Getaway to Greece by Mideast Travel

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Discover Greece by Souha Katerina Mousbeh Managing Director

Discover a world where each color is a unique sensation! Mideast offers you a unique insight to Greeceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most sensational destinations... care to join?

getaway to greece: editorial

Greece is not only about 5.000 years of History, Civilization, Culture, Philosophy, Sciences or Greek Mythology… It is not only the country that gave birth to the Democracy… to the Olympic flame for Athletics… and to historical leaders such as Alexander the Great… or Leonidas

It is not only the country of sunshine, green mountains, beautiful beaches, lovely islands and Zorba the Greek … Or the country of Byzantine churches, monasteries and Iconography…… It is also the ideal place to enjoy your time, to have fun, to live the Greek way of cosmopolitan life, to experience the famous night life and fill your heart with memories that only Greece can offer you… Should you be looking for a family, a honeymoon or even an incentive destination, Greece has everything you can dream of…

If you still have not had the chance to visit this great country, you should really do so at your earliest convenience… As for those of you who have already visited Greece, we know you would love to come back and experience it all over once more, making the memories you have warmly kept in your hearts become alive again… Make your decision today to visit our 365-days destination and let us take care of all the rest!... Looking forward to welcome you to Greece, soon!...

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Which country does not have a Greekstyle building?... Is there any Museum that does not pride for its Greek ancient treasures?...

of Sparta…

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have the great pleasure and honor, together with all members of the Mid East Team, to present to you our very special edition on Greece, this great country which spread the Greek spirit all over the world…

Book with someone who cares! A Group with a long history

MidEast Travel has been operating in the Greek market since 1983 and today it employs more than 40 experienced and educated professionals who stand out for their consistency and courtesy. Initially specialized in the Middle East tourism market, now, after the experience that has been accumulated, we travel you worldwide, while keeping our strong specialization in the Middle East, Persian Gulf and North African markets.

getaway to greece: company profile

Our Vision To be every traveler’s 1st choice, being trusted for the services we offer, satisfying even the most complicated requests. Our Mission To offer the most complete and qualitative tourism services

Our Philosophy We base our principles, attitude and actions on the love we feel for our customers, always caring for their upmost satisfaction. Our Aim To be the most beloved and trustworthy tourism organization, offering excellent products and the best service to our customers. Why MidEast? • We operate in the tourism market since 1983. • We travel you all around the world taking advantage of our expertise and knowledge of

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MidEast is a Greek private group of limited companies, under the ownership of Mousbeh family, which consists of the companies MidEast International Tours Ltd. (Air Tickets) and MidEast Travel and Tourism Ltd. (Tourism Services).

with an emphasis to the human aspect of each traveler, self-improving daily, taking into consideration and evaluating our customers’ suggestions.

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hether you are an individual travelling for pleasure or you are a company from the pharmaceutical, marine or other sector and you need a partner to organize and realize incentive trips, events and other requests, MidEast is your best choice, ranking extremely high in the customers’ preferences by always offering high quality services.

Whether you are an individual, travelling for pleasure, or you are a company from the pharmaceutical, marine or other sector and every destination. • We provide travel services with the best value-for-money offers. • Our company’s professional personnel are always willing to serve you with a warm smile. • We are internationally recognized with awards and distinctions. Above all, WE TRULY LOVE OUR CUSTOMERS! Where do we differ? …You can ask our customers! Our Strategic targets • Constant focus on our customers’ needs and desires. • Continuous qualitative controls of products and services. • Steady training and development of our personnel. • New website launching providing online access to our services. • Continuous development and increase of our market share for the following years. Our Personnel Our personnel comprise more than 40 multilingual profession-

als in the tourism sector, working fulltime, most of whom have been employed in our company for many years. Our people stand out for their courtesy and quality of service they offer both to individual and corporate customers. Our Services in Greece and the World • Extensive services for incoming tourism • Air tickets issuance • Ferry tickets issuance • Train tickets issuance • Visa issuance, where effectible • Hotel reservations • Car, limousine and bus (17, 30, 50, 70 seats) rental • Package tours for both individuals and groups. • Ecotourism, alternative, cultural, archaeological, religious and educational interest trips • Cruises in seas, oceans, rivers and lakes • Private aircraft, helicopter and aerostat chartering • Incentive trips • Team Building Services • Organization of Conferences • Exhibitions, professional meetings and events organizing • Organization of commercial delegations

getaway to greece: company profile

you need a partner to organize and realize incentive trips, events and other requests, MidEast is your best choice... • Athletic federations servicing • Boat, yacht and ship rentals • Travel insurance service • Multilingual guides and drivers • VIP service at the airport • 24hours call service • Catering service Our Achievements • Representatives of the Syrian Ministry of Tourism since 1985. • Organization of Official Delegations for presidents from foreign countries such as Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, India, Iraq, Qatar and many other Princes of the Arab world and other important personalities of the world. • Numerous important distinctions and awards from the largest companies, committees and even countries. • Award of the “Best Outgoing Tourism Brochure 2009” among all Travel Agencies in Greece during the Philoxenia Exhibition.

multinational companies from the marine and pharmaceutical sectors indicatively, athletic delegations and thousands of individual clients. • International customers that comprise the largest travel agencies of the Arab market and all continents of the world. Our Operating Hours Monday to Friday: 08:00 – 19:00 Saturday: 09:00 – 13:00 (During the months of July and August our Incoming Department operates on Sundays as well) Member of the Organizations • IATA, HATTA, PETAGA • Certified by ISO 9001:2000: 318128 • GNTO licence number 0206Ε61000125600

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Our Customers • Customers in Greece that comprise companies, public organizations, foreign embassies, chambers of commerce,

acknowlegements special thanks for their contribution in this edition to: The Greek National Tourism Organization for providing us with their wonderful pictures of Greece. Mrs Despina Ouzouni, owner of Blast! Communications Advertising Co. and her great team, Panagiotis Vergopoulos, Fotis Kiamos, Dimitris Kazos and Giannis Koutroubas, for their hard efforts in designing this edition within a short period of time. Mrs. Elli Vogiatzi, director of Explorer Editions Ltd. for her extended research, texts writing and pictures offering. The Paspartu Co. for their professional and punctual translations. Mrs Maria Theofanopoulou, editor of the Greek Travel Pages for kindly offering us their maps. Our dear colleagues, Elina Argyri, Alice Mousbeh, Moussa Nazour and Stathis Sarantopoulos, for their great effort and time they devoted for the realization of this edition. Mr. Panagiotis Vergopoulos and Mr. George Liadis for providing us with pictures from their personal collection.

getaway to greece

getaway to greece: index

contents company profile....................................... 5 getaway to greece.................................16 thematic holidays ..................................36 quality products made in greece..... 62 map of greece ....................................... 64 athens ........................................................ 66 tours ........................................................... 94 cruising greece .......................................96 the saronic gulf...................................... 98 mykonos ..................................................102 santorini .................................................... 114 paros..........................................................128 naxos ...........................................................131 cyclades .................................................... 132 crete ..........................................................142 rhodes.......................................................162 kos .............................................................. 172 patmos ..................................................... 176 kalymnos, kastelorizo ...........................180 leros, carpathos ...................................... 181 ionian islands .........................................182 corfu ..........................................................184 zakynthos ................................................ 192 kefalonia................................................... 196 lefkada......................................................200 ithaki .........................................................204 kythira paxoi ........................................205 north aegean .......................................206 samos .......................................................208 chios ..........................................................210 samothraki..............................................212 lesvos......................................................... 213 ikaria ..........................................................214 lemnos ......................................................215 skiathos ....................................................216 sporades .................................................220 thessaloniki ............................................222 chalkidiki .................................................232 north greece ........................................238

kastoria....................................................240 kaimaktsalan........................................... 241 veria, naousa .........................................242 pieria, elatohori ...................................243 pella, kerkini lake ................................244 kavala ........................................................245 xanthi .......................................................246 komotini .................................................248 alexandroupoli ....................................249 epirus .......................................................250 meteora ..................................................258 kalampaka ..............................................259 elati............................................................260 pertouli ....................................................261 pelion .......................................................262 volos .........................................................263 plastira lake ...........................................264 evia, halikda, edipsos .........................266 arachova .................................................268 parnassos ...............................................269 delfi ............................................................270 nafpaktia .................................................. 271 karpenisi..................................................272 kalavryta, arcadia, diakofto, taygetos, corinth .................................275 nafplio ......................................................276 tolo ............................................................279 loutraki, corinth isthmus.................280 porto heli ................................................281 epidaurus ...............................................282 ancient corinth ....................................283 mycenae, kaifas ....................................284 katakolo, loutra in kilini ...................285 mani ..........................................................286 mistras, monemvasia ........................287 messinia ..................................................288 kalamata..................................................290 patra .........................................................292 emergency numbers ........................296

getaway to greece

discover to getaway greece greece:discover greece

getaway to greece: discover greece

The country where the sciences were born, the foundations of today’s theories of the universe, philosophy and mathematics. Greece… What pops into your mind when you think about Greece? Mythology, history, civilization, the sciences, sun, sea, excursions…

more than 100 theatres around the country which you can still see, even today, in the exact places where they were built originally.

This small country, maker of huge contributions to the sciences, with a history reaching down the ages, a great civilization on which all the civilizations of the world rest, the 6,000 islands, the two seas around its shores, its many small bays and coves, but also thousands of different destinations to choose from for traveling in winter or summer. That’s Greece!

The country whose own alphabet was used to create the latin alphabet which is used today in so many languages around the world (including English!).

The country where the sciences were born, the foundations of today’s theories of the universe, philosophy and mathematics. The country where Alexander the Great was born, the great general whose brilliant strategizing made his dream of a Greater Greece come true.

The country where the Olympic Games and ideals were born, making athletics a global event, symbolized by the flame that lights the torch which travels round the world bringing with it its message of peace, always starting its journey from ancient Olympia, as it has always done. Where there have been great personalities who’ve made important contributions to political life, poetry, song and the arts in general. That’s Greece! Let’s discover this beloved country…

The country which also gave birth to the theatrical arts, with

The Antikythera mechanism, 150–100 BC, an ancient mechanical computer designed to calculate astronomical positions.

The development of the Greek alphabet and the writing of Homer’s epic poems took place in the Geometric period, and the Athenian Greek civilization through the ages Greek civilization began thousands of years ago and evolved along with the historical progress of the country. It begins with the Neolithic period, where evidence of a flourishing civilization can still be seen from the many Neolithic settlements found in Thessaly, the Peloponnese and Macedonia. In the Iron Age, the first urban centers in Crete, Mainland Greece, the Aegean and the Cyclades began to develop. One great milestone in the cultural past of the country was the Minoan civilization, with the Minoan Palaces which you can see in Crete and its surrounding areas. The best known and best preserved of these is the one at Knossos in Crete. The development of the Greek alphabet and the writing of Homer’s epic poems took place in the Geometric period, and the Athenian Alliance sealed the Golden Age of Pericles during which the Parthenon was built on the Acropolis of Athens.

The Roman Empire made its presence felt in Athens and St. Paul’s missionary journey brought Christianity to Greece, replacing worship of the Twelve Gods of Olympus, which the Greek people had believed in up until that time. Exhibits in the many archaeological museums all around Greece are evidence left from these times. The Ottoman Empire, which took power after this, was another important milestone that had great influence in defining cultural identity in many parts of Greece, something which is obvious even today. After the struggle for liberation, which was won in 1821 due to the pure strength of will and ideals of the Greeks, and over subsequent years, Greece expanded to take its current territorial form.

Alliance sealed the Golden Age of Pericles during which the Parthenon was built on the Acropolis of Athens.

Ancient Greek mythology begins with worship of the twelve gods which people believed to live on Mount Olympus. Father of the gods was the almighty Zeus. Together with Hera, Poseidon, Demetra, Athena, Hestia, Aphrodite, Apollo, Ares, Artemis, Hephaestus and Hermes, they make up the twelve gods who, according to mythology, took power from the Titans in a great battle. Tales of how the world was made, the adventures of mortals dealing with all powerful gods, and other stories of this sort were passed from mouth to mouth, until the epic poets made them an immortal part of Greek literature. Aristotle’s Poetics are probably the first appearance of a form which we would recognize as literature today. This was followed by Homer’s epic poems, which were a starting point for gathering information about ancient Greek history.

And just as Jason and the Argonauts took their journey to find the Golden Fleece, in the 11th century BC, shipping and navigation saw rapid development in the Minoan and Mycenaean civilizations; the journey of Odysseus was linked to the making of nautical charts from Thales of Miletus, and Eratosthenes first measured longitude in degrees and determined the 16 points of the compass from which the wind blows. It just goes to show how advanced the ancient Greeks were…

getaway to greece:discover greece

Mythology

Through the theatre and the celebrations held in honor of the god Dionysius, drama was born: tragedy, comedy and satire. Theatre The theatre in ancient times was a ritual ceremony held in honor of the 12 gods of Olympus. It was an important institution in the Ancient Greek city-states. It was a way of educating the conscience and also reflected the collective morals of the time. Combining religion, social and political comment and education, it was a pivotal point for cultural expression. You can still see the many ancient theatres all over Greece today, which show how important they were at the time they were built. Through the theatre and the celebrations held in honor of the god Dionysius, drama was born: tragedy, comedy and satire. Even the masks worn today in carnivals around the world are inspired by the ones worn in the Greek theatre.

Medicine appears for the first time in Greek mythology with Asclepius, god of medicine and healing, and in ancient Greek history with The Sciences The ancient Greek philosophers were especially inventive for their times and, with limited means, invented… philosophy the mother of all sciences. Each of them interpreted the universe in their own special way using their own methods, and thus the sciences were born. Astronomy, arithmetic, mathematics, medicine, and education are all sciences for which Greek philosophers laid down the first principles and which led to the evolution of many other sciences.

them as his own original system. The Mathematics we see in arithmetic and geometry was based on astronomy. The philosophers concerns revolved around the creation of the universe, and mathematical calculations and theorems were a part of their search for answers. Pythagoras, born in the island of Samos, was inspired by this, and his theorem consists on of geometry’s most fundamental principles.

Astronomy was born at the moment mythology was born, and became an established science thanks to the ancient Greek philosophers who were keen to understand the movements of the stars.

Euclid was inspired in the same way and the mathematical interpretations written down in his “Elements”, the earliest ever discussion of geometry, are also still taught in schools all over the world today. The greatness of the minds of Ancient Greek history is more than proved by the fact that the same problems that occupied these philosophers, like the squaring of the circle, trisecting the angle and so on, still concern intellectuals around the world today.

The theories and observations of Pythagoras, who apart from the theorem we all know, also theorized about “the harmony of the spheres”, as well as those of Aristarchus, Hipparchus and Eratosthenes, led Copernicus to gather the ideas together and get the credit for developing the science by presenting

Medicine appears for the first time in Greek mythology with Asclepius, god of medicine and healing, and in ancient Greek history with Hippocrates, a doctor and father of Western medicine, from whom we get the Hippocratic Oath which is still taken by doctors today. We also have the first approaches

Hippocrates, a doctor and father of Western medicine, from whom we get the Hippocratic Oath which is still taken by doctors today.

Greek personalities in modern Greece Melina Mercouri, one of the most dynamic female figures on the Greek and European political scene, was born in Athens, and is well known for her struggle to have the Parthenon Marbles returned to Greece in her capacity as Minister for Culture. A respected Greek actress and singer as well, her best known song is “Ta Paidia tou Peiraia”, which won an Academy Award for its composer Manos Hadzidakis, in the film “Never on Sunday” in which she starred. Aristotle Onassis, the archetypal Greek tycoon, made his name a legend all over the world. With a vision of making Greece competitive in shipping and tourism, he bought the exclusive rights for air travel in Greece and his founding of Olympic Airways made this a reality. He spent most of his summers on Skorpios, his private island near Lefkada, in the company of world famous celebrities.

There are many Greek personalities of international fame that this small country can be proud of. The soprano Maria Callas, whose voice echoed around the world, the composer Vangelis, winner of the Academy Award for the soundtrack to the movie “Chariots of Fire”, the composer and self-taught musician, Yanni, have all proudly represented Greece in every concert performance they have given. Other personalities include the musician and composer Mikis Theodorakis, the Nobel Prize-winning poet Odysseas Elytis, the painter and sculptor, Domenikos Theotokopoulos (El Greco), the author Nikos Kazantzakis, and many others, who, with their artistic gifts, have inspired love for Greece in the hearts of people around the world.

getaway to greece:discover greece

to “pedagogy”, the science concerned with the proper education of children, by the most famous of Greek philosophers Socrates, Plato and Aristotle.

The historical figure of Alexander the Great is closely tied to Macedonia, and even today the image of his face, which appeared on the coins of the time, is an important symbol for Greece. Historical and legendary figures of Ancient Greece Greece has given birth to many powerful figures, mythological and otherwise, whose reputation survives today. Greece, and specifically Thebes, was the birthplace of the greatest of all mythical heroes, Hercules. Most of you will have heard of the legendary 12 Labors of Hercules. He killed the Nemean lion and the 9-headed Lernaean Hydra, captured the fleet footed Golden Hind of Artemis and killed the Erymanthian Boar, cleaned the Augean Stables in a single day, killed the Stymphalian Birds, captured the Cretan Bull, stole the wild horses of Diomedes, took the Girdle of the Amazon Queen, Hippolyta, brought the cattle belonging to the monster Geryon to the court of Eurystheus, took the Apples of the Hesperides, and his final task was to capture and bring the 3-headed hound, Cerberus, out of Hades. Hercules went down in history for his exploits and, after his death, was made a god, representing strength and bravery. You’ll probably have seen pictures of Hercules with the lion, club in hand, with the bearing of a giant, his powerful body rippling with muscles. The author of the Iliad and the Odyssey is Homer, Greek by birth. The Iliad describes, in no less than 16,000 verses, the last 51 days of the Trojan War which was the outcome of the abduction by Paris

of the beautiful Helen, wife of Menelaus the king of Sparta. This war is one of the great events in Greek mythology, a great source of inspiration for ancient Greek literature, particularly for Homer. And it’s still an inspiring story today, as you’ll have seen from recent movies, such as “Troy”, starring Brad Pitt. The Odyssey describes the decades of wandering by Odysseus, king of Ithaca, and his trials and tribulations until he finally makes his way back home. Greek mythology comes alive for us through the writings of this great poet. Alexander was born in Pella, son of Phillip V, the king of Macedonia at the time. He was well educated at an early age, studying with the philosopher Aristotle. When he was just 16 he alone put down the uprising of the Thracians when his father was away, showing his adept political and strategic skills. This was the beginning of a long historical journey, of political intrigue, conquests in Persia and Italy, and the expansion of the Greek state to the farthest reaches of the Orient. Alexandria in Egypt takes its name from this great king. After his death the name of Alexander still carried great weight and the title “Great” was added to his name. The historical figure of Alexander the Great is closely tied to Macedonia, and even today the image of his face, which appeared on the coins of the time, is an important symbol for Greece.

The Olympic Flame, which is still lit today as part of the sacred ceremony which takes place in ancient Olympia, in March of each Greek hospitality, the warmest in the world Greece is marked by certain moral principles. Its warm hospitality towards visitors is a defining characteristic, deeply felt, no matter where you go. Your visit to every island and every corner of Greece is seen as an opportunity by its people to bring you closer, make you feel at home, and show you how important you are to them. They will share their way of life and experiences with you and for sure you will return home with the warmest memories of Greek hospitality. In many places they will treat you as if they have been expecting you, and they won’t let you leave unless you have something to eat or drink with them first.In any case, at the first opportunity, they’ll persuade you to join them in dancing. How else are you going to get to know the real Greece?! The hospitality of the Greeks doesn’t end here. Hospitality is a matter of pride for the Greeks. The philosopher Thales has said that “Pride (philotimo) for the Greeks is something like breathing in and out for other people”.

The word “philotimo” has a broader meaning than pride; it covers both the sense of the Greek’s pride in themselves, and also the idea of philanthropy and hospitality to strangers. You will find it as you get to know the Greek people you meet and maybe you’ll come to understand why there isn’t a very good translation for this word in any other language! Athletics… Made in Greece! Greece is the country which gave birth to athletics and sports in general. The ancient Olympic Games took place in ancient Olympia, from 776BC, hence the title. The Olympic Games were held in honour of the god Zeus; athletes from all over Greece took part and the institution flourished in the 6th and 5th centuries BC. The games were abandoned under Roman rule, only to be resurrected in 1896 in Athens, in the same spirit, governed by ideals of fair competition, respect for fellow athletes and competitions to show off athletic prowess, in the sporting spirit.

Olympiad, symbolizes fire stolen from Zeus by Prometheus and given to mankind.

The story is part of Greek mythology, and the Games have always stimulated interest in the ancient Greek history and mythology. Greek history and the story of the Ancient Olympics has become well known through the Games, which are today a shining celebration of the athletic spirit and the ideals of volunteerism, amongst others, uniting athletes from all corners of the globe every four years. The Marathon is considered to be the most important of the Olympic sports. It has its roots in the times of the ancient Olympic Games and is the only sport included in the modern Games in exactly the same form - a stirring reminder of their history and origin. The Marathon race covers about 48 kilometers, which is the distance run by Pheidippides from Marathon to Athens to tell the Athenians the outcome of the battle of Marathon

against the Persians. The phrase â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have wonâ&#x20AC;? (Nenikekamen) was Pheidippidesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; last before he fell dead on the ground. In many countries around the world today, Marathon races are run, not only during the games, by athletes hoping to finish the distance as it is thought of as a great achievement to actually finish the race and is a symbol of the determination of people taking part in the event. 108 years after the first modern Olympic Games, the Games at last returned home, in 2004. The safe and extremely successful organization of the Games in the true Olympic spirit was a huge triumph for Greece, despite the many doubts that were raised beforehand. Events were held in the Kallimarmaro Stadium in Athens, and the stadium in Ancient Olympia once again, a powerful reminder of the Games of ancient times.

getaway to greece:discover greece

The Olympic Flame, which is still lit today as part of the sacred ceremony which takes place in ancient Olympia, in March of each Olympiad, symbolizes fire stolen from Zeus by Prometheus and given to mankind.

The Greek islands are captivating from the first moment you set your eyes on them.

The Islands Part of the culture and traditions of the country, the islands are also an inseparable part of Greek history, and of the country’s development today. Tens of thousands of coastline surround the 6,000 islands and uninhabited rocky islets of our beautiful country. From the largest island in Greece, Crete, to the smallest of rocky isle, there is a paradise to be discovered, and they all have their place in the tourist destinations to be explored. They’ve lived through difficult times under various foreign invaders, but their traditions and unique Greek identity have survived through the ages. You will undoubtedly have seen pictures of the islands in Greek and foreign magazines, with their white houses, little stone alleyways decorated with flower pots and small chapels, shining in the sunlight surrounded by the bluest of sparkling seas. The Greek islands are captivating - from the first moment you set your eyes on them. With castles and fortresses still watching over their inhabitants, keeping the old

traditions alive. It’s difficult to know where to start! With cosmopolitan Mykonos maybe, romantic Santorini, or chivalrous Rhodes? Or maybe Lefkada, which hides many surprises, or picturesque Folegandros? The green island of Samos or captivating Skiathos? No matter where you start it’s difficult to leave any of them out! They are all unique, and all deserve a mention… A perfect destination for people looking for a relaxing, peaceful time or a cosmopolitan atmosphere, for anyone looking to discover ancient civilizations or to admire the wonders of Greece through the ages, for those who love water sports, or anyone looking for new gastronomic experiences. For everyone drawn to the islands for whatever reason, the islands cast a magical spell. For all of you searching for a unique vacation experience in a historic, and stunningly beautiful location...

The dances vary a lot from place to place. You’ll find different dances in mainland Greece and others in the islands.

In ancient Greece the Greeks believed that dance was a gift from the gods so that they could forget their pain and troubles. Greece today is tied to the dances handed down through the ages, which survive today as a means of expression that touches the hearts of Greeks all over the world. “Opa” can be heard in any dancing circle of men or women moving together to the music of all kinds of dances, dancing… the Greek way. The dances vary a lot from place to place. You’ll find different dances in mainland Greece and others in the islands. There are the Thracian dances, Stergios and the Kalamatianos dances, all different. Each is a particular reflection of the heart and soul of the smallest of villages or the large towns. One of the most popular dances became so because of the film “Zorba the Greek”, in which Anthony Quinn danced a fast paced “hasapiko” style dance, which became known as the “sirtaki”, to the music of Mikis Theodorakis. The “sirtaki” doesn’t come from any particular area, and it isn’t considered to be a traditional dance; it was specially created for the

movie to allow the Greek, Zorba, to show his pain, his emotions and feelings about the difficulties of his life. The movie was such a success that everyone associates Zorba’s moving “sirtaki” dance with Greece. Connections - Transfers You can reach Greece by air from most countries in the world. The Athens International Airport “Eleftherios Venizelos” and the “Macedonia” Airport in Thessaloniki receive thousands of flights everyday. The country also has connections by boat to and from Italy from the ports of Patras and Igoumenitsa, whilst the Port of Piraeus, one of the largest harbours in Europe, is also the largest port facility of the country connected to international shipping routes. And how could it not be, given that the greatest Greek tycoon of all time came from here, as well

getaway to greece:discover greece

Traditional dancing… express yourself!

