omega Travel 604.738.7161 Montreal, Canada Magik Tours 514.344.9518 London, UK Fantasy Travel 30.210.3310530 Dublin, Ireland Fantasy Travel 30.210.3310530 Singapore Fantasy Travel 30.210.3310530 Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Australia Fantasy Travel 30.210.3310530

Travel Agencies in Athens

Fantasy Travel is located in Athens, Greece and is a reliable company for booking packages, hotels, ferries, flights, and tours. (But once again, this is relatively easy to do on your own.)

Greece Travel Agent in the UK

Ionian & Aegean can arrange holiday vacations for all United Kingdom departures. Fantasy Travel in Athens is also a good choice for travelers from Britain, including London, Birmingham, Liverpool, Manchester, Leeds, Bristol, Edinburgh, and Glasgow.

Thomas Cook Alternatives

With the collapse of Thomas Cook Holidays many hotels and resorts in Greece are scrambling to fill rooms. There’s never been a better time to get great deals online (and avoid the large package and all-inclusive travel companies).

Do I need a travel agent to book my vacation to Greece?

Absolutely not. There is so much good online information for Greece and the Greek Islands that it’s easy to arrange a Greek vacation on your own. Travel agencies promote the hotels and tours that they’ve arranged special deals with. If you book through a travel agent you’ll often have a small selection of resorts to choose from – sometimes these are still very good but it’s much better to choose based on your interests and not be limited by the previous arrangements the agency has made.

But isn’t it a lot of work to figure out a Greece holiday?

I guess if you want to make it hard, you can make it hard. But it certainly doesn’t have to be. Pretty easy actually.

So, how do I book a vacation to Greece by myself? Where do I start?

I’ve written a lot about travel in Greece – start there. On almost every page you’ll find a comments section where you can ask me questions about traveling in Greece. Don’t be shy! I’ve never had a question that I thought was stupid or silly. (OK, maybe a few stupid ones, but I’m pretty open-minded.)

What are the best islands for a first-time visitor to Greece?

Santorini is an absolute must for all first-timers. It’s the most beautiful island in Greece – and maybe the whole world. Mykonos is a great island if you like beaches and nightlife. Naxos is perfect if you like beaches, culture, and a slower pace. Paros is somewhere in the middle – good beaches, trendy restaurants, and bars, but no big club parties. Crete is a wonderful island loaded with beaches, history, culture, and wonderful towns but it’s quite a bit bigger than the other islands I mentioned so go here if you have more than a week to explore it. There are regular ferries between all of these islands (from April to October) and island hopping is one of the most fun things you’ll ever do.

What websites should I use for booking my trip to Greece?

Kayak.com – Easy flight search. Booking.com – Huge selection of Greece hotels and the best prices. FerryHopper.com – The best site for booking Greece ferries. RentalCars.com – Renting a car in Greece.

When is the best time to visit Greece?

For sightseeing April, May, October, and November are great. For swimming, suntanning, partying, island hopping, and sightseeing then June, July, August, and September are best. From late November until March most Greek islands go into hibernation and have very little open. Crete, Santorini, Rhodes, Syros, and Corfu are the exceptions. For certain, they are much quieter during the winter but they will always have enough open to have a pleasant visit. Crete, in particular, has a large year-round population and plenty of activity in the winter. Whenever you visit and however you book it, I do not recommend doing a cruise to Santorini and the Greek islands. Read More Santorini Holidays – A Guide Best Hotels on Santorini Best Tours & Things To Do in Santorini Best Hotels on Mykonos Best Hotels on Crete Best Tours & Things To Do in Crete Best Hotels in Athens

About Santorini Dave

Hi Dave, it’s great that you take such time to answer Greece travel questions. So appreciated. My husband and I will be traveling to Greece for two weeks from late Sept into Oct. We are traveling with another couple who will have to end the vacation early(8 nights vs our 13 nights). I have planned our time as follows – Fly into Athens from Newark NJ spend 2 nights in Athens, ferry to Mykonos for 3 nights from there ferry to Santorini for 3 Nights. After Santorini our friends will fly back to Athens to catch the return home. My husband and I will ferry from Santorini to Crete for 4 nights then fly back to Athens for the return home. Does this itinerary make sense from a time standpoint? We want to avoid long ferry rides (6 hours +). Is 2 nights enough in Athens? Our friends wanted to do an extra day in Athens, but since they have to end the trip early, I don’t think it’s a good idea. Thanks so much for the help.

That sounds like a great itinerary. Two nights in Athens is enough time for most people but do plan for a busy visit to try to pack in the highlights.

When Island hopping, how do I plan on how much time/days to spend on each Island. This is my first time coming. My family is from Greece. I know I fly into Athens and need to book a hotel there. Do I book Hotel for each Island we go to?

Yes, book hotels for each island you plan to visit. Spend at minimum two nights on each island you visit – 3 or 4 nights is usually best. Be sure there are ferries running on the day you plan to travel between your current and next island.

Hi Dave, We’re planning 3 – 5 weeks in Greece in May, 2022. Hope you can answer a few questions. We’d like a relaxed pace, are thinking to do the minimum time in Athens, then more relaxed pace on Santorini, Naxos, and/or Milos & Crete. We’re don’t need time to hang out on any beaches but will visit beaches to sightsee and swim.

What’s the minimum time we should spend in Athens?

Does 3 – 5 weeks give us enough time to give the other destinations a relaxed visit? Or should we prune one stop?

We live near the beach in Honolulu, so we’re looking for some contrasting mountain time on this trip as well; can we get this in say, Naxos, or should we tack on another country? We’d like to go to Croatia but it doesn’t have to be on this trip.

We’re most likely to tack on a couple days on each end of the trip in London to visit family as well as reduce the number of connections on the long flight between Honolulu. Should we fly between Crete and Santorini? I’m assuming both have flights to London and possibly Dubrovnik?

Thanks for your advice, Scott

3 to 5 weeks will give you a good amount of time to explore Athens and those islands. Obviously, more is better. I’d fly London to Crete, ferry to Santorini, ferry to Milos, ferry to Naxos, ferry to Athens. Spend at least 3 nights in Athens. More if you want to include short trips to Nafplio, Delphi, or the Meteora (all highly recommended).

Hi Dave, So much great information! We are trying to book a honeymoon for the Greek islands for June / July 2022. We had a travel agent make an itinerary and I tried to price it myself for August 2021 since the calendars for these places/travel don’t stretch to July 2022 yet. His price came in roughly 25% higher. He said that everything is expected to just be more expensive next summer as a opposed to this summer because of lifted restrictions. I have 2 questions. 1) is there an expected big price increase from 2021 to 2022? 2) how much markup approximately do you think travel agents charge? Thanks for your help! Andres Hartman

1. Prices have actually been surprisingly high this year in Greece due (I think) to the unpredictable nature of booking and limited supply. 2. I have no idea what travel agents mark up the price, but 25% does not seem unreasonable.

Hello. I’m considering either Fantasy Travel or True Trips for an upcoming 3 week trip around the Greek islands. Do you have any comments on True Trips? Thanks.

I’ve heard different reviews of True Trips but have not had any direct experience with them. Like all vacation planning for Greece I recommend DIY. You’ll get the best trip and best prices by booking hotels, tours, and ferries yourself.

We are traveling to Athens at the end of July and have 2 weeks. We are flying direct into Athena and then would like to head to the islands. We love amazing beaches and are so drawn to the architecture of Santorini but also are more interested in the quieter side of the islands. We need to fly from an island to Rome as Rome is where we catch our flight home to the US. We’d like to spend 2 nights in Italy. Can you recommend a starting point of an island from Athens, then possibly another island, the probably ending in Santorini for two nights? Do you think Santorini is a good place to fly from to Rome or would you recommend another island?

Thank you so much! Jen

Yes, Santorini is a great island to catch flights to Italy (Mykonos and Crete are also good). There are many great islands between Athens and Santorini: Naxos, Paros, Mykonos, Milos are all wonderful. Sifnos, Serifos, or Folegandros if you want something a little quieter.

Do you know anything about Hellenic Holiday Tours in NYC? He gave me a price which seems to be a lot higher than if I booked everything myself.

How much does a travel agent typically make for a 11 day trip? How much are the ferries approximately and vehicle transfers? Obviously a travel agent deserves to make money for their work. Is this a trustworthy agency? He also included a walking tour in Athens, a cataraman dinner cruise, 2 domestic flights, and ferry rides and all vehicle transfers.

I do not recommend people use a travel agency to book a Greek vacation. Obviously, I’d need all the details to compare your holiday package to a DIY vacation, so I can’t comment directly, but in general you will get better rates and (just as important) better quality tours and hotels by booking everything separately.

We’re travelling with a big group next summer – mostly couples but there are 2 families – One with 2 kids (7 & 9), one with 3 kids (ages 4,6,8). Any recommendations of a Santorini hotels that can accomodate 2 family rooms with caldera views?

The villas at Aria Suites are absolutely wonderful and can accommodate a range of different-sized groups. (The suites are also great but don’t have the same caldera views.)

Can you recommend a Cave house for 4 in Santorini?

The villas at Aria Suites in Fira are wonderful. Cave houses with private jacuzzi. Great location steps from restaurants, shopping, and nightlife.

Do ferries run in March? I’m having a hard time finding the schedule for March from Athens to Crete, Mykonos, and Santorini?

Yes, ferries will run from Athens to all of those 3 islands but there might not be ferries between those 3 islands – those ferries start in March but the exact date differs every year and could be the 2nd half of the month.

Hi Dave, We’re looking for a place to stay on Santorini in May. There are 5 of us in our family, all adults. We’d like a nice view, 2 bath, 3 BR, $300-$500 per night. Any suggestions?

Nothing comes to mind in that range. 3 bedrooms are rare. 3 bedrooms with view are rarer still. And 3 bedrooms with view in that price range are non-existant. Sorry.

Hi Santorini Dave, We are planning to stay in Chania on our trip to Crete. Is that airport easy to get in and out of, with many flights available? Or better to use the Heraklion airport? Thanks for your continued assistance. You’re the best!

You’ll find more flights to and from Heraklion but Chania has a better more comfortable airport.

Hi Dave, We live in Boston and are planning a trip to Santorini and Crete May 15-25. Is there a best airline to travel? Should we fly into Athens then book another airline to the islands? Or fly direct? Best to fly into Santorini and then go to Crete, or vice versa? Which island has the most accessible airport? Appreciate any guidance. Love your site!

There are no direct flights from Boston to the Greek islands. You can either fly direct to Athens then fly (or ferry) to Santorini, ferry to Crete, then fly back to Athens. Or fly through a western Europe hub like Paris, London, Rome, or Amsterdam, then fly to Santorini (skipping Athens), ferry to Crete, then fly back to western Europe. The only difference between doing Santorini or Crete first is the timing of the ferries. Crete to Santorini ferries leave early in the morning. Santorini to Crete ferries go in the late afternoon. Otherwise there’s no difference.

Hi Dave, incredible site, glad I stumbled upon it. 4 of us (wife, 2 boys, 12 and 10) are starting the beginning stages of planning a trip to Greece next year, late June/early July. We thought about using a travel agent, but after reading your site, feel we can do it on our own. We’re looking to do 10 days, coming from DC. 1) The travel agent suggested Athens, Patmos, and Rhodes. Seems to be a lot of traveling in there between spots and I hadn’t really heard about Patmos. Any opinion on Patmos? 2) Our thought is Athens, Santorini, Naxos, and maybe Crete. Wondering if that is too much though. 1 day in Athens, 2 in Santorini, 2 in Naxos, 3 in Crete and 1 in Athens. That leaves 1 day, wondering if we need that extra one in Athens to view the Acropolis. Wondering if we should eliminate Crete as much as it pains me. 3) Our priorities our exploring the Greek Mythology, food, History tours (Ruins, Castles, Gods, and Olympics), cooking classes, volcanoes, snorkeling, boat ride, donkey tour, olive oil tour. Are the islands listed above good for these activities?

1. Patmos is rich with Christian history (primarily St John) and is a great island but it wouldn’t be my first (or second choice) for first-time visitors to Greece. And yes, that itinerary has a lot of travel – Rhodes is 6 hours away by ferry, Athens is 7 hours, and those ferries do not run every day. There’s no airport on Patmos. 2. With only 10 days, Athens is deserving of 1 day but no more. Santorini and Naxos would be what I would recommend but Knossos on Crete is a wonderful introduction to Greek myth (be sure to get a guide at the entrance gates), so it would be tough to drop Crete. No clear answer here. Try to fly one way to save time – e.g. ferry to Naxos, ferry to Santorini, ferry to Crete, then fly Heraklion back to Athens. Or even better you can fly from Santorini or Heraklion back to western Europe and not have to return to Athens at all – that will save you even more time. 3. Yes, those 3 islands are a perfect mix for your interests.

I’m planning a Greece honeymoon in September. We’re coming from the east coast of the USA. The plan is to fly into Mykonos for several nights there, then ferry to Naxos for several nights, then ferry to Santorini for 4-5 nights.

How easy it to get on and off the ferries with luggage? Since we’ll be traveling for a week and a half we’ll probably have 3-4 suitcases. And do Greek ferries charge per carry on item like airlines?

Also, thank you so much for dedicating your time and making this such an informative site. It’s very much appreciated.

There are no limits to how many bags you can take on a Greek ferry. (OK, technically, there probably are some restrictions but for practical purposes you can have as many bags as you want.) And there’s no charge for bags in any way. But you do need to be able to carry them on and off in one shot, so don’t plan on returning to grab that 3rd suitcase. It is a little tricky getting on and off with luggage (rollers don’t work on the grated ferry floor) but you don’t/shouldn’t take large bags upstairs. There’s storage on the entry level (with the cars) for all large baggage.

I’m in Greece from 18 November to 26 November. I have already booked myself at Elite Luxury Suites from 23 to 26 at Oia. Wonder if it’s the best choice that I have made!!??

Can you help planning the other days that I am left with? Some of the queries I had are: 1. Is it worth taking a ferry to Santorini one way and flying back? Or should I stick to flying both ways? 2. Would Paros be worth visiting during this time? If yes, how many days should I plan there and where can I stay while keeping in budget? 3. Is Hydra worth visiting? 4. Any day trip recommendations from either Athens or Santorini? 5. Must see historical sites in Athens? Do not wish to spend a lot of time in Athens. 6. Any must do in Greece during this time that I am missing? 7. Any other island that is worth considering given the duration and time of the year? I am more interested in good food and romantic/quiet time. I really wanted to visit Mykonos for it’s beauty of town but I don’t think it’s a good idea in November.

I hope that’s not too many questions for a single post!

1. With only 3 days there I would fly both ways. 2. Paros or Naxos are both good in November (though will be quiet). 2 nights there would be good. Or 3. 3. Yes, Hydra is great. But also quiet in November. 4. Nafplio is one of the best day trips from Athens. With only 2 full days on Santorini, no time for a day trip. 5. Read: Best Things To Do in Athens . (Do a food tour if you have time.) 6. Specific to late November, no. 7. Athens, Santorini, and Naxos or Paros will keep you plenty busy. No time for anywhere else (beyond one day trip to either Hydra or Nafplio).