Its coast to the east is that of the Aegean Sea, west is the Ionian Sea, and the Mediterranean is in the south. as many other Greek important Greek ship owners? Greece has more than 5 major port facilities and many smaller passenger ferryboat terminals all along its coasts. For travel in the capital city, instead of taking the car, you can also use the well organized public transport system: there are Buses, the Electric Railway, the Tram, the Metro system and the Suburban Railway, whilst for travel to destinations outside the capital there are: trains, planes, the National Bus Company, and ferryboats (high speed and conventional). Location Greece is located in south Eastern Europe, south of the Balkan Peninsula, in the Eastern Mediterranean. To the north west it borders on Albania, to the north it has borders with Bulgaria, and to the north east with Turkey. To the south is Cyprus and the continent of Africa, and Italy is to the west. Its coast to the east is that of the Aegean Sea, west is the Ionian Sea, and the Mediterranean is in the south. Impressively enough, its coastline reaches a length of more than 13,670 kilometers.

Climate The climate is of Mediterranean type, with mild winters and dry hot summers, and the average annual temperatures range from +10 to +23 째C (50 to 73 째F) according to the four seasons. General Information The language spoken is Greek, and the currency is the Euro, which replaced the Drachma. The religion of 85% of the population is Orthodox Christian, while Orthodox Christians and other religious groups have harmonious relationships throughout the country.

getaway to greece:discover greece

getaway to greece: thematic holidays

destinations: getaway to greece: skiathos thematic holidays

thematic holidays

winter holidays G

reece is not just about sea, sun, islands and secluded beaches. The winter destinations are probably more than the summer ones! During the winter, the wildly beautiful mountains dress up in white, welcoming those who love this season. Warm, traditional guesthouses, picturesque villages, cozy taverns, trails, rivers and streams ideal for rafting, the opportunity for a plethora of activities are some of the reasons that urge winter vacationers to visit Greece. At the same time, the 19 ski centers, most of which are open from the end of November until the beginning of May, contribute to the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s growth and become one of the reasons why so many tourists are visiting Greece from all over the world during the winter.

conferences & congresses T

here is no better place for a conference than where Ancient Greeks, scientists, poets and philosophers used to meet. Those who gave this world their wisdom. Athens, Thessaloniki, Crete, Rhodes and many other destinations are ideal for the organization of a successful conference, simply because they combine everything. Hundreds of conference centers and meeting rooms will cover every need, satisfying even the most demanding professionals. Combine business with pleasure by visiting significant archaeological sites, like the Acropolis, Delphi and the Minoan Palaces, enjoy the exceptional local cuisine and get in touch with the local cultural heritage.

family holidays dren. The specially designed water parks have gigantic waterslides, which guarantee adventure and action for children. Greece has thematic parks in almost all major cities, like Allou Fun Park and Allou Kingdom in Athens. There are also many zoos, entertainment parks and international circuses that often visit Greece.

getaway to greece:thematic holidays

here are hundreds of hotels and resorts in Greece ready to welcome you and your family in their premises. Playgrounds, childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pools, especially organized beaches, uniquely designed games and activities, special menus and even nanny services. Most of the beaches in Greece are sandy and have shallow waters, thus safe for chil-

entertainment T

he vigorous night life in Greece is known all over the world. They say that Athens is the city that never actually sleeps. Mykonos is the island where fun never stops. Parties never end in Crete. All that put Greece on top of the most popular destinations for entertainment and fun. Theatrical shows, movies, operas, bars, clubs, cafes, Greek music, beach parties, local events with singing and dancing, concerts etc. Dance on a table, throw flowers at singers and dance the night awayâ&#x20AC;Ś

shopping

getaway to greece:thematic holidays

reece is certainly not a country known for creating fashion, nor for attracting the modeling spotlights. However, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a country that has big department stores and malls, especially in the bigger cities, where travelers can find practically everything. This is why Greece can be an ideal shopping holidays destination. Many prestigious, international boutiques and brands have a branch here. Additionally, you can find bargains at every store!

luxury holidays I

f you wish to live the ultimate luxurious holidays, Greece is the place to do it. You can rent a private jet or helicopter and fly wherever you want, at any time. If you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t fancy big crowded hotels, here you have the chance to rent a private villa, with exclusive amenities and services and enjoy your privacy in the comfort of your own space, your own private poolâ&#x20AC;Ś or even private beach. Finally, a limo with your personal driver can take you anywhere you want! .

Be spoilt by an unspoilt landscape.

Grand Resort Lagonissi, intimate, luxurious and elegant, is Athens most sophisticated resort, offering its leisure guests stunning levels of accommodation on the waterfront. Jet setters favourite retreat private peninsula with fifteen restaurants and bars is a gourmet experience on its own, distinctive hospitality & cosmopolitan flair of nightlife.

40th km. Athens-Sounio Ave., 190 10 Lagonissi, Athens, Greece Tel. +30 22910 76000 Fax +30 22910 24534 e-mail: grandresort@grandresort.gr www.grandresort.gr

Luxury is our business

weddings & events S

antorini, Mykonos, Zakynthos, Pelion, Skopelos, Corfu, Rhodes and Crete are always top destinations for romantic weddings and spectacular events. The Greek scenery is fairytale like. Dazzling white, exciting blue, romantic ambiance, breathtaking views, amazing sunsets, long sandy beaches, verandas literally hanging on the steep cliffs, isolated chapels, secluded coves and the famous Greek tradition is the ideal canvas for a unique ceremony. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s like a tradition now! Not only in reality, but in the movies as well. Greece has been included in so many movies lately, with romantic weddings taking place in the islands, with the hot sun, the deep Aegean blue and the amazing sunsets on the background.

cultural tourism G

reece is the cradle of civilization. Monuments of world cultural heritage, archeological sites, museums with exhibits as old as 5.000 years, art exhibitions, sculptures, statues, ancient cities… Birthplace of famous scientists, artists, philosophers, writers, poets and musicians. Get to know the place that gave birth to Aristotle, Plato, Pericles, Homer, Herodotus, Elytis, Seferis, Theotokopoulos and so many more. Who hasn’t been taught about Greece? Who hasn’t admired the incredible monuments and artifacts exhibited in museums all over the world? Who hasn’t learned the Greek alphabet, upon which the Latin one was created? Who hasn’t seen the symbols of the Greek language in every scientific field? Who doesn’t dream about visiting this unbelievably beautiful country, where history and culture created wonders?

religious tourism tianity. People from all over the world choose Greece, in order to follow the path of Apostle Pavlos in Greece, while spreading Jesusâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s words. Literally, thousands of churches scattered around the country unveil the spread of this religion, but also that Greeks

truly believe in it. Exceptional monasteries, religious museums, chapels carved in rocks, churches in remote places, built by monks who carried the building materials themselves on top of hills, steep cliffs and mountains.

getaway to greece:thematic holidays

or those who seek the perfect religious holidays destination, Greece is the answer. In the island of Patmos, Saint John wrote the last book of the New Testament, the Apocalypse, while in Corinth Apostle Pavlos got Greeks in touch with Chris-

yachting & sailing

getaway to greece:thematic holidays

f your hobby is to sail with your private boat or yacht, then Greece is definitely your ideal destination. There are about 6.000 islands and islets waiting for you to explore them. The possibilities are endless. You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t actually need to have your own boat. You can rent one, with or without a skipper - in case you are a certified captain- and visit the small picturesque or bigger cosmopolitan ports. You will have the chance to swim in secluded beaches, isolated coves and dive in incredible bays. Feel independent and find the peace your soul desires.

gastronomy T

ravelling does not always involve visits to archaeological sites, museums and natural beauties. Gastronomic tourism is widely popular here in Greece, simply because this land has a big agricultural production, as well as fresh fish and meat. Additionally, the Greek cuisine is internationally known for

the healthy but delicious flavors in every recipe. From the Greek salad to pastitsio and mousaka and from gourmet dishes to seafood, Greece speaks her own food language. Bread, locally produced cheese, a wide selection of wine labels, ouzo, virgin olive oil, fruits and vegetables. Rich flavors for unique gastronomic delights.

athletics & sports G

reece gave birth to sports, with the first ever Olympic Games that took place in Ancient Olympia, around 776 B.C. to honor Zeus. The first contemporary Olympic Games were organized, once again, in Greece in 1896. Since then, every 4 years this significant event takes place in different cities each time, all over the world. The Olympic Flame ceremony, which signifies the attempt of Zeus to steal the Fire from Prometheus, is taking place in March just before the Games, in Ancient Olympia. Greece is the ideal place to host major athletic events and to welcome athletes who wish to do their training here, especially since the creation of modern, spacious and fully equipped athletic premises, after 2004 Olympic Games.

sports & naturism tourism G

reece truly combines everything. Where else would you be able to go swimming and then cross a gorge, go canoeing, kitesurfing and horseback riding? Go rafting and trekking and then hike, scuba diving and bird-

watching? Imposing mountain ranges, gorges, deep forests, protected areas, national parks, rivers, streams, caves, volcanic soil, interesting sea bed, amazing beaches, plains, valleys and plateaus. Here you will have the chance to get in

touch with pure and unspoiled nature, during your winter or summer holidays. Just choose a destination and bring your good spirits with you. The rest is up to Greeceâ&#x20AC;Ś

carnivals T

he carnivals of Rio and Venice are not the only ones, known for originality, inspiration and creativity. Many cities in Greece organize annual fiestas â&#x20AC;&#x201C;with Patraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s being the most renowned one-, reflecting the humor, the fun, the creativity and the good spirits of the locals. The famous Greek hospitality is what makes each carnival special, no matter where it takes place.

getaway to greece:thematic holidays

hot springs & natural spa H

ot springs, SPAs, thalassotherapy, mud therapy and alternative treatments are available in many places in Greece, where you can combine your holidays with all the options above. The most well known destination, ideal for medicinal tourism, is Aedipsos in Evia. There are also many hot springs in Mountainous Pella, Samothraki, Kythnos, Loutraki, Sidirocastro in the prefecture of Serres, Rhodes, Kos, Lefkada, Ikaria and Kylini.

medical care Greek doctors, of every specialty, are exceptional. Most of them are working in big, ultra modern hospitals. Greece can be the country you choose to visit for a treatment or for cosmetic surgery.

getaway to greece:thematic holidays

his is the country that gave birth to Medicine, with Hippocrates and Asklipios discovering new ways of healing and treating several illnesses, setting the grounds for the evolution of this field. Greece has created the ideal conditions for the further development of medical tourism.

casino G

reece, being known for the warm hospitality and the excellent tourism infrastructure, has also many casinos for the gambling lovers. The most known ones are in Loutraki, Athens, Patra, Corfu, Rhodes, Syros, Chalkidiki and Xanthi. Each one offers a great variety of games and of course intimate service.

quality productsâ&#x20AC;Ś

products:made in greece

made in greece!

destinations: corfuquality getaway to greece:

Macedonia

Epirus Ionian Islands

Thessalia

Central Greece Attica Peloponissos

political map of greece

C Is

Thrace

North Aegean Islands

Cyclades Islands

Crete

Dodecanissos Islands

destinations: corfumap getaway to greece:

of Greece

getaway to greece: athens

from 5.000 B.C. to present, a global landmark The history of Athens goes way back in time. Since the mythical era, Goddess Athena gave her name to this city that has contributed so much to the world history and civilization. Since the Classical Period and the creation of Arts and Sciences, Athens gave the world her lights! This is why it was justifiably named “The Cradle of Civilization”. During, the Golden Age and under Pericles’ administration, Athens experienced a cultural booming, that later defined the foundations of the Western European Culture. The visitor will get the chance to see the monuments, the sights, the historical neighborhoods and the museums and get in touch with the city’s glorious past.

destinations: getaway to greece: skiathos athens

athens

athens acropolis

he Sacred Rock. The architectural wonder. A high aesthetics masterpiece. Acropolis could actually be the only reason for you to visit Athens. Propylaea, the colossal entrance, open the doors to Ancient Greece and welcome everybody to the Parthenon, the Erechthion and the Temple of Niki. Enjoy, admire and respect this monumental wonder of Ancient Greece and feel the special energy of the ancient rock that protects Athens since 432 B.C..

the new acropolis museum

ince June 2009, the new Acropolis Museum is the pride of the city. State-of-the-art technology, impressive modern architecture, more than 4.000 exhibits, from the Neo-

lithic Era until the Middle Ages. During construction, a vast archeological site was discovered. On the ground floor of the museum, as well as in the courtyard, there are glass floors, from where you

can admire the remnants of the ancient city, which was recently revealed. Even though it opened in just 2009, the museum has already attracted millions of visitors from all over the world!

the philopappou hill

his is a location of extreme historical importance. An exceptional place that enjoys a wonderful view of the Acropolis, the Salamina island, Athens and the surrounding mountains. During the summer, this hill transforms into a live theater, where dancers with traditional costumes perform numerous Greek folk dances. Walking down the Philopappou Hill, you will find yourself in the foot of Pnyka, where the greatest philosophers, Plato, Aristotle, Socrates etc., were gathering and discussingâ&#x20AC;Ś

monastiraki

his is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Athens and the place where ancient Athenians used to meet. A huge bazaar is daily open here, in the main pedestrian streets, where you can find anything you can think of. Aromas, flavors, unique pictures, authentic couleur locale and lots of small stores, selling from old coins and stamps collections to antique and jewelry. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to negotiate your prices! From here, you can also buy souvenirs.

the parliament & the constitution square

his is where Athenians meet. In this Parliament, the First Greek Constitution was voted, following the steps Ancient Greeks adopted and introduced to the world. This is where the homonymous Square got its name from. The white marble used

in and outside of the building makes you feel the historical impor tance of the square. Constitution Square is the hear t of the city and the crossroad of a number of major street ar teries. Overlooking the building, you will

see a Monument which is dedicated to the Unknown Soldier. Two guards, dressed in traditional Greek costumes, are standing still, protecting the Monument. These guards are always chosen among a prestigious Special Forces team.

Kypseli Larissa station Victoria

Omonia Metaxourgio

Ambelokipi Pedion Areos

Kanigos Mavilli

Monastiraki Syntagma Psirri Plaka Keramikos Thissio Makrygianni Koukaki N. Kosmos

Kolonaki

Kessariani Attica West Athens West Piraeus Athens South

Athens East

hen you visit Athens, you should definitely check out the stadium, where the first contemporary Olympic Games took place. We are talking about the Kallimarmaron Panathinaikon Stadium, with the 5 circle-trademark of the Games, hanging in a prominent position. This stadium was built according to the architecture of the Ancient Stadium of Olympia, where the first ever Olympic Games took place in 776 B.C.

Athens Center Attica East

1km

the happy train If you wish to combine your visit to Athens with fun... then get on board the Happy Train and get the chance to see the most popular and significant monuments of this city. Acropolis, Monastiraki, Plaka, Thisio, the National Library, the University of Athens, the Presidential Mansion, the Gate of Adrianos, Zappeion and many more.

getaway to greece:athens

Ilissia

Kotzia

kallimarmaron stadium

sounio

n a beautiful location about 50 kilometers from Athens, visitors will get the chance to admire the truly spectacular Temple of Poseidon, which is located in Sounio. Atop of a hill, it dominates the scenery and enjoys a unique location. Try to visit it during full moon. Sit by the rocks; let the sea breeze caress your skin and wait until the moon rises. The temple will be filled with the light and the sea will reflect your every thought.

mikrolimano

his is a small picturesque marina, with hundreds of sailing boats and amphitheatrically built beautiful houses, only a few kilometers away from the city center. In

Mikrolimano you will feel like you are in an island. The sea breeze will ease your stroll and the view will sweep you away. Try one of the taverns or the luxurious restaurants for fresh fish

food and ouzo or wine. Alternatively, enjoy your coffee or drink in one of the numerous cafes or bars, with the fabulous view.

festival & cultural events

The Badminton Theater has many rooms, used for theatrical shows, recitals and concerts and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s considered one of the biggest ones in Athens. The Athens Concert Hall is considered one of the most upscale cultural centers in Europe, with state-ofthe-art equipment and luxurious premises. The acoustics in every one of its rooms is amazing, as acknowledged by the public and numerous renowned artists. The Greek National Opera annually presents a plethora of operas, ballets, operettas, shows for children and international recitals. The Piraeus Municipal Theater, in the center of the homonymous suburb, is one of the best in the Balkans. The

Veakeion Summer Municipal Theater is located in one of the most beautiful neighborhoods of Piraeus, Kastella. The National Gallery hosts more than 15.000 works of art, like paintings, sculptures, statues and also periodical collections. It has been the vault of Greek art since the Metabyzantine Era. If you are in Athens during the summer months, you should definitely check out the Athens Festival, with cultural events (operas, theatrical shows, concerts and exhibitions) in the Herodio Theater, the Athens Concert Hall and elsewhere. Athens knows very well what civilization means!

getaway to greece:athens

thens has a lot of multiplexes where various cultural events take place all year round. Most of them are basically athletic premises, which were created for the 2004 Olympic Games and now serve as theaters.

museums â&#x20AC;&#x201C; caves â&#x20AC;&#x201C; lakes

The famous Marathon Naval Battle. Last but not least, this is where the Marathon race, one of the most important sports in the history of the Olympic Games, was first introduced.

Visit the Paiania Cave, which is the only cave in Athens with stalactites and stalagmites. Additionally, few kilometers off the city, you can visit the Marathon Lake. This is a significant historical place. On the one hand, the water supply of the lake feeds Athens. On the other hand, a famous ancient battle took place there.

If you have muscle problems, pay a visit to the Lake of Vouliagmeni. The water is warm and medicinal, curing arthritis and other similar illnesses. They say that this Lake is haunted and that on the inside there is a huge cave, with daedal passages underneath the entire city! The Cave is about 80 meters deep and 4 kilometers long and has been the object of study and research.

here is a great number of museums you can visit in Athens: the National Archeological Museum, the Byzantine Museum, the Benaki Museum, the Goulandri Museum, the Museum of Natural History, the Coin Museum and many more.

nightlife

thens has an intense, dynamic nightlife. After sunset, the cafes transform into bars and the clubs get jam packed. Everybody will soon be dancing, or at least rhythmically move to the sounds of Greek or foreign music.

For a wild time, you can either go to a club or to a live stage, with Greek or foreign music. During the winter the major bars and clubs are in the city’s center. However, during the summer months –star ting from May- they all move by the water, along the Athenian coastline –from Pireaus to Varkiza. There you will find huge night clubs with live music or guest DJs from all over the world. Don’t forget to go to Bouzoukia, live bands and known singers giving awesome performances that make the crowds go wild! Dance on the tables and throw flowers… the Greek way!

just for fun

f you are up for a high adrenaline rush, visit Allou Fun Park, the new thematic entertainment park, in Rendi.You will find many interactive games, roller coasters, skills games, the panoramic wheel, which is one of the biggest ones in Europe, the amazing STAR FLYER and the new 4D Gate, which projects educational and entertainment movies in 4D!

entertainment

his city never sleeps. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one of the very few cities in the world, where you will see traffic, even at 4 am! Bars and clubs stay open as late as they want, unlike in other European countries. Live stages are always jam-packed, where everybody is dancing right on the tables, throwing flowers at the singers.

getaway to greece:athens

This is like a miniature Disneyland in Athens. Right next to Allou Fun Park, parents and their kids can find Allou Kid Park, which is strictly for children!

casino

n the very top of Parnitha -the highest mountain in Attica-, the Casino Mont Parnes is welcoming all gambling aficionados! The Regency Casino Mont Parnes is a luxurious hotel built in this uniquely beautiful National Park. The oldest Casino of the city offers a plethora of games and has impeccable service, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more, less than 80 kilometers away from the city center, the Club Hotel Casino Loutraki gaming halls have 80 tables and 1000 slot machines, offering the most modern and exciting games. Enjoy its perfectly equipped VIP room that has been created to meet the needs of even the most demanding players. The Casino is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

movies

thenians love the movies. Numerous movie theaters, as well as multiplexes can be found all over town and are usually packed during the weekends. If you want to enjoy a movie in comfor table chairs, eating and sipping champagne go to the Gold Class, of Village Cinemas. Impeccable service and high aesthetics ambiance cer tainly upgrade your experience. If you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mind a crowded theater, grab pop corn, pizza, beer or coffee and your friends and visit one of the neighborhood movie theaters. Athens, as well as other cities all over Greece, has beautiful summer theaters, as well. Enjoy a movie under the stars!

shopping

The pedestrian streets of Monastiraki and Plaka mainly form the historical center of the city. Explore the big market, which includes stores with ethnic clothes, accessories, handmade jewelry, furniture, used books, souvenirs, antiques, handmade rosaries, food and spices. All the narrow paved streets are crowded, especially during the summer months. Ermou Street, one of the main shopping roads of the center, together with the nearby streets, forms the well known commercial hub of the city.

You can also find lots of stores in the main port of the city, Piraeus. Every Sunday, there is a bazaar, where everybody can sell or buy whatever they want: clothes, food, weird objects, exotic artifacts, birds, utensils, kitchenware, accessories, books, magazines, vinyl discs, military attires and so much more. Except from downtown and Piraeus, major shopping areas may also be found in Glyfada, Kifisia and N. Psychiko. Shopping tips:You can enjoy Tax Free shopping in most of the big department stores in Athens. Just look for the relevant sign in the counters or outside the stores.

getaway to greece:athens

f you enjoy shopping, Athens offers everything your heart might desire. If you are into haute couture and international brands visit Kolonaki, the most fancy area in Athens. Greek and foreign fashion brands, prestigious boutiques, high aesthetics stores, impressive jewelry shops, both local and foreign. Near the Constitution and Omonoia Squares you will also find some new shopping malls.

dining

ou will be so impressed with this cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vigorous life. Greeks eat dinner very late; around 10 pm! Traffic downtown and by the coastline never stops. There are endless dining possibilities.Visit the center and taste the ever famous Greek Souvlaki! Restaurants are open until very late, giving visitors the chance to eat whenever they want. It seems that there are no time limits, as opposed to other European countries, where everything pretty much

closes around 9-10 pm. Try the picturesque taverns for authentic Greek food in Plaka, Monastiraki, Thision and Psiri. If you are looking for gourmet cuisine visit one of the most cosmopolitan restaurants in Athens, with Greek, Italian, French, Arabic, Mexican, Chinese, Japanese and Asian flavors. The Arabic cuisine aficionados should know that Halal, the special way of animal slaughtering, is used in some Greek restaurants.

mount lycabettus M

ount Lycabettus, at 277 meters (908 feet) above sea level, is the highest point in the city that surrounds it. Pine trees cover its base, and at its peak are the 19th century Chapel of St. George, a restaurant and a large open-air theater which has housed many Greek and International concerts. The hill is a popular tourist destination and can be ascended by the Lycabettus Funicular, a funicular railway which climbs the hill from a lower terminus at Kolonaki. Popular stories suggest it was once the refuge of wolves, possibly explaining the origin of its name (which means â&#x20AC;&#x153;the one (the hill) that is walked by wolvesâ&#x20AC;?). Mythologically, Lycabettus is credited to Athena, who created it when she dropped a mountain she had been carrying for the construction of the Acropolis.

for a coffee

getaway to greece:athens

reeks love their coffee! They can go at any time of the day! Live like a Greek and enjoy your coffee or frappe, served only here, at a café anywhere in town. Frappe is basically instant coffee with sugar or milk –or neithershaken with cold water and ice. It’s considered like a Greek trademark, especially during the summer. You can also try the Greek coffee, as well as other European flavors, like espresso, freddo, cappuccino etc. as well as a variety of fruity or chocolaty drinks.

transportation γευθείτε

he construction of the Η Κερκυραϊκή κουζίνα στηρίζεται Athenian Metro took few στη μεσογειακή διατροφή με years. The main reason was επιρροές από την Ιταλία, τα because every time they were Βαλκάνια, την Αγγλία και με βάση digging in a new place, they would στην παραδοσιακή αρχαία ελληνική stumble across ancient monuments κουζίνα. Οι Κερκυραίοι στα φαγητά and new archeological findings. This τους δίνουν βάση στο κόκκινο is actually one of the cleanest, most πιπέρι, το σκόρδο, τα κρεμμύδια και comfortable and safe metros in the το μαϊντανό. world. With convenient connections and stops, it will take you practiΑναζητήστε να δοκιμάσετε το cally anywhere in the city. The train, ψάρι μπουρδέτο, ψάρι μπιάνκο, which was recently refurbished γνήσια παστιτσάδα, στακοφίσι, in order to meet the European μπακαλάρο με κρεμμύδια, σουπιές standards, will take you from Kifisia με μακαροντσίνι ή τα σπάνια to Piraeus –which means from the ντόπια ζυμαρικά, λάχανα τσιγαρίδι, southern to the northern suburbs πλεμώνα, κουλούρα πεταχτή και and vice versa. σοφρίτο, όλα συνοδευόμενα με τα εξαιρετικά τοπικά κρασιά και πιο There are many bus and trolley συγκεκριμένα με τον «Κακοτρύγη». lines, while the tram will take you Η ποιοτική κουζίνα της Κέρκυρας through some of the most picturαποδεικνύεται και με τα πολύ καλά esque Athenian neighborhoods, εστιατόρια που έχουν ανοίξει to Glyfada and Voula –two very στο νησί αλλά και στην υπόλοιπη upscale southern suburbs. Ελλάδα από Κερκυραίους σεφ. Επισκεφθείτε το “Εtrusco”, για μία If you wish to leave the city for a avangard γαστρονομική καλλιτεχνία while, you can visit one or more of από τον πιο δημιουργικό έλληνα και the nearby islands, fly anywhere in φυσικά, Κερκυραίο σεφ τον Έκτορα Greece, or board on a high speed Μποτρίνι. or conventional boat from the ports of Piraeus, Lavrion or Rafina Για πιο… απλοϊκά πιάτα, σίγουρα and visit any island in the Aegean θα φάτε καλή ελληνική αλλά και Sea. ιταλική κουζίνα στα στενά σοκάκια της αρχαίας πόλης υπό την Transportation in Athens is the best Να μην ξεχάσετε όμως να way to move around, avoiding the δοκιμάσετε από το γνωστό traffic. It’s cheap and convenient. ποτό, το κουμκουάτ. Στη Κέρκυρα καλλιεργείται κυρίως το If you are planning on driving, prefer είδος μαργαρίτα για το καρπό the Attiki Odos, which is an impresτου, που χρησιμοποιείται στη sive highway connecting many ζαχαροπλαστική, γίνεται γλυκό Athenian neighborhoods. του κουταλιού και θαυμάσιο λικέρ. Ανθίζει στα μέσα του καλοκαιριού The taxis are yellow and you can και ο πολλαπλασιασμός αλλά και η stop one practically anywhere you καλλιέργειά του είναι ίδια όπως τα stand simply by raising your hand, or άλλα εσπεριδοειδή. by calling at specific numbers, that can be found in any phone book. Don’t be surprised if they accept another passenger during your ride.

> (up)“ Pastitsada” is a local pasta delicacy. Usually made with pasta and chicken, red sauce, garlic and spices!

> (down) “Kum-Kouat” is one of the most famour local products. You will find it in various forms including liquor and local pastries

1 day-tours

athens sightseeing the Acropolis and the new Acropolis Museum

This tour gives you an opportunity to observe the striking contrasts that make Athens such a fascinating city, such as the Panathenaic Stadium, the Prime Minister’s residence (ex Royal Palace) guarded by the Euzones in their colorful uniform, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Hadrian’s Arch, the Parliament and the memorial to the Unknown Soldier, the Academy, the University, the National Library, the Constitution Square (Syntagma). On the Acropolis visit the Architectural Masterpieces of the Golden Age of Athens: The Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheion and finally “the harmony between material and spirit”, the monument that “puts order in the mind”, the Parthenon. Continue and visit the place where at last the statues found their home and admire the wonders of the classical era: The new Acropolis museum. athens by night

your evening will start with a drive to Piraeus and its natural harbors, such as lively Zea with its busy yacht marina and tiny Mikrolimano , one of the most picturesque corners of Piraeus. Then, return to Athens for dinner in Plaka, the old city, in a typical Greek tavern with folk music and dancers. cape sounio

Drive along the coastal road, passing the wonderful beaches of Glyfada,Vouliagmeni & Varkiza to the most Southern point of Attica, Cape Sounion, where the white marble pillars of the Temple of Poseidon stand. On the way, you have a splendid view of the Saronic Gulf and the little islands offshore. After visiting the Temple of Poseidon, you have time to walk at leisure on the rocky promontory of Sounion. delphi

Drive through the fertile plain of Viotia, crossing the towns of Thebes connected with the tragedy of King Oedipus Levadia and Arachova (short stop on the way back). Arrive at Delphi, the center of Ancient World - the “Omphalos” (Navel of Earth).Visit the Treasury of the Athenians, the Temple of Apollo and the Museum containing such masterpieces of Ancient Greek sculpture as the bronze Charioteer and the famous athlete Aghias. Lunch in the modern village of Delphi, return to Athens by the same route.

Leave by the coastal road along the Saronic Gulf to the Corinth Canal, which connects the Aegean Sea with the Ionian Sea. Drive to Mycenae.Visit the Lion’s Gate, the Cyclopean Walls, and the Royal Tombs e.t.c. Depart for Nauplion through the fertile plain of Argolis, the picturesque town nestling at the foot of a cliff crowned by the mighty ramparts of the Palamidi Fortress, leave for Epidauros, to visit the Theatre (4th century B.C.) ancient corinth

leave Athens and drive South West until we reach the Corinth Canal which connects the Aegean Sea with the Ionian Sea . Drive on and visit the ancient town of Corinth where St. Paul lived and preached for two years. The remains of the City, which include the Agora (market place) and Apollo’s Temple (6th century B.C.) short stop at the Site of the Ancient Port of Cehries, where St. Paul disembarked, will conclude the visit. hydra – poros – aegina

In the morning we take you by bus, from Athens to Piraeus for your embarkation to the cruise boat. At: 08.30 depart to Hydra, where we arrive at: 11.45.Free time for a walk or a swim. At: 13.30 embarkation and sail for Aegina past through Poros and seashore of Peloponnese. The lunch will be served during the voyage. At: 15.30 we arrive at Aegina where you have time for a swim. At: 18.00 embarkations for the voyage of return to the port. Arrive to Piraeus, late in the after noon. You are also welcome to try one of our multi-day tours in Greece, combining the above destinations and even adding more!

getaway to greece:athens

argolis

cruising greece! 3 Days Cruise Itineraries 2010 AQUAMARINE/THE AEGEAN PEARL Day Port Arr. Dep. Athens (Piraeus), Greece - 11.00 Friday Mykonos, Greece 18.00 23.00 Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey 07.00 12.00 Saturday Patmos, Greece 16.00 21.00 Crete (Heraklion), Greece 07.00 11.30 Sunday Santorini, Greece 16.30 21.00 Monday Athens (Piraeus), Greece 07.00 -

4 Days Cruise Itineraries 2010 AQUAMARINE/THE AEGEAN PEARL Day Port Arr. Dep. Athens (Piraeus), Greece - 11.00 Monday Mykonos, Greece 18.00 23.00 Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey 07.00 12.00 Tuesday Patmos, Greece 16.00 21.00 Wednesday Rhodes, Greece 07.00 18.00 Crete (Heraklion), Greece 07.00 11.30 Thursday Santorini, Greece 16.30 21.00 Friday Athens (Piraeus), Greece 07.00 -

getaway to greece: cruising greece

7 Days Cruise Itineraries 2010 CRISTAL Day Port Arr. Friday Athens (Piraeus), Greece - Saturday Istanbul, Turkey 16.00 Sunday Istanbul, Turkey - Monday Mykonos, Greece 15.00 Patmos, Greece 07.00 Tuesday Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey 14.30 Wednesday Rhodes, Greece 07.00 Crete (Agios Nikolaos), Greece 07.00 Thursday Santorini, Greece 17.00 Friday Athens (Piraeus), Greece 06.00

Dep. 18.00 19.00 24.00 10.30 20.30 18.00 11.30 21.00 -

getaway to greece:cruising greece

an unforgettable experience you shouldn’t miss…

a short getaway full of surprises

a touch of color

the Saronic poros Gulf P

Aegina, Poros, Spetses, Hydra. These small, charming islands of the Saronic Gulf are the ideal weekend getaways for the Athenians. Each one is different and has its own beauty and character. Emerald waters, ancient temples, unique religious monuments, picturesque small ports with cozy taverns… There is so much to explore!

oros is a cosmopolitan destination and ideal for those who want to escape the city’s stress and bustle. Interesting facades, efflorescent gardens and windows, bougainvilleas and narrow paved streets, create this amazingly warm image. The trademark of the island is the historic clock, on the top of a hill, surrounded by pines. In location Galatas, which is across from the island, visitors will have the chance to see a true paradise: Lemonodasos (Lemon Forest). This is a forest of thousands of lemon and orange trees that will dazzle you with their aromas. The forest is crossed by streams, while there are also windmills and picturesque taverns. It’s a protected, by UNESCO, natural monument and it has inspired a lot of artists. The Russian Navy Yard, which is a preserved historical building, has once hosted the warehouses of the Russian Navy. Only a small part of the front walls is saved today. The quiet beach in front of the building is considered one of the best of the island, with crystal clear waters.

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access

Poros Island

Poros is only few miles away from the shores of Peloponnese. Access is very easy either by boat from the port of Piraeus, or by car. You can drive from Athens, with direction towards Corinth, to Galatas and from there you take the small ferry to Poros. The boat ride is only 5 minutes.

Megalo Neorion Askeli Poros Galatas

Turkey

Finally, on the north side of the island, visitors will admire remnants of the ancient Temple of Poseidon, of Doric architecture.

romantic

The picturesque port of Dapia is the first thing you will see when you approach the island. Southwest of Dapia it’s the Poseidonion Square, where the famous homonymous hotel and the statue of the heroine Laskarina Bouboulina (work of the artist Natalia Mela) are located. Kounoupitsa is one of the most beautiful corners of the island, ideal for a nice stroll, after the sunset. The lanterns light up the seaside little street and the carriages add a romantic touch to the scenery. No vehicles are allowed in the island, except from very few taxis and the local buses. At the end of the port you will see the traditional lighthouse of the island, one of the oldest ones in Greece. Nearby, it’s the little chapel of Holy Mother of Armata, to honor Virgin Mary for her bless during the famous Spetses Naval Battle.

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Spetses Island

Zogeria Ligoneri Ag. Paraskevi Spetses Ag. Anargiri Ag. Marina

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beaches The ideal beach for water sports is Scholes. Ag. Anargyroi is the most well known beach of the island, where you can enjoy the sea, as well as the fresh fish served in the numerous taverns of the area. In this same area, you can visit the secret of the island, Bekiri’s Cave. You will find it by following the trail, through the trees, on the opposite side of the beach. Ag. Marina is the favorite beach of young people, while the beaches near the port are ideal for a quick dip.

events If you are in Spetses at the beginning of September you will get the chance to experience the re-enactment of Armata’s torpedoing, which is the most significant cultural event of the island. In the port, you will see two groups of small boats, which represent the Greeks and the Turks. The attack begins and the Turkish boats sail towards Ag. Mama, in the port of Dapia. This is where the naval battle begins and Armata gets torpedoed. The battle is actually a fantastic show of thousands of fireworks that light up the sky. The fire in the middle of the port is visible from everywhere on the island. An experience you shouldn’t miss! You can also actually participate, by getting on board in either the Greek or the Turkish boats.

saronic gulf:aegina, spetses

he island that combines history, romantic atmosphere, tradition, crystal clear waters and rich vegetation is definitely worth a visit. A blessed by nature island and a cosmopolitan destination with a high aesthetics tourism infrastructure.

getaway to greece:the

spetses

cozy

aegina A

egina has one distinctive characteristic. It’s cozy! From the moment you reach the port, you will feel the warmth of the place, which anxiously awaits for you to explore it. Significant ancient monuments, neoclassical buildings and mansions, nice beaches and good food. In the 19th century and for a whole year Aegina was the capital of the Greek state. This led to its booming development around 1828. Around that time, the first Greek bank, the first Mint, the first archeological museum, and many other important institutions, were created. The majority of the buildings in the island are neoclassical, with beautiful efflorescent gardens and rich colors. Mitropoleos Street is one of the main streets of the capital, where the government building of Kapodistrias (the first Prime Minister of the Greek independent state) and the library of Aegina dominate. Aegina, and especially the location Perdika, which reminds us something of Cyclades, is a popular destination amongst boat owners. Souvala is the second biggest port of the island and it’s known for its hot springs. Agia Marina is one of the most well known holiday resorts of the island. Don’t forget to visit Mesagro, one of the island’s traditional settlements, with beautiful old buildings and locals whose main occupations, even today, are agriculture and pottery.

Hellenic Wildlife Hospital The administrator of the hospital was also the person who took the initiative to create this center, with the help of hundreds of volunteers from all over Greece and abroad. The main goal is to protect, care and heal animals and birds, wounded either from humans or from natural causes. When the wounded animals recover, they return to their natural habitat.

significant monuments The Temple of Afaia is one of the most significant archaeological sites in Greece. It’s located right above Agia Marina, on the top of a hill, enjoying a fabulous view. Palaiohora, also known as “Aegina’s Mystras”, is a small religious state, built around the 700 B.C., right across from the church of Ag. Nektarios, on the top of a hill. The church of Ag. Nektarios, who’s the protector Saint of the island, is located across from the hill of Palaiohora. There are a lot of stories told by monks, nuns, locals, priests and friends about this Saint. They say that if you approach the area where his holy relics are, you can actually hear his bones moving!

pistachios The pistachio tree was first cultivated in Aegina in 1864. The cultivation then expanded in Attica and the rest of Greece. Pistachios are usually sold roasted and salted or as collected from the trees. The candied sweet made of Aegina’s pistachios is delicious.

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wild & proud

hydra H

ydra is definitely an island you will want to come back to. Wild, proud, charming, beautiful, noble, historic, cosmopolitan. Every year many celebrities from all over the world visit the island, most of which actually own a house there.

access

The islands are connected by conventional and high speed boats with the port of Piraeus. Temple of AFEA

Souvala

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Kypseli

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Ydra Island

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Perdika

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Egina Island

Ydra

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Episkopi

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No vehicles are allowed on the island, something that creates a romantic, relaxed and peaceful ambiance. You can walk everywhere in the small town and if you need to go uphill, you can use a donkey. The donkeys are actually the attraction of the island and even until now they are used as transportation means. You can take a taxi boat to tour around the island or reach the beaches on the opposite side.

saronic gulf:poros, hydra

As the boat approaches the eastern part of the port, visitors immediately feel the different kind of aura this small island inspires. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s as Greek as it can get! You wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t even know if this is real or some sort of a live painting. The small port is always packed, as numerous sailing boats and luxurious yachts dock there, especially during the weekends. The canons and the historical mansions give the place a special kind of historical importance, reminding visitors that Hydra, apart from being a cosmopolitan island, is also a place with a rich historical and cultural heritage, that everyone should respect and preserve. All the houses are amphitheatrically built, overlooking the port. A strict architectural style is religiously followed. The main building materials are stone, timber and tiles. The historical mansions, which were built before the Greek revolution, are 2 or 3 story buildings, with grey stone and no balconies.

getaway to greece: mykonos

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mykonos

the island that never sleeps!

destinations: getaway to greece: skiathos mykonos

The ultimate cosmopolitan destination. The most popular island of Greece. The Queen of Cyclades. Celebrities from all over the world travel here every summer, to enjoy luxurious holidays!

cosmopolitan

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his island has a weird energy, immediately felt as soon as you set foot on it. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the way everybody is dressed, talks and moves. Everything you have actually heard about this island is true. The narrow streets that form a maze, the white houses, with the neat backyards, the excellent tourism infrastructure, the cosmopolitan flair, the vigorous night life, the amazing golden sand beaches, the gourmet restaurants.

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Mykonos Island

Houlakia Agios Stefanos Tourlos Mykonos

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Panormos Vathia Lagada

Ftelia Tagoo Ano Mera Megali Ammos

Kalafatis

Agia Anna Agelika Vrisi Drafaki Kalo Livadi Ornos Elia Glastros Agrari Agios Ioannis Beach Platys Psarou Gialos Super Paradise Paraga Paradise

access

Mykonos is connected by boat with the port of Piraeus and Rafina. It’s also connected by air with Athens and Thessaloniki. Additionally, there are a

lot of charter flights that connect the island with many European countries during the summer months.

the architecture

he island’s architecture strictly follows the Cycladic style. Small white, cubic houses, with non tiled roofs, blue shutters, fuchsia bougainvilleas, churches with colorful domes and picturesque windmills. The way houses are designed and built has one purpose only; to protect people from the extremely strong winds. Besides, Mykonos is known

as “The Windy Island”. Who says that there is only one Venice? Mykonos has its own Venice. Venetian style houses, built literally in the water, with colorful wooden roofs, Little Venice is actually one of the most photographed parts of the island.

Surrounded by brilliant blue sky and the shimmering Aegean Sea, the legendary island of Mykonos is a picture-postcard come to life. With its whitewashed churches, windmills, quaint cobbled streets and pristine beaches, this stunningly beautiful island captures the very essence of Greece. Only 3km from the cosmopolitan town of Mykonos, Santa Marina Resort & Villas offers the ultimate lifestyle experience with a selection of luxurious accommodations, 4 tantalizing restaurants, and an exclusive private beach. Offering majestic sea-views, each of the stylish rooms and suites boasts natural interiors, a private balcony or terrace, and a sumptuous marble or mosaic-tiled bathroom. Some of the larger suites have two en-suite bedrooms perfect for families, while others boast generous living spaces and private infinity pools. For the ultimate in privacy, comfort and relaxation, the elegant villas sit high atop the hillside within lush gardens, elegantly furnished and complete with private pools. Offering a gourmet dining experience in an elegant atmosphere, Marine Club Restaurant and Bar serves an unforgettable array of Mediterranean and seafood dishes and is the perfect venue for a romantic meal. Fine Mediterranean cuisine is also served at the cosmopolitan Beach Restaurant Bayview and at the Colonial Pool Restaurant and Bar, where guests can also enjoy a buffet breakfast and all day dining. Located on the resortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s private beach, the Beach Taverna and Bar offers the finest Greek delicacies with barbeque and seafood cuisine. In addition to its outstanding LOTUS SPA, which offers a vast selection of rejuvenating treatments, the resort has a state of the art health club, a floodlit tennis court and numerous swimming pools. However, one of the best and most unique features at Santa Marina Resort & Villas has to be its 150 meter exclusive sandy beach that stretches out alongside the glorious crystal waters of the Aegean Sea. It is truly one of the best on the island.

Life is a collection of experiences. Let us be your guide. The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts Santa Marina. Explore the collection at luxurycollection.com or contact your travel professional. Hotel email: info@santa-marina.gr www.luxurycollection.com/santamarina t www.santa-marina.gr

beaches

tart your day in one of the most glamorous sandy beaches of the island and enjoy swimming in the crystal clear waters. If you want to gaze at famous Hollywood celebrities you have got to go to Psarrou.

Platys Gialos is a very well organized and popular beach, with many hotel resorts. Super Paradise is a hot spot. An amazing long sandy beach, with lots of beach bars where fun never stops! The island actually has lots of other beaches, some of which are less crowded, like Elia, Ag. Ioannis and Ornos. You will enjoy swimming, diving, snorkeling, surfing, but also a good massage from the comfort of your sun bed! All the beaches have restaurants, taverns and nice cozy bars.

the party never ends

monumental

delos F

or about 1000 years, Delos was a panhellenic religious hub. The whole island is an open archeological museum, with monuments that are 5.000 years old! The splendor of this religious and cultural center of the Aegean is projected in the remnants of the once impressive temples, sanctuaries, agora, theaters, stadiums and houses. Delos is protected by UNESCO and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s included in the World Heritage List. Private yachts are not allowed to dock there and of course the overnight stays are strictly prohibited.

tips

n Mykonos you can rent a helicopter or a private yacht. There are daily flights from Athens. However, during the summer there are numerous direct charter flights from all over the world. In Mykonos you can rent an exclusive luxurious villa. Most of these villas have private pools and offer unique services and amenities. They are totally private and you will feel like home.

entertainment

he Hora of Mykonos is the hot spot for wild nightlife! In Hora, visitors will highly enjoy the biggest night club in Cyclades, which organizes parties with internationally known DJs. Of course, there are also bars and clubs outside the famous Hora, which are definitely worth a visit.

after sunset, these bars turn into clubs with very loud music, awesome cocktails and drinks, where everybody dances having a fabulous time. There is no other island that has bars and clubs that open at 4pm and close early in the morning or even at noon; famous Cavo Paradiso is the place to be!!!

In Mykonos you will find a lot of beach bars, located on the most popular beaches. The beach bars are crowded from very early in the afternoon, when everybody starts off with a coffee or even a cold beer, after swimming. Gradually

However, there are other bars which are more relaxed and cozy, ideal for a more quiet time. Generally speaking, Mykonos has numerous alternatives as far as leisure is concerned, for every hour of the day and for every mood!

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the market Like we said Mykonos is the ultimate cosmopolitan destination. Its market actually hosts some of the most famous boutiques of the world, with haute couture for men and women, jewelry, cosmetics, accessories and so much more. Celebrities are seen there every day, strolling in Hora, buying all sorts of things! There are also numerous shops that sell souvenirs and folk art objects that will remind you of your unforgettable vacations in the Windy Island. In Hora you will also find the excellent bookshop “Vivlio” (which means Book). All stores are open until 2am, something very rare for an island.

dining Nammos is one the most famous restaurants of the island, located in Psarrou beach. Try the fresh fish and the seafood delicacies, in a highly aesthetic ambiance. In Vaggeli’s Tavern in Ano Mera try the lobster pasta, which is the specialty of the tavern, but also delicious appetizers, like fava, shrimp salad etc. There are excellent restaurants all over the island and in most of the luxurious hotels. Most of them have internationally awarded chefs, specialized in the Greek and the International Cuisine.

> (up) A typical small street in the Hora of Mykonos. > (down) Lobster pasta is one of the most famous specialties of Mykonos.

getaway to greece:mykonos

While in Mykonos, you should taste the famous Kopanisti, a spicy cheese that, on top of a buttered toast, can accompany your ouzo or wine.

getaway to greece: santorini

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santorini breathtaking beauty

destinations: getaway to greece: skiathos santorini

When the boat approaches the port of Athinios, you will feel the energy.You will feel the intensity of the landscape and the magic of this unbelievable natural beauty. Just look up. Dazzling little white houses are hanging on the cliffs. The imposing volcanic rocks will almost scare you and the dark blue water will amaze you. Can you imagine? Maybe the secret of Atlantis is indeed hiding somewhere between Santorini and the islets of Palaia and Nea Kammeni, where the volcano is. This island is so uniquely distinctive and so different from everything you have seen in your entire life.

essential

santorini C

aldera is picture perfect. Like a painting. No matter where you stand. Either on a boat overlooking the wild beauty or sipping cold wine on a top of the cliff, checking out the cruise ships that dock underneath, the blue sky, the islets across and the deep blue bay, you will surely feel uniquely. Everything seems so harmoniously blended. Everything looks too beautiful to be true. At a certain point you might wonderâ&#x20AC;Ś are you really

there? Does this place really exist?

that cover them.

A terrible volcano eruption that took place hundreds of years ago, gave Santorini its current topogeographical appearance. Parts of the island sunk in the deep Caldera waters and the nearby islets were created. The peculiarity of the landscape characterizes the beaches of the island as well. Some deep red, some totally black, depending on the pebbles or the sand

All the villages built on Caldera are stunning. Small white houses, narrow streets, fuchsia bougainvilleas, neat backyards and gardens, white chapels with blue domes. All that in combination with the numerous bars, cafes, clubs, taverns and gourmet restaurants create the ultimate cosmopolitan holiday destination! A beauty so obvious, distinctive and undisputable.

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Imerovigli Firostefani Fira Nea Kameni Island Monolithos Cruise Port Karterados Thirassia Island Messaria Ifestio Ag.Paraskevi Vothonas Athinio Port Exo Gonia Pirgos Megalohori Kamari Akrotiri

Red Beach

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Emborio

Perissa Perivolos

Santorini is connected by boat with the port of Piraeus and Rafina. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also connected by air with Athens and Thessaloniki. Additionally, there are a

lot of charter flights that connect the island with many European countries during the summer months.

the architecture

antorini demonstrates a unique architectural style. Almost all the houses are like caves sort of carved in the rocks. This is exactly what makes them unique. Each one is as different as the land they are built upon. You will have the chance to live in one of those caved rooms, if you choose one of the hotels,

located mainly in Fira, Oia or Imerovigli. Due to the peculiar architectural infrastructure, transportation still largely depends on donkeys. This is a long tradition for the people who live in Santorini, but for the tourists itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an attraction.

beaches

he volcanic soil has given the beaches of Santorini a distinctive look. Perissa is known as the famous Black Beach, due to its big black pebbles, the Red Beach is an impressive coast accessible only by a small dirt road and is surrounded by red rocks and red pebbles, and finally the White Beach, full of white pebbles and sand, is also famous. Perivolos is the most popular and well organized beach of the island, attracting most of the visitors. You may also visit the beaches of Vlyhada, Ag. Georgios, Ammoudi and Baxedes.

dive in the infinite blue

Weddings and Honeymoons

here is nothing like a wedding ceremony with the famous Santorini sunset in the background. Hundreds of weddings take place here every year! A fantastic ceremony in one of the luxurious hotels that are literally hanged on the Caldera cliffs is definitely what you are dreaming of.

tourism for all types of needs

Fabulous honeymoon suites are available in most of the upscale hotels, which offer exclusive services to the newlyweds. One thing is for sure. This honeymoon will certainly be unforgettable, as there is no better way to start your life in this exceptionally beautiful place.

antorini besides being an extremely popular holiday destination, it also hosts numerous conferences and symposia, since all the major hotels have fully equipped conference centers.