This is great information. Could you tell me anything about Xenones Filotera? I am traveling with 5 in my family and through this looked nice but didn’t see any comments or information about it on your page. Martha

Xenones Filotera is a very nice place with incredible caldera views. The defining feature (for deciding whether to stay there) is the location. You’re not in any town but a 20 minute walk from Imerovigli and an hour from Oia (in the opposite direction). Few restaurants are within a quick walk (though the brand new Cavo Tagoo is next door and they have a great bar/restaurant). There is a bus stop (with buses going to both Fira and Oia) about 2 minutes from the hotel.

Do you know what is the best/most reasonably priced way to travel from Chicago to Santorini? We plan to visit in June. Currently, flights are not available, but want a place to start when they do become available. Thank you!

Use kayak.com to search for the cheapest flights to one of the major hubs in western Europe: London, Paris, Rome, Frankfurt, or Amsterdam. Then search for a cheap flight on a European budget airline (e.g. Ryanair, Easy Jet, Transavia, Volotea) to Santorini. If you want to visit more than one island or city in Greece then be sure to fly in and out of different airports so you don’t have to double back – e.g. fly Rome to Santorini, ferry to Mykonos, fly Mykonos to Rome.

Just wondering what you think of Dream Island Hotel? Is it close to the city centre of Fira? Is it a good hotel to stay at? We’ll be in Santorini in August. Leigh

A good value hotel with a very nice pool area and a 5 minute walk to Fira’s main square and caldera views. The views from the hotel are to the east (not the caldera).

We will be traveling with a large family group to Mykonos. We need 5-6 bedrooms and think we need to be able to walk to restaurants and bars as half the group are boys in 20s but would also like to be close to beaches. A villa would be great but are there any that are walking (really close to town) near beaches or pools? Your site very helpful but didn’t see much on villas or large group accommodations.

Nothing comes to mind right in Mykonos Town. A good compromise would be getting a couple of family rooms at Acrogiali Hotel on Platys Gialos Beach (several beach bars within walking distance and a short bus ride to nightlife of Mykonos Town).

I’d like to visit Greece in September (probably Athens, Santorini, and Mykonos). When should I book my flight and reserve my hotels? Is it getting too late to find good hotels?

Too late to book for September? No. Should you get looking for flights and start booking hotels? Yes. The earlier you book the better, but you still have plenty of time. The best hotels on Santorini can get fully booked 6 to 8 months in advance but there’ll often be something available right up to the last minute. If a caldera view is important then try to book a hotel at least 4 months in advance.

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My husband and I worked with Chris to plan our dream honeymoon to Athens, Crete and Santorini. 

Amy and Marylou,  July 2019 

Greece is THE most fantastic place in the world!!

Everything we dreamed of came true thanks to Chris and the Greek Travel Gurus. 

Two girlfriends looking for fun and relaxation, with a little mix of culture....

Popular Greece Trips

Sublime Sunsets of Mykonos and Santorini

1 night Athens

3 nights Mykonos

3 nights Santorini

4* Boutique Hotels - excellent locations / views

Private transfers all locations

Domestic airfare and ferries

Private tour Acropolis

Sailing trip Mykonos / small group

Wine tasting tour Santorini / small group

Sunset Catamaran Cruise Santorini / small group

Beginning at 2600 euros per person

More featured greece trips.

Highlights  for first timers

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This exciting trip will give you the best that Greece has to offer.

​Beginning with one night in Athens. A romantic dinner across from the moonlit Parthenon.  

A morning tour of the magnificent Acropolis. Your guide will fascinate you with tales of Pericles, Phidias and other famous Athenians of old.

Next to the sacred rock, the museum exhibits marble friezes and statues that once adorned the monument. Fantastic works of art that depict the city’s history. 

After a morning of exploration in Athens, a short flight to Mykonos.

Here you will indulge in 3 nights of decadent fun and relaxation.

​Cocktails and dancing on the popular beaches of Platys Gialos and Psarou. Frequent dips in the crystal blue waters of the Aegean.

Every day from dawn to dusk.

The party scene never stops!

It only continues with more music and fun in the bustling town of Mykonos.

The cosmopolitan restaurants.

The trendy night spots around Matoyianni Street and "Little Venice." The trademark windmills of Mykonos stand witness to the never ending fun.

Not by chance, Mykonos has become the international jetsetters favorite summer destination.

From Mykonos to the commanding cliffs of Santorini for 3 more nights of amazement. The exploding sunsets, succeeded by intimate breakfasts on your private balcony. High atop the volcanic cliffs. 

Romantic walks on the narrow walkways of Fira and Oia. Snapshots of the blue domed churches. The shimmering Aegean Sea is your backdrop.

Don't miss a visit to one of the island's many artisan wineries. Sweet Vinsanto wine, made with sun dried grapes is unique only to Santorini.

A tour of the remarkable digs at Akrotiri. The long lost Minoan city dating back thousands of years. Some believe it to be mythical Atlantis! 

​The greatest adventure for your last day on Santorini. A sunset cruise in the volcanic lagoon. Champagne and sea food, swimming and sun bathing. Watching in amazement as the sun comes down over the caldera.

Road trip in Greece

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It is all about the journey! 

A road trip for those who want to see all of the sites of Greece, but don't want to be trapped on a bus for days.  

This 10 night trip will take you through the eons. Across beautiful mainland Greece. From Athens to the Arcadian mountains. From the fertile Olympian plains to the mysterious monasteries of Meteora.

You'll begin with 2 nights in Athens. Here so many concepts that we still hold dear were born. Theater, music, democracy. You'll walk in the ancient Agora where Socrates and his students debated. You will witness the Doric columns of the Parthenon from up close. A visit to the Museum of Cycladic art will give you unique insight into thousands of years recorded history in the Aegean. Remarkable stone and clay artifacts from a time predating all the known civilizations of the Aegean.

The following morning, a rented car will be delivered to your hotel.

You'll load up and set off on the adventure of a life time.

Well planned, with only pleasant surprises. You begin your 8 night tour of the Greek mainland. 

A custom made road book in hand. You’ll have all everything you need to navigate from A to B.  

GPS coordinates. Phone numbers. Information on the important sites, and the towns where you will be spending the nights. Recommendations for dining, shopping and interesting little detours that you would never find on your own.  

The first destination on your road trip is the mountain citadel of King Agamemnon. Mycenae is the remarkable fortress with the famous Lion’s gate. From this gate, long haired Achaeans launched their 10 year war on Troy.   

The coming evenings will be pleasantly spent in the sea side town of Nafplion. The first capital of Greece after the war of independence against the Ottoman Turks in the 1820’s. The history of this period, still very visible in the elegant buildings. Colorful squares and stone walkways adorned with potted flowers and lemon trees. Imposing Palamidi fortresses guards the city from the mountain above.

   While in Nafplion, one must visit the ancient theater of Epidaurus. The best preserved of its kind in the world. To this day, thousands watch ancient tragedies that play out on the stone stage in the summer months and marvel at the acoustic engineering of the structure. 

From Nafplion you venture west.

Over the Arcadian Mountains covered in pine and plane trees. One of the oldest cradles of the Hellenic peoples, the mythical domain of the goat legged Pan. He terrorized these hills with his shrill flute, chasing the river nymphs deep into the forest.

The mountains are studded with remote villages, winding mountain trails, and mystic caves. You can stop along the way to enjoy the pristine countryside and enjoy a delicious lamb lunch at one of the roadside tavernas. 

You’ll reach the plains of Olympia, near the Ionian shores. You can rest from the journey before you explore the sacred site. Here, the concept of noble athletic competition was first conceived and so many eons ago. Since 776 BC and for almost 1000 years, the finest athletes of the Greek speaking world would gather here. From Marseilles  to Miletus. From the far shores of the Black sea to the Libyan gulf, they would converge on this site every 4 years to honor Olympian Zeus. Competing in running, fighting, chariot races and more “civilized” sports like the discus and the javelin. The victors were welcomed as heroes in the cities.

From Olympia you’ll continue north. Across the modern day miracle of engineering which is the bridge at Rion-Antirion. It spans the narrow entrance to the Corinthian gulf, connecting the Peloponnese to central Greece.

The day’s driving will take you along winding coastal roads. You can stop at any one of the quaint little fishing villages to stretch your legs and enjoy a Greek coffee at a sea side kafeneio. A well-deserved break for lunch in yet another historical sea side port, Nafpactos.

Once known as the naval stronghold of Lepanto, off this coast, the Spanish and Venetian fleets laid waste to the Ottoman navy. The spectacular naval battle took place in 1571 and littered the sea with wreckage and fire.  So great was the call to war, that it was answered by none other than Miguel De Cervantes. A bronze statue of him guards the gate of the fortified port.

The afternoon will find you checking in to the sleepy village of Galaxidi. Here you can wind down with a dip in the sea and an evening stroll in the colorful port. Each night, it comes alive with the laughter of children and the chatter of friendly locals who step out to enjoy the sea breeze.

There are many ways that you can spend the next day immersing in the local lifestyle. You can go out to sea on a traditional kayiki with one of the local fishermen. Hopeful of a bountiful catch. You can linger in the town and partake in a hands on cooking class. An introduction to the wealth of local tastes and scents. One more-well deserved afternoon of soaking in the sun at one of the beach bars on the outskirts of the town.   

After taking some time to live among the locals, you will leave Galaxidi behind and continue your historical quest. Stopping first at the spectacular Oracle of Apollo at Delphi. Just like pilgrims of old, you will walk the stone steps that lead to his sanctuary. Passing the stoas and treasuries where the Greek cities offered gifts to the sun god. The ruins of Apollo’s temple appear proudly against the rocky cliffs as you ascend.  The theater, and further up, the stadium carved into the side of the rock is an unforgettable sight. From here, you can marvel at the vast olive grove below, extending from the root of the mountain to the shimmering sea beyond. The silver olive leaves shining against the setting sun.

After consulting with the Oracle, you continue north across the alpine landscape of the Giona mountains. You will reach Thermopylae.

On this site, mighty king Leonidas and his heroic 300 Spartans stood against the hordes of invading Persians in 480 BC. Fighting to the last man, they held off the invaders for 3 days and nights. Giving valuable time to other Greek cities to prepare their defenses. His sacrifice to freedom is commemorated in a commanding monument near the battleground.

You can stop to reflect on the significance of this battle to world history. Without Thermopylae, there may never have been a Parthenon. There may never have been democracy.  Inspired and rested, you continue north. Deep into the Thessalian mainland.

By afternoon you will reach most unique rock formations in the world. Meteora. After some time to rest at your traditional lodging, you can select an elevated position across from the monasteries and prepare your lens.  This will be one of your most memorable sunset photographs.

The coming morning, you can drive up once more. This time to enter the 1000 year old monasteries and marvel at the fascinating feat of architecture. Like many a modern pilgrim, you can’t help but feel the serenity that emanates from this holy sanctuary.

From Meteora you will continue further north, into the Macedonian provinces of Greece. The ancient kingdoms of Phillip and Alexander the Great. Bordered to the south by Mount Olympus. To the east by the Thermaic Gulf. To the west by the sprawling Pindos Mountain range. In this land, Alexander amassed his vast army and set forth to liberate the Greek cities of the Ionian shores in. He brought the vast Persian Empire to its’ knees. Spreading with his passing, the Greek language and culture as far away as distant India.

In the village of Vergina, near the foot of Mount Olympus, lies the ancient burial ground of the Royal Macedonian bloodline. Here you can stop to see the exquisite bronze armor of King Phillip and his ivory tipped sword. The entrance to his monumental tomb has been preserved for thousands of years under the ceremonial burial mound.  

Thessaloniki, your ultimate destination on this epic road trip.

​Greeks refer to this romantic city with affection as “the Bride of the North”. You’ll arrive in the early afternoon. Just as all the shops open after the mid-day rest. The walkways come to life. The cafés on the coastal promenade fill with friends and couples who sip on their “freddo cappuccino” in the cool sea breeze. You’ll drop the car off and check into your hotel. You won’t need it anymore. All the exciting landmarks will be at your footstep.

The next two days should be spent blissfully taking in the wealth of Thessaloniki. The White Tower which stands at the edge of the sea, a testament to Greek suffering endured during 400 years of Ottoman reign. The Roman walls that encircle the city to the north, and the magnificent arch of Galerius.

Thessaloniki will not only reward your historical curiosity. The city will captivate your palette! A myriad of markets, authentic eateries, and pastry shops. 100 years ago, the Greek speaking people of Asia Minor and the Pontus were driven from their ancestral lands. They brought their culinary traditions here to Thessaloniki. And here they are kept alive and adored. A flaky breakfast pie with a sweet custard filling, Bougatsa is the only way to begin the day. Chopped into bite sized pieces. Sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar powder, served crisp and hot from the oven.

With these tastes and scents, your road trip in Greece has come to an end.

No need to return to Athens. Thessaloniki has an international airport from where you can catch an international flight to any destination.

Having seen the mainland like few have, the next visit to Greece will be devoted to the wonderful Aegean islands!

Adventure and Antiquities

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For those that want tread the ancient paths. Hike the majestic gorges and sail Poseidon's glorious domain, this trip is for you! 

This 10 night trip will take you from the mystical caves of Mount Parnassus, to the remote shores of Crete. From the pearly sands of Elafonisi to the volcanic beaches of Santorini. 

Since you will arrive in Athens, why not seize the opportunity to take in the history?

A mere tour of the sites is adequate for most travelers but not for you. We'll combine your visit to the Parthenon with a stimulating bike ride along the coast of Athens.

You can race down Akti Poseidonos and reward yourself with a dip in Argosaronic sea.   

Before you leave the mainland for Crete, you’ll travel north. Outside the city, to the Oracle of Delphi on the slopes of Mount Parnassus.

High atop the temple, there lies a mythical cavern where Apollo slew the horrible Python. By this deed, he established Delphi as his sacred place of worship.

Most travelers will never explore this cave, nor tread the trail that leads through the tall pine and fir trees.

But you will!  

From the mainland of Greece to the majestic island of Crete. The largest and most impressive of the Greek isles.

The vibrant sea side towns of Chania and Rethymno will enchant you. Artisan gift shops. Sidewalk cafes and sea side tavernas open their doors to the discerning traveler.

Here you will enjoy the good life, like the locals.

Don't get too comfortable.

The deep and winding Samaria gorge awaits you for another stimulating trek.

Beginning in the Omalos highlands, it meanders down to the southernmost shores of Europe. This is the deepest gorge of the world and also the most diverse in fauna and flora.

After an invigorating hike, you will find yourself at a most welcoming sight. At the sandy beach of Agia Roumeli you will have time for a refreshing swim before you board the ferry back to "civilization" 

To balance your visit to Crete, you must visit the Minoan ruins of Knossos in Heraklion. This 4000 year old palace is the place of legends. Here the ancient adventurer Theseus battled the terrible Minotaur, freeing his fellow Athenians from the grip of mighty King Minos.  

Santorini will be the backdrop for act three of your Aegean adventure. 

Away from the crowded walkways of Fira, you'll race down exciting biking trails. Leading from the mountain village of Pyrgos, down to the volcanic black beaches near the lighthouse of Akrotiri. 

The pampered tourists will sail the volcanic lagoon on luxurious catamarans. Not you.

You'll brave the Aegean waves on a sea kayak, exposed to the elements, like a modern day Odysseus.  

The cruise ship crowds will pack themselves into the squares of Oia. Not you. You'll witness the famous sunset in solitude from the breathtaking trail on the edge of the cliffs. 

You will leave this fair country with much more than a suitcase of souvenirs.

You will have lived the adventure of a lifetime in Greece! 

Family fun and learning in Greece

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Treat your children to an adventure that will open their eyes to the mythical world of Greece.

An experience that they will cherish forever. It will give them a lasting appreciation of history, art and nature. One that no school book could offer.

This 10 night trip will be specially designed to captivate the imagination of young and old alike. It will bring the ancient world of gods and monsters alive. With experiential learning activities and with plenty of time for the family to come together under the warm Aegean sun.   

Beginning in Athens, as most myths do, your family will enjoy a tour of the Acropolis. But presented in a special way. One that will help the children understand the subtle mysteries of math and form that make this structure so beautiful to the eye.

After your tour, your guide will lead you through the narrow walkways of Kerameikos. This district of Athens was famous in antiquity for the myriad of pottery workshops.

Under the instruction of a local artisan, you will don your aprons and get your hands muddy. Learning the secrets of pottery. Creating your hand made souvenirs from Greece!

The Oracle of Delphi beckons you to venture outside Athens' walls.

Across the Boeotian plains and to the root of Mount Parnassus.

En route to Delphi, you will stop in the city of Livadia.  A walk in the Krya Gorge to stretch your legs.

A break to enjoy a traditional Greek baklava by the rushing waters of the Erkyna River.

When you reach Delphi, you will be met by your guide who will walk you through this magnificent site.

She will explain to you why it was selected by Zeus himself to be the center of the ancient world.

The majestic temple dedicated to the sun god Apollo, lies between the treasury of the Athenians, and the massive ancient theater.

For over 1000 years, Apollo’s high priestess would whisper the god’s insight to eager pilgrims. Giving them enigmatic advice on how to choose their path in life.

Through tales of mythical journeys and conquest, your guide will bring these ancient stones to life before your eyes.

Your day of learning will be rewarded with a short drive down to the coast. In the picturesque village of Galaxidi the family can unwind and have fun on the sun drenched beach!

Your next stop on this family adventure will be the massive island of Crete. The most ancient cradle of Mediterranean civilization.

A beach hotel near the vibrant town of Rethymno will be your “base” of exploration for this leg of your Greece trip.  

After a day or two of frolicking in the Aegean waves, you will feel refreshed and ready to continue your adventure of learning and understanding.

Want to see the cave where Zeus was born?

Many eons ago, the earth goddess Rhea fled from the heavens and came here to Crete. She gave birth to Zeus in a secluded cave on the Lasithi mountains. Hidden from his father’s wrath, Zeus grew to manhood. Nourished by the mythical goat Amalthea. Watched over by fierce Cretan warriors who would bang their shields to mask the baby’s cries.

Want to see where Theseus slew the Minotaur?

It’s here on Crete. At the vast palace of Knossos. Here the mighty King Minos kept the terrible beast locked in his basement labyrinth.

He forced the Athenians to send 7 young men, and 7 young maidens to Crete, every 7 years. They were devoured by the beast as a sacrifice for the city’s freedom.

This all came to an end when brave Theseus sailed to Crete to face the monster. The king’s daughter Ariadne fell in love with the hero. She helped Theseus find his way through the dark maze.  Confronting the Minotaur, he ran him through with his sword.

Your family can walk among the remains of this mythical palace.

Then admire the bronze and gold artifacts displayed in the nearby museum of Heraklion.

The colorful frescoes found on the walls of Knossos reveal what life was like on this island so many centuries ago.

The town of Rethymno is a medieval playground for all the family.

The cobblestone walkways hide a myriad of beautifully restored Venetian style homes. Inviting gift shops and restaurants where you can treat your family to them most authentic Cretan delicacies.

The island’s healthy dietary tradition is known the world over.

Rich in leafy greens, fresh fruits and vegetables. A host of indigenous herbs that can only be found here. Your children will be exposed to an amazing world of tastes and flavors that they will remember for a life time.

A week on Crete will not be enough to see it all. But you will leave the island completely transformed. Relaxed. Enriched by the myths, the music, the flavors and memories of your time in the sun.

You will leave Crete behind and begin your journey home. Knowing that you must come back for more!

Athens Weekend Getaway

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Countless direct flights from major cities make Athens Europe’s favorite weekend playground.

This 3 night trip will give you an introduction to the history and seductive lifestyle of Greece.

And some well-deserved time in the sun.

Your time is precious. Everything will be well planned. Your driver will be waiting for you at the airport with a sign in hand and a welcoming smile! He’ll drive you to your hotel where you can freshen up and get ready for the excitement!

We have many hotel options to choose from. Based on your preferences, or the time of year.

A romantic boutique? Something with a view of the moonlit Parthenon?

A trendy urban hotel, right in the middle of city? A roof top pool and bar where you can relax after a day of exploration?

Or perhaps a sea side resort on the Athenian coast? Somewhere where you can lay on the beach in the afternoons. Soaking in the sun, sipping on cocktails as the sun goes down over the Argosaronic gulf?

The evening is still young.

The vibrant Athenian night awaits you. A plethora of hot night spots from Plaka to Psiri. With music and food inspired by every culture of the world. The old commercial triangle of Athens, behind the Varvakeio market, is a new popular destination for night owls.

Fashionable wine bars and side walk cafés. Hidden among the century old flower shops, tinkerers and delicatessens. Half lit open squares. Tucked away behind quaint little churches where you can sit and enjoy your ouzo, a glass of wine. Conversing until the wee hours of the morning. Just like the Athenians have been doing since antiquity.  

The sun rises over Athens.

You hit the sleepy walkway of Ermou Street to partake in the breakfast rituals of Athenians. Feta cheese pie, spanakopita, crispy home-made phyllo pastry. Served hot out of the oven at favorite breakfast corners of Kapnikarea square. Orange juice, freshly squeezed from the sweetest oranges of Argolida.

A double espresso at the historical Athinaion Politiea café on Apostolou Pavlou walkway. The Temple of Hephaestus at your feet.  

The lazy morning behind you, you have the rest of the day to explore the history of Athens. The sacred rock of the Acropolis beckons you. Ascend and witness the timeless beauty of the Parthenon’s form.

The National Archeological museum, a short hop away is packed with priceless artifacts. Dating from the Neolithic period, to the latter Byzantine. Spanning thousands of years. You can walk through the corridors and see clay tablets with enigmatic astronomical depictions from the Minoan Civilization of Crete. Bronze and iron swords made by the mighty Mycenaeans. Marble epitaphs that once adorned the streets of Athens. Gold and silver jewelry found in countless burial grounds throughout the Attica.

A short drive from the city center, down the tip of the Attica peninsula, one more exciting surprise.

The magnificent temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounio! This majestic structure juts out from a barren cliff above the Aegean Sea. The perfect vantage point to enjoy the spectacular Athenian sunset.

On your way back to the city, you must stop at one of little tavernas along the coast. A modest feast on fresh octopus, calamari, washed down with icy sweet ouzo.

Your last day in Athens will not be spent in Athens!

The morning will find you on board the cruise to the magical islands.

The sun in your face, the Aegean breeze lifting your spirits high.

First stop, the tiny island of Hydra, loved by poets for the simplicity of the island life. To this day no cars are allowed on the island. But you do see the occasional donkey or horse toting a carriage on the coastal road. Elegant mansions reveal the island’s former wealth and naval heritage. Once the stronghold of very influential families, Hydra’s navy played an important role in the war of independence of 1820.

Aigina is your next port of call. Chosen by the gods, the majestic temple of Aphaia Athena   adorns  the tallest peak of the island.  Numerous tiny beaches stud the coast of Aigina. Sunny corners where you can enjoy a fresh choriatiki salad and a cool beer between dips in the sea.

Before the sun begins to fall, your ship returns to Athens.

The colorfully lit steps of Plaka await you for one more night of excitement and delicious Greek cuisine.

All good things do come to an end, and so must this trip.

In the morning your driver will deliver you back to the airport for your flight home.

This was just an introduction.

Greece will be waiting when you decide to come back for more!

Romance and relaxation

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There is more to Greece than what most tourists know!

This 10 night trip will expose you to the finest beaches in the Aegean and well as the most romantic hideaways of the Greek isles. 

You'll arrive in Athens. You can rest from your flight before you hitting the town for an evening of fun. Wandering the colorful walkways of the Plaka district, you will uncover trendy wine bars, side walk tavernas and popular night spots.

The intoxicating scents of Athens beckon you to join the excitement.

The following day can be devoted to the landmarks of Athens.

The Doric columns of the Acropolis. The bronze mask of Agamemnon at the National Archaeological museum. The city's history will unfold before your eyes.

Can this day get any better?

An afternoon drive along the Athenian coast will show you that it can.

Down at Cape Sounio you will witness the blazing Aegean sunset from the magnificent Temple of Poseidon. 

The next morning you will leave the bustling city behind.

A short flight will bring you to the fertile island of Naxos.

Our best kept secret in Greece.

This island is well known among us as the epitome of an authentic island escape.    

Miles of quiet sandy beaches with turquoise waters. Perfect for lazy days in the sun. Long moonlit strolls along the shore.  

A myriad of walking trails crisscross the gentle mountains. Leading through ancient olive groves and vineyards. Past forgotten stone villages, fortified monasteries.

They remind the traveler that for centuries these islands were raided by pirates and barbarians alike.   

Sweet Kitron liqueurs and artisan cheeses. Home grown meats and oils, locally caught sea food.

All among the finest in the world.

You can enjoy them in any of unpretentious local eateries frequented by the locals.

After this island hideaway, you will continue to the most famous of Aegean islands.

Santorini   

The epic volcanic eruption of 1600 BC has carved a breathtaking landscape. It is the most sought after honeymoon destination in the world. And not without reason. The staggering red cliffs, contrasting with the deep blue sea below.

Both come alive every evening with the exploding colors of the Aegean sunset.

Tucked away from the crowds, on your private balcony. Moonlit dinners and sweet Santorini wine. A dip in the plunge pool, high above the calm waters of the caldera.

Just the two of you. As it should be. 

No one should leave Santorini without sailing the caldera. While most will board the rickety crowded boats, you will do it in style!

A small intimate group on a luxurious catamaran.  A dip in the sulfuric waters of the volcanic lagoon. A relaxed view of the colorful cave dwellings from far below.

A delicious bbq dinner with yet more sweet Santorini wine. 

This will be the lasting memory that you will take with you on your journey back home.

Culinary delights of Greece

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According to many a traveler, the most memorable part of their trip to Greece is not the Acropolis.

Nor the beaches of Mykonos.

It is the food!

​This 8 night trip will open up a world of tantalizing tastes and sensual scents that you never knew existed.

You will see the historical highlights, as you well should. But your focus will be on the culinary wealth of Greece.

You will arrive in Athens, and be picked up at the airport for the short hop downtown. You will have time to rest and freshen up before you hit the lively walkways of this urban metropolis.

Pastry shops, tavernas, and trendy eateries tucked away in every side street. Smoking souvlaki joints on every other corner.

Your guide will meet you at your hotel and lead you through this maze of temptations.

He’ll show you the finest spots that only the locals know.

A welcome ouzo. Ripe olives from Kalamata. Selected feta cheese from Kalavryta. These are the appetizers. The main course of roast lamb is just coming off the fire.

The following morning, you will venture up the sacred rock of the Acropolis to admire one of the wonders of the ancient world.

The famed temple of Athena - the Parthenon. This temple has interesting back story that will appeal to the foodie. Myth has it, that the first inhabitants of this city were confronted with a dilemma.

Both Athena  - the goddess of wisdom, and Poseidon - the sea god, wanted to lend their name to the city.

They competed for the honor of being the patron deity. Poseidon offered abundant wells and running waters to the people.

Athena gifted them with a simple olive tree. The people took her  up on the offer. Perhaps an indication of their enduring love for the godly delicacies of olives and olive oils.

Your guide will then walk you through the loud and vibrant meat markets. You’ll visit the spice and pastry shops, the open air vegetable stalls in the historical center of Athens.

Stopping every few meters to nibble on handmade spanakopita, crispy koulouri bread, spicy pastirma, graviera cheeses and the finest extra virgin olive oils, found only in Greece. Your day will end with a delectable sit down lunch near Monastiraki square. Authentic souvlaki and gyros, accompanied by homemade tzatziki, made with the freshest sheep milk yogurt.

The Aegean islands await you for the next part of your journey.

Your first island destination will be nearby Kea. Little known to international visitors, but a favorite weekend getaway for the Athenians. Kea has been revered since antiquity for the fresh sea food caught off her shores. A plethora of home grown grains, vegetables and herbs.

Not to mention the creativity with which the Kean’s prepare them. The numerous ancient terraces that line the hills are living testament to the wealth and productivity of the island.

In Athens you got by as acting like a "tourist".  Here it’s time to roll your sleeves up and “get your hands dirty”. Under the tutelage of Greece’s most revered food ambassador, you’ll collect wild herbs and leafy greens. You’ll learn how to knead fresh phyllo pastry and bread. And you will put it all together in a multitude of authentic Greek dishes. Free range rooster with wine sauce. Kean Paspala - a selection of pork meat cooked with ripe tomatoes and eggs. And above all, Astakomakaronada - fresh lobster with handmade spaghetti. All accompanied by the finest olive oils produced on the island. Washed down with a selection of rare Greek wines that will expand your knowledge of the ancient art viticulture.

Cooking and eating with good company in the morning. Relaxing on the beach in the afternoon. Strolling in the port town of Ioulida at night. This will be your island dream for the coming days.

From Kea, we set sail to Naxos.

The largest, most productive of the Cyclades islands. Another one of our secret Aegean gems. Naxos is the epitome of authentic Greek cooking and dining.

Known since antiquity for the sweet wines, extra virgin olive oils, but most of all for their artisan cheeses. Myth has it that the art of cheese making was handed down to the Naxians by Apollo himself, through his son, Aristaios. Graviera Naxou, slightly aged, chewy and salty. Made by a blend of cow, sheep and goat milk. One of the most sought after delicacies in all of Greece.

Your hosts will be a warm and cheery family of farmers and restaurateurs. They trace their origin on the island back to the time of the invading Venetian pirates. Their country estate near the mountain village of Apeiranthos will be the “school” where you will further your culinary endeavors. Under the shade of the hanging vines, you’ll learn the secrets of cheese making. How to tell when the olives are ripe and ready for harvest. How to prepare Patoudo - a dish of lamb stuffed with chard and fennel, aromatic herbs and garlic. A traditional eastern feast that should be enjoyed year round!