Easter in Santorini

Most of the trails and paths of the island are well preserved in order to maintain their original appearance. Let yourselves wander in the narrow streets, visit the local art shops, especially in Oia, and discover old mansions and hidden cozy bars.

aster in Santorini has a unique flair and aroma. The bakeries all over the island are working overtime to deliver delicious cheese pies, cookies, sweet loafs and traditional Easter sweets, called â&#x20AC;&#x153;melitiniaâ&#x20AC;?. The process of carrying around the Holy Epitaph in the village of Pyrgos is taking place with the ultimate devoutness. Everybody is holding a small lantern, something that creates an almost unworldly magical view.

Santorini has some of the most significant archaeological sites in Greece, since it hosts the oldest prehistoric fully functional settlement, dated around 4.500 B.C. The visitors should also check out the remnants of ancient temples and walls that can be found scattered around the island. The island is obviously interesting for those who engage in geological research and study, due to the distinctive morphology of the terrain.

night life Santorini has numerous alternatives as far as entertainment is concerned, mainly in Fira and Oia. The night life is vigorous and the bars, clubs and cafes are usually open and jam-packed all day. The night life in Oia is more quiet and romantic, with cozy bars and cafes overlooking the Aegean’s infinite blue!

local products The volcanic soil is dry, however fertile enough, due to its rich ingredients. Santorini is famous for the yellow split peas, the baby tomatoes (also served as tomato balls or sunsured), the white eggplants, the kaparokoupa (caper) and of course the wine. Today there are more than 40 wine varieties. Among the white wines the most widely known ones are Athiri, Aidani, Nichteri and Asyrtiko, while among the red wines Mandilaria, Boidomato and Mavrotragano are quite popular. However, the most famous wine of all is the sweet Vinsanto, also known as “Santorini’s velvet”. which is served sort of like desert.

> (up) Fira by night > (down)“ Fava” is a local delicacy (yellow split peas) served with caper, which is also produced in Santorini, and onions

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aros is one of the most popular holiday islands in Cyclades. Picturesque narrow streets, beautiful beaches, local specialties, luxurious resorts and endless night life. Your holidays will surely be unforgettable in this Cycladic island that has absolutely everything to offer. Paros is a spectacular island with two trademarks: the Holy Mother Ekatontapiliani (which is an amazing church

with 100 entrances!) and the windmill, located in Parikia. For the families who seek peaceful holidays, for the young people who want to enjoy the vigorous night life, for the people who enjoy good food, for those who want to explore cultural and religious monuments and finally for those who just enjoy an early morning walk in the picturesque port, Paros is the perfect place for you

to spend memorable vacations at. Do not forget to visit â&#x20AC;&#x153;Petaloudesâ&#x20AC;? (Butterflies), a park with small rivers and ponds, bushes, trees and flowers, where, every spring and summer, thousands of butterflies with colorful wings nest. The Kalpaki Cave is also worth a visit, since it demonstrates impressive stalactites and stalagmites.

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Paros Island

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activities

aros is the surfersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; paradise! Due to the strong summer winds, especially during July and August, Paros, as well as the rest of the Cycladic islands, is the ideal destination for those who surf. In Santa Marina and in Chr-

yssi Akti visitors can find lots of surfing centers, where they can get training and rent their equipment. Surfers, write down to your agenda the annual Windsurfing Championship,

which takes place in the beach of Chryssi Akti (Golden Coast)!

getaway to greece:paros

Alyki

Nea Chryssi Akti Drios

local tasty specialties Paros has an excellent local cuisine. There are a lot of restaurants and taverns where you can taste the local specialties and products. The main occupation of the inhabitants is agriculture, animal breeding and fishing. Thus, you should ask for local wine, cheese, fresh fish, seafood and of course the traditional pasteli.

access The island is connected by conventional and high speed boats with the port of Piraeus, Rafina and Lavrio and by air with Athens and Thessaloniki.

> (up)“ Marida” is a popular small fish found in the aegean. Fishing is one of the main occupations of the locals

> (down) The famous “tzatziki”, a favourite Greek delicacy made of yogurt, garlic, cucumber and olive oil

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relaxing

hen the sun goes down behind the famous Portara (a gigantic door-shaped monument) and the sky acquires all the shades of blue and red, the Hora of Naxos is ready to welcome all its visitors who are ready for the vigorous night life the island has to offer! This is when all the bars, cafés and restaurants are jam-packed. The medieval tower castles, the well preserved mansion houses and the picturesque narrow streets create the perfect background of your Cycladic holidays. Naxos welcomes you, giving you the everlasting promise of memorable vacations! In the island of Naxos, the visitors will come across numerous sandy and rocky beaches, awarded with the European Union’s Blue Flag for their safety and cleanliness. Some are ideal for surfers, with huge waves due to the famous Aegean summer winds, some are secluded, some are ideal for families with small children and some are more popular and very well organized. For those who love to dive, Naxos can be their paradise on earth! The sea bed is extremely interesting, there are lots of underwater caves, some ship wrecks and numerous islets waiting to be explored. The water is crystal clear and unbelievably transparent… One thing is for sure; you will enjoy the sea, while vacationing in Naxos. The local cuisine is awesome! Try the gruyere cheese, the potatoes, the dairy products, fresh fish and of course any type of grilled meat. The lemon veal, the coq-au-vin and the fried zucchini blossoms will definitely delight your palate!

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naxos

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cyclades an island paradise to discover!

getaway to greece:cyclades:syros, tinos, andros

The Cycladic islandsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; characteristic architecture distinguishes them from any other island in the world! Just relax and enjoy the view!

the capital

syros S

yros is the capital of Cyclades. Ermoupoli, which is the capital of the island, is probably the most aristocratic island town. It has a unique atmosphere that immediately captivates visitors. When the boat enters the port, two churches are immediately spotted: one Catholic

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and one Orthodox Church dominate the scenery, occupying the two hills of Ermoupolis. The Venetian and neoclassical buildings were designed by famous Greek, Italian and Bavarian architects, among which was Ernest Ziller, who created the incredible Town Hall, an architectural jewel.

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Ormos M. Lakkos Ai. Michalis Chalandriani

Ano Syros Kini

Manna

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Azolimnos

Chroussa Vari Possidonia

M. Gialos

Visitors will also enjoy the Casino, which is housed in a charming neoclassical downtown building. There are many seaside villages near Ermoupolis: Kini, Vari, Finikas, Galissa, Dellagrazia and Megas Gialos.

Andros Island

ndros is the cultural jewel of Cyclades. Even though it’s a popular destination, it powerfully resists the distortion of its traditional character by the hordes of tourists that arrive there every summer. Besides the unique culturally interesting Goulandri Museum, there are many libraries and intellectual and art centers based in Andros.

Gavrio Batsi

Andros Paleopoli

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5Km

The naturists love the island because of its beautiful hiking trails, the boat owners for the lovely and peaceful bays and the gourmet lovers for the excellent food. All visitors will highly appreciate the excellent tourism infrastructure. The name “The Jump of the Old Lady” shouldn’t confuse you. It’s the most photographed beach of the island, where visitors will be amazed by the steep rock that jumps out of the water. There also many other sandy beaches in the island, like Chrissi Akti and Batsi.

Syros is connected by boat with the port of Piraeus and Rafina. It’s also connected by air with Athens. Andros is connected by boat with the port of

Rafina and Lavrio. It is also connected with Tinos and Mikonos. Tinos is connected by boat with the port of Piraeus, Lavrio and Rafina.

tinos the pius T

his island is interconnected with religious holidays. The dominating church of Holy Virgin Mary, with the miraculous and priceless icon, is visited every year by thousands of people, who come here to pray and ask for forgiveness. However, just a small tour around the island will convince you that there is a lot more! Wild natural beauty, magical beaches, significant archeological sites, museums and cultural centers. All of the above make Tinos an attractive holiday destination. Tinos is the birthplace of many very well known artists, mainly

painters and sculptors. Their artwork is exposed in quite a few museums, open spaces, cultural centers etc. Moreover, the Museum of Tinian Culture was recently renovated and hosts many collections of the local artists. Tinos has a lot of small villages, scattered around the island, on the mountains, in the plains and by the water. There are numerous neoclassical buildings and old mansions, churches, marble church towers and more than 1000 pigeon houses. If you dedicate this island some time, it’s going to make it worth your while!

getaway to greece:cyclades:syros, andros, tinos

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land of 1000 churches

sifnos H

igh aesthetics, beauty, charm, warm hospitality, picturesque neat villages, amazing beyond any description local cuisine, white chapels with blue domes. Sifnos will simply amaze you....

Kamares is one of the Cycladic ports that enjoys a magical sunset, while Hora with the narrow streets, the colorful bougainvilleas, bars and restaurants is the fun hub! Sifnos is the birthplace of famous Tselementes, who is considered the ultimate chef of the 20th century in Greece.

Heronissos

Sifnos Island

Agia Marina Kamares

Artemonas Kastro Apolloni

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Platis Gialos

Faros

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Serifos Island Hellas

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Sykamia

Galani Kedarchos

Panagia

Ag. Ioannis Psili Ammos Serifos M. Chorio

Ganema

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Livadi Livadakia Ramos

Kythnos is connected by boat with the port of Piraeus and Lavrio. Serifos is connected by boat with the port of Piraeus and Lavrio.

Sifnos is connected by boat with the port of Piraeus and Lavrio.

serifos Serifos is a magical little island with rich history. It has a typical Cycladic-style Hora, built on a hill overlooking the peaceful protected bay.

Windmills, scattered chapels, narrow paved streets, amazing sandy beaches compose the ideal scenery for relaxing vacations in Cycla-

des. Mountainous and wildly beautiful… it’s like a balcony to the Aegean!

kythnos Kythnos is a small unspoiled Cycladic island. It’s a paradise for those who love to fish, dive and snorkel. It has lots of beautiful beaches and lovely taverns by the water.

getaway to greece:cyclades:sifnos, serifos, kythnos

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picture perfect

milos M

ilos is a picture perfect island, of 151 sq. m. Seventy five unbelievable beaches, totally different from one another, on a volcanic terrain that in one case resembles the surface of the moon! This is mostly what distinguishes it from all other Cycladic islands.

The port of the island is Adamantas and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the main stage, where everything happens! Weather permitted, you can hop on a boat and tour the island, access secluded beaches and have a short layover in Kimolos, so you can taste the local delicacies. An unforgettable experience you absolutely have to live.

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Katakomves

Milos Island

Apollonia Filakopi Voudia Milos Triovassalos Klima Tripiti Adamas Ag. Anargyri Kanava

Emborios Ralaki Halaka

Zefiria Chivadolimni Provatas

Paleochori

Orixia

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Homerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tomb Agia Theodoti Psathi Ios Milopotas

Ios Island

Poundas

Manganari

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Milos is connected by boat with the port of Piraeus and Lavrio. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also connected by air with Athens and Thessaloniki.

Ios is connected by boat with the port of Piraeus and Lavrio.

partying

ios I

os and Mykonos are the two most wild islands of Greece! Parties start at beach bars early in the afternoon, continue at the numerous night clubs and last until the small hours. During the summer, Ios dances in fierce rhythms, attracting

young people from all over the world who come here to party all day and all night and to enjoy the amazing sandy beaches. Hora, with its traditional narrow streets, is also jam-packed every night. If you are a party lover you will surely live the ultimate

clubbing experience! One thing is for sure. You will come back!

getaway to greece:cyclades:milos, ios

Ormos Iou

the living castle

folegandros A

nother surprise awaits whoever decides to visit Folegandros. High aesthetics characterize this island that distantly resembles Santorini, with the steep cliffs, the dazzling white houses, carved on the rocks, and the breathtaking view. The Castle dominates the scen-

ery, atop the hill; there are many picturesque little squares, bougainvilleas, small traditional cafes, the two beautiful beaches of Katergo and Hohlidia, many hotels and guesthouses. They say that the Hora of Folegandros is the prettiest one of the Cyclades.

amorgos

Tholaria

Amorgos Island Ormos Egialis

Lagada

Nikouria

Katapola Ag.Paraskevi Vroutzi Kalotaritissa

Arkessini

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morgos amazes visitors with its special aura, the warm hospitality and the incomparable beauty. A small island with lovely beaches, a charming Hora and a small traditional market. If you have seen the movie â&#x20AC;&#x153;Le Grand Bleuâ&#x20AC;? which was shot in Amorgos, we are sure you have admired this deep blue color of the sea and the fascinating sea bed.

M. Hozoviotisas Amorgos F.Y.R.O.M

The island is connected by conventional boats with the ports of Piraeus and Lavrion. During the summer there are local boats interconnecting the Cycladic islands.

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The Byzantine monastery of Holy Mother Hozoviotissa is carved in the rocks, 300 meters above the sea. If you wish to visit it you need to climb up all its 350 steps! The panoramic view, the architecture and the hagiography will dazzle you. For those who love alternative tourism, Amorgos has numerous mountainous trails, which were used by locals to cross the island.

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Livadi

his is one of the last paradises of the Aegean Sea, just a breath away from Athens. It’s a low key island, but of high aesthetics. Even though it’s a cosmopolitan destination, it has maintained its Cycladic tradition and its unspoiled natural beauty. Hora is stunning and imposing, with white houses scattered on the hill, under the awaken gaze of the Lion (a sculpture carved on a rock), which is the trademark of the island. Tzia is a very popular weekend destination. However, it has many interesting spots that worth a visit. That means that you should definitely come back!

Amorgos is connected by conventional and high speed boats with the port of Piraeus and Lavrio.

koufonisia

Kea is connected by boat with the port of Lavrio

hey say that Koufonisia –which is basically a cluster of islands- are the Seychelles of Greece! It’s because all the beaches have white, thin sand, turquoise blue waters and an unspoiled natural beauty. The relaxed atmosphere of the islands is obvious, the minute you set your foot there. Few shops, few taverns, few guesthouses. You will definitely run into the same people every day… Soon you will all be a big happy family. This is the charm of these islands. You will get to be friends with other tourists, as well as with the locals. Forget about cars, traffic, stress, fancy clothes and jewelry. Just relax, dream and breathe the Cycladic “meltemi” (the famous Aegean summer wind).

getaway to greece:cyclades:folegandros, amorgos, tzia, koufonisia

Ano Meria

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tzia T

Agios Georgios

Folegandros Island

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getaway to greece: crete

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crete land of the brave

getaway to greece:crete:chania, heraclion, lasithi, rethymno

The island of king Minos and his labyrinth palace guarded by Minotauros. 5.000 years of continuous and glorious history written with heroism and cretan blood of the most proud people on earth. Crete stands for freedom, independence, authenticity, purity and hospitality. Have the time of your life in Crete but remember, when in Crete act like a Cretan!

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Kolymbari

M a Pl lem ata e Ag n . ia St Ma s alo rin Da s a ra tso s

Cretan Sea Stavros Kalathas

Kounoupidiana Kamissiana Chania Gerani Galatas Souda Kissamos Periviolia Kalyves Plaka Vamos Chania Vrisses Elos Georgioupolis Vathi Omalos Kantanos Kournas Paleohora

Sougia

Ag.Roumeli

Libyan Sea

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Ag.Ioannis H.Sfakion

Chania is connected with the port of Piraeus. It is also connected by air with Athens.

nature

here are about 18 gorges in Chania. The best known is the Samaria Gorge. It’s one of the biggest ones in Europe and it’s about 18 kilometers long. A unique habitat, with an amazing variety of fauna and flora. It has been declared as a National Park and it’s included among the most important natural habitats in Europe, as well as in the network Natura 2000. Hundreds of visitors cross the gorge every year, between May and October. The hike takes about 6 hours and visitors should be very well prepared, by wearing the appropriate clothes, shoes and of course by carrying a lot of water with them.

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picturesque and lively

hania is one of the most beautiful and popular cities in Greece, visited by thousands of people every year, from Greece and all over the world. There is a special aura about this city, as well as about the whole prefecture of Chania, probably due to the rich history of the region.

Words are not enough to describe the natural beauty of this place. Endless sandy beaches, the impressive and imposing mountain range of Lefka Ori (White Mountains) in the southern part of the prefecture, the Samaria Gorge and so much more. The architecture in the city of Chania has been influenced by Venetians, as well as by Turks. Even though the tourism infrastructure is

booming, the city hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t lost its authentic charm. The Venetian port and the narrow little paved streets, which lead to the traditional neighborhoods of the old town, are packed during the summer, by the visitors who are bedazzled by the unique couleur locale.

getaway to greece:crete:chania, heraclion, lasithi, rethymno

chania

local products

f you visit the central market you will find a big variety of locally produced cheeses. The most famous one is Gruyere. You will also find many wine labels, Cretan bread, honey and aromatic herbs, like tea, sage and diktamo (Origanum Dictamnus), which only grows on this island. In every restaurant you will visit ask for the most famous traditional side dish, the Kaltsounia. It is a fried pasty, filled with cheese or greens. There are lots of locally produced alcoholic drinks. Tsikoudia and Raki are the most famous ones. There are served really cold, in little shot glasses. Careful though! The expression “Bottoms up” shouldn’t apply here!

endless view to the blue

beaches

he prefecture of Chania has a coastline that stretches in two different Seas. There are many beaches, smaller or bigger, with sand or pebbles, shallow or deeper. All the beaches near Chania are very well organized; however attention needs to be paid when the winds are strong. In Chania you may find three of the most spectacular beaches in Greece.

The first is Falasarna, one of the best beaches in the whole Mediterranean Sea, with golden sand and crystal clear waters. The other two are Elafonisos and Balos and they are truly exotic. The waters are turquoise blueâ&#x20AC;Ś the sand is whiteâ&#x20AC;Ś and the scenery is just incredible.

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scent of true Greece..

rethymno The city of Rethymno is warm and charming. The Castle of Fortezza dominates, with its imposing size and architecture. The Venetian port and the Mosque of this beautiful city have a lot of stories to tell us… The Old Town of Rethymno is one of the most well preserved medieval towns in Greece and perfectly combines the eastern culture with the Venetian sovereignty. The Makry Steno remains unchangeable throughout the years and

protects the city’s couleur locale. This is where the Turkish school is located. It’s also the ideal location for you to relax, watch the sunset and absorb images of incomparable beauty. The traditional narrow paved streets are full of secrets! All you have to do is explore them! The beach located near the city is popular, long and sandy, attracting hundreds of visitors every day. The weather is ideal for water sports and especially surfing.

In the traditional taverns you will taste the exceptional local cuisine, always accompanied by raki or tsikoudia. The real fun though starts after sunset! There is a whole neighborhood in Rethymno, called Rakadika, where visitors can find numerous picturesque taverns that specialize in raki and local mezedes (snacks). For those who like to dance, you can visit one of the city’s major night clubs, where the fun lasts until the small hours!

beaches

n the prefecture of Rethymno you will see many different kinds of beaches: sandy, pebbly, well organized, secluded, crowded… We would suggest that you explore the following: the beach by the city of Rethymno, Geropotamos,

Episkopi, Petre, Panormos, Bali, Damnoni, Ammoudi, Preveli, Akoumia, Triopetra, Ag. Pavlos, Ag. Galini, Ag. Marina, Gerani, Rodakino, Souda, Plakias, Drimiskianos, Akoumia, Ag. Georgios, Triopetra, Perivolia, Adele and Enetiko.

Nestled on the famed coast of Elounda on the island of Crete, Greece this beachfront resort offers majestic views to the relics of Spinalonga Island. This is a place to discover breathtaking natural beauty, the joy of exquisite cuisine and a serene spa retreat. Elegant bungalows, suites and exclusive villas offer private pools overlooking the Aegean Sea.

Life is a collection of experiences. Let us be your guide. The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts Blue Palace Explore the collection at luxurycollection.com or contact your travel professional.

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Rethymno Perivolla Missiria

Panormos Adelianos Skaleta Bali Kambos Stavromenos Pigianos Perama Adele Kampos

Rethymno Rodakino

Mirthios Plakias

Platanos Ag.Galini

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Heraklion

Rethymno is accessible by boat from the port of Piraeus and by plane from Athens to Chania.

the Monastery of Preveli

he Monastery of Preveli is built in a very remote location, where access is really difficult. The wooden temple is an amazing piece of art, while in the museum visitors will get the unique chance to see priceless artifacts, utensils and Metabyzantine icons. If you hike down the trail, you will reach

one of the most magical places in Crete: the river with the palm trees! Through trails and paths you will stumble upon incredibly beautiful beaches, with hidden coves and bays. Dive in the cold waters of the Libyan Sea! Rent a sea bike and tour Kourtalioti River, up until the entrance of the gorge! You will certainly not regret it!

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the quintessential of Crete

anogeia

his village’s locals are different. They have different customs, traditions, social life, folk art, dialect and accent than the rest of the Cretans. This is because Anogeia is an isolated village. It’s interesting to notice that their dialect makes use of ancient Greek phrases and words, which are no longer being used by anyone in this country.

getaway to greece:crete:chania, heraclion, lasithi, rethymno

The sense of hospitality is really strong –as everywhere in Crete- to a point that actually surprises visitors! Wherever you go, people will treat you with raki and tsikoudia and they will ask you to join them on their table! Let’s not forget to mention that men are wearing the traditional Cretan costumes in their regular lives!

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Sissi

Milatos Elounda Neapolis

Tzermiado Psihro Kritsa

Paleokastro Sitia Mohlos Ag.Fotia Ag.Georgios Zakros Pahia Ammos

Ag.Nikolaos

Kalo Horio

Lassithi Mirtos

Xerokambos Ag.Fotia Ahlia Makrygialos Koutsounari Ierapetra Ferma Libyan Sea

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Lasithi is accessible by boat from the port of Piraeus and by air from Athens to Chania or Heraklion. There are also ferries that connect Lasisthi with some of the nearby islands of Dodecanese.

the palm tree forest of Vai

his is actually one of the most photographed places in Greece. Vai is a palm tree forest, in a small seaside valley, in the eastern part of Crete, close to the remnants of the ancient city of Itanos. The forest covers about 20 acres of land and its name derives from the Cretan name for palm

trees; Vagies, Vagia, Vai. Vaï is the only palm tree forest in the southern Europe. It has been declared a National Park, where camping and overnight staying are strictly prohibited. The reason why it was included in this category was because this specific endemic palm tree

has been there since the Minoan Era (Phoenix Theophrasti). The beach is impressive and exotic, with white sand and turquoise blue waters. You can also enjoy numerous water sports there!

the Lasithi plateau sitia

t seems that time has stopped here… Somewhere in the Dikti Mountain, in the north part of Crete, there are 23 villages. The biggest and the most popular one is Tsermiado. The plateau is ideal for those who love sports. If you rent a mountain bike you can reach the highest peaks, through an amazing natural environment and be astonished by the view. The trademarks of the plateau are the picturesque windmills, which give the scenery a high aesthetics view. There used to be 3.000 windmills! Today, much less are preserved, but are surely enough to remind you of the region’s history.

itia is the easternmost city of Crete. The modern tourism infrastructure and the booming economy haven’t really affected this city’s couleur locale. According to tradition, Sitia is built exactly atop Ancient Itia, which was the birthplace of Missonas, one of the seven philosophers of the Ancient Times. The city was first inhabited during the Minoan Era and today it’s amphitheatrically built on the slopes of a hill.

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free your senses

This is where three continents meet. A civilizations’ crossroad. A trip between legends and reality. The Lasithi prefecture demonstrates amazing natural beauty, authentic Cretan character and a history that has lasted for centuries. The capital of the prefecture is Ag. Nikolaos and took its name from the homonymous church, which was

recently renovated. This city is one of the most cosmopolitan destinations in Crete; it has a beautiful lake and a port surrounded by red rocks! The picturesque little chapel is carved in the rocks and it’s a significant point of interest. The inside of the chapel reminds us of a cave. Actually there is a legend behind it. They say that the chapel was built in order to hide this cave!

Elounda, which is probably one of the most glamorous places in Greece, has numerous lavish resorts, upscale ambiance and truly outstanding beaches! It’s definitely one of the most beautiful luxurious destinations of the country.

your coffee or ouzo and just relax!