The hours between cooking, eating and carefree discussion with friends, will be spent relaxing on the sandy beaches of Agia Anna. If you feel the need to walk off the excess calories, you can follow the mountain trails of Naxos. From the villages in the lowlands, all the way to the peak of Mount Zas, the tallest tip of the Cyclades islands.

Can there be too much of a good thing? Perhaps not.

But your time in Greece must come to an end.

Be warned. Like so many visitors before you, this newly found love of authentic Greek food will pose a problem back home.

Try as you may, you will not be able to replicate the tastes, the textures, and most of all the scents of Greece at any Greek restaurant abroad.

These can only be experienced here, in Greece.

The Village in Greece

Athens-galaxidi-delphi.

The greatest joy comes from learning and passing on knowledge to the younger generation.  

This 10 night family retreat is designed to inspire young and old.  An enchanting village by the sea is the perfect setting.

This trip will introduce your family to the language, the myths, and traditions of Greece

You will live like the locals. Cook, dine and with friends. Enjoy the sea and sun.  Connect and belong to the village.

Your journey will begin in Athens. The land of countless myths and legends. Your family will have two exciting days to explore the impressive sites. The Parthenon, the tower of the winds. The Ancient Agora and the Temple of Hephaistos.

Through fun and experiential activities, your children will be introduced to the culture of Greece. An exciting mythical treasure hunt will help you get your bearings in the city. A hands on pottery workshop in Kerameikos will connect you with this timeless art. Giving you a new appreciation for the many clay vessels that you will see in the museums.

After Athens, your family will retreat to the village. Galaxidi.

This serene port town, a short drive from Athens, is our well-kept secret.  We don’t share it with international travelers. We reserve Galaxidi for our own weekend getaways. It will be your home for the coming week.

Experiential activities, specially designed to be fun and educational, will introduce you to the rural lifestyle of Greece.  

Activities that will stimulate the mind, the taste buds and the body. Bringing the family together in a memorable manner.

Hands on cooking classes. Introductory sailing courses.

Beginner lessons in the Greek language. We’ll discuss well known Greek myths, shedding new light on the hidden concepts.

We’ll enjoy fishing outings, leisurely hiking, and visits to local artisans and nearby archaeological  sites like Delphi.  

A balanced schedule, that will provide plenty of down time in the sun.  

​The crystal clear waters will cool you off at mid-day.  The little tavernas and quaint cafes will embrace you in the evenings.

The cobblestone walkways and flowered courtyards, a fantastic playground where you can flex your photography skills.

When you leave Greece, your compass will be realigned to show true meaning.

Learning. Enjoying the simple things in life. Sharing them with family.​

The ancients called it "Eudaimonia" "to live well, protected and looked after by a benevolent spirit."

More inspiration for your trip to Greece

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Customers rate Zicasso's travel referral service  4.9  on a scale of 1 to 5 based on  1560  reviews on Trustpilot

We match you with top tour companies that specialize in the trip you want,  whether it's a customized private tour or a group tour.

We are dedicated to crafting incredible tailor-made vacations. That's why we connect discerning travelers to the top Greece travel agents.  Our personalized approach starts with understanding your travel passions and aspirations for Greece. We then match you to expert travel agencies in Greece who design custom trips based on your interests and preferences.  With insider access, your dedicated Greece travel agency opens doors to exclusive experiences you won't find on your own. Let us match you with a Greece expert to create your dream trip.

Discover our Greece travel agents, the top 10% of local specialists

We are dedicated to crafting incredible tailor-made vacations. That's why we connect discerning travelers to the top Greece travel agents. 

Our personalized approach starts with understanding your travel passions and aspirations for Greece. We then match you to expert travel agencies in Greece who design custom trips based on your interests and preferences. 

With insider access, your dedicated Greece travel agency opens doors to exclusive experiences you won't find on your own. Let us match you with a Greece expert to create your dream trip.

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Zicasso in the News

Kate's Travel Agency

 Based on  6  reviews

Destinations:

Verified review.

We had an amazing vacation, planned perfectly from start to finish by Zicasso’s travel company! This was the first trip we've taken using a travel agent and it was so nice to have everything planned out by someone who knows the country so well. All of the accommodations, drivers, and tours were spot-on and we never had to worry about anything.

Georgia's Travel Agency

 Based on  85  reviews

Georgia planned a great vacation for my family (parents plus two 20-ish daughters). We went to Athens (4nts), Naxos (4nts) and Santorini (3nts). It took a couple of iterations to finalize the itinerary (which I took as a positive because it showed Georgia was really listening and working to customize the trip what my family was looking for rather than offering a canned tour). And I may be just a *wee* picky :) The guides she secured were all wonderful. Our guide in Athens was absolutely lovely. She was knowledgeable and friendly. We were chatting like friends before too long. She also took great care of our daughter when she got a little ill during our Acropolis tour. Naxos was the favorite part of our trip. We loved what the island has: great beaches, food, restaurants, cultural sights, nature/hiking and water activities and what it did NOT have: high prices, crowds. Santorini..since it was our 1st visit, we couldn't *not* stop. It's beautiful for sure but it was also expensive and crowded. One and done for us. The transfers in all three locations were impeccable.Overall, our trip was seamless and the communication with Georgia was great throughout.

George's Travel Agency

 Based on  44  reviews

The trip we planned with Zicasso’s travel agent was beautiful. From the very beginning, she was wonderful and friendly. She gave us multiple budget options to help us pick and choose our level of luxury, while still keeping us within our budget. She also gave us many helpful tips to plan for our trip and checked in on us daily while we were in Greece. All of our travel and location connections were handled and scheduled perfectly, so all of our excursions while we were traveling were stress-free! My wife and I couldn't have imagined a better trip for our honeymoon!

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Anthia's Travel Agency

 Based on  110  reviews

I had an amazing vacation! It was not enough time and I am definitely planning a return trip. My travel agent and Zicasso provided excellent service for the duration of the trip. They had every detail planned out. They were responsive to all of my questions before and during the trip. They were responsive and very accessible. The service I received from every hotel, driver, and tour guide was excellent. Every place I stayed was beautiful and impeccably clean. Our agent took my preferences and tastes, and curated a beautiful vacation for me that I will never forget.

Eleni's Travel Agency

 Based on  33  reviews

Zicasso's travel partner did an amazing job putting together our itinerary and handling all the logistics. We did an intro call to discuss what we were interested in, how we like to travel, dietary constraints, etc. They did a great job synthesizing that and coming up with a pitch-perfect plan of sites, hotels, restaurants, and means of transportation. On the trip itself, everyone involved was professional, punctual, and fun. This was the first trip I have taken where I didn't have to worry about getting from point A to B, finding good places to eat, researching the best sites, and how everything would fit together. Additionally, the travel team was very thoughtful in how everything would fit into the available daylight hours, how we'd be feeling with jet lag, and how to navigate a holiday where many things would be closed. I am already thinking about the next trip we'll take with their help.

Irene's Travel Agency

 Based on  308  reviews

Our family of four highly recommends Zicasso’s tour operator in Greece. Our itinerary and the communication with our agent and her associates were exactly what we had hoped for. They were excellent at providing quality travel experiences in Athens, Crete, and Santorini. It was very organized and everyone was extremely professional, educational, and personable. The drivers were very knowledgeable and the vehicles were comfortable. Our driver who picked us up from the airport and drove us to Delphi had a wealth of knowledge, as did our Delphi tour guide. Our guide in Santorini toured us around the island and was a delight. Our private tour guides in Athens, at the Acropolis and museum, as well as on our food tour, were great. Our tours in Athens, Crete, and Santorini were either with archaeologists or native to the areas, providing memorable tours. The olive oil tasting and cooking class in a traditional village with our guide was educational and we made several Greek dishes to enjoy for our lunch. Amazing! The hotels on this tour could not have been better! They were all centrally located to the main parts of town and all had great views. We didn't have to worry about a thing! Our agent provided us with a cellphone for communication. It came in handy when our ferry was canceled in Crete and we had a change of plans all taken care of by our agent and her associates. The islands were so beautiful and we spent the perfect amount of time on each one. I will use our travel company to tour more Greek islands.

Rebecca's Travel Agency

 Based on  92  reviews

Although it’s trite, it was a trip of a lifetime, starting with the original planning session with Zicasso’s travel representative several months before the trip, when she asked us what we like to do and what we envisioned for our trip. It ended up being just the right mix of local cuisine and culture, sightseeing, history, archaeology, and myths, as well as beach time, with wonderful accommodations on Crete, Santorini, Naxos, and Athens.

Tasos' Travel Agency

 Based on  1  reviews

With our full work and family schedule, planning our much-desired trip to Greece was not going to fit into our timeframe. Zicasso and the team at the travel company were the best! Our agent listened to our needs and desires for the trip – experience and adventure throughout Greece. He updated and made the changes we suggested. We ended up with a wonderful 10-day trip from Athens to Nafplio and Paros. We hiked, experienced history, enjoyed wonderful local foods and shops, kayaked, snorkeled, froze under a mountain waterfall, and saw the clearest, bluest lakes ever. One of the highlights was during a hiking/water day when we had an incredible lunch at a local woman's home in the mountain area. The food was beautifully prepared, the conversation enjoyable, and the property idyllic. Once we headed to the island of Paros, which we highly recommend due to fewer crowds and wonderful restaurants and shopping, we topped off one evening with a 6.5km cultural hike along the Byzantine highway, learning why the homes are abandoned and whitewashed, and there are more than 20 varieties of wild, medicinal herbs, as well as learning the history of battles throughout the regions. If you haven't visited Greece, this travel company will create the ideal itinerary for your time there. I recommend visits to Athens, Nafplio, and Paros. Bring your walking and water shoes, and let them take care of everything else.

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Greece is ancient sun-bleached ruins piercing blue skies, the balmy Aegean lapping an endless coastline and a culture alive with passionate music, wonderful cuisine and thrill-seeking activities.

Best Time to Visit

Best places to visit, attractions, must-see attractions.

Spread over a steep mountainside and surrounded by verdant olive and orange trees, this former Byzantine capital and fortified city is the single most…

Ancient Mycenae

On a hilltop backed by powerful mountains stand the sombre and mighty ruins of Ancient Mycenae, home of Agamemnon, the legendary king who commanded the…

Sanctuary of Apollo

Serving as the heart of Ancient Delphi, the hillside Sanctuary of Apollo is where pilgrims would journey to hear prophecies from the god Apollo, voiced…

Ancient Olympia

Peloponnese

This is where the Olympic Games took place every four years for over 1100 years, until their abolition by Emperor Theodosius I in AD 393. The Olympic…

Acropolis Museum

Acropolis Area

This dazzling museum at the foot of the Acropolis' southern slope showcases its surviving treasures. The collection covers the Archaic period to the Roman…

Designed to be the pre-eminent monument of the Acropolis, the Parthenon epitomises the glory of Ancient Greece. Meaning 'virgin's apartment', it's…

The Acropolis is the most important ancient site in the Western world. Crowned by the Parthenon, it stands sentinel over Athens, visible from almost…

Ancient Delos

Delos has a special place in Greek mythology. When Leto was pregnant with twins Apollo and Artemis, she was relentlessly pursued by a vengeful Hera – the…

Top picks from our travel experts

16 of the best things to do in greece.

Olympia Archaeological Museum

This superb museum features finds from the adjacent archaeological site of Olympia. Visiting it in conjunction with the ruins helps to put the ancient…

Ancient Agora

The Agora was ancient Athens' heart, the lively hub of administrative, commercial, political and social activity. Socrates expounded his philosophy here;…

Tower of the Winds

This Pentelic marble tower within the Roman Agora, likely built in the 2nd century BC, is both beautiful and functional. Devised by Andronicus, a…

Kastro – Medieval Village

Almost wholly surrounded by ocean, Monemvasia's fortified medieval village is divided into the lower town, bisected by a main cobbled street lined with…

Byzantine & Christian Museum

This outstanding museum, based in the 1848 Villa Ilissia, offers exhibition halls, most of them underground, crammed with religious art. The exhibits go…

Hania Province

This broad sweep of beach has magical-looking pink-cream sands and teal waters and is known for its stunning sunsets. Along with superb water clarity,…

Northern Pindos National Park

North of Ioannina, this large protected area includes the Vikos-Aoös region around the plunging Vikos Gorge, and the Valia Kalda forest north of Metsovo…

Vergina Royal Tombs Museum

A grass-covered tumulus (burial mound) has been converted into a truly spine-tingling museum where visitors can descend to unspoiled royal Macedonian…

National Archaeological Museum

Housing the world's finest collection of Greek antiquities in an enormous neoclassical building, this museum is one of Athens' top attractions. Treasures…

Tucked into Crete’s southwestern corner, this symphony of fine pink-white sand, turquoise water and gentle rose dunes looks like a magical dreamscape. As…

In its day Epidavros, 30km east of Nafplio, was famed and revered across the Mediterranean as a place of miraculous healing. Visitors came great distances…

Temple of Demeter

About 2km south of the village of Sangri is the rather unsympathetically restored 6th-century BC Temple of Demeter. The ruins and reconstructions are not…

Vikos Gorge

Zagorohoria

The Voïdomatis ('Good Water' in its Slavic roots) River, a tributary of the Aoös, carved the 12km-long, 900m-deep Vikos Gorge over millions of years. Per…

Corfu Town owes the elegant, photogenic Liston, the arcade that lines the northern half of the Spianada, to neither the Venetians nor the British but to…

Palaio Frourio

The rocky headland that juts east from Corfu Town is topped by the Venetian-built 14th-century Palaio Frourio. Before that, already enclosed within…

Preveli Beach

Rethymno Province

Also known as Palm Beach, dazzling Preveli is one of Crete’s most celebrated strands. At the mouth of the Kourtaliotiko Gorge, where the river…

Roman Agora

This was the city’s market area under Roman rule, and it occupied a much larger area than the current site borders. You can see a lot from outside the…

Museum of Cycladic Art

The 1st floor of this exceptional private museum is dedicated to the iconic minimalist marble Cycladic figurines, dating from 3000 BC to 2000 BC. They…

Heraklion Archaeological Museum

This state-of-the-art museum is one of the largest and most important in Greece. The two-storey revamped 1930s Bauhaus building makes a gleaming showcase…

Planning Tools

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Best Things to Do

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Visa Requirements

Greece is an incredible destination – don't let a fear of admin stop you from getting there. Here's everything you need to know about visas for Greece.

Money and Costs

How to save money on a trip to Greece with cheap flights, ferries, trains and buses plus how to get the best deal on hotels, food and drinks.

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Travel guide to Greece

Known for its plethora of archeological sites, whitewashed villages, fabulous beaches, mouth-watering cuisine and welcoming atmosphere, it is no wonder that Greece – the birthplace of democracy – ranks among the world’s premier-league travel destinations. The sun-kissed Mediterranean country is made up of a mountainous mainland and 6,000 idyllic islands and islets dotting the blue Aegean and Ionian Seas – though only 227 of them are inhabited. With so many things to do in Greece, you’ll never be left wanting.

Get the most out of your (luxury) trip to Greece with my travel guide. Find out more about:

• Best time to visit
• How to get there
• Travel requirements
• Getting around
• Inspiration, highlights, & travel tips
• Suggested itineraries
• Recommended luxury hotels (+ reviews)

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Mainland Greece and the Greek islands are blessed with a Mediterranean climate, characterized by rainy, mild winters and dry, hot summers:

• Summer (mid-June through mid-September) : the summer months in Greece coincide with high season, a time when you’re likely to experience sweltering heat, skyrocketing room rates, and hordes of mainly European tourists. The good news is that the summer high season offers the best ferry and plane schedules making traveling quite convenient, and most towns are bustling with nightlife if that is what you’re after. In summer, expect sunny days and very hot weather, with temperatures usually reaching 30 to 35°C (86 to 95 °F), but sometimes even 40°C (104°C) and more, although coastal areas are often milder due to a cooling sea breeze. That breeze can get very strong though on the Cyclades (e.g. Santorini and Mykonos) with the so-called Meltemi blowing for long periods, especially in the afternoons (sometimes gale force like winds).
• Late spring & early autumn (April through mid-June, mid-September through October) : late spring and early autumn are known as shoulder season in Greece. Mid-September and October represent the best time for a visit to the country, since the weather is still great (with blue clear skies most of the time), the tourist crowds have left, the sea temperature is at its warmest, and the hotel rates descend back into a reasonable range. The spring months of April and May, before the summer rush comes, are also a great time to visit, although the sea is cold and you have more chance of encountering a few rainy, overcast days. The only downside of the shoulder season is that ferry services and flights schedules operate at a reduced frequency, so it may take some time to find yourself a perfect itinerary.
• Late autumn, winter, & early spring (November through March) : winters are fairly mild in Greece, so you won’t have to worry about frigid temperatures, although rain is common and snow falls in the mountains. The upside of visiting Greece in winter is that you don’t have to worry about bumping elbows with countless tourists, and airfare and hotel rates are at their lowest. However, the downside is that many hotels, restaurants and attractions are closed, and ferry and flight services are drastically cut back.

I recommend this website , which provides detailed month by month information on the weather in the different regions of Greece (e.g. Athens, Northern & Central Greece, the Peloponnese Peninsula, and the different Greek islands).

HOW TO GET THERE

Greece receives numerous international flights  via its main airport, Athens International Airport. This is the preferred point of entry in Greece when you want to visit Athens, explore the eastern part of the Peloponnese Peninsula, or tour the whole country. Click  here  for a continuously updated list of airlines that offer direct flights to Athens.

Although Athens International Airport is the main getaway for most visitors to Greece, it’s often easier to fly directly to/from one of the Greek islands (or alternatively, book a multi-city ticket, arriving in one airport and leaving from another). The most popular Greek islands are connected by direct flights to Europe’s larger cities in the summer high season. So far, the Greek island are not served by non-European carriers (except for Qatar Airways), so if your starting point is America, Australia, Asia or Africa, the most cost-effective way to Greece may well be to fly to a major European hub and pick up an onward, connecting flight from there. The following islands are well connected to the European mainland (click the link for a continuously updated list of airlines that offer direct flights) :

• Crete: Chania International Airport and  Heraklion International Airport
• Kefalonia:  Kefalonia Island International Airport
• Kos:  Kos Island International Airport
• Rhodes:  Rhodes Island International Airport
• Samos:  Samos Island International Airport
• Santorini:  Santorini (Thira) International Airport
• Mykonos:  Mykonos Island National Airport
• Zakynthos: Zakynthos International Airport
• Corfu:  Corfu Island International Airport

Before you buy your plane ticket to Greece, consider reading my  tips & tricks for buying the cheapest plane ticket  so that you can save a few bucks.

Besides flying, it’s also possible to reach Greece by car or boat . Many people coming from Europe and Scandinavia drive or take a train to one of Italy’s coastal cities (e.g. Venice) where they can catch a ferry to Greece. Also, the cruise industry in Greece has exploded, with many international cruise companies now offering a stopover in Athens or one of the Greek islands during their Mediterranean Sea itineraries.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

Requirements for entry into Greece differ from country to country, and are subject to change. Prior to departure, always check with your government and your nearest Greek embassy or consulate what documents you need for travel to Greece.

• Citizens of the European Union are required to present a valid ID for entry into Greece.
• Citizens of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, the United States, and almost all non-E.U. countries are required to have a valid passport valid for at least 90 days beyond the intended date of departure.
• For stays longer than 90 days, all non-E.U. citizens will need a visa.

Make sure you read my  10 tips to plan a worry-free trip .

GETTING AROUND

It’s quite easy to get around in Greece and its sixty-plus inhabited isles, with several modes of transportation available to travelers:

• Ferries are the most common, cheapest, and most scenic way for inter-island travel. A wide variety of vessels sail Greek waters – ferries, catamarans or hydrofoils – and while some vessels are brand-new, others are old but can still feel pleasant enough if you stay on deck. Ferry service (often accommodating vehicles) connects Athens (Piraeus) to several of the Greek island (Piraeus-Mykonos-Naxos-Santorini is one of the most popular routes) as well as the Italian mainland (e.g. Venice). There’s also ferry service between many of the islands (e.g. Crete and Rhodes), as well as service between the islands and the Turkish Riviera. In summer, ferries run frequently (and need to be booked in advance) but their schedule is reduced during shouder season and drasticaly cut back in winter season. I recommend this website to search for schedules and book your ferry tickets online.
• Olympic Air
• Aegean Air (part of Star Alliance)
• Sky Express
• Driving in Greece is a bit of an adventure (due to poor road conditions, the mountainous terrain, and reckless driving), but there’s no denying that it’s the best way to see the country at your own pace. Car-rental agencies are available throughout Greece, at all airports and on most of the larger town on the islands. Do bear in mind that Greece has one of the highest fatal accident rates in Europe (especially on the mainland).
• If you’re traveling on a budget, you should consider the bus for overland transport. Greece has an extensive  long-distance bus service , with bus services on major routes being inexensive, efficient, and frequent but also very crowded.
• On the islands, renting a scooter or motorbike is a very popular way to explore the stunning land- and seascapes.

INSPIRATION, HIGHLIGHTS, & TRAVEL TIPS

There are so many reasons why you should put Greece on top of your bucket list. Here are just a few of them:

• Athens: visit the Acropolis
• Peloponnesos Peninsula: stay at Amanzoe, Europe’s most stunning resort
• Crete: hike the Samaria Gorge, visit Knossos Palace, and explore Elounda Bay
• Mykonos: relax on the beaches, visit Mykonos Town, and party till dawn
• Santorini: be awe-inspired by terrific views, explora Oia village, and watch the sunset
• Rhodes: explore Rhodes town, relax on the beaches, and visit Lindos village
• Visit the spectacular sandstones of Meteora

My following, in-depth articles may also inspire you and help you plan your holiday to Greece:

• Top 10 best things to do in Greece
• Top 10 most fabulous luxury hotels & lodges in Greece
• Top 10 most stunningly beautiful hotels in Santorini
• Tips & tricks for getting the best deal at a luxury hotel
• Tips & tricks for buying the cheapest plane ticket

SUGGESTED ITINERARIES 

It’s impossible to suggest one itinerary for Greece, but based on my own frequent holidays in Greece, I hereby share with you a schedule which is great if you want to take in the country’s highlights in two weeks:

• Day 1 & 2: explore Athens (recommended hotel: Hotel Grande Bretagne ).
• Day 3, 4 & 5: take ferry (or plane) to Mykonos and explore Mykonos (recommended hotel: Kivotos Mykonos ).
• Day 6, 7 & 8: take ferry to Santorini and explore Santorini (recommended hotel: Canaves Oia Luxury Suites ).
• Day 9, 10, 11 & 12: take ferry to Crete and explore eastern Crete
• Day 13, 14, 15 & 16: fly back to Athens and stay at Amanzoe , Europe’s most exclusive resort.

If you have more time, I suggest you also explore one or more of the country’s other islands, such as Naxos, Corfu, Zakynthos, Skopelos, and Rhodes.

For the planning of your own travel itinerary in Greece, I highly recommend the excellent itineraries as provided by Frommers ,  The Lonely Planet  and  Rough Guides .

RECOMMENDED LUXURY HOTELS (+ REVIEWS)

Consider visiting my top 10 lists if you are eager to know how I rank Greece’s top hotels, based on my own experience:

Below, you find my reviews of hotels in Greece (with pros, cons, and tips to save money per hotel).

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• EXPERIENCES

Travel to Greece all year round.

Bespoke trips and uniquely crafted journeys..

Greecefully aims at introducing you to Greece through personalized travel experiences that evolve around adventure, culture, gastronomy, wellness, and nature. Our exclusive travel offerings include premium accommodations, impeccable services, and customized itineraries that take your preferences into account. Travel to Greece and let us offer you an unforgettable experience.

We have designed trips to introduce you to the best roads less traveled. We love discovering new and unique places, exploring their possibilities, and offer you inside access. Every handpicked destination, its exceptional history, daily life, and traditions, brings you a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Choose your experience.

Here you will find an exciting and diverse collection of proposed travels, aimed at individuals, families, and small groups.

Let us create your travel experience.

We are always excited to craft an experience that will cater to your needs and meet your preferences.

Travel to Greece with the most popular trips

Explore greece through our unique experiences..

Our authentically designed itineraries are powered by our in-depth local insight and eagerness to share destination gems found in Greece, with you. From intense & adventurous journeys to relaxed & indulging experiences, regardless of the season. Here are some of our popular trips to get you inspired.

Road trip Peloponnese

Mountain to Sea

Aegean Adventure

Athens city break

Diving in the Ionian Sea

Wellness Zagori

Testimonials.

Our travel company Greecefully was amazing and surpassed every/any expectation that we had about our trip to Greece. From the first day that they reached out to us, we spoke with them multiple times for them to make sure that the trip was exactly how we wanted it. Once we arrived in Greece, the company was in contact with us daily to make sure everything was going well. We left a few things "unscheduled" as we absolutely loved some free/open time, but the tours, hotels, transportation, and everything else set up by our travel experts were top-notch. We will definitely be using Greecefully again for our next trip to Greece, which hopefully is very soon! 🙂

I don’t even know where to start, from the first day I contacted this company till the end of my trip it was a great experience. From recommendations to what we wanted to do was amazing. We have not one complaint but wish we stayed longer. I definitely recommend Greecefully hands down.

Thanks for everything George! Everything was planned beautifully from the initial Athens walking tour to the one day cruise and bike tour. I loved how you put so much detail into making our trip memorable and completely stress-free!

We could not be more pleased with Greecefully.  Our travel planner went above and beyond to make this a wonderful, memorable trip.  He planned everything for us and made it possible to experience six islands, delicious food, and great tour drivers, and figured everything out for us when we were delayed because of high winds for two days. We can't say enough about our trip. This was really the best travel company we have ever experienced.

This was the best vacation we have ever taken in our 47 years of marriage

and we have had some really nice vacations over the years. Greecefully made our trip to Greece unforgettable, and stress-free. We left everything in their hands, and he delivered in every way. It was nice to know we had someone who honestly cared about our trip, and genuinely wanted us to have the time of our lives. I couldn't have asked for a better vacation. Many thanks to Greecefully and its travel specialists.

Greecefully’s travel specialist made our trip to Greece unforgettable, and stress-free. We left everything in their hands, and they delivered in every way. We always had someone to pick us up, and drop us off, and we knew our travel specialist was only a quick phone call away if we needed anything. I couldn't have asked for a better vacation because of our travel specialists. They will give you that true Greek experience that you've always wanted.

This was the best and most enjoyable trip my wife and I have ever had. Greecefully had great communication and went the extra mile to personalize this trip and make it the perfect honeymoon. From flowers for my wife upon arrival to Greece to wine waiting for us in every hotel room we checked into, the travel company made us feel very special during this trip and put together a unique and personalized honeymoon that was exactly what we wanted Their attention to detail and crafting a trip unique to us will never be forgotten.

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Best Greece Vacations

Slip away to sun-soaked heaven alongside the Aegean Sea. Easily search, book and compare over 250 deals on TourRadar to find your perfect vacation package to Greece. Learn more about what vacations we offer below.   

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Popular Vacations for Greece

Athens, Santorini & Mykonos with 3 Guided Tours | SemiPrivate | 10 Days

Cultural Athens & Island Hopping Mykonos - Santorini (Self-guided)

9 Day Private Tour in Santorini & Mykonos from Athens

Explore Athens, Mykonos & Santorini & stay at 4* hotels (3 inclusive activities)

9 Day Tour in Ancient Peloponnese at UNESCO’s sites & Meteora

Places our travel experts recommend.

Greek Islands

Whether you like to party in hipster clubs or sit on a quiet beach with your favourite book, Greece's picture-perfect islands have something to offer every traveller. Location: Aegean Sea Highlight: Santorini Best for:  Beach holidays

At one time, Athens was the largest and most powerful state in Greece. Nowadays, this city is known for ancient landmarks, public baths and exciting neighbourhoods.  Location:  Mainland Greece  Highlight: Parthenon Best for:  Cultural exploration 

It's one of the most beautiful party islands in the world, but there's more to Mykonos than dancing until dawn. Discover beaches, nature, idyllic villages and delicious food.  Location: Aegean Sea Highlight: Scenic coastline  Best for:  Beach holidays

Just south of mainland Greece – Delphi – a town on Mount Parnassus is the site of an essential and ancient religious sanctuary: the 4th-century-B.C. Temple of Apollo.  Location:  Mainland Greece  Highlight:  Temple of Apollo  Best for:  Cultural exploration 

Located in the Ionian Sea off the northwest Grecian coast, the island of Corfu is distinguished by its dramatic cliffs and a coastline dotted with resorts.  Location: Ionian Sea Highlight: Sidari Best for: Hiking and beach holidays  

Packages Recommended by our Travel Experts

• Greek Island Flexi Hopper , 5 destinations, operated by Busabout, 9 days, from 78$ per day
• Santorini Explorer Tour , 2 destinations, operated by Fez Travel, 7 days, from 19$ per day
• Sailing Greece - Mykonos to Santorini , 8 destinations, operated by G Adventures, 8 days, from 116$ per day

Find the Perfect Greece Vacation Package on TourRadar

Finding the perfect trip for a great price is so easy on TourRadar – and because we have simple-to-navigate travel categories, you can browse through vacation packages based on how you like to explore the world. Along with an impressive collection of trips from world-class tour operators – our 24/7 customer service, and option to pay with instalments make even the most far-flung corners of the world more accessible. So whether you're travelling in a group or hitting the road solo, looking to hit the beach or dive into history, you can find a vacation package that fits who you are. Our Travel Experts are standing by 24/7 to provide you with real human support in booking your dream vacation. 

Choose your Travel Style

Independent

Hiking and trekking

Your greece bucket list, visit the panathenaic stadium.

This stunning multipurpose stadium, also known as Kallimarmaro, is located in Athens. It's one of the only stadiums in the whole world built entirely of marble. View packages .

Hike in Samaria Gorge

Be adventurous on the island of Crete. This gorge was created by a small river running between the White Mountains and Mount Volakias. View packages .