Hiona, Kalo Nero, Zakros, Ierapetra, Koutsounari, Mohlos, Sitia, Tholos, Chrisi, Almyros, Havania, Sisi, Ammos, Marina, Gardadoros, Kitroplateia, Akti Nearhou and the well known Mirambelos.

beaches

he coastline that stretches along the Libyan and the Cretan Seas are irresistibly beautiful. Choose one of these beaches and spend your whole day by the turquoise blue waters, feel the pleasant breeze, sip

You can choose between Elounda, Plaka, Ammoudara, Istros, Mirtos, Megali Paralia, Ag. Fotia, Makrigialos, Analipsi, Ammoudi, Staousa, Moni Kapsa, Vai, Erimoupoli, Maridati, Kouremenos,

getaway to greece:crete:chania, heraclion, lasithi, rethymno

lasithi

myth or reality?

heraclion T

he prefecture of Heraclion is the most significant one in Crete, due to its historical importance. It combines natural beauty, incredible monuments, incomparable cultural heritage, endless beaches, delicious local cuisine, warm hospitality, traditional settlements, mountainous villages, hiking trails and vigorous night life.

Heraclion is the birthplace of many internationally renowned artists, like the painter Domenico Theotokopoulos; El Greco. They say he was born in Fodele, about 29 kilometers from the city of Heraclion, where there is a museum that has copies of some of his amazing paintings. The prefecture has 2 major mountain ranges: Idi and Dikti. Also, Knossos, Festos and Malia are the places with the most important archaeological sites, attracting thousands of visitors every year. Heraclion is the “Legend of the Cretan land”.

the city of Heraclion

he city of Heraclion is the commercial, industrial, administrative and agricultural center of the prefecture. It’s by the water; it has many beautiful beaches, great many restaurants, stores and excellent infrastructure. The Old Town bears the flair of its conquerors. Venetian Walls and old Venetian Fortresses are there to remind you of the city’s past. Walk it through. Taste the local flavors. Allow yourself to admire the architecture, the historical importance, the authentic Cretan color and the genuine warm hospitality.

knossos

festos

The Palace is the biggest and most powerful of the Minoan Era. It’s about 22.000 acres, built on the top of an artificial hill and its architecture is truly impressive.

Festos Disk is one the best known samples of the hieroglyphical Minoan scripture. It has 45 symbols which are repeated and grouped, forming letters separated by vertical carved lines. Their imprint was created with stamps, while the clay was still fresh. This is why this disc is considered the oldest known sample of typography. It’s one of the exhibits of the Heraclion Archeological Museum.

Knossos was the center of the Minoan Civilization and the seat of King Minoa. It’s located on the top of the Kefala hill, 5 kilometers southeast of Heraclion. The fascinating legends of Daedalus, Icarus and of the mythical Labyrinth are associated with the Knossos Palace. Knossos was first inhabited at the end of the 7th millennium, until the Roman Era.

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Heraclion connected with the port of Piraeus and Thessaloniki and some of the Cuclades islands. It is also connected by air with Athens.

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CRETAN SEA

Lentas

G Am ou nis rne so s s G

o H uda er ra ak lio

o str Ag.Pelagia ka o le Fodele Pa Rodia i ata u os si o ss ros kkin am a r lip niss e o n t e a r r K op Anerso Rethymno ika Ka ani Al Lin H Ch N. . L Arkalohori Zaros Kokkinos Pirgos Heraklion Vori Timbaki Mires Kamilari Matala

Festos is built on a hill, on the western part of the Messara plain. It was another important center of the Minoan Civilization and the wealthiest and most powerful city of southern Crete. It was one of the three most important cities King Minoa founded, inhabited since the Neolithic Era.

da ali St Malia

Lassithi

Arvi

LIBYAN SEA

malia – limenas Hersonissou

his is one of the two most popular destinations of the prefecture, with luxurious resorts. Start your day at the Water Park Star Beach, which has 4 gigantic slides, endless parties, water sports and many other activities available. If you wish, you can visit the crowded and well organized

beach of Limenas. Early in the afternoon, you can enjoy your coffee in one of the seaside cafes and later on you can dance the night away in one of the numerous clubs and bars of the area. Do not forget to visit the three traditional settlements located in Hersonissos: Ano

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Hersonissos, Piskopiano and Koutouloufari, in the foot of the imposing Harakas Mountain. Narrow paved streets, stone houses, limed courtyards and very warm people. This is how you will get in touch with the authentic Crete, away from the busy crowds.

matala This town became widely popular during the 70s, where thousands of hippies started going there and living inside

the caves of the famous Matala beach. Nowadays, a great number of tourists visit this beautiful town due to the long,

sandy beach and the excellent tourism infrastructure.

The Cretan cuisine is probably the best in the country. The land is rich and the local production is overly sufficient! Cheese, olives, oil, handmade dough, meat and poultry compose the perfect example of Mediterranean, healthy cuisine. Don’t forget that Cretans have the longest life expectancy than any other European inhabitant! Don’t forget to try the Cretan salad, with cucumber, tomato, peppers, olives, lettuce, dried bread and feta cheese. Also try the Dako! Cretan dried bread, moistened with oil, tomato julienne, feta cheese and oregano! From the pastries, try Kaltsounia, a thin dough nest with Cretan Myzithra, honey and cinnamon. Simply divine!

cretaquarium Hundreds of sea animals and organisms unveil their unbelievable colorful, peculiar beauty. This is the biggest aquarium in Greece! The premises of the Aquarium are also being used for conferences and private events.

Leisure Picturesque pedestrian streets, amazing local cuisine, endless bars, clubs and cafes. In Heraclion the fun never stops!

beaches The northern part of the prefecture faces the Cretan Archipelagos and has the best and most well organized beaches, with sun beds, umbrellas, restaurants, beach bars, water sports, numerous activities and lifeguards. These beaches are awarded with the prestigious Blue Flag of the European Union, for the quality and the cleanliness of the water.

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getaway to greece: rhodes

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rhodes the island of the Knights

Stroll in the Old Town, during a full moon. Take pictures under the magnificent arched streets. Check out the local market. Tour the island and discover the mountains, as well as the beaches. Holidays in Rhodes will just be unforgettable!

destinations: getaway to greece: skiathos rhodes

If, when you were a child, you used to dream of knights, horses and castles, in Rhodes your dreams come true! Rhodes is one of the biggest islands in Greece and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s located in the southeastern part of the Aegean Sea. This island bears a history of thousands of years, tightly connected with the Middle Ages, an era that left its marks on the islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s architecture and civilization. The Medieval grandeur is projected in the Palaces of the Gran Magister, the castles, the ancient cities, the imposing monasteries, the hamam and the mosques. The whole island is like an open monument, with endless sights. Wherever you go you will see the perfect blend of medieval and contemporary aesthetics.

city of knights

rhodes

the contemporary town

he contemporary town of Rhodes, which was built around the Old Town, is actually a very modern city, with urban infrastructure. Its port is right outside the main entrance of the Old Town and receives daily tons of boats, cruise ships and yachts that visit the island from all over the world. The town has a very big market, with lots of stores, cafes, restau-

rants of Greek and international cuisine, stadiums, museums and archeological sites. The beach located near downtown is very cosmopolitan and visited daily by thousands of tourists.

great exhibits, fishes and sea creatures.

Well organized, crystal clear but windy, due to its location, it is next to the Aquarium. The Aquarium, which is a very nice Arabian style building, hosts some

You can tour the capital of the island with a small, cute train, in a ride that lasts about 50 minutes. During the summer there are about 11 itineraries every day.

the old medieval town

Rodos Kritika Rodos Island Kremasti Ixia Reni Paradissi Ialissos Kalithea Theologos Pastida Koskinou Soroni Faliraki Karpathos Sea Kalavarda Ladiko Salakos Afandou Kolimbia P. Ilias

Arhangelos Kalathos Lardos Pilonas Asklipiio Lindos Apolakia Pefki Kiotari Genadi

Monolithos

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For the gambling addicts, the famous Casino is in a beautiful neoclassical building just off downtown.

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his is an ever impressive example of medieval architecture. When you enter the Old Town from the south bulky gate, you will feel like you are in another place, in another time. The Knights left imposing evidence of their presence in Rhodes, and gave the island the particular character it retains to this day. The Knightsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Street is the main street that leads from the port to the Palace of the Gran Magister. The Palace was originally a Byzantine Fortress, built at the end of the 7th century A.C. and transformed on the 14th century from St. Johnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Knights into the house of the Gran Magister and the headquarters of the Knighthood. Walk in the paved streets, which bear 2.400 years of history, and visit the monuments. Have a meal or drink in one of the numerous restaurants and cafes and buy souvenirs that will remind you of this amazing trip of yours.

lindos L

indos is the island’s jewel! The village of Lindos is about 50 kilometers from the capital and it’s known for its famous Acropolis, the picturesque settlement and of course the archeological findings. There you will admire the amazing view from the top and then swim in the gorgeous bay. At night, all tourists are gathered in the central square where all the shops, restaurants and bars are located - always packed, of course!

7 springs

butterflies valley

the colossus of rhodes

Nineteen miles southeast of the capital, there is a lovely location with a lake, which actually has 7 springs.The temperature is always a little lower than in the rest of the island.This is why it’s considered an oasis amidst the hot summer months.The lake hosts many ducks, geese and fishes and on its shores there is a picturesque tavern with a unique panoramic view of the area’s mountains.

In the location Kremasti, visitors will get the chance to check out the famous Butterflies Valley. From July until September, the tree trunks are covered by colorful butterflies, from the family of Callimorpha quadripunctata. The Valley is fairytale gorgeous. The forest is thick and there are small rivers and lots of streams. Silence needs to be maintained, in order to avoid scaring the insects.

The famous Colossus of Rhodes was one of the Seven Wonders of the World. A masterpiece of incomparable aesthetics, built as a demonstration of gratitude to the God of the Sun, which was protecting the island and symbolized the locals’ freedom and independence. Of course it took its name from its colossal size, which was about 12 meters tall! In 226 B.C. Colossus collapsed after an earthquake and since then it became a legend.

towns & beaches

ne of the most well known, popular and with excellent infrastructure location is Kallithea. In Kallithea you will have the chance to see the gorgeous Arabian hamam, as well as other Mauritanian monuments, as well as to swim in the peaceful bay. Close to Kallithea is Faliraki; an extremely popular area with a long sandy beach that attracts thousands of visitors. Luxurious hotel resorts, numerous rooms to let, restaurants, bars and cafes, right by the water… The Water Park located in Faliraki is considered one of the biggest amusement parks of Europe, with a plethora of facilities and services offered. There is an Aqua Gym, a Wave Pool with artificial waves, as well as Giant and Kami-

kaze water slides for the adventurous! The coast in the location Ixia, which is about 5 kilometers south of the island’s capital, is very cosmopolitan. It’s about 2 kilometers long, with crystal clear waters, windy and very well organized with many beach bars and taverns. Visitors there may practice a number of water sports. The surfers’ paradise is actually the southernmost location of the island: Prassonisi, which is about 90 kilometers from the capital. The waves are huge and are welcoming surfers from all over the world! A narrow land strip connects Prassonisi with the rest of the island. The weather conditions are always ideal for surfing and this is why both sides of the beach are always packed.

luxurious rhodes

local products Try the famous local drink Coriandolino. It was first made by Italian monks, in a very unique way. A small branch of a very rare plant –growing exclusively in the island’s beaches (some sort of a thorn)– is placed in every bottle. During fermentation, sugar lays on the branch and this is how the drink matures.

small excursions There are two little islands in a small proximity: Halki and Symi. Symi is directly across from Rhodes and the boat ride takes about 50 minutes, departing from the port of Rhodes. The traditional architecture of the island, the numerous beaches and the picturesque scenery will definitely win you over. Halki is another small island with golden beaches and low profile. It has about 370 chapels and remnants of a Venetian castle. From Rhodes you can also visit Turkey: Datca and Marmaris are just across from the island and the boat ride is about half an hour.

access Rhodes is connected by air with Athens, Thessaloniki, Kos, Mytilini, Karpathos, Kasos, Kastelorizo, Mykonos, Santorini and Crete (Heraklion). The island is also connected by conventional and high speed boats with the ports of Piraeus, Patmos, Leros, Kalymnos and Kos. A conventional boat ride is about 12 hours long.

> (up) Greek salad > (down) The harbor of Symi

getaway to greece: kos

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kos

Hippocrate’s island the island that gave birth to medical science Nature just took its course in this beautiful island that combines cosmopolitan charm with tradition. During the ancient years Kos was called the “Garden of the Aegean”, due to its rich vegetation. It has a mild climate, long history and significant archeological sites. It’s very easy to see that the island’s aesthetics demonstrate a combination of Medieval as well as Italian flair, while also showing that the island existed 4.000 years B.C.

getaway to greece: kos destinations: skiathos

Kos is Hippocrates’ island, who was, as very well known, the father of Medicine. Kos is a very popular island with exceptional tourism infrastructure and many luxurious resorts, less than an hour away from Turkey.

kos

the ancient town

he capital of the island is like an open archeological and historical museum, with scattered monuments, medieval castles, Muslim mosques, well designed squares and very good urban infrastructure. It should also be mentioned that the bicycle is the most popular means of transportation.

The Castle of the Knights, or Castle of Nerantzi (which means sour orange tree), dominates in the center of the town. An arched bridge connects the castle with the square where Hippocratesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; platan is as well as the Muslim mosque of Hassan Pasha. Asklipion, on the other hand, is the most significant and famous archeological monument

of the island. Kosâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; market is a paradise, where you can actually find everything! From pottery to jewelry and from leather products to local traditional delicacies. Try the local baklava, the sweet baby tomato and of course the famous honey.

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Kos Island

Kos

Tigaki Zipari Marmari ASKLIPIIO Mastichari Pyli

Psalidi

Andimahia Kardamena Kefalos

Bulgaria

Ag. Ioannis

access

Hellas

Turkey

Kos is connected by booat with the port of Piraeus and Alexandroupolis

activities

os is the ideal destination for conferences and of course for all sorts of water sports. Jet Ski, paragliding, water ski, windsurfing, kite surfing and so much more, in

Kardamaina beach, but also in all other organized beaches. From the island of Kos and specifically from Kardamaina you can take

the boat to Nisyros, a charming little volcanic island, and also to Kousantasi in Turkey, within just an hour.

getaway to greece:kos

ZINI

F.Y.R.O.M Albania

getaway to greece: patmos

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patmos

straight revelation

destinations: getaway to greece: skiathos patmos

This is the Island of Revelation… both metaphorically and literally! Don’t miss the monastery of St. John, which protects the beautiful Hora and the Revelation Cave, which is a UNESCO world heritage site and it’s where St. John wrote the last book of the New Testament (the Book of the Apocalypse).

Patmos Island

Lefkes Ag.Pades

Kabos Kakoskala

Skala

Apokalipsi Ag.Ioannis

Patmos Grikos

Bulgaria

F.Y.R.O.M Albania Hellas

Turkey

Evagelismos

access

Patmos is connected by booat with the port of Piraeus and Alexandroupolis.

Îąctivities

he island is ideal for water activities. You can tour the island, swim in secluded beaches, dive and explore the interesting sea bed. You can also sail and snorkel. Swim in the beaches of Grikos, Petra, Vagia, Lampi, Kampos, Lefkes and the best one: Psili Ammos.

food

n Patmos you may find many excellent restaurants with famous chefs. So, try the local gourmet cuisine and let yourselves get carried away by the mouthwatering tastes.

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island of the apocalypse

patmos

This is a popular religious tourism destination, but also very popular amongst boat and yacht owners. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also ideal for

those who do not fancy the crazy busy islands and prefer more relaxed vacations, with a backpack, a book and a lot of walking. Patmos offers a different kind of holiday experience. The impressive Hora is built around the monastery of St. John and stretches all the way down the hill with dazzling white houses. Narrow, paved streets form a maze, there are two-story mansions, arches, paved backyards with beautiful flowers and many churches.

If you decide to climb up Skala by foot or with a donkey and glaze at the old windmills, you will sense the aroma of another era. This whole experience is just too magical to describe. Patmos is amongst the most popular layovers of big cruise ships that travel around the Aegean Sea and due to its hospitable marina, many sailing boats and yachts dock there.

getaway to greece:patmos

atmos has all sorts of beaches; secluded, quiet, crowded, cosmopolitan. The extremely picturesque Hora, has a Cycladic, sophisticated but also cool flair. The tourism infrastructure is excellent, with lots of restaurants, some hotel-resorts, and one of the most beautiful marinas of the Aegean Sea.

kalymnos

he “island of sponges” has been interconnected with the sea for centuries now. The locals know the secrets of the under-

water world and they are justifiably considered as the best divers in the whole world. Their “sponges-hunting” trip used to last between 2 and 6

months and it was usually accompanied by a plethora of traditional rituals where everybody used to participate.

centers in the island and every year competitions are held with participants from all over the world. Visit the hot spring of Thermes and dive under the

supervision of experienced professionals of the numerous diving centers of the island.

αctivities

ecently, Kalymnos has developed into one of the most important hiking destinations in Greece. There are a lot of hiking

kastelorizo

astelorizo is one of the most picturesque Greek islands. Built around a small port, with two-story colorful buildings, it looks like a charming painting. It is located in the southeastern side of the Aegean, at a distance of about 75 miles from Rhodes. Kastelorizo has a mountainous terrain, about 300 residents and it’s considered as the ideal place for quiet vacations.

One of the most beautiful places to visit is the Blue Cave (Galazio Spileo) which is accessible only by sea. It has ten natural tanks which collect rain water, stalactites and stalagmites. Inside the cave, the view and the experience is unique. You will be astonished by the different shades of blue, projected and mirrored by the water. It’s considered to be one of the most impressive caves in the Mediterranean Sea.

F.Y.R.O.M

Kalymnos Island

Bulgaria

Albania Hellas

Turkey

Emborios

ou will be swept away by this small paradise of the Dodecanese. Picturesque windmills, cozy white houses, nice beaches, mansions, beautiful churchesâ&#x20AC;Ś. The ultimate combination of dazzling white and Aegean blue. Visit the Castle, 500 steps away from Panteli, and let yourself be amazed by the breathtaking view.

Skalia Telendos Island

Myrties Kamari

Kalymnos

access

Kalymnos is connected by boat with the port of Piraeus and some islands of Cuclades. Karpathos is connected by booat with the port of Piraeus, Stâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Nicolas in Creta, Kasos and Chalki. It is also connected by air with Athens. Kastelorizo

is connected by booat with the port of Piraeus and Rhodes. Leros is connected by booat with the port of Piraeus and Alexandroupolis. It is also connected by air with Athens.

carpathos T

his wildly beautiful island has 12 villages, where everything is seamlessly blended: cosmopolitan resorts, natural beauty, rich history, culture and tradition. The

well paved streets coexist with the country dirt roads, in an environment of unique charm. All visitors will be fascinated by the natural splendor of this island, which goes beyond the

mountainous terrain and into the well hidden secret of the Aegean. All you have to do is explore it!

karpathos, kastelorizo, symi, leros

Chorio

Vathis

getaway to greece:kalymnos,

Panormos

leros

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getaway to greece: ionian islands

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ionian islands

destinations: getaway to greece: skiathos ionian

The Ionian islands or Eptanissa (seven islands) compose a magnificent group of islands that are characterized by their Venice influence. Dive in ionian’s turquoise waters, explore it’s caves and swim by the caretta-caretta sea turtle. Enjoy wonderful specialties at sunset and sing out loud! That’s the Ionian way…

islands

where the most adorable people live…

getaway to greece: corfu

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corfu

the Ionian Sea lady!

destinations: getaway to greece: skiathos corfu

Venetian palaces, fortresses, royal gardens, Knight Gateways, exceptional architecture and a powerful tradition project the beauty and the significance of Corfu. It’s the island that was claimed for years by Turks and Italians. Their civilizations left their marks in the capital and all the island’s villages. A place so charming and beautiful that understandably won the title of “The Ionian Sea Lady”

S Asidar tra i ke Ro ri da

Acharavii Kassiopi Peroulades Loutses Ag.Stefanos Karoussiades Gymari Armenades Arilas Kalami Nisaki Dafni Pirgi Ipsos Kato Korakiana Kerkyra Island Paleokastritsa Dassia Dafnila Liapades Gouvia Komeno Kontokali Alikes Kerkyra Alepou Ermones Pelekas Kanoni Glyfada Katafationes Perama Yaliskari Sinarades Gastouri Bulgaria F.Y.R.O.M Benitses Ionian Sea Ano Pavliana Albania Ag.Ioannis Moraitika Hellas Turkey Messongi Hlomos Boukari Argirades

Lefkimi Kavos

access Corfu is accessed by boat from the ports of Igoumenitsa and Patra. Igoumenitsa is about 450 kilometers from Athens. You can also reach the island by air, from Athens and Thessaloniki. During the summer months there are a lot of charter flights connecting Corfu with other foreign countries.

the aristocratic

he moment you enter the Old Town you will definitely feel its medieval aura. You will think that Knights and Nobles are still walking in the narrow paved streets, around Spianada Square, which was once closed to locals. When you see the Fortress you will feel the intense moments the locals experienced during the Venetian and the Ottoman Occupation years. However, you will be bedazzled

the moment you enter the palace of Princess Sissy (Achillion palace), the Austrian Empress, surrounded by lush gardens, statues and busts of philosophers and of course the famous statue of Achilles â&#x20AC;&#x201C;which is the trademark of the palace and a proof of admiration by Queen Elizabeth. The contemporary capital of the island is a modern city with a variety of amenities, a big market, cafes,

restaurants, bars, but also cozy little taverns. Nature generously gave Corfu an incomparable charm and beauty. Greenery all the way to the water, beaches with rare topogeography, picturesque trails ideal for hiking and trekking and an amazing sea bed waiting to be discovered for those who love to dive.

destinations: getaway to greece: corfucorfu

corfu

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monuments

he city of Corfu has justifiably achieved the title “Historical Town”, because it’s like an open monument, with more than 2.500 years of history and foreign conquerors.

The first of the historical monuments in the Old Town is Liston. A complex built during the French Historical Period, combining the French and Venetian architecture. The Old Fortress, the Spiniada Square, the New Fortress, the Boschetto Park, the City Hall Square are only some of the historical monuments of the city. The church of Ag. Spiridon is located in the Old Town and it hosts the Holy Relics of Ag. Spiridon, who’s the island’s protector Saint. Numerous museums are scattered around town and they all worth a visit if you are interested to know the island’s history and civilization.

Pontikonisi (Mouse Island)

ontikonisi is a richly vegetated islet-rock, located at the entrance of the Halikiopoulos Lagoon, just across from the island’s airport. The islet got its name from its shape. It’s Corfu’s trademark and one of the mostly photographed places in Greece. From the location Kanoni visitors can enjoy the islet’s panoramic view. Currently, visits to the islet are not allowed, as it’s considered a natural monument.

a walk through history

gaming

casino The very well known Corfu Holiday Palace is in location Kanoni, about 4 kilometers from downtown and about 2,5 km from the airport. Corfu Holiday Palace hosts the island’s Casino.

water park Visit Aqualand, which is a very popular water park in the location Ag. Ioannis. It’s actually one of the biggest parks in the Mediterranean Sea. The area includes the AQUALAND Village, with rooms to let, restaurants, snack bars, cafes, bars and all sorts of shops. The park has waterslides for people of all ages and a pool with artificial waves.from the airport. Corfu Holiday Palace hosts the island’s Casino.

corfu stands for luxury

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cuisine The local gastronomy is based on Mediterranean flavors and it’s influenced by the Italian, Balkan and British cuisine. But it has also been influenced by ancient traditional flavors. The locals use a lot of red pepper, garlic, onions and parsley. Taste fish bourdeto or bianco, pastitsada, stakofissi, cod with onions, cuttlefish with maccaroncini or any other local pasta, cabbage tsigaridi, plemona, bagel and sofrito. You can accompany all that with the exceptional local wines and especially with Kakotrigi.

kantada

(night songs with guitar) This type of singing goes way back in time and it’s a tradition of Corfu and Kefalonia. Kantada is a beautiful, romantic glee, sung by young men underneath the windows of their girlfriends or prospective girlfriends. The lyrics had to do with love, flowers, natural beauty, the sea and whatever best expresses the beauty of life.

> (up)“ Pastitsada” is a local pasta delicacy. Usually made with pasta and chicken, red sauce, garlic and spices!