Go wild at Tropicana Beach Bar

The dancing starts long before the sun sets and doesn't stop until the early hours of dawn. This place is definitely the ultimate beach party in Mykonos. View packages .

Climb mountains in Potamia

This small traditional town is built at the foot of Mount Ipsario – the highest mountain on the island of Thasos. Explore nature in this quaint town.

Enjoy a beach day in Porto Katsiki

This famous beach is located on the Ionian island of Lefkada. The stunning landscape and clear blue seas are the perfect setting to get away from it all. View packages .

Enjoy views over an infinity pool

Grab a spot at one of Santorini's much-coveted infinity pools. The jaw-dropping views are served with a side of delicious Grecian food and drinks – you won't want to leave. View packages .

Budget Vacations for 2020

10 Day Group Tour in Ancient Greece & Santorini with Cruise to Volcano

Greece Classic Tour

4 Day Tour to Delphi, Meteora, Athens & Saronic Islands (Poros, Hydra, Aegina)

Classical Tour of Greece and Nauplion - 5 Days

Greece Island Hopper

Vacations for everyone.

Young adults

People Also Ask

How much does an average greece vacation cost.

Two weeks in Greece will cost you about $4,455 USD per person. Remember, this estimate is based on visiting the most popular islands – Santorini and Mykonos – which are also the most expensive. For more information, read  Two weeks in Greece for every budget .

What is the cheapest month for a vacation in Greece?

The best months for snapping up a deal in Greece are March, April, May, October, and November. Keep in mind that the beaches in Greece are best for swimming and sunbathing from late-May to early October.

What's the best way to spend seven days in Greece?

If you're travelling to Greece for seven days, fly into Athens and depart for Mykonos. Spend two days there before hopping on a boat to visit Santorini for two days and then come back to Athens for your final three days in Greece. 

What's the best way to spend 14 days in Greece?

Spend two days in each of the following destinations: Athens, Mykonos and Santorini. Then head to Crete and give yourself plenty of time to discover this large island's wonders or use your second week to explore northern Greece and Corfu. 

What is the best tour company for Greece?

Our Travel Experts can recommend operators like Contiki, On The Go Tours and Busabout. For historical tours, some of the best companies are Topdeck, Trafalgar and Fez Travel. While for island hopping, the best companies are Insight Vacations, Intrepid Travel and Globus. Check out a full list of the best Greece travel companies here .

How can I book a vacation to Greece on TourRadar?

Browse through our selection of tours based on your preferences, and if you have several that you like, compile a wish list with your preferred options. If you're struggling to make a decision, give our Travel Experts a call, and we can help you figure it out. 

Do people speak English in Greece?

Since all school children start learning English from the third grade, most Greeks under 40 will also know English. Those in the tourism industry, especially in the locations favoured by foreign travellers, usually have a good command of English as well as a few other languages. However, if you're travelling to Greece, aim to learn some basic phrases to help you get around. 

Is Greece safe place to travel?

Greece is a very safe country to travel to. Tourists are unlikely to experience any crime or violence. The only concern is petty crime on the streets, but if you apply basic precautionary measures, your trip should go smoothly.

Contact our Travel Experts

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Greece Local Travel Experts

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Meet your Greece Travel Agents

My name is Nikos Dimitriou and I am the owner of our boutique travel agency nestled in Greece that has been established during the pandemic and keeps thriving ever since. Our family-owned travel agency has been built on a foundation of unwavering quality, exceptional service, unmatched creativity and commitment to sustainability. Since 2020, we specialize in curating bespoke tailor-made experiences, retreats, private transfers, cooking classes and vacation packages that showcase the best of what Greece has to offer.

I was born and raised in beautiful Athens, the capital city of Greece. With living history right at my doorstep, it was only natural for me to develop a passion for my country’s culture and history. Today, I am a travel specialist for everyone wanting to experience unique moments and see the hidden cultural and natural gems of my country.

Our tour operator is a family business, with me and my sister running the operational aspects of it, supported by our fabulous team. We take every opportunity to travel in our beautiful country, both on the peninsula as well as the many islands. Allow us to take you on exclusive food & wine tastings, connect you with leading archaeologists and historians to get a deeper understanding of our rich history or to explore off-the-beaten-track Greek natural attractions. Many of our islands still feature untouched beaches, known only to locals and now also accessible to you. We are truly passionate about our culture and create itineraries that allow for a full immersion. No matter if you’re traveling on your own or with family or friends, we can create an itinerary that truly fits your wishes.

Our tours are most suited to those wanting to explore the culture and history of Greece.

10 days  / from 2681 USD

The Historical and Mythological Cyclades islands

The Cyclades islands include two of the most famous Greek Islands: Mykonos and Santorini. Visit these and some of the smaller, quieter, islands. With white washed houses, narrow cobbled streets, blue domed roofs and stunning beaches, they are what Greece is all about.

9 days  / from 2267 USD

A secluded villa stay on Mainland Greece

Stay in a secluded private villa with magnificent views to the sea and explore this beautiful corner of Mainland Greece with your own rental car. Under the impressive Mt Taygetos in Southern Peloponnese, the region of Mani will give you a snapshot of authentic Greece.

10 days  / from 2049 USD

Along the Coast of Crete: from Heraklion to Platanias

As Greece's largest island, Crete's culture and atmosphere is distinctly different from mainland Greece. Thousands of years of unique culture and rich history complement the island's untamed natural beauty. Explore Crete at your own pace with this unique self-drive trip!

8 days  / from 1624 USD

Cultural and natural sites of Athens and the Peloponnese

Welcome to wonderful Athens for an unforgettable adventure. Enjoy getting lost in this maze of charming streets, where the modern sits beautifully with the ancient. Venture out into the Peloponnese on mainland Greece, and discover historical, cultural and natural wonders the region is blessed with.

10 days  / from 3504 USD

An Odyssey Adventure in Ancient Greece

Learn the secrets of Ancient Greek mythology and history visiting the world-renowned site of the Acropolis, explore the unspoiled landscape of Peloponnese, become a true Spartan warrior in Thermopylae and much more - this self drive tour takes you on a real Greek adventure.

15 days  / from 2736 USD

Explore Classical Greece: self-drive motorhome trip

This 15-days motorhome road trip will take you to Athens, the city of legends and some of the most fascinating classical sites, such as Epidaurus, Olympia, Delphi and the man-made marvels of the Corinth Canal and Byzantine monasteries of Meteora. A perfect tour for history.

4 days  / from 959 USD

Athens: City of the Gods

Welcome to wonderful Athens. Wander this maze of charming streets, where the modern sits beautifully with the ancient; discover the Acropolis and the Parthenon, the crowning architectural achievements of the Classical Age; indulge your sense with delicious Mediterranean food at local tavernas.

9 days  / from 2387 USD

Discover Naxos in style

Stay in a secluded private villa and explore Naxos at your own pace in your own rental car. Lasting just above 1 week, this itinerary leaves plenty of room for relaxation and exploration of the amazing island of Naxos, with its authentic mountainous villages and magnificent sea views.

8 days  / from 1559 USD

Epirus and Athens: The Ancient Sites

Discover the ancient cities of the Epirus region and Athens. Shrouded in myths and legends of Greek gods and Roman and Byzantine warriors, the sites in the Epirus region of Greece, temples, castles, fortresses and rivers, all have tales to tell.

9 days  / from 2572 USD

An exclusive stay in Milos

Get to know the most exotic island in the Aegean by staying in a private luxury villa by the sea. Volcanic rocks paint the beaches red, pink and orange, white rock formations, emerald green waters and caves eroded by the sea, are steeped in stories of pirates. Milos is truly unique.

7 days  / from 1548 USD

Relaxing discovery of classical Greece

Spend a wonderful few days exploring Athens and the ancient sites surrounding the capital on mainland Greece. Blessed with glorious weather, nature and beaches, see sites that rival anything which you may find on the Greek Islands.

11 days  / from 4872 USD

From Athens to Milos, Naxos and Santorini

Stay in Athens, Milos, Naxos, and Santorini, as well as a day trip to Mykonos. Immerse in history at the Acropolis, bask in the Cycladic charm of Milos, explore Naxos's ancient sites, and savor sunsets in Santorini. Cruise the Aegean, savor food tours, and relish private excursions.

13 days  / from 4404 USD

Greek Dreams: Athens, Corfu, Santorini and Crete

A private journey through Athens, Corfu, Santorini, and Crete, staying in exquisite accommodations. Explore ancient history, savor Mediterranean cuisine, and unwind in stunning settings, creating beautiful memories throughout.

8 days  / from 1809 USD

Athens, Meteora & Santorini

Experience Greece's best: Athens' culture, culinary adventures, Meteora's monastic marvels, and the breathtaking beauty of Santorini. An unforgettable journey awaits!

10 days  / from 5559 USD

Majestic Greece: Temples, Castles, Monasteries & Myths

Go on an epic fast paced 10-day journey with a private driver through Greece's ancient wonders & natural beauty. From Athens to Meteora, experience history, culture & breathtaking landscapes along with local tour guides, all culminating in a journey of a lifetime. Recommended for the months Apr-Oct.

9 days  / from 3968 USD

Mainland & Islands: Athens, Paros and Santorini

Embark on a 9-day Greek odyssey! Begin with an Athens Acropolis tour, relax on the idyllic island of Paros, and then immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of Santorini. Explore history, unwind on stunning beaches, and relish unforgettable moments on this incredible journey.

12 days  / from 3641 USD

Greek Island Hopping: 4 Cycladic Gems

Hop between the islands of Andros, Tinos, Naxos and Syros on this authentic trip. Drive around stunning coastlines, explore mountain villages and unique paths, meet the locals, visit ancient sites, and relax on secluded beaches as you are transfixed by the allure of the Aegean’s turquoise waters.

12 days  / from 3205 USD

Capital & islands - Athens, Mykonos, Santorini and Crete

Experience a diverse Greek holiday exploring Athens, Mykonos, Santorini, and Crete. Enjoy daily excursions and the freedom of a rental car in Crete, immersing yourself in rich history, picturesque landscapes, and local charm.

I was born in Pogradec, Albania. As a child, I loved spending time by the lake and in nature, and I developed a passion for exploring, hiking, and traveling.  I have a master's degree in Tourism and love bringing travelers to my native country.

Based in Tirana, the company I work for focuses on offering tours around Central Europe and the Balkans. I personally specialize in all places and activities that Albania and the Balkans have to offer, including culture, history, hiking, rafting, authentic local experiences, UNESCO sites, and the Albanian Riviera. Whether you're looking for an escape, a tailored tour, a cultural experience, or an adventure, I can find something just for you!

My name is   Eirini   Tzoka, I am a travel specialist and I was born and raised in Athens. My family originated from North Greece, and it was this area's raw beauty that got me interested in culture and nature. I aim to give you a sense of what Greece has to offer.

We take every opportunity to travel in our beautiful country, both on the peninsula as well as the many islands. Allow us to take you on exclusive food & wine tastings, connect you with leading archaeologists and historians to get a deeper understanding of our rich history or to explore off-the-beaten-track Greek natural attractions.  

Who is your local expert?

Who is your greece travel agent.

Think of your Greece Travel Agent as a friend who lives and works in the country you want to visit.

They know the place inside out - saving you hours of research - and can plan and book a trip that’s 100% tailored to your wishes, and supports local businesses too.

They have excellent relationships with transport companies, hotels, and activity providers - ready to score the best deal for you!

Unforgettable - and completely customisable - Greece itineraries

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Ready to travel and discover greece, get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

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Greece Travel Secrets

plan your trip to Greece here

Greece Travel Secrets is a website committed to helping you get the most out of your visit to Greece and the Greek islands

Yassas and hello!

We are Sandy and John Papas, from Brisbane, Australia.

Thanks to Johns fabulous Greek heritage we visit Greece each year, sometimes twice,  and explore as much of the country as we can, as well as returning to old favourites. We love to cook (and eat) Greek food and are huge advocates of the wine, the way of life and the ‘Filotimo’, ( love of honour and other virtues).

Like you we are visitors, and have become experts at wrangling suitcases, ferry hopping and airport intricacies. We think we’ve learnt a trick or two and hope to pass on those tips to make your visit the best it can be.

We are parents to 3 great young adults who have been to Greece with us many times, and two furry daughters too, Penelope and Pandora.

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The Best Destinations In Greece You Can't Skip On Your Trip, According To Rick Steves

A country of many guises, Greece is a fabulous, year-round vacation destination. It's a land of deep culture with a civilization that goes back a millennia. Greece's landscape is equally impressive, with forests, towering peaks, and, of course, the famous Greek islands. It's the latter, perhaps, that captures the imagination of tourists the most, with the best Greek Islands often recommended by travelers for summer vacation . Spread across the Aegean, Ionian, and Mediterranean seas, like jewels in a vast expanse of clear turquoise, they are a dream come to life. 

But the islands aren't the only places worth checking out in Greece, and for travel expert Rick Steves, they are just one of the many multi-faceted draws to the country. There are destinations steeped in deep history and under-the-radar areas that are great for hiking. We've pored over Steves' stories on Greece and pulled together a hit list of the places with which he's fascinated. Having visited a number of them, we couldn't agree more with the choices that the renowned travel expert has made.

Read more: The Most Stunning Resorts To Stay At In The Cayman Islands, According To Reviews

As Steves writes on his website , in Athens, travelers can walk in the "footsteps of the great minds that created democracy, philosophy, theater, and more...even when you're dodging motorcycles on "pedestrianized" streets. Romantics can't help but get goose bumps as they kick around the same pebbles that once stuck in Socrates' sandals, with the floodlit Parthenon forever floating ethereally overhead." There are a lot of marvels around the Greek capital, not least the Acropolis, one of the most famous historical ruins in the world. Records show that people have lived here for more than 3,000 years, and today, it's a beguiling mixture of old and new and ancient and modern. 

The section known as the Parthenon, which encloses the historic city core, is like a trip back thousands of years across sites that have stood the test of time. You'll see the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Theatre of Dionysus, and the Acropolis — the columned highlight of it all, sitting atop a hill. The port of Athens, Piraeus, is the jumping-off point for trips to many of Greece's famed islands. It's also a major transport hub in Europe and the busiest passenger port on the continent.

This UNESCO World Heritage site has great ruins, and Steves stresses its role in Greek lore. On "Rick Steves' Europe,"  the travel expert says, " The island of Delos was one of the most important places in the ancient Greek world with temples honoring the birthplace of the twin gods Apollo and Artemis. Centuries before Christ, Delos attracted pilgrims from across the Western world ." Mythology posits that Apollo, a pivotal god in the pantheon of deities, was born here, and for eons, worshippers would come to the island to offer prayers. 

The island became a trading hub, and the archaeology there shows the vestiges of life here from millennia earlier. The breadth of historical ruins on Delos is something of great wonder, with examples of the Archaic, Classical, and Hellenistic eras all visible. Unlike other Greek islands, Delos is uninhabited and only has its historical ruins and ancient infrastructure for travelers to experience on a day visit.