> (down) “Kum-Kouat” is one of the most famous local products. You will find it in various forms including liquor and local pastries

Whatever you have heard about Easter in Corfu is true. It’s a unique experience. It’s probably the most famous season for Corfu. Follow the Procession of the Epitaph, accompanied by the famous municipal philharmonic bands and choruses. The most known tradition is the one where everyone throws clay pitchers from their windows in the Old Town, during the First Resurrection, in Holy Saturday around 10pm. The Resurrection is gloriously celebrated at midnight though, when thousands of fireworks light up the sky!

getaway to greece:corfu

easter in Corfu

getaway to greece: zakynthos

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zakynthos a paradise on earthâ&#x20AC;Ś

destinations: getaway to greece: skiathos zakynthos

Zakynthos is an island blessed by nature. It has everything a traveler will appreciate. History, sights, imposing mountains, forests, lush valleys and plains, incomparable beaches and of course the famous turquoise blue waters of the Ionian Sea. Everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s summer dream!

nature’s resort

zakynthos V

isit Zakynthos, the birthplace of the Greek national poet Dionysios Solomos who wrote Greece’s national anthem, of kantada (a melody sung with a guitar) and operetta. An island of special aromas and sounds!

national marine park

he National Marine Park of the island aims to protect rare species of sea animals and mammals that live in the wider area (in Zakynthos, as well as in the rest of the Ionian Sea). The region is typically Mediterranean, with a combination of sandy beaches, rocky terrain, thick forests, rich plains and valleys. The protected species are mainly the sea turtles “Caretta Caretta” and

the Mediterranean Monk Seals “Monachus Monachus”. The park also hosts other animal species, like migratory birds, flamingos, wild swans, hawks, reptiles, amphibians, like turtles, iguanas and water snakes, and mammals like hedgehogs and wild rabbits. There are also dolphins, from the family of “Tursiops Truncatus”.

F.Y.R.O.M

Bulgaria

Albania Hellas

Ionian Sea

Katastari

Alykanas Tragaki

the Shipwreck

Volimes Alykes

Turkey

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Tsilivi Planos

n exotic, secluded beach on the northwest of the island is one of the most photographed places in Greece. There are many reasons for that. The main is that there is a shipwreck there. An old, rusty boat is laying half buried on the white grits since 1982…

Zakynthos Kalamaki Mouzaki Pantokratoras Vassilikos Laganas

Zakynthos Island

access

Keri

This beach is only accessible by boat. Steep cliffs, white grits and the most amazing turquoise blue waters compose the view you will experience, as soon as the boat enter the gorgeous cove. Words are not enough to describe this, so have your camera ready… Boats depart from Skinari, Zakynthos town and Ag. Nikolaos.

To visit Zakynthos you should drive to Kilini or Patra and then both of them are connected by boat with Zakin-

local products Olive oil, raisins and honey are the basic products of the island. Seek for fytoura, mandolato and pasteli, which are famous, locally produced, sweet snacks. These are the most distinctive local tastes you should take with you!

thos. It’s also connected by air with Athens and Thessaloniki and by bus from Athens.

getaway to greece:zakynthos

Argassi

getaway to greece: kefalonia

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kefalonia deep blue colors

destinations: getaway to greece: skiathos kefalonia

This is the island where Penelope Cruz fell in love with Captain Corelli in Captain Corelliâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mandolin movie! Incredible beaches with golden sand, deep crystal clear waters, a very modern capital with rich history, an amazing mountain, a very good road network and a highly developed tourism infrastructure. This is Kefalonia!

beaches

island of mysteries

kefalonia K

waters.The beach is only 800 meters long and it’s very well organized. Due to its location there are strong winds which create really big waves.

Mirtos is an excellent example of the topogeography created after the numerous earthquakes. It has been awarded many times with the prestigious European Union’s Blue Flag, for the quality and the cleanliness of the

Except from Mirtos, there are numerous other beaches that worth a visit. Some are very impressive, some are more peculiar like Ksi that has red thin sand and clear shallow waters, some are cosmopolitan like Makris and Platis Gialos, some are quieter like Asos, which is the main beach of a very picturesque village, where

efalonia is actually internationally known for its amazing coastline.The island has undergone a lot of earthquakes. As a result there a lot of secluded beaches, accessible only by sea, bays and steep cliffs.

scenes of Captain Corelli’s Mandolin movie were shot, and others are ideal for families, like Trapezaki. Some of the beaches that are worth a visit are include: Ag. Kiriaki, Gradakia, Platis and Makris Gialos, Minies, Ag. Efimia, Giros, Ag. Paraskevi, Asos, Ag.Thomas, Fanari, Avithos, Ammes, Ai Heli, Lepeda, Ksi, Megas Lakkos, Petani, Ag. Nikolaos - Vasta,Vrahinari, Kounopetra, Lourda,Trapezaki, Poros, Ragia, Limenia, Makria Petra, Antisamo, Skala, Mounda, Potamakia, Kaminia, Emblisi,The Bay of Holy Jerusalem, Foki, Evreti and Kamini.

the cosmopolitan fiskardo

he small but picturesque village of Fiskardo attracts thousands of visitors every year, from all over the world! It has a cosmopolitan marina, which is jampacked during the summer months with private boats and yachts that arrive in the island. Fiskardo has beautiful houses of traditional architecture, jewelry shops, shops with local products and souvenirs, but also very famous restaurants.

Bulgaria

F.Y.R.O.M

Fiskardo

Albania Hellas

Turkey

Kefalonia island

the capital

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Assos Divarata Ag.Efimia Ithaki Island

Karavomilos

rgostoli is the center of the island and has many restaurants, bars and cafes. This natural port is one of the biggest ones in the Mediterranean Sea. The town of Argostoli is connected with the opposite coast via the stone De Bosset Bridge, which crosses the beautiful lagoon of Koutavos.

Sami

In its central square but also in Lithostroto, a famous hot spot and meeting point, you will find numerous restaurants, Greek taverns, cafĂŠ, bars and all sorts of shops: folk art, jewelry, local products etc.

Koulourata Lassi

Argostoli

Svoronata Ag.Pelagia

Karavados Vlahata Pessada Lourdata

access

Poros Skala

To visit Kefalonia you should drive to Kilini or Patra and then both of them are connected by boat with the ports

odd facts

efalonia is the island of mysteries. There is a lot of odd stuff happening there, that science cannot actually explain. One of the phenomena is the Snakes of the Holy Mother. Every year in the Markopoulo village, between the 6th and the 15th of August, in the remnants of the old tower of the church dedicated to Holy Mother, hundreds of small snakes make their appearance, filling the inside of the church. These snakes are harmless, non poisonous, and there are many believers who actually go there to see them. Their most amazing characteristic is that they have a well shaped cross on the head!

of Kefalonia. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also connected by air with Athens and Thessaloniki and by bus from Athens.

local products

lives, oil, wine, fruits, dairy products, feta cheese and vegetables can be found in the local markets. Rombola is the most well known Kefalonian wine, which is white and dry. Moshato and Mavrodafni wines are also produced in this place, as well as in other parts of Greece. Try the local pasteli, the delicious galaktoboureko, mandoles and almond pies.You also have to taste strapatsada, riganada, aliada and bourbourelia! The names surely sound weird but locals will be more than happy to explain the recipes and their taste.

getaway to greece:kefalonia

Lixouri

getaway to greece: lefkada

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lefkada The island of exceptional poets Aristotle Valaoritis and Aggelos Sikelianos, but also the birthplace of the famous mezzo soprano Agnes Baltsa. A beautiful island with heavy vegetation, turquoise blue waters, picturesque villages and incomparable charm. Known for the awarded beaches of Porto Katsiki, Kathisma and Ag. Ioannis, the Skorpios islet that belongs to the Greek shipping magnate Onassis family, the island cluster Prigkiponissa, the International Folklore Festival, the annual art events and the monastery of Faneromeni. A very popular and easily accessible destination, since it can be reached by car from continental Greece, via a floating bridge. An island that combines quiet, but also cosmopolitan vacations.

destinations: getaway to greece: skiathos lefkada

beaches to remember

there lies beauty

lefkada

architecture

he capital of the island has been built according to the medieval architecture. Sivota and Ag. Nikitas are two traditional settlements that are worth a visit. Construction there is characterized by the very strong building materials, which make houses earthquake proof. That was imperative, since the area is highly seismogenic. The most distinctive example of the local architecture is the Zoulinou Estate, which now hosts the Public Library and the Collection of Metabyzantine Icons of Eptanisian art.

activities

efkada is giving you the chance to practice a lot of sports, like kite surfing in the beach of Milon, paragliding, windsurfing, diving, sailing, horseback riding, hiking and trekking. In the island you will find many schools and certified professionals who will guide and train you.

gastronomy & local products

isit the known winery Lefkaditiki Gi that has an extraordinary variety of wines. Also taste Verzami, Kerapati and Laggero. Lefkada is well known for its handmade weavings, especially from the town of Karya.You can admire examples of this art in the local shops. Two kinds of sweets â&#x20AC;&#x201C;like hard candy- Madolata and Pastelia are well known in Lefkada and you can buy them from everywhere. Additionally, you will find traditional wwsalami, since two of the best manufacturers are based on this island.You also have to try the liqueur, oil pies, oil cookies, thyme honey and of course the delicious ice creams of the island.

F.Y.R.O.M

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Bulgaria

Albania

Lefkada Turkey

Tsoukalades Lazarata

Ligia

Karya Nidri

Lefkada Island Porto Katsiki

Ag. Petros Ponti Vassiliki

Ag.Nikolaos

access

Poros Meganisi Island

beaches

n the island of Lefkada you will find Porto Katsiki, the beach that was voted and awarded as Greece’s Best Beach. Together with Kathisma and Egkremnoi are the most photographed beaches in travel guides. White sand, turquoise blue waters and rocky cliffs create an unbelievably beautiful scenery. Except from the above, you can also check out Ammoglossa, Ag. Ioannis, Nikiana, Ag. Nikitas, Pefkoulia, M. Gialo, as well as the beautiful beaches of Meganisi.

You can visit Lefkada by car by using the floating bridge connecting the

island with Akarnia.

Scorpios: Onassis’s private island

he islet of Scoprios is very close to the east coast of Lefkada and it’s the only private island in Greece, registered in internationally famous Greek Shipping Magnate Onassis’s property.When

Onassis bought it, he invested a lot of money in order to create the appropriate infrastructure in an islet that didn’t even have water. Significant personalities from all over the world, politicians, artists, roy-

alty, arrived there daily to spend some time in this paradise. Greek soprano Maria Callas –being Onassis’s s wife- gave numerous performances on the island.

getaway to greece:lefkada

Hellas

Ulyssesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s island

ithaki A

n island of tradition, history and culture. The island that its inhabitants will love, cherish and honor forever. The island that was praised by Homer and Greek poet Kavafis, who urged us to find our own Ithacaâ&#x20AC;Ś meaning our own purpose in life. Words to live by. Ithaki has a rare natural beauty that combines a wild, rocky terrain with a peaceful, lush green landscape. Today,

the island has developed a descent tourism infrastructure, without losing its charm and traditional flair.

ancient port of Forkinos, where Faiakes placed sleeping Ulysses, when they brought him back in the island.

Vathy is the capital of the island, as well as the port, and it has been declared as a preserved traditional settlement since 1982. It is built on a picturesque bay having the islet of Lazareto in the very middle. On its south side the dense green forest beautifies the scenery. In the Homeric years, Vathy was the

The island is ideal for diving, since the sea bed is remarkable diverse and hosts a great variety of underwater flora and fauna. There are also numerous trails that you can follow on foot, in order to further explore this beautiful island.

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paxoi

Atokos Island Stavros

Kionion

Ithaki Island

Lefki

Ionio Pelagos

Bulgaria

F.Y.R.O.M

Vathi

Albania Hellas

small evergreen paradise, picturesque and noble, Paxoi and Antipaxoi are two lovely small islands in the northern Ionian Sea. Cosmopolitan, yet quiet, they are ideal for walking, hiking, trekking, swimming in the secluded beaches, romantic strolls in the picturesque little villages and for bar hopping, after the sunset.

Turkey

Perachorion

Ιthaki is connected by boat with the port of Patra, Kefalonia and Lefkada. To visit Kithira you should drive to Neapoli and then Neapoli is connected by boat with the port of Kithira. It’s also

connected by air with Athens. To visit Paxos you should drive to Igoumenitsa and then Igoumenitsa is connected by boat with the port of Paxos.

kithira A perfect combination of Cycladic and Ionian Sea beauty. Kithira is a charming island located just off southern Peloponnese. However, geographically, it belongs to the Ionian Sea islands (Eptanisa). A unique local color is created by old mansions, distinctive architecture and local gourmet cuisine. Mansions and smaller private houses do not go unnoticed, due

to their unique design and decoration. The Castle dominates in the center of the island. On your right, let yourself get carried away by the wonderful view of the sea and the famous islet Hitra, where the rare flower Sempreviva can be collected. You will find small pots with Sempreviva anywhere in Kithira. Its flower never withers and it will always remind you of the

unique island’s aromas. On your left, you will come across several scattered beautiful chapels. At the end of the trail you will surely admire the view of Kapsali, the island’s port.

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paxoi, kithira

Kefallonia Island

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north aegean unique nature, unique holidays

destinations: getaway to greece: skiathos north

aegean

The North Aegean islands differ in that they offer wild green scenery for visitors to enjoy! You should not miss trying their local products such as wine, ouzo and the famous matsiha!

samos

an evergreen paradise

amos is a beautiful heavily vegetated island and it has the highest mountains of any Aegean island. Charming and imposing, Samos is located just across the coastline of Minor Asia. Samos is the birthplace of Goddess

Era, the mathematician Pythagoras, the astronomer/ mathematician Aristarchos and also of the inventor Kallistratos, who came up with the 24 letters of the Greek alphabet. Samos has beautiful beaches, picturesque villages and unique historical monuments. Its inhabitants are simple, hospitable and maintain the

islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tradition intact. It seems that the ancient spirit is still alive there. Pythagoreion is the oldest port in the Mediterranean Sea and today is a truly charming town, ideal for your holidays. It has lots of hotels and of course its night life is quite vigorous.

local products

amos is famous for the homonymous wine. It has been internationally awarded and recognized, having won medals in international competitions.

Honey, ouzo, dairy products, olive oil, olives and oranges are also some the exceptional local products this island has to offer.

daily excursions Visit Kousantasi in Turkey, which is just 1,5 hours by boat from Samos. There are daily departures from Vathy.

Bulgaria

Turkey

Samos Island

Ag. Dimitrios Ag. Konstadinos Ambellos Kambos Karlovassi Idroussa Vourliotes Kokari Drakei Samos Vathi Marathokambos Platanos Mitilini Paleokastro Kalithea Pirgos Chora Paleohori Ormos Koumeika Pithagorio Kambos Potokaki Pangodas Turkey

beaches The island’s sea is crystal clear and quite invigorating! The trees stretch all the way to the beaches, making the water acquiring an emerald color. With big or smaller pebbles, sandy or rocky, organized or not, all Samos’ beaches attract even the most demanding visitors and all have something distinctive to show.

access Samos is connected by boat with the port of Piraeus, Rafina, Alexandroupolis, Ikaria and Kavala. It’s also connected by air with Athens and Thessaloniki.

aegean:samos

Hellas

the archaeological site of iraion

erodotus has written that Iraion was the biggest and richest temple that he has ever seen in his life. The remnants of this temple, built between the 6th and 8th century B.C., demonstrate its imposing size, if not its wealth. They say that

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the first temple was built during the prehistoric years, the second one during the 8th or 7th century B.C., while the third one was designed under Polykratis’ tyranny in the 6th century B.C.. Today, the visitors can see parts of the last temple dedicated to Hera, copies

of its statues, Kikerona’s stand, a roman temple and parts of a Paleochristian basilica.

getaway to greece:north

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local architecture

he local architecture has been influenced by the Byzantine and Genoese eras. Examples of this fabulous architectural style can be found in Kampos, one of the most beautiful areas in Chios. Extended use of yellow and red stone from Thimiana, large verandas, floors made of pebles, crests and big arched entrances are few of the characteristics met in these magnificent traditional buildings. One of these buildings is the traditional guesthouse â&#x20AC;&#x153;Argentikonâ&#x20AC;?, which perfectly preserves this architectural style in its internal, as well as external design and decoration.

traditional local products

hios is the only place in the world where the trees of Mastiha are growing and producing this rare and expensive product, which is considered to be the trademark of the island. This evergreen tree, which is about 2-3 meters tall, is growing in 21 villages in the southern part of the island, named Mastihohoria (villages with Mastiha). Mastiha has some extremely beneficial effects on our health, thus all doctors suggest its consumption. If you manage to be on the island during the collection season

(July 15th till October 15th), you will experience the ultimate hospitality and warmth of the locals. Chios also produces a light ouzo variety, with a mixture of anise, fennel, coriander and Mastiha, depending on the recipe. Do not forget to try the famous candied fruits, especially of Mastiha, which is being made exclusively in Chios and has a semi-sweet taste and chewy texture.

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chios O

utstanding beaches, pinewoods, vineyards, beautiful gardens and of course the famous Mastiha trees, whose aroma dominates the narrow streets of the island. Medieval villages of outstanding architecture capture the eye and offer a breathtaking view. Chios was an important commercial hub during the Middle Ages and was the home of many great writers and politicians, like

access

Adamantios Korais, Alexandros Mavrokordatos, Emmanouil Roides, Ioannis Psyharis and Neofytos Vamvas. There are numerous Byzantine monasteries which are definitely worth a visit, since they hide cultural and religious treasures, while country neoclassical mansions and exceptional stone walls are the silent witnesses of another era. Planes with wild tulips, lemon and mastiha trees, colorful flowers and unique flora

compose a dreamy island image which you will definitely fall in love with.

easter in the village vrontades

Oinousses Isl.

Volissos

Vrontados

Chios Island

Turkey

Chios Kambos Karfas Ag.Aimilianos

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Turkey

rontades is a famous Greek village, because of a peculiar yet impressive tradition called “rouketopolemos” (rocket war), taking place there during Easter, every year. Two renowned churches, Ag. Markos and Holly Mother of Erithiani, are exchanging “fire” (meaning rockets), in an unbelievably loud and colorful demonstration of joy and celebration for the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Thousands of rockets are launched from one church to the other, setting the sky on fire! A unique view and a unique feeling for those who attend it!

getaway to greece:north

Giossonas Kardamyla

aegean:chios

Chios is connected by boat with the port of Piraeus, Alexandroupolis and Kavala. It’s also connected by air with Athens.

samothraki A

n island with distinctive character and traditional beauty preserved through time. Hora is amphitheatrically built and dazzles the visitors with its wonderful view, the picturesque houses and the warm people. Sometimes there is a sense that time has stopped in this beautiful Aegean corner! The narrow streets, the gorgeous central square, the traditional cafes, which are packed during the summer, and of course the impressive castle captivate the eye of the beholder. The archeological site of Samothraki is definitely worth seeing.The Sanctuary of the Great Gods is responsible for the intense energy this island projects. In the museum the visitors will admire the copy of the sculpture “Samothraki’s Victory”, a masterpiece that illustrates the significant ancient civilization of the island (the original is exposed in the Louvre Museum). The beaches are unspoiled and calm.You might actually see little baby goats, wandering around! The beach of Pahia Ammos with the golden sand will remind you of Cyclades, while the Gardens Bay will certainly impress you, as it was created after a volcano eruption. Samothraki has 11 gorges. An attraction for the naturists! Hike in the Fonia’s Gorge, with the numerous falls and the natural pools! The local cuisine is exceptional.The traditional and preserved local bakery of Giannis will dazzle you with its bread and in its taverns you will taste a mouthwatering goat, cooked in 20 different ways! In sophisticated Samothraki you will be in touch with the “alternative” Greece.You should definitely check it out!

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lesvos

Lesvos is connected by boat with the port of Piraeus, Rafina, Thessaloniki and Kavala. It’s also connected by air with Athens and Thessaloniki. F.Y.R.O.M

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Ahaia

Albania

Ag. Lavra

Hellas

Turkey

Lesvos Island

Mythimna (Molyvos)

Efthalou Sikamia

Petra Andissa Skala Eressos Skala Eressou

nected the East with the West, will undoubtedly be an unforgettable experience. It’s a place that you will definitely want to go back to. Before leaving, make sure you taste three things Lesvos is famous for: Ouzo, sardines and olive oil.

Kalloni Thermi Mitilini

Agiassos Polyhnitos Charamida Vatera Plomari Ag.Isidoros

Neapoli

aegean:samothraki, lesvos

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alities were born in Lesvos: Sappho, Alkaios (ancient poets), the philosopher Pittakos, Stratis Mirivilis (writer) and the Nobel Prize winner, writer Ulysses Elytis. All this history and culture is now well preserved in museums, national monuments and castles. Vacationing in the island that once con-

getaway to greece:north

ould you ever imagine that you’d see chestnut trees on an island of the Aegean Sea? Well… it’s true! Lesvos has an amazing topogeographical variety, where everything is harmoniously blended. A great number of significant person-

ikaria F

ew years ago this island was visited mainly for its hot springs. Now, more and more tourists prefer this beautiful, wild island for their vacation, enjoying the stunning natural beauty and the laid-back attitude of the inhabitants. The northeastern side of the island is covered with pinewoods, while the southwestern side is dry and mountainous. However, whichever part you wish to visit, you will be amazed by the wild peculiar beauty and you will enjoy peaceful, carefree holidays, like never before. Do not leave the island before tasting the delicious honey, from thyme, and of course the famous strong local red wine.

access Ikaria is connected by boat with the port of Piraeus, Kavala and Samos. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also connected by air with Athens.

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Ikaria Island

Fanari Evdilos Agios Kirykos Raches Kalamos IKARIO PELAGOS

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Sardes Kaspakas

Kavirio

Atsiki

Ifestia Repanidi

Myrina Platy

Moudros

Roussopouli Poliochni

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Lemnos Island

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Lemnos is connected by boat with the port of Piraeus, Alexandroupolis and Kavala. It’s also connected by air with Athens and Thessaloniki.

aegean:ikaria, lemnos

he island’s traditional settlements, the imposing volcanic terrain, the crystal clear waters, the amazing beaches and the warm hospitality will make your holidays unforgettable. The remarkable archaeological findings prove the existence of the oldest prehistoric settlement in Europe and make Hephaestus’ island one of the most spectacular spots of the northeastern Aegean. Lemnos is exciting and inviting… All you have to do is explore it!

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skiathos cosmopolitan green paradise

destinations: getaway to greece: skiathos skiathos

Skiathos is the paradise of Sporades islands! Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an evergreen destination, with distinctive architecture and cosmopolitan flair. The island has 70 amazing, sandy beaches that offer memorable vacations to those who decide to visit.

skiathos

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Skiathos Island

Turkey

Kehries

Asselinos

Skiathos Vassilias

beaches

Ag. Eleni Koukounaries

Ag. Paraskevi

Achladies

Some of the beaches are ideal for those who prefer to do water sports, but there also beaches for those who seek for the ultimate peace under the Greek sky. One you should definitely visit is the famous Koukounaries. The natural beauty is just unbelievable, since the pines stretch all the way to the water, giving it a fabulous emerald color.

local products Taste and buy the well known tsipouro and the fruit liqueur, produced in the Monastery of the Annunciation of Virgin Mary, and sail around the island to discover all the inaccessible, secluded beaches.

access Skiathos is accessible by boat from the ports of Ag. Konstantinos, Volos, Skopelos, Alonnisos and Thessaloniki and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also connected with some of the islands of Cyclades. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also connected by air with Athens and Thessaloniki, with daily flights, especially during the summer months. Additionally, there are a lot of charter flights that connect the island with many European countries.

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go green

sporades

reen plains and meadows, deep blue, monk seals, dolphins, picturesque little fishing villages compose the perfect canvas and make this cluster of islands an extremely popular holiday destination. Universal, the world known movie production company, chose this place to shoot the movie “Mamma Mia”, with Meryl Streep, Pierce Brosnan and Colin Firth, aired in July of 2008! Here you can enjoy peaceful or cosmopolitan holidays, or even mix and match!

alonnisos

Evergreen and peaceful,Alonnisos is an ideal family vacation island of unparalleled natural beauty. Lovely hiking paths, gorgeous pinewoods, wild flora, herbs, rare birds, small wetlands, dazzling white houses and picturesque museums of Folk Art bring the visitor one step closer to the island’s civilization, while the exceptional local hospitality, not to mention the cuisine, form the ideal background for your holidays.

Visitors will enjoy unique and rare interest spots, such as the National Marine Park and the Information Center for the Mediterranean Monk Seal “Monachus-Monachus” that treats and protects these beautiful animals that nest and breed in the island.All the islets surrounding the Marine Park belong to a protection zone, which, of course, no one is allowed to visit.

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Skopelos Island

Turkey

Remember “Mamma Mia”, the movie? Skopelos was the island they shot most of the scenes. Experience Kastani, the amazing long sandy beach, and the picturesque little chapel of St. John, where Meryl Streep and Pierce Brosnan walked, danced and enjoyed, during the movie.This is the island where everybody dreams of having their wedding at.Where the dazzling white meets the ultimate blue and where the sunset captures the soul.

Ag. Ioannis

Loutraki N. Klima

Panormos

Skopelos

Agnondas

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skopelos Visit Hora –the capital-, an outstanding example of the local architecture, with colorful bougainvilleas, tiled roofs and warm people who manage to make you feel right at home. Remember to taste the local cheese pies, handmade with a secret recipe!

Alonnisos is accessible by boat from the ports of Ag. Konstantinos,Volos and Thessaloniki. Skopelos is accessible by conventional and high speed boats from the ports of Ag.

skyros Half of its area is covered with pines and the other half is rocky.This charming island is located in the middle of the Aegean Sea and its capital is literally hanging from the cliffs, enjoying the wonderful view of the deep blue water.Visitors will immensely enjoy the famous Castle that dominates

Konstantinos,Volos and Thessaloniki. Skyros is accessible by conventional boat from the ports of Kymi in Evoia.

the scenery. Skyros is well-known for its rich cultural, historic and folkloric heritage, read in Homer’s scripts.

attention needs to be paid in case you want to approach and pet them.

Visitors will also enjoy the unique pony breed (just about 1 meter tall), wandering around the island in herds. However,

Do not forget to taste the local fresh fishes, usually grilled and served in the local restaurants.

getaway to greece:sporades:alonnisos,skopelos,skyros

Glossa

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getaway to greece: thessaloniki

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thessaloniki the beautiful co-capital of Greece

getaway to greece:thessaloniki

There are many things that cross our minds when we think about the co-capital of Greece: Thessaloniki. The White Tower, the sea, the famous Thermaikos Gulf, the rich history, the excellent cuisine, the numerous bars and clubs and the really friendly people, who know how to have a good time. This is a city that firmly maintains its charm, beauty and tradition, through centuries. Thessaloniki has left its marks in the Greek civilization and history, through time.

the White Tower

his is the city’s trademark. The White Tower, which was used as a fortress, dominates in the port and it’s visible from many parts of the town. In the 19th century, a prisoner actually painted the tower with lime –in an attempt to escape- and this is how it got its name. Since 2008, the Tower is like a museum, with a photo exhibition that demonstrates the city’s history, people, flavors and development. If you go all the way up, you will have the chance to enjoy a fabulous view of the city. Around the Tower there is a modern, thematic entertainment park.

international exhibitions

he International Exhibition Center “HELEXPO” is on Egnatia Avenue. Every year numerous conventions and exhibitions are taking place there, from every business sector: health, textiles, tourism, decoration, furniture, culture, industrial production etc. However, the most important one is the International Thessaloniki Fair, which is taking place during the first weekend of September, with international participants and visitors.

Serres

Kilkis Pella

Langadas Thessaloniki Halkidona Loutra Aghialos Ag. Athanasios Stavros Thessaloniki Panorama Imathia

Chalkidiki

Perea Agia Triada

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Albania Hellas

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Thermaikos Kolpos

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Thessaloniki is connected by bus from Athens and Peiraeus. You can also get

by train from Athens to Thessaloniki.

aristotelous square This is the heart of the city, where a plethora of cultural events are taking place. The Square is the main meeting point for locals and visitors. Truly impressive buildings, reddish columns, arched streets, traditional taverns, numerous cafes, pastry shops and so much more!

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dining and seafood! During the day it’s the second biggest food market in the city. In the afternoon, however, it’s like the hot spot for locals and visitors, who demand something more tasty and original than hotel menus. Try the local specialties, fresh fish and meat, with ouzo or tsipouro!

At the end of a long day, stop by Modiano Market and enjoy ouzo

After this mouthwatering experience, get a cup of coffee in one of the sea-

side cafes. It really doesn’t matter which one, since they all provide an excellent service. Accompany your coffee with croissants, cakes or local pastries. If you are hungry after clubbing… go to Ladadika, for a quick bite, or get a souvlaki! There are many fast food restaurants in all the major streets, around town.

getaway to greece:thessaloniki

hessaloniki is the city of thousands of flavors! You can enjoy a delicious breakfast practically in every corner of the city. Numerous bakeries and pastry shops sell amazing pies, the best known of which are those with cheese and cream!

casino In just few kilometers away from the International Airport â&#x20AC;&#x153;Macedoniaâ&#x20AC;? of Thessaloniki, visitors will get the chance the admire its famous casino, hosted in the Hyatt Regency Hotel.

shopping The commercial center of the town stretches in the busy streets of Tsimiski, Egnatia and Ermou, with big department stores, prestigious boutiques, banks, bookstores and antique stores. The Modiano Market is the central market, filled with aromas and colors. You are going to see a lot of street vendors in Thessaloniki, that sell bagels and salepi (which is a nice sweet drink that will keep you warm if you visit the city during the winter). If you are an antique lover, you will enjoy the numerous bazaars in Thessaloniki, where you can find amazing bargains!

fun Ladadika is one of the most famous and oldest neighborhoods in Thessaloniki. Today, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not residential, but it hosts numerous traditional taverns, bars, clubs and few hotels. The seaside Niki Avenue is famous for its bars and cafes. When the sun sets, you will see hundreds of locals and visitors enjoying the view and sipping a hot cup of coffee. Additionally, visitors can find many well known restaurants in the neighborhoods of Kalamaria and Aretsou.

a beautiful promenade

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getaway to greece: chalkidiki

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chalkidiki an unforgettable trip to a truly unique place!

destinations: getaway to greece: skiathos chalkidiki

Chalkidiki is a colorful canvas, all year long. It has three peninsulas: Athos (east), Kassandra (West) and Sithonia (in the center). The capital of the prefecture is Polygyros, which is centrally located and built where Ancient Apollonia used to be. All the houses are overlooking the bay enjoying a fabulous view, as they are amphitheatrically built on the foot of mountain Holomontas.

blessed land

chalkidiki

beaches

he coast line of Chalkidiki is well known and unique, due to the three abovementioned peninsulas. The prestigious Blue Flag of the European Union was awarded to 47 beaches and 2 marinas in Chalkidiki! The Kassandra peninsula is known for the magical, sandy beaches, most of which are very well organized, while impressive hotels can be found along the coastline. The most beautiful beaches, located on the west side of the peninsula, are Sani,

Siviri, Fourka, Posidi, Nea Skioni and Ag. Paraskevi, while on the east side one can find Pefkoxori, Pigadikia (with white sand), Afitos and Nea Fokaia. Sithonia is a peninsula of outstanding natural beauty. Long sandy beaches, turquoise blue waters, picturesque little villages, amazing evergreen forests, secluded bays, historical monuments and traditional buildings. Its natural beauty still hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t been affected by tourism development. On the

west side of Sithonia the visitors will find the beautiful beaches of Nikiti, Lagomandra, Neos Marmaras, Tristinika and Toroni, while on the east side they will find the long, white sand beaches of Kalamitsi, Sarti, Ahlada, Armenistis,Vourvourou and Tripiti. On the east side lies the Strimonikos Gulf, where the secluded bay of Ierissos is located, unveiling numerous exceptional bigger and smaller beaches.

Ancient Arnaia is a small village, declared as Traditional Settlement, built near the ancient town of Arnaia at an altitude of 600 meters. Today itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a very popular winter holidays destination, with picturesque small hotels and guesthouses and a central square with taverns and little shops. The dominating Taxiarhis village is ideal for your winter and your summer holidays, also offering a lot of guesthouses and restaurants near its central square.

casino

Chalkidiki

Arnea Poligiros Ierissos

Amouliani Ouranoupolis Gerakini Psakoudia N.Moudania Ag.Mamas Nikiti Vourvourou N.Potidea s o t a i Sarti f e A Sani lith i Kalr yopighrono N.Marmaras Kassandria s K olyc ioti Porto Carras P han hori Fourka C fko Kalandra Pe Possidi N.Skioni Ag.Paraskevi Loutra Paliouri N.Kalikratia

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The famous 4* hotel Porto Carras is located on the west side of Sithonia. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a major conference resort, with golf courses, tennis courts, pools, restaurants, a private marina and the first private casino ever been established in Greece. Bulgaria

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Turkey

historic towns in chalkidiki

here are numerous ancient cities in the prefecture of Chalkidiki that blossomed during the prehistoric age. The town of Ancient Stageira is located about 500 metres southwest of Olympiada, on the small mountain peninsula of Liotopi. Numerous archaeological findings certify the very existence of this town during the ancient and the Byzantine years.You should

definitely visit the place where the Greek philosopher Aristotelis was born and where his grave currently is. Ancient Olinthos was first inhabited during the Neolithic era (3000-2500 B.C.) and is built in between two hills, east of the ancient river Sandanos. Today, apart from the very interesting archaeological site located there,

visitors will find an Information Center, providing all sorts of info about the ancient city, the life of the inhabitants, ancient coins and also pictures from its restoration.

getaway to greece:chalkidiki

Hellas

the gate of Athos

ouranoupolis O

uranoupolis is the last town that one can find before entering the Holy grounds of Agion Oros. This is the starting point of all boats sailing around the World Heritage Site “Athos” (the centre of Eastern Christian Orthodox Monasticism, to be visited by men only). Ouranoupolis is an impressive, popular destination with many hotel resorts (2-3 km off the town’s center), lots of rooms to let, cafes, bars, restaurants and folk art shops. It certainly provides peaceful vacations, for those who want to enjoy the sea, fresh fish, the excellent climate, the beaches and the paths of striking natural beauty, surrounding the area.

access You can get to Chalkidiki and City of Athos by bus from Athens.

sail around athos If you are planning on staying in Ouranoupolis, then you should definitely take a cruise around the Athos Peninsula and check out the monasteries of the western side. The cruise is about 3 hours long.You can also rent a small boat and sail around the areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s islets of Drenia, just across from Ouranoupolis, and Ammouliani, which has lots of stunning beaches and small taverns.

local products

The rich soil and the mild climate facilitate the cultivation of a variety of products, which you should definitely check out during your visit. Olives, olive oil, dairy products, honey, jams, candied fruits, bread and wines are some of the products you will find in the local market. Pottery and woodcraft are the main occupations of most of the locals.

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getaway to greece: north greece

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north greece a paradise waiting to be discovered!

destinations: getaway to greece: skiathos north

greece

North Greece surprises the visitors with its natural beauty, variety of scenery and plethora of activities it offers! Discover a different side of Greece!

kastoria

city with a gorgeous lake, an impressive ski center, rich Byzantine and Metabyzantine heritage, museums, narrow little streets and imposing mansion-houses of exceptional architecture. This is Kastoria! The cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s social life, culture and economy are heavily based on the manufacture of furs, an ar t that has been practiced since the Byzantine era. Today, Kastoria welcomes daily a lot of visitors who go there in order to buy fur coats and clothes. Kastoria is the paradise of alternative types of tourism, like agrotourism, healing and medical tourism, hiking, 4x4, hunting and so much more. Do not miss to visit the Petrified Forest, which is about 20 km from the city of Kastoria, in the Vitsi ski center.

access Kastoria is connected with Athens by air, through the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Aristotleâ&#x20AC;? International Airport at Argos Orestikon.

kaimaktsalan T

he ski center of Kaimaktsalan has 14 slopes (red, blue and green) and 6 lifts (1 two-seater, 3 surface ones and 2 baby ones). The ski center is built at an altitude that varies between 2.018 and 2.050 meters. It has training schools, ski equipment, rental stores and an entirely renovated chalet with huge front mirrored window panels, with attached security

cameras. At an altitude of 2.069 meters there is a snow bar with a fabulous view of the slopes of Sarantovrysi and at 2.524 meters, on the mountainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s peak, visitors may see the chapel of Prof. Ilias. Just for the record, the chapels dedicated to Prophet Ilias are always built atop of hills and mountains.You can access this picturesque chapel with a special

vehicle, named Snowcat, which departs from the ski center and tours the visitors. Do not miss to visit the Petrified Forest, which is about 20 km from the city of Kastoria, in the Vitsi ski center.

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veria V

eria is built on the foot of mountain Vermio. There are numerous Byzantine and Metabyzantine churches, impressive neoclassical buildings, ottoman monuments, the famous Jewish neighborhood of Barbouta, as well as many other traditional quarters. Historic architecture seamlessly blends with the contemporary one, in this beautiful Macedonian city.

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You can get to Veria and Naousa from Athens by bus or by train.

naousa

he “Heroic City”. Naousa is the second biggest city in the prefecture of Imathia. In the past, its economy was largely based upon weaving and spinning. Since then, the city quickly evolved into a powerful industrial hub. Today, it’s a contemporary town, with a beautiful municipal park. Naousa, which has an excellent local cuisine, offers its visitors the chance for a plethora of activities.

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mount olympus The sacred mountain where the 12 Gods of the Greek mythology were living Thousands of acres of forests, unique wild flowers, streams and rivers, gorges and ponds, old historic villages, monasteries and chapels. This is Mount Olympus. Today, nature lovers, ecologists, hikers and ecotravelers climb all the way to the top, so they can admire the breathtaking view.

old panteleimon down they will want to come back, wander in the beautiful, little streets and alleys and seek for that specific spot with the best view to enjoy their coffee or dinner.

elatohori Elatohori has become one of the most popular mountainous resorts in Pieria. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a location of amazing natural beauty, variety of flora, heavy vegetation, a ski center in the woods, interesting trails and beautiful settlements. Elatohori is on an altitude of 800 meters and has actually moved from its original location (the old name of which was Skouterna), which was near todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s village. Both villages have a substantial tourism infrastructure, with picturesque guesthouses of traditional architecture.

access Katerini is connected by bus from. It is also connected by train from Athens to Katerini and Litochoro.

greece:veria, pieria, elatohori

for those who want to escape the city bustle and relax amongst an incredibly beautiful landscape. During the day visitors can go swimming in the beach of Makrigialos or of New Panteleimon. But when the sun goes

getaway to greece:north

This is an extremely picturesque village, with narrow paved streets, a nice central square, a big church, many guesthouses and lots of little taverns. Agios Panteleimon, which is located just one hour off Thessaloniki, is the ideal getaway

mountainous

pella and kerkini agios athanasios

uilt at an altitude of 1.240 meters, in the foot of Mountain Voras, above Lake Vegoritida, Agios Athanasios is a preserved traditional settlement, of typical Macedonian architecture. During the last years it has become a very popular winter holidays destination, mainly due to its ski center. Today there are numerous traditional guesthouses, taverns, cafes and bars. Traditional local specialties include lamb, soups and handmade pasta. There is also a big variety of bottled wines.

pella & its running waters! This is where King Alexander the Great was born! Impressive falls, rivers, lakes, as well as traditional districts, guesthouses, archaeological sites, museums, wetlands, ski resorts and hot springs. All these make Pella your ideal getaway!

kerkini lake

ich vegetation, hundreds of flora species, 300 types of birds, 58 species of mammals, 30 species of fishes, 12 species of amphibians and 22 species of reptiles, have been recorded in Lake Kerkini, a place that hosts, feeds and protects thousands of animals and plants. Kerkini is located in the northwest side of the prefecture of Serres, near the Hellenic-Bulgarian borders and was shaped from the waters of the Strimonas River. Kerkini is one of the 11 Greek wetlands included in the Ramsar International Convention and is protected by the Greek and the European Legislation.

kavala K

avala is a beautiful city. Amphitheatrically built, it enjoys a fabulous view of the bay. It combines the mountainous natural terrain with the amazing beaches. On the southwest of the prefecture, on the evergreen mountain Paggaion, there are two shelters. One is in Vlahika Kalivia and the other one in Orpheus’ Plain.

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It’s truly amazing how a mountain that tall (1.956 meters) can simultaneously be so close to the coastline. This exact contradiction is what makes Kavala so charming and captivating. A very important commercial hub, its port plays a crucial part in the city’s life, since it’s one of the most important

ones in Northern Greece. Except from the commercial traffic, the port also serves the transportation needs of the locals, since there are daily boat itineraries to/from the islands of Thassos and Samothraki.

access

getaway to greece:north

greece:pella, kerkini, kavala

Kavala is connected by air with Athens and several Western European cities. It is connected a bus with Athens, Thessaloniki, Drama, Serres, Xanthi, Komotini and Alexandroupoli.

xanthi One the most fascinating cities in Nor thern Greece. Where east meets the west. When you stroll in the Old Town you will feel that time has stopped. The narrow paved streets, the well preserved backyards, the lanterns in the alleys. This city is bustling. Colorful people, aromas, tastes and cultures. Xanthi is waiting for you to explore itâ&#x20AC;Ś

architecture The Old Townâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s architectural style is Western Macedonian, which means: elevated ground floors with limited access to the street, large and comfor table space in the upper floors, where there is plenty of light! The roofs are wooden and have Byzantine tiles.

anthiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s carnival is very well known in Greece and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s organized by the municipality. The inspiration for the costumes and the creation of the floats usually comes from current events. During the carnival a lot of cultural events are taking place, like theaters, shows, musicals and so much more, always based on the local tradition. The events climax during a two day event, when hundreds of people parade with colorful costumes.

getaway to greece:north

the carnival season

greece:xanthi

247

the city with the 280 mosques

komotini The city of Komotini is located in an amazing natural environment, heavily vegetated, with lots of streams and an excellent climate. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s built in the middle of a plain, which starts from the foot of Rodopi Mountain and ends up in the sea. The Ottomans played an important role in the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s development and life. However, Komotini projects the coexistence of these two types of living in the most charming way. Today, a large number of Muslims live in the city.

Bulgaria

F.Y.R.O.M Albania Hellas

Turkey

Bulgaria

Xanthi Rodopi Iasmos

Poliantho

M. Faneromenis

Ifestos

Komotini

Neo Sidirohori

Aratos

Ariana Sapes

Xilagani

Evros

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alexandroupoli A

lexandroupoli plays a truly hegemonic geographical role in Eastern Macedonia and Thrace.Vigorously developed and a powerful touristic hub for the prefecture of Evros, it attracts people who come here for the hot springs, the beaches, the mountains and for agrotourism. Alexandroupoli has many luxurious hotels, taverns, bars and a very big market. All the beaches are well organized, giving visitors the chance for water sports and numerous opportunities for leisure.

F.Y.R.O.M

Bulgaria

Albania

Kastanies

Hellas

Turkey

Kavili Orestiada

Boulgaria

Lavara Soufli

Rodopi

Evros

Alexandroupolis Thrakiko Sea

getaway to greece:north

Turkey

greece:komotini, alexandroupoli

Didimotino

getaway to greece: epirus

251

epirus

a land of natural wealth

destinations: getaway to greece: skiathos epirus

King Pyros and Queen Olympiad - mother of Alexander the Great - and many of Greeceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s national benefactors were born here. Nowhere else in the world was stone so ductile. Houses, churches and bridges were built with stone with such stability and elegance by true local build-artists, you wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t believe your eyes.. Visit Epirus and let yourself be impressed!

ioannina

he city of Ioannina is built on the shores of Lake Pamvotida and it’s the capital of the prefecture of Epirus. It’s a beautiful picturesque town, which combines history and tradition with the contemporary way of life. Grace to its long historical, cultural, social and financial past it is a popular

access

tourist destination. The Ottoman Empire has left its mark in the city of Ioannina that has a lot of eastern architectural style buildings, as well as mosques. The Acropolis of Its Kale with the Fetihie Mosque, Ali Pasha’s tomb and other deserted Ottoman

You can get from Athens to Ioannina by train. Ioannina are also connected by bus

buildings are only some of the most significant monuments in this town. All these historical monuments proved the peaceful coexistence of three communities: the Greek, the Turkish and the Jewish.

from Athens and Thessaloniki.

architecture

he traditional buildings, the museums, the castle, the Frontzos open theater, located in the city’s park, and the numerous spots of historical and cultural importance, are excellent examples of the Epirotic architecture.

Kastoria Kozani

ALBANIA

Konitsa M. Stomiou Grevena Aristi Papingo Tsepelovo Kalpaki M. Vella Vitsa Monodendri Bourazani

Metsovo IOANNINA

Thesprotia

Dodoni

M. Kipinas

Arheo Theatro Dodonis

Preveza

or quite many years, Ioannina has been famous for its silversmiths. Their special art involves the handmade process of silver into uniquely designed objects. The silverware of Ioannina is among the best and includes: Byzantine and ancient jewelry, carved utensils, religious objects and a special kind of wire-made jewels and utensils.

Trikala

Kostitsi

Arta

the pamvotida lake and the islet

he beautiful Lake Pamvotida is directly connected to the legend of Lady Efrosini and Dourahan. In the middle of the lake there is an islet, with numerous Christian monuments, like the church of Ag. Nikolaos Spanos, founded from the

known Byzantine family Filanthropinous, the Monastery of Ag. Nikolaos Dilios, with the amazing hagiography, and the monastery of Ag. Panteleimon. The monastery of Ag. Panteleimon hosts the Museum of the Pre-Revolution Era and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s where Ali Pasha

died. Today, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one of the most picturesque places in Ioannina, combining natural beauty and rich historical tradition.

getaway to greece:epirus:ioannina

Ioannina

Silverware

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zagorohoria F

orty six amazingly beautiful, historic villages, where stone and timber dominate, with imposing churches, mansions, paved narrow streets, stone fountains, mu-

seums, monasteries, cafes, luxurious guesthouses and locally produced delicacies. These villages are the pride of Epirus!

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vikos gorge

t is listed as the deepest gorge in the world by the Guinness Book of Records among others.Vikos gorge, the heart of the Vikos-Aoos National Park in the area known as Zagori, collects the waters of a number of small rivers and leads them

into the Voidomatis River. Its length is about 12 kilometers and it runs from east to the west. In the lower side of the gorge there are forests of oaks, maples, lindens, cornels etc., while on its upper side there are firs and mountain juniper. The Vikos Gorge is a

site of major scientific interest, as it is still in an almost virgin condition, thus remaining a haven for endangered species and many and varied ecosystems. With walls of up to 1 km in height, the gorge is spectacular.

bridges

the nature

he location where Zagorohoria are built is of incomparable natural beauty. It stretches all the way from the west â&#x20AC;&#x201C;where the slopes of Timphis areto the famous Vikos Gorge and to the east where there is a series of wavy hills, covered with deciduous forests. This region is also an extremely important natural habitat, with a vast variety of flora and fauna. There are hundreds of mammals and other animals nesting there. This is why the region has been included in the Natura 2000 Networking Program, a Europe-wide network of sites, tasked with the preservation of the natural heritage.

getaway to greece:epirus:zagorochoria

he stone bridges of Zagorohoria are considered architectural masterpieces. In the past, they were vitally important as they were interconnecting the villages of the region. Today, there are dozens of single, double or triple arched bridges. The most well known are the ones of Kokoros, Misios and Kalogeriko.

igoumenitsa Igoumenitsa is the biggest port of continental Greece, with heavy commercial and touristic traffic not only within Greece (from/to Corfu, Paxoi etc.) but also from/to Italy. There are daily itineraries between Igoumenitsa and Ancona, Brindisi, Bari and Venice.

parga

The incomparable natural beauty, as well as the truly amazing coast makes Parga the absolute holiday destination. The evergreen forests, the picturesque houses, the imposing Venetian castle and the excellent tourism infrastructure, are just few of the things that visitors highly appreciate.

Ioannina

Thespotia

preveza

Parga Thespotiko

Preveza Ionio Sea F.Y.R.O.M

Bulgaria

Arta

Albania Hellas

Kanali

Turkey

Mitikas Preveza

Amvrakikos Kolpos

The prefecture of Preveza combines everything that will satisfy even the most demanding summer visitor: the picturesque fishing villages of the Amvrakikos Bay, fresh fish, beautiful beaches on the Ionian Sea, the magical town of Parga, important historical monuments and lovely churches and monasteries.

getaway to greece:epirus:igoumenitsa, parga, preveza

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meteora

eteora is one of the most significant world monuments, protected by UNESCO. It also hosts the most important Monastic Community in Thessaly and the second largest one in Greece, after Agion Oros, which is located in Chalkidiki. In the 11th century, the first hermit monks reached the -up until then- inaccessible peaks of the dominating rocks and soon formed the monastic community of “Skiti of Dhoupiani”. During the 14th century, Saint Athanasios Meteoritis

created the first organized ascetic commune in the Great Meteoro. Twenty four monasteries, numerous cells and pray rooms were carved in the rocks or created inside the caves for more than 600 years. Today, the following monasteries are intact and functioning: those of Great Meteoron,Varlaam, Holy Trinity, St. Stephan, Rousanou and St. Nicholas Anapafsas. Hundreds of visitors arrive daily in Meteora, from all over the world, to meditate and pray. They get to know the

life of the monks, they admire the unique landscape, the peculiar yet impressive architecture and hagiography, as well as study the priceless cultural and religious treasures. For the phenomenon of Meteora there are 2 explanation versions. According to the first one, these gigantic rocks were created when large meteors fell on the earth. According to the second one, the Thessaly plain was once –millions of years ago- sea. When the water strained, the ocean’s bottom unveiled these pinnacles.

Trikala are connected by bus from Athens . They are also connected by train from Athens to Trikala.

kalambaka K

alambaka is a truly beautiful town of historical importance and with notable monuments. The monastery of the Dormition of the Holy Mother is located in the town center, under the rock of AĂŻas.