This town was important to ancient Greeks, and you can ski here in the winter and hike in the summer. Many centuries ago, Greeks viewed Delphi as the focal point of the planet, a place where the Earth's intangible power was centered. This explains why it hosted so many places of prayer. It was also the home of the oracle of Delphi, a priestess who served almost as a conduit for the god Apollo. Many people visited from all directions to hear the spiritual wisdom and prophecies of Pythia, as the high priestess was known. Global leaders would also come here to learn what lay in store for them.

Steves ponders the island on his website : "Perched high on the southern slopes of Mt. Parnassos, and overlooking the gleaming waters of the Gulf of Corinth, Delphi is without doubt the most spectacular of Greece's ancient sites." A number of museums at Delphi help to bring history to life. The Archaeological Museum neighbors the archaeological area, while the European Cultural Center of Delphi puts on exhibits of artworks in various mediums. But Delphi isn't just a destination solely rooted in the past. There is more to enjoy there beyond history, from a ski center on the slopes of Mount Parnassus to the many hiking trails around town.

For fans of ancient Greece, this is a destination not to miss. The archaeological site sits in the Peloponnese, a jagged peninsula that spreads across the southern part of the country. On its northeastern side is a place known as Epidaurus, and Steves notes that its highlight is the theater. Built more than 2,000 years ago, the theater was famed for its shows, especially for those that were recuperating — Epidavros was known as a center of medicine and healing. 

On his website , Steves writes that the theater "provided entertainment for those who made the pilgrimage here. Given its size (it seated up to 14,000) and obvious lack of modern amplification, the acoustics needed to be perfect. They were...and still are. Sitting in the most distant seat as your travel partner stands on stage, you can practically hear the retsina rumbling in their stomach." 

The past comes into the present at the annual summer Athens & Epidaurus Festival, when old plays are performed at the theater. Beyond the dramatic performances, visitors can also find beaches and countryside in the environs. There is also a sunken city near the Methana volcano, where a former settlement was buried after a volcanic eruption. Since this happened close to the coast, the city now sits underwater, making for a great snorkeling expedition.

This off-the-radar escape with unforgettable beaches is Steves' favorite Greek island . He describes it as a "glamorous getaway that combines practical convenience (only about two hours by boat from Athens) with idyllic Greek island ambience. Donkeys rather than cars, the shady awnings of well-worn cafés, and memorable seaside views all combine to make it clear...you've found your Greek isle," on his website . Continuing, he handily summarizes Hydra as "an easy blend of stray cats, hardworking donkeys, welcoming Hydriots (as locals are called), and lazy tourists on "island time.'"

The charms of Hydra have not been lost on tourists, and each summer, its waters fill with boats and high-profile visitors. Prior guests have included Sophia Loren and Pablo Picasso. There are fine, large houses dotted around the island, and embarking on sailing expeditions can help you to view them properly. Hydra has hundreds of churches and even a handful of monasteries, which can all be visited. Best of all, for tourists in search of a change of scene, Hydra is a car-free destination — though cruise ships dock there in the summer. For a breathtaking view of the sea and the rocky terrain of Hydra, the stop of Mount Eros, the island's highest point, is a spot not to miss.

Mani Peninsula

Among the many places to visit in this part of the Peloponnese is Kardamyli, a small village on the Mani Peninsula. For Steves, this place embodies Greece's rustic charm and is located at the southern tip of mainland Greece. As he explains on his website , "[I]t really does feel like the end of the road. In the Mani, travelers discover a timeless region of rustic villages and untrampled beaches. Empty, ghostly hill towns cling, barnacle-like, onto distant ridges, still fortified against centuries-old threats." Also written as Kardamili, the village sits on what some call the Peloponnesian Riviera. 

It is an area of intense beauty and contrasts, from the deep blue sea to the green undulating hills and batches of cypress trees. There are even mountains visible, sometimes their peaks dusted in snow, and fine sunsets over the Messinian Gulf. From the nation's capital, it can be reached in less than four hours by car. For observers of culture, it's also home to an annual literary festival and a jazz festival.

Also in the Peloponnese, this island is a sight that's hard to comprehend: a town built on a hulking rock island. Monemvasia was founded by the Byzantines, and its history extends to the sixth century. Walking around this unique destination, travelers can amble over cobbled streets, peer at stone homes that are old and faded or newly restored, and feel like they have traveled back in time. The town's name derives from the Greek "moni emvasi," which means "only access," a reference to the short bridge that is the only way onto the island. The island itself, a mammoth pile of rock, is about 5,000 feet long, about 2,000 feet wide, and rises more than 600 feet in height. It was part of the mainland until an earthquake in A.D 375 separated the two. 

This is a fascinating place to wander, as we have had the pleasure of doing. It's also  the Greek town perfect for those looking for a couple's getaway . Steves describes Monemvasia on his website as "a gigantic rock that rockets improbably up from the blue-green deep just a few hundred yards offshore, is a time-warp to the medieval Peloponnese ... This remarkably romantic walled town — with the remains of an even bigger Upper Town scattered along the peak high above — is a stony museum of Byzantine, Ottoman, and Venetian history dating back to the 13th century. Summiting Monemvasia is a key experience on any Peloponnesian visit."

This is another archaeological site not to miss. As Steves notes on his website , "A visit to Mycenae is a trip back into prehistory to see some of the oldest remains of a complex civilization in all of Europe. Following the same ancient sandal-steps as the ancient Greeks, today's visitors continue to enjoy Mycenae's majestic setting of mountains, valleys, and the distant sea. Exploring this still-impressive hilltop, you'll discover the famous Lion Gate, a manageable museum, an enormous domed burial chamber...and distant echoes of the Trojan War." 

This was the base of the Mycenaean civilization, where Agamemnon, an icon instrumental in the defeat of the Trojans in Greek mythology, was from. Thousands of years before the era of Christ, people lived here. There are remnants of the large palaces, and the complex stone work from thousands of years earlier, and visitors can take it all in with a trip there. They will also see arches, traces of old fortifications, and fountains that attest to the formidable knowledge of the people here.

This lively Cycladic island has chic boutiques and vibrant nightlife. It's also a pretty destination, with stone alleys winding around the main town of Chora, blindingly white homes that contrast with the shimmering turquoise sea, and windmills that turn lazily in the breeze. There are plenty of places to stay here, from expensive, plush resorts to simple inns, as well as jewelry stores and art galleries for people who like to add shopping to their travel. Tourists will also discover castles, museums, churches, and an area known as Little Venice — where local merchants and traders built large homes near the water. Mykonos is a famous Greek Island that certainly lives up to its name.

For a peaceful excursion, head to the town of Ano Mera, which wraps around the monastery of Panagia Tourliani. Steves' feelings about the island are clear on his website . "Mykonos is the very picture of the perfect Greek island town: a seafront village crouched behind a sandy harbor, thickly layered with blinding white stucco, bright blue trim, and purple bougainvilleas. Mykonos' status as a fashionable, jet-set destination and a mecca for gay holiday makers also gives it a certain hip cachet (and sky-high prices) ... The core of town is literally a maze, designed by Mykonians centuries ago to discourage would-be invaders from finding their way."

On his website , Steves is effusive with praise about this Peloponnese spot. "The charming Peloponnesian port town of Nafplio is small, cozy, and strollable. Though it has plenty of tourism, Nafplio is both elegant and proud, retaining a certain genteel panache from its glory days as the capital of a newly independent Greece. It's a must-see because of its historical importance, its accessibility from Athens, and its handy location as a home base for touring the ancient sites of Epidavros and Mycenae." This town is a two-hour drive from Athens and has a mesmerizing old city with winding alleys and vertiginous stairways connecting them. There's also a waterfront with a promenade that makes for fine evening wanders and classic Greek tavernas. 

At the beaches, tourists can sun themselves by the day, or explore the town's three castles: Acronafplia, Bourtzi, and Palamidi. Nafplio was the capital of Greece in the early 1800s when it first became a country, and so it holds a special place in locals' hearts. It is named after Nafplios, the son of Poseidon and its founder, and features varied architecture, from Turkish fountains and mosques to Italian-style squares.

The famed ancient site is the birthplace of the Olympic Games. Located in the western part of the Peloponnese peninsula, it was a very sacred part of old Greece. Beginning in the year 776 B.C., people from all over Greece came together to compete in sports games, and the Olympic Games were born. Today's Olympia showcases its rich past, with old temples and buildings that were once thriving centers of sporting activity. At the Archaeological Museum of Olympia, aged artifacts include a statue of Hermes and sculpted works that adorned the Temple of Zeus. Each summer, festivals bring an added allure to Olympia. One features live performances, while another is a film festival that focuses on cinematic gems for youngsters. 

Writing on his website , Steves lauds Olympia's celebration of its past. "A visit to Olympia — most famous as the site of the original Olympic Games — offers one of your best opportunities for a hands-on antiquity experience. Line up at the original starting line in the 2,500-year-old Olympic Stadium. Visit the Temple of Zeus, former site of a gigantic statue of Zeus that was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Ponder the temple's once-majestic columns — toppled like towers of checkers by an earthquake — which are as evocative as anything from ancient times." Even with the crowds, Steves maintains that Olympia is "a magical place, with ruins nestled among lush, shady groves of pine trees."

One of the Dodecanese islands, Rhodes, lies just off the coast of southern Turkey. It's a place of mountain villages and pine forests, as well as some revered historical sites. Steves describes the island aptly in a video . " Rhodes is built upon layers of civilizations -- Italian, Greek, and Turkish, with a dash of medieval Crusader lore from all over Europe tossed in. Today, luxury yachts crowd the harbor. The island's main city, also called Rhodes, was one of the great cities of antiquity. The famed statue called the Colossus of Rhodes once towered above the city."  

This really is a destination with everything, from beaches backed by mountainous pine forests, ancient sites and monuments, and modern resorts that dot the coast. A visit inevitably starts in the main city, where the old town is fortified and is a proud representation of medieval architecture. This is where you would find an old palace, a lofty clock tower, museums, and churches, all set among snaking alleys. The newer part of the city is more Italian in style, a reflection of the era when Italians governed Rhodes. Beyond this hub, travelers can find buzzing resort areas like Ialysos, ancient monasteries, charming villages, and ruins of former great cities. If you yearn for attractive strips of sand, a thrilling hike will take you to one of Greece's most gorgeous, secluded beaches .

One of the most romantic destinations in Greece, Santorini is set on the caldera of a former volcano. Steves declares on his website that "this unique place has captured visitors' imaginations for millennia and might have partly inspired tales of Atlantis. But the otherworldly appeal of Santorini doesn't end with its setting. Perched along the ridgeline is a gaggle of perfectly placed whitewashed villages, punctuated with azure domes that make this, undeniably, one of Greece's most scenic spots. If this place didn't exist, some fantasy painter would have to conjure it up." Santorini is, in reality, a clutch of islands, though the main one is called Thira. 

The modern topography of Santorini resulted from a series of volcanic explosions that took place over many thousands of years, causing the volcano's main caldera to collapse and fill with water. That's why the island appears like part of a giant ring. The main town of Fira, set at one end of the caldera ridge, is a sight to behold. It's set hundreds of feet above the sea, with views of water and the island unfurling below. For many visitors, Oia is the most appealing destination, a village of pure, blinding white houses set among the lava rock. The beaches are equally hypnotic, and they come in a variety of shades, with sand that's beige, red, and black at various places around the island. It's also popular, so to avoid foot traffic,  visit this gorgeous Greek island instead of overcrowded Santorini .

Methodology

Steves clearly has a soft spot for Greece, and it's no surprise, given how beautiful and varied the country is. Visitors can see natural wonders, and also examples of man's ingenuity and architectural prowess. There are cultural tokens dotted around the lands of Greece and places of pure beauty that will leave a lasting impression on any traveler. We looked over Steves' website and videos and pulled together a list of the places that recurred, which were clearly destinations that he felt should not be missed. We supported his choices with a combination of independently sourced information from tourism boards and travel blogs, as well as our own travels around Greece.

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The Best Times to Visit Greece for Good Weather, Fewer Crowds, and Affordable Prices

High, low, and shoulder seasons all have their advantages.

Alessandra Amodio

Greece has long beckoned travelers with its crystalline waters, rich historical sites, and delicious cuisine. One of the best times to visit is in late spring or early fall to avoid the summer crowds and soaring temperatures. Here's an overview of the main tourist seasons:

• High Season:  July to August
• Shoulder Seasons:  April to June and September to October
• Low Season:  November to March

There are advantages to visiting year-round. The peak summer months are best for a classic coastal vacation spent swimming in the sea and dining in outdoor tavernas, while the low season offers a glimpse of local life as well as more affordable rates. Winter is also the rainy season in Greece, but it can be a good time for a cultural getaway with fewer crowds at museums and archaeological sites.

Ready to plan your trip? These are the best times to visit Greece no matter your priorities.

Michela Buttignol/Travel+Leisure

Best Times to Visit Greece for Smaller Crowds

Unsurprisingly, the most popular time to visit Greece stretches from late spring to early fall, when the warm weather draws beach-goers and island-hoppers. According to CEIC data , fewer than one million people visit Greece each month between November and March, compared to more than six times that number in August. So if you're not planning to hit the beaches, you'll encounter far fewer crowds if you visit in winter.

While the weather is cooler from November to March (average temperatures hover between the mid-40s and the low 60s), it can be a pleasant time to explore ancient ruins such as those at Delphi and contemporary art galleries and museums in Athens . Note, however, that many tourist venues and hotels close for the winter, particularly in the Greek islands , and there's a higher chance of rain between November and March.

Best Times to Visit Greece for Good Weather

If you're after warm weather but want to avoid extreme heat, May and September are among the best months to go to Greece. The country is relatively large, so temperatures vary, but in May, the average temperature in Athens ranges from a high of 77 degrees Fahrenheit to a low of 59. Mountainous areas like Mount Olympus are typically cooler. In June, the average high warms up to the mid-80s — perfect for swimming in the sea.

Summer can be sweltering, with average highs in the 90s in Athens, though the Greek islands tend to be cooler, in the high 70s and 80s. By October, average highs dip into the 60s and low 70s. Yes, it's cool, but nowhere near cold enough to feel uninviting. Winter is the rainiest season in Greece.

Best Times to Visit Greece for Lower Prices

You're likely to save money on a trip to Greece if you travel during the winter low season. According to Skyscanner , the cheapest month to fly to Greece is November. You can typically find the best airfare by booking your flight within one to two months of your scheduled departure.

Hotels tend to be pricey during July and August, so avoid these peak months if you're looking for lower room rates. It's worth noting that prices increase slightly during Greek Orthodox Easter, which sometimes falls at the end of April. The end of December and the beginning of January see a similar spike.

Worst Times to Visit Greece

There's no bad time to visit Greece, but July and August can be uncomfortably hot and humid, especially in Athens. The capital city and Cycladic islands (including Mykonos and Santorini) are also at their most crowded and expensive during these months, so it's best to avoid midsummer if you're looking for more elbow room, lower prices, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Conversely, winter temperatures can dip as low as the 40s in Greece and it's also the wettest season. While the cool weather is fine for exploring historical sites, shops, and museums, it's too chilly to swim in the ocean, and some hotels and attractions in resort areas may close.

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Money blog: Nando's and Five Guys drinks policy could be banned in part of UK

Welcome to the Money blog, your place for personal finance and consumer news and tips. Leave a comment with your thoughts below - or submit a Money Problem or consumer dispute, remembering to leave a contact number or email.

Monday 15 July 2024 20:41, UK

• Nando's and Five Guys drinks policy could be banned in part of UK
• Mars admits Celebrations have been shrunk ahead of Christmas
• Bank launches £175 switching bonus - but there's a catch
• Fake olive oil worth more than £757,000 seized

Essential reads

• Money Problem : 'A £16 phone bill debt has put a default on my credit record and now I can't get a mortgage - what can I do?'
• Risks from your child's first smartphone - and how to tackle them
• Holiday money - where to buy it, how to avoid fees, and one thing you must not do as pound reaches highs
• Best wines for the summer under £10 a bottle
• Best make-up dupes for a summer glow
• Best deals on school uniform ahead of new academic year

Ask a question or make a comment

Spotfiy has discreetly introduced a cheaper plan that can save users up to £24 a year.

Its new "Basic" plan costs £1-£2 less a month than other subscriptions.

Users will need to forgo audiobooks, while still enjoying ad-free listening, downloads, high-quality audio and podcasts.

Most of Spotify's Premium plans (not including Student) currently include 15 hours of audiobook listening.

Current Spotify Premium members were all moved onto these plans automatically after price increases in April 2024.

The prices of these plans are: Individual Premium (£11.99 per month), Family Premium (£19.99 per month) and Duo (£16.99 per month).

The new Basic plan - only available to existing Premium subscribers - includes all the regular perks, but without the 15 hours of audiobooks.

The prices of these plans are: Individual Basic (£10.99 per month), Family Basic (£17.99 per month) and Duo Basic (£14.99 per month).

Student plans remain at £5.99 per month, and there is no Basic Student available currently.

To switch plans, log into Spotify via a browser (you can't use the app). Go to your Profile , then Account , Subscription and Available plans .

Find Basic option, select your plan and click Update subscription .

By James Sillars , business reporter 

A strong US stock market rally today is being described as a "Trump bounce".

Market commentators credited the prospect of a big sympathy vote for the former president-turned presidential hopeful after the failed assassination attempt at the weekend.

As such, investors were pricing in a greater chance of him winning a second term in November.

The S&P 500 and the Dow Jones Industrial Average both hit new record highs as hopes grew for investor-friendly policies ahead, such as extended tax cuts and looser regulation.

Trump Media & Technology Group was one of the most actively traded shares.

They were up 34%.

On this side of the Atlantic, the FTSE 100 was on course to close about 0.8% down.

Burberry was the biggest faller, down 16%, following a weak trading update that prompted the luxury brand to cancel is dividend.

The Welsh government is considering restricting free refills of sugary soft drinks in restaurants - potentially impacting fans of Nando's, Five Guys, Pizza Hut and Popeyes.

It has launched a consultation in an attempt to encourage people to make "healthier choices".

Eluned Morgan, Labour cabinet secretary for health and social care, said more than 60% of the population is "living with obesity or overweight".

She is proposing a "package of measures to improve the health of our food environments across Wales".

It is proposed that retailers be prohibited from placing HFSS products (high in fat, salt and sugar), in areas such as aisle ends and checkout/queueing areas.

There could also be restrictions on promotions.

Restaurants would be exempt from price and location promotions, "except in the case of free refills of sugar-sweetened beverages".

It is being proposed that "failure to comply with an improvement notice" could result in the "option of issuing a fixed monetary penalty of £2,500".

Grandparents in Sweden are eligible for paid parental leave under a new law aimed at extending childcare benefits beyond children's immediate family.

The programme, launched at the start of this month, allows parents to transfer a portion of their parental leave days to other caretakers, including grandparents. 

The law enables single parents to transfer up to 90 days of paid leave to other caregivers and a parental couple to transfer up to 45 days, according to the Swedish government's Social Insurance Agency.  

This comes 50 years after the country became the first ever nation to introduce paid parental leave that could be split between both parents - and many countries, including the UK, copied.

Dozens of tonnes of fake olive oil worth more than €900,000 (£757,000) have been seized in Italy.

Authorities confiscated a total of 71 tonnes of the "oily substance", with 42 tonnes of it boxed and ready to be sold as Italian extra virgin olive oil, one of Italy's biggest national police forces said. 

Seven people were allegedly behind the counterfeit goods, with the Carabinieri accusing them of criminal conspiracy, adulteration of food substances intended for marketing, fraud in public military supplies and adulteration of food for export.

"During the operations, several boxes and warehouses used by the suspects were searched, seizing 71 tonnes of oily substance, contained in plastic tubs and cans of various sizes," it said . 

Equipment used for packaging and distribution, including 1,145 customs excise duty stamps and labels claiming the oil was "extra virgin", have also been taken by officers. 

The investigation comes as the price of olive oil continues to soar in the UK - the cost of a 500ml bottle has risen from £6.16 in May 2023 to £8.60, according to the latest data.

The Money team has previously found a bacterial disease, criminal gangs, changing weather patterns and Brexit have all played a part in the increases. 

You can read more about our olive oil investigation from earlier this year below...

By  Brad Young  and  Katie Williams , from the Money team

As we reported in our markets update below, the pound has held its recent gains against the dollar, with one pound buying $1.2982. It's also at a near two-year high against the euro - £1 equals €1.1912.

So, this could be the perfect time to buy your holiday money.

Recently, we spoke with three travel experts to find out when, where and how to pay abroad in order to make the most of your pound.

CREDIT CARD

"The  cheapest way to spend overseas is often on plastic , if you've got the right plastic," said James Jones, head of consumer affairs at Experian.

"Using credit and debit cards can be a great way to get the very best exchange rates."

He said rates offered by currency exchange shops are usually "much less attractive" than those offered on some cards, which were much closer to the rates the banks use themselves.

Fees could wipe out any gains

But it's essential to be aware of things like non-sterling transaction fees, cash withdrawal fees and credit card interest.

So shop around for a card with travel rewards, Mr Jones said - and do this before your trip.  

"You probably need to give yourself, ideally, six weeks."

Extra protection

When you book a trip between £100 and £30,000, try and pay for some of it on a credit card to get "extra protection" under section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act, said Mr Jones.

That means the card provider is jointly responsible with the retailer if something goes wrong, such as arriving at a hotel only to find it has closed down.

If you are using a credit card, make sure you are can pay it off in full to avoid interest charges, said Sean Tipton from the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA).

One trap you must not falling into

An increasingly common trap when paying with card (credit or debit) is being presented with the option to pay in the local currency or in pounds, said Mr Jones and Mr Tipton.

While paying in sterling might "seem like a wonderful convenience" you will ultimately be paying "quite a bit more for the purchase", Mr Jones said.

If you pay in pounds, the local retailer's bank sets the exchange rate, but if you pay in the local currency, your UK bank sets the rate.

DEBIT CARDS

"Some service providers don't apply fees for overseas use on their regular UK debit cards," says Moneyfacts - but you must always check as some incur big fees.

Alternatively, "some service providers offer specialist travel debit cards that don't impose non-sterling transaction fees and cash withdrawal fees".

PREPAID TRAVEL CARDS

If you're looking to avoid a credit check, prepaid cards can be loaded with multiple currencies and work like a debit card, without being connected to your bank.

"Typically, prepaid travel cards will offer competitive or even no charges for foreign usage, which can make them a cheaper alternative to using a normal credit or debit card while on holiday," says MoneyFacts.

One of the most popular prepaid cards, Revolut, uses its own exchange rates, which might not always be the best you can find - and while it is fee free on weekdays, there are charges at weekends, so do your research.

Also be aware - prepaid cards do not offer purchase protection like a credit card and aren't regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

"Don't rely solely on a card - it can backfire on you if you do," said Mr Tipton.

Some taxis only take cash, leaving you to face hefty charges withdrawing from an ATM.

In some countries, like Argentina, it can be difficult to get money out of ATMs without a local bank account, Mr Tipton said.

Mr Jones added: "If you're in a very remote part of the world that actually doesn’t have many ATMs and maybe where cash is king, then that might dictate what you need to do."

Where and when to get cash

"I'd strongly recommend [to] get some cash out in the UK," said Mr Tipton.

It can be difficult to find a bureau de change in some developing nations, and ATMs have "started introducing quite hefty charges" across the board, he said.

The exceptions are countries with really high inflation rates, where it may make more sense to get cash out when you arrive, he added.

When to exchange currency really depends on the destination, said Laura Plunkett, head of travel money at the Post Office.

"Exchange rates change frequently, so if you have time, do your homework and lock in a rate when it is good."

What is a good exchange rate for Europe?

Some 80% of British holidays abroad take place in the Eurozone, said Mr Tipton.

The rate has remained "fairly stable", but if you see the pound increasing in value that may be the time to buy a larger amount of Euros for a couple of years in advance, he added.

Mr Tipton said 1.2 to the pound is a "pretty healthy" time to buy, but "it is a bit of a lottery".

Every year the pound gets stronger against the South African rand, and the same in Argentina, where the peso is "unbelievably weak", Mr Tipton suggested.

In store or online?

"Most online suppliers will insist on a minimum order value that might be too high for some people, and you'll have to make sure that you're home for when it's delivered," said Ms Plunkett.

"But typically, rates are better online if that's an option for you."

By Sarah Taaffe-Maguire , business reporter 

Burberry has ousted its chief executive and announced the appointment of a new CEO this morning. 

The move came as the luxury British fashion brand scrapped shareholder payments and reported a "disappointing" financial performance and a "more challenging than expected" business transition.

The company said it expected to make a loss in the first half of the year if current trends persist, as previously identified weakness had "deepened".

Taking up the reins is former Michael Kors boss Joshua Schulman.

Following the update, Burberry's share price was down 12.5%. 

The index Burberry is a constituent of, the FTSE 100, was down 0.4%, as was the larger FTSE 250 which comprises more UK companies listed on the London Stock Exchange. 

The price of oil, as measured by a barrel of Brent crude, is slightly lower than it has been for most of the past four weeks at $84.79 a barrel, but it is still above May and June prices. 

The pound has held its gains against the dollar, with one pound buying $1.2982. It's also at a near two-year high against the euro - £1 equals €1.1912.

After the assassination attempt on former president Donald Trump, the cryptocurrency Bitcoin enjoyed another steep rise, though is still below the all-time high reached in March.

A box of Celebrations has been quietly shrunk.

It doesn't quite mean Christmas is cancelled - but there may be even more bickering than usual as there'll be on average five fewer sweets to choose from.

We mentioned that the shrinkage had been implemented quietly - firms don't usually advertise these things and instead we got wind of the 600g box becoming 550g via a warehouse worker who posted this on X...

The Money team contacted Mars Wrigley for comment - we haven't heard back but when approached by The Grocer , a spokeswoman said the business had "been actively trying to find ways to absorb the rising costs of raw materials and operations".

"Unfortunately, the growing pressures mean more needs to be done.

"Reducing the size of our products is not a decision we have taken lightly but it is necessary for shoppers to still be able to enjoy their favourite Celebrations treats without compromising on quality or taste," she added.

Mars Wrigley has also shrunk the tub itself, she said, "to reduce the plastic used in the packaging by 17%."

On whether the cost of a box would come down, the spokeswoman said: "Pricing is at the sole discretion of the retailer."

It would seem fairly pointless to shrink the product because of rising costs and then also reduce the price - but let's see.

The Grocer has pointed out that Mars Wrigley has shrinkflation form in recent years - impacting Twix, Maltesers, Galaxy bars and Starburst.

Barclays has launched a £175 incentive for new customers to bank with them.

The cash can be claimed by switching to a Barclays Bank Account or Premier Current Account by 30 August.

But the majority of switchers will have to pay a £5 monthly fee to be eligible.

In order to qualify for the free cash with a Barclays Bank Account, customers must pay for a Blue Rewards subscription in the Barclays app.

The recently revamped Blue Rewards comes with Apple TV+, a Major League Soccer season pass and cashback incentives.

Still interested? Then you need to use the current account switch service, pay in at least £800 and move over at least two direct debits.

The alternative is to open a Premier Current Account, which is only available to those with an income of £75,000 or at least £100,000 in savings or investments with Barclays.

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Mayor of Athens says tourism in Greece isn’t ‘viable’ anymore as each visitor only adds €0.40 to the economy

Summers in Athens are about historical sights like the Parthenon, colorful markets and plates of souvlakis. But lately, it’s gotten hard to cope with the number of people chasing those exact things. 

Authorities in the Greek capital of Athens have lamented the city’s tipping into overtourism territory, making crowds unmanageable . To control that, the city capped the number of tourists who could visit the Acropolis to 20,000 last year, as tourists flocked to Greece beyond just the summertime. 

Tourism is a double-edged sword in Greece. The number of visitors has exploded beyond control, growing by 120% between 2019 and 2023. But since Greece derives 25-30% of its GDP from tourist activities—with that number soaring to 90% on the island of Santorini—cracking down on it isn’t easy.

Still, the headache of excessive visitors and its impact on local communities and the city itself has made tourism in its current form isn’t sustainable, Athens’s Mayor Harris Doukas said.         

“Each visitor brings €0.40 to the city, and we haven’t seen this money yet,” Doukas told Euronews . “We need to find a way to make tourism viable.”

Last year, a whopping 33 million tourists visited Greece—over thrice the country’s population. More tourism means a greater economic boost by propping up local business activities. But they’ve resulted in a disproportionate strain on infrastructure, housing and environmental resources. These are particularly pressing as Greece grapples with the aftermath of wildfires in recent years. 

“It turns out that the pressures exerted by tourism on the environment are linked to the change of land uses (due to the creation of new infrastructure and other facilities for tourist use), and specifically with the expansion of the urban environment at the expense of the natural,” a government report on sustainable tourism found as part of a broader effort to change Greece’s approach towards tourism.  

Earlier this year, Greece introduced a “ climate crisis resilience tax ” that aims to raise funds that can help it address natural disasters by charging tourists through their hotel bills.    

Managing overtourism in a delicate yet firm way

Given its relationship with the tourism and hospitality sectors, Greece has tried to manage its visitors with a raft of measures, including extending the vacation season to a longer period and introducing fines for businesses that take up too much space on beaches with their sunbeds and umbrellas.

“Our goal is to protect both the environment and the right of citizens to access the beach freely, and to preserve our tourism product as well as healthy entrepreneurship,” Economy Minister Kostis Hatzidakis said in a statement, according to Agence France-Presse.

Travel demand was nearly zilch three years ago at the pandemic’s peak. But it has since come back roaring—and several other European cities are also facing the heat of it. Italy and the Netherlands are grappling with a phenomenon similar to Greece’s.

In response to the threat of overtourism, Amsterdam has curbed the construction of new hotels and plans to limit cruise ship dockings in its harbor , while Venice has introduced an entry fee for its visitors as of this summer. 

With visitor numbers steadily rising, countries now face a delicate balance between promoting and limiting tourism, especially where it’s a crucial piece of the economy.

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