Kalambaka enjoys a very privileged location, as itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s built underneath the stunning natural phenomenon of Meteora. The much photographed Meteora are basically gigantic, black rocks, scattered in the plain, totally dominating the landscape and capturing the eye.

getaway to greece:meteora,

access

kalambaka

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elati E

lati is a place of rare beauty and the warm hospitality of the locals, turned it into one of the most developed holiday resorts of the region. In Elati, visitors can admire the Cave Arkoudotrypa (the hole of the bear), as well as the stalactites in the boundaries of Pialeia. The local cuisine is really tasty. Grilled deer, Kokoretsi & Splinantero (traditional food that consists of lambâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s intestines), and so much more are served in the local taverns and restaurants. Do not forget to buy dried flowers, tea, oregano, herbs, trahana and handmade pasta.

pertouli This holiday resort attracts the attention mainly due to its stunning natural beauty. In Pertouli visitors can engage in numerous sports activities. The most popular ones are hiking and trekking, towards the

Koziaka peak (at 1.901 meters) or the Mpountoura peak (at 2.067 meters), where the homonymous spring is.Visitors can also engage in archery and horseback riding or mountain bike through the numerous beautiful trails. The experience, especially during spring, will be unforgettable.

pertouli ski center The Pertouli Ski Center is stretched in between the mountains of Koziaka and Loupata, south of Pindos mountain chain, in the location Pertouliotika Livadia of the prefecture of Trikala, at an altitude of 1.200 meters. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about 40 km from the city of Trikala, 25 km from Pyli, 10 km from Elati and 5 km from Pertouli. It has 3 lifts (1 aerial, 1 surface and a baby one).

pertouli

The well-known Pertouliotika Livadia (Plains of Pertouli) form a unique scenery, looking like it came out of a fairytale!

Pertouli, located at an altitude of 1.150 meters, has about 75 inhabitants during the winter, while about 400 during the summer. Their main occupation is animal breeding.

getaway to greece:elati,

riving from Pyli towards north and crossing a mountainous landscape of unparalleled beauty, visitors will find themselves in the plains of Pertouli, surrounded by one of the biggest fir forests in Greece, at an altitude of 1.200 meters.

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the mountain of the Centaurs

pelion

Pelion is an amazing natural museum, just a breath away from Volos. The rich vegetation, the ponds and streams, the stone mansions and the long beaches compose a uniquely beautiful and colorful image. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an extremely popular destination both for winter and summer holidays.

architecture The architectural style followed in Pelion is distinctive and well known, among the Greek traditional styles. Since this is a mountainous region, all villages are built on the slopes. The most common style of buildings in the area is the three-floor one. The first two floors are made of stone and timber and the third one is a lighter construction that protrudes from the other two. This type of protruding roof with the narrow balconies characterizes the traditional Macedonian architecture. It also must be mentioned that every room has its own fireplace.

local traditional products Pelion is well known for its traditional products. First of all the mountain of Pelion produces the most famous type of stone, which is mainly used around the area as a building material. The apples produced here are well known and very tasty. Do not forget to taste the local jams and candied fruits, whether handmade or sold by the local agricultural cooperatives and served in local taverns and traditional cafes. In the winter days, when the temperature gets lower, you should try the â&#x20AC;&#x153;spetzofaiâ&#x20AC;?, a local hot specialty that will for sure warm you up!

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the capital of Magnesia

volos

Can you imagine of a place where you can sip your drink in a small tavern near the water, enjoying the view of the port and then, should you decide it, to be within half an hour at an impressive ski resort? In Volos you can, since the incredible coastline is only few kilometers away from the ski center of Hania.

Pelion boasts dozens of kilometers of a fine coastline. All of the beaches are crystal clear and attract thousands of visitors every year! And not just that! Remember the movie Mamma Mia? Some of the scenes were shot in the stunning beach of Damouhari and the nearby coves. The coastline east and west of Pelion is just incredible. The beaches are clear and the water invigorating, the trees stretch all the way to the water and the dazzling white pebbles give the scenery a picture perfect look. Feel free to explore each and every beach of the area: Ag. Ioannis, Papa Nera, Plaka, Damouhari, Fagistra, Mylopotamos, Abovos, Kala Nera, Melani, Tsatseni, Dryos, Ag. Vasso or Ag. Vatos, Labinou, Paltsi, Potoki, Mikro, Horeuto, Ag. Sarantia, Λιμνιώνας, Kastri, Amaliapoli, N. Agxialos, Agria, Kato Gatzea, Milina, Horto and so on.

getaway to greece:volos,

beaches

pelion

The city of Volos is bustling, hospitable and warm, combining a fabulous sea and mountain view, the tradition with the modern amenities, history and culture. Visit the local famous taverns that serve tsipouro (a strong white drink that resembles ouzo), try the fresh fish and the delicious appetizers.

the treasure of Karditsa

lake plastira

265

he actual creation of the lake was inspired by the General and Prime Minister Nikolaos Plastiras, who was born in the nearby village of Morfovouni. Today, forests and small meadows are surrounding the lake, which is elevated 800 meters above sea level and stretches in an area of more than 6,000 acres. The scenery has completely changed since its first creation and now it looks like it came out of a painting. The peaks of Agrafa Mountains are the background of this beautiful landscape. When the sky above the peaks is clear, one can observe and admire a stunning natural masterpiece: the “Sleeping

Lady of Pindos” carved on the very peaks, floating in the sky... All the villages around the lake have an excellent tourism infrastructure with lots of traditional guesthouses, hotels, restaurants and taverns overlooking the fabulous view of the lake. Some of the most known ones are Neochori, Ag. Nikolas, Kalyvia and Mouha, where visitors will find accommodation with lake view.

karditsa ski center

access Karditsa is connected by bus from Athens. It is also connected by train from Athens. Volos is connected by bus from Athens. Volos is connected

by bus with the rest of Pelio’s villages. It is also connected by train from Athens to Volo.

lake plastira

there are surface lifts and a slope for beginners, which is about 300 meters long. The Club has a hiking shelter that can host 25 people who love long distance and mountain ski.

getaway to greece:karditsa,

n the slopes of Gavelos Mountain, and more specifically on the east of the Petsalouda Peak, at an altitude of 1.824 meters, the Karditsa Hiking Ski Club (KHSC) has created a small ski center. KHSC is at an altitude of 1.550 meters, 5 km from the village Neraida (Fairy) and it’s connected via a dirt road with the Monastery of Holy Mother Pelekiti. There,

alternative

evia

via is the ideal destination for summer and winter holidays for two main reasons. First of all itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s very close to Athens and second it offers a combination of beautiful beaches but also of impressive mountainous terrain. The beaches have a dreamy emerald color and the mountains are high with picturesque villages built amongst an evergreen environment of firs, pines, gorges, streams and even falls! All this compose the perfect image of an ideal holiday destination.

F.Y.R.O.M

Magnisia

Hellas Turkey

Pefki

Istiea N. Pyrgos Edipsos Limni

Fthiotida

Viotia

access Chalkida and Edipsos are connected by bus from Athens. They are also connected by train from Athens.

Bulgaria

Albania

Kymi Steni N. Artaki Chalkida Evia Island Ag. Minas Vassiliko Malaconda Amarynthos Eretria Politika

N. Stira

Attica

Karystos

Athens

Corinthia

tide

he tide phenomenon on Evripos Strait has always been a subject of study, but also of admiration. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the swap of the water current every 6 hours. That means that for 6 hours the water runs towards South, calms down for about 8 minutes and then runs to the opposite direction, towards North. The average speed of the current is 6 miles per hour, but sometimes it has even reached 9 miles per hour. Twice a month, during the first and the last quarter of the moon, there is a variation of the phenomenon. The water changes direction in less than 6 hours or the water maintains the same direction for more than 6 hours. It has also been observed that during both occurrences, the currents return to their original variation at midnight and run from North towards South. All these irregularities depend on the position of the Moon. If you happen to be there, you should definitely not miss it!

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halkida

alkida is only 80 kilometers from Athens and it’s a popular destination for the Athenians, even for just an afternoon coffee or lunch during the weekends. With cosmopolitan flair, this city radiates due to its beauty and historical significance.

edipsos

dipsos is the second most important city of Evia, after Halkida. Visitors will get the chance to see lots of buildings constructed in the 19th century. Their façade is painted in the shades of yellow and ochre, something that’s due to the enriched metallic waters. This city has a lot of underground streams with medicinal and metallic water that pours into the sea or in the several SPAs of the area. Edipsos’s hot springs are among the top 3 of the world. The hot springs are located in the north part of the city and they supply most of the private and public SPAs. Today there are more than 80 hot springs and the temperature of the water varies between 28 and 86 degrees Celsius.

getaway to greece:evia

The amazing neoclassical buildings, like the Red House, are examples of its rich past. The castle is actually the city’s old fortification and from there you can enjoy the view of Halkida and of the wider area.

arachova

rachova in winter is like Mykonos in summer! It is a very cosmopolitan destination, mainly due to the ski center. The villages star t getting crowded at the beginning of November and until the end of May everybody in the hospitality industry work over time! Due to the upscale crowd, Arachova has an excellent tourism infrastructure, with numerous luxurious hotels, traditional guesthouses and many stores. There are also many stores that sell ski and snowboard equipment, as well as many training schools. The central road of the village has many bars, restaurants, cafes and stores with folk ar t. Fine dairy products and gourmet delicacies can also be found in selected stores. During the weekend, the village is jam-packed by young people, families, couples and ski lovers! In the cold winter days, there is nothing better than enjoy a cup of coffee by the hotel’s fireplace, stroll around the picturesque little streets, have lunch in one of the excellent taverns and then, after sunset, hit the bars and the clubs and have fun until the small hours!

local products

very unique kind of cheese is produced in Arachova: Formaella. Cylinder shaped, with excellent taste –especially when fried- Formaella is produced exclusively in this village and its official EU registered name is “Formaella Arachovas Parnassou”. However, Arachova is proud to offer more excellent dairy products, like Parnassos feta cheese, opsimotyri, yogurt, mizithra cheese, and also hilopites (pasta) and trahanas. Parnassos’ sheepgoats, except from milk, have a very tender meat, which is excellent when grilled or stewed. The local cuisine is well known and the most popular dishes are: kontosouvli, kokoretsi, sarmades (with vine leafs), pies and more. Don’t forget to taste the traditional sweets “mygdalato” and “karydato”, with almonds and nuts, respectively.

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parnassos mountain Experience the magic of mountain ski and discover unknown places. Enjoy an off trail slide, walk on the snowed peaks and feel the fresh snow under your

skates. Pass through the forest and listen to the mountain sounds. Approach the nature’s wonder!

parnassos ski center The Parnassos’ ski centers, in an altitude that varies between 1.800 and 2.200 meters, are the biggest ones of the country and attract every year thousands of visitors. In Parnassos there are two main ski centers. One is in location Kellaria and the other one in Fterolakas. Kellaria is better accessed by Arachova (in about 15 kilometers), while Fterolakas can be accessed by both Arachova (bigger distance) and Amfikleia (in about 15 kilometers).

greece:arachova, parnassos mountain

tion and a famous ski center. All of the above keep the visitor alert at all times!

getaway to greece:central

ust a breath away from Athens and with a very easy access, Parnassos Mountain awaits the visitors. This is a “must” winter destination for the Athenians, and not only. Evergreen plains and valleys, springs, historical monuments, distinctive local tradi-

delphi The Navel of the Earth… according to the ancient tradition. Delphi (in Greek it’s in plural) were inhabited in the prehistoric years and acquired, especially around the Classical Period, a major historical importance. Apollo, the God of Light, Sun, Truth and Prophecy, was mainly worshiped there. He taught people about being humble and rational, something that actually influenced, in a wider sense, the Greek spirit. Apollo’s prophecies were verbalized via the Delphic Oracle, Pythia. The new town of Delphi was transferred about one kilometer away, after the excavations that took place in 1892. Today, Delphi are a very popular destination, with substantial tourism infrastructure, ready to welcome all categories of visitors. Here you may find the European Cultural Center of Delphi, which aims to the revival of Delphi as the European and World Intellectual Hub with international class events, and also a plethora of stores and shops that manufacture folk art.

271

mountainous

nafpaktia A

Unique experiences, amazing natural beauty and unforgettable moments, close to nature!

access Thiva, Livadeia and Arachova are connected by bus from Athens. Delphi are connected by bus from Athens.

getaway to greece:central

There are lovely locations where you can hike and camp! The areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s subsoil is extremely rich, with numerous different kinds of rocks, as well as hot springs.

greece:delphi, nafpaktia

n impressively beautiful region with a distinctive topogeographical character. Forests of firs, sycamores, oaks and chestnut trees coexist in an unbelievable natural environment, while fauna is equally amazing.

full of green

karpenisi K

arpenisi is a very popular winter holidays destination, simply because it offers everything! Ski resort, traditional guesthouses, luxurious hotels, restaurants with local specialties, lots of rivers and of course the dominating Agrafa Mountains with gorges and wild cliffs. Karpenisi is a quiet town with excellent climate. From there you can discover all the nearby villages. For those of you who want to discover nature, you can engage in various activities, such as rafting, trekking, hiking, mountain bike and so much more. For the visitors who also want to enjoy the night life, Karpenisi has lots of cafes and bars, which are open until the small hours, while most of the hotels have recreational areas, ideal for quiet nights with friends.

access Karpenisi is connected by bus from Athens.

karpenisi ski center

273

In the Velouhi plateau, at an altitude of 1.840 meters, in the location Diavolotopos (Devilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s place), the visitors can find the Ski Center of Carpenisi, which is about 12 km from the town center.

getaway to greece:karpenisi

On site, guests will find 10 different slopes for various experience levels, at an altitude between 1.800 and 2.040 meters, 7 lifts (3 surface and 4 aerial) that can serve up to 5.150 persons/hour, ski shops, stores where they can rent ski equipment and snowmobiles from, as well as ski training schools. There is also a chalet that can host up to 100 people, a restaurant, a cafĂŠ, a bar and of course First Aid treatment, if necessary. From the lifts, visitors can enjoy the view of the city, the mountains and basically the whole impressive terrain of Central Greece.

kalavryta

alavryta is actually one of the most popular destinations in Greece. Especially during the winter months the numerous hotels and guesthouses host thousands of visitors who come here for the ski, the good food, the romantic atmosphere and of course the historical and religious sites. Kalavryta are built on an altitude of 750 meters. The peaks are always covered by snow and the ski center is always open and running! Today Kalavryta is a modern town, with an excellent tourism infrastructure, bars, cafes, clubs and pastry shops with local delicacies. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also the starting place for those who wish to visit the Helmos Mountain.

kalavryta ski center The Kalavryta ski center is in Helmos Mountain (Aroania), which is 2.355 meters high. The center is built in the location Vathia Lakka, at an altitude that varies between 1.650 and 2.340 meters. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one of the biggest, all inclusive and most well organized centers in Greece. It has 12 slopes, 20 kilometers long, for every experience level.

diakofto

seaside village with a small marina, developed tourism infrastructure and richly vegetated with citrus, olives and loquats. Three ancient cities were on the boundaries of Diakofto. The most important one was Eliki, which used to be the capital of the prefecture of Achaia, from its foundation until its destruction from the earthquake that took place on 373 B.C. The panhellenic temple of Iones was located there, dedicated to Elikonion Poseidon. The first dig showed that during the Roman Years a homonymous settlement was build on top of the buried remnants. Diakofto is one of the stops of the international hiking trail E4, which starts from Florina and ends up in Githion. The beaches of Elaionas and Trapeza are considered the best of the region.

to follow their direction, they would discover unknown places, of incomparable natural beauty. Park your car and hike in one of the numerous trails and live the true experience

of the unspoiled nature. During the winter the scenery is fairylike. Snowed pines and firs, fog, crisp cold. Pure magic!

menalos ski center The Menalos ski center is in the heart of Peloponnese, in the location Ostrakina. It has lifts, 8 slopes for

every experience level, a snowboard park and a chalet, a restaurant, a ski equipment shop and at the entrance

a park for ATVs, which attracts a lot of motorsports fans.

taygetos

aygetos is the tallest and the most beautiful mountain of Peloponnese (the Prof. Ilias peak is 2.404 meters high) and the 12th tallest mountain in Greece. The mysticism and the natural beauty of the mountain has been an object of study for many naturists. The main part of the mountain, as opposed to the mountains of Mani, has a lot of streams and rivers. Evrotas, Nedonas, the Koskaraka and Viros Gorges are located in this unbelievable mountainous area, which hosts a wide variety of fauna and flora. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also a refuge for migratory birds.

access

You can get by bus from Athens to Patra, Mega Spilaio and Aegio. You can

also get from Athens by train to Kalavrita, Diakofto, Aigio, Patra and Rio.

mountainous corinth

ountainous Corinth is an ideal destination, even for the most demanding traveler. The naturists will enjoy the hiking trails, around the impressive Flambouritsa plain, but also the lakes Daios and Doxa. Those who enjoy the good food will highly appreciate the delicious grilled meat in one of the numerous taverns. A full two day weekend in one of the numerous romantic guesthouses is enough to check out the beautiful scenery, but you should definitely come back in order to visit all the picturesque villages of Ziria.

diakofto, mountainous arcadia, mountainous corinth

ousios, Alfios and a lot of small streams in the mountain range of Gortynia. The rivers go through an unbelievably gorgeous region and if someone were

getaway to greece:kalavryta,

mountainous arcadia

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getaway to greece: nafplio - tolo

277

nafplio

romantic walks in the heart of historic Greece

destinations: getaway to greece: skiathos nafplio-tolo

Magical Nafplion is considered one of the most beautiful –if not the most beautiful- city in Greece. It’s a unique combination of history,Venetian and neoclassical beauty and splendor and excellent tourism infrastructure, ideal for holidays all year round. It’s a very popular destination, especially due to its proximity to Athens, but it can also serve as a base for your excursions in the prefecture of Argolida. Nafplion has some nice beaches, at a close distance. A stroll in the Old Town and the port, with Bourtzi on the background, will be unforgettable

romantic

nafplio N

afplion was the first capital of the free and independent Greek State from 1828 until 1834. It has a lot of significant monuments, like the archaeological museum, the two mosques, the Syntagma Square, the Bavarian Lion, literally hanged on a rock, the Folklore Museum and the numerous neoclassical preserved buildings. Today, Nafplion is considered like a very romantic, picturesque city. All this culture, history and tradition create a special atmosphere. For sure you will fall in love with this city! Nafplion has a lot of hotels, of every category, including some boutique, luxurious ones.

bourtzi

castle

leisure

Bourtzi is a fortress, built in the islet of Ag. Theodoroi and it’s like the trademark of the city. It was built from Venetians in 1470 and its first name was Castello dello Soglio. Via Bourtzi, the Venetians controlled the port’s traffic. However, during the Ottoman Occupation, Bourtzi was used as the Greek defense center, where the war against Ibrahim was fought.

Palamidi is the castle that dominates the city of Nafplion. It’s built on a very high hill, on top of prehistoric walls, some of which bear the name of great ancient warriors. What makes it so special, besides its distinctive architecture and the reason why it was created, is that Theodor Kolokotronis, famous Greek general in the Greek War of Independence against the Ottoman Empire, was imprisoned in one of the castle’s cells, when convicted to death. If you want to access the castle, you can either drive or climb its 999 stairs all the way to the top!

In the narrow, picturesque streets, there are a lot of taverns, serving delicacies from the Greek and the international cuisine. Most of the bars and the cafeterias are located by the water. They are usually open from early in the morning for coffee and breakfast and transform when the sun goes down. Music gets louder and cocktails and drinks are served!

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You can get by bus from Athens to Nafplio, Kranidi, Epidavro and Micynes. You can also get by train from Athens to Nafplio.

charming

tolo A

charming coastal village built in the west side of the homonymous bay. It has an excellent tourism infrastructure with lots of hotels, taverns, restaurants and shops that make it a really interesting, close to Athens, holiday destination. Tolo is ideal for family vacations and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only 10 kilometers from Nafplion. Psili Ammos, its long, sandy beach, attracts visitors from the nearby villages as well as Nafplion.

getaway to greece:nafplio-tolo

access

the gambling

loutraki

outraki is one of the most developed towns in Greece. Its beach has been awarded for several consecutive years with the prestigious European Unionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Blue Flag for the quality and the cleanliness of the water. The rich history, the hot springs, the sights, the excellent climate and the beautiful forest of firs, make it an extremely popular weekend and holiday destination.

hot springs

casino

Loutraki has always been a popular destination for those who sought for medicinal holidays. The hot springs and the SPA constitute an oasis of luxury and well-being.

For the gambling fans, Loutraki is like a paradise. The Casino, which is hosted in one of the most luxurious hotels in the area, is considered one of the biggest ones in Europe. Lavish and cosmopolitan, the Casino offers exclusive services. Try your luck while enjoying the atmosphere, a fancy dinner or a delicious cocktail.

The new SPA offers several therapies and treatments and promises rejuvenation, invigoration and the treatment of several muscle diseases. There are pools, sauna, gym, beauty centers, as well as restaurants serving healthy food, composing the perfect well-being ambience.

historical

corinth isthmus

he Isthmus separates Peloponnese with Sterea Ellada and connects the Corinthian with the Saronic Gulf. Today, lots of tourists visit the area, in order to check out this impressive construction of the high walls that separate two pieces of land and connect two seas! The panoramic view is amazing, especially if there is a boat underneath.

water park

ne of the biggest water parks in Greece is located in Corinth Isthmus, just 45 minutes from Athens. Just imagine numerous waterslides, various activities, games and sports for you and your children. Do not forget to pack your camera, in order to capture the unforgettable fun moments you are going to have!

luxurious

porto heli

281

orto Heli is the most cosmopolitan resort of Peloponnese. It has luxurious hotels, long beaches, which are ideal for water sports, especially Hinitsa and Kosta, numerous restaurants, picturesque taverns, cafes and night clubs. There is also a small port, naturally secluded and wind protected, that hosts many private yachts. If you stay in Porto Heli you should definitely visit the remnants of the Ancient Acropolis of Alieon, while in the bottom of the sea you can see parts of the walls that used to protect the ancient port, as well as parts of the Apollon Temple.

destinations:

loutraki, corinth isthmus, porto heli

Porto Heli is connected by sea taxis with Spetses, from the port of Kosta.

crandle of culture

epidaurus

famous ancient theater, remnants of an ancient city, a magnificent archaeological site, nice beaches, cozy taverns and rich greenery. This is Epidaurus. When visitors reach this blessed region, immediately understand its utmost archaeological and cultural importance. Except from the ancient theaters, visitors will highly enjoy the remnants of the ancient city, the Asklipion Sanctuary, the small theater of Dionysus, the archaeological museum and the gorgeous forest. Only few kilometers from Nafplion, Ancient Epidaurus is an evergreen paradise that annually attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world, who go there to attend unique performances and concerts.

the history of the ancient theater The famous ancient theater of Epidaurus, with a capacity of 15.000 people, was constructed in the 4th century B.C. and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the best preserved one of the antiquity. It has an amazing architecture and the acoustics are considered miraculous. In a state of absolute silence, even the slightest whisper can be heard from the stage all the way up to the 54th row.

new epidaurus and ligourio New Epidaurus and Ligourio are the most popular villages visited after the theaterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s events. Both have many hotels and picturesque taverns.

ancient corinth

283

he Acropolis of Ancient Corinth (Akrocorinthos) is the most important and the oldest fortressed construction in Peloponnese, from antiquity until today. During the Greek Revolution it played a dramatic part, changed conquerors and ended up in Greeks on January 24th, 1829. The length of the fortification is more than 3 kilometers.

getaway to greece:epidaurus,

ancient corinth

Today there are remnants of the Temple of Aphrodite, small roman churches in the western part of the Agora, the Pirini spring (Pirini was the daughter of Aheloosâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; river that Poseidon fell in love with) on the eastern side of Propylaea and, on the southern side, a Roman Governorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rostrum, where Apostle Pavlos delivered his lectures.

historical

mycenae

he Mycenae archeological site is one of the most important sites not only in Greece, but also in Europe. Today there are remnants of the Ancient Acropolis, two burial grounds, part of an extended prehistoric cemetery, the Lion’s Gateway, the Royal Palace, the temple, the Northern Gate, the underground tank etc.

kaiafas

aiafas is a very well known town with hot springs, built on the island of Ag. Aikaterini, which is connected with continental Greece via a narrow strip. The area is richly vegetated with pines and has a kilometers long beach that stretches all the way to the Ionian Sea, attracts many visitors and it’s ideal for water ski. In the cave of Anigrides Nymfes in the Lapitha Mountain, there is a hot spring, which supplies with water at the temperature of 40 degrees Celsius the island’s SPAs and serves those who need its therapeutic effects. Kaiafas Lake is a wetland that hosts many species of fishes and waterfowls; it has a pine forest with significant flora and fauna and a sandy beach with crystal clear waters. All these are making it a very popular destination not only to tourists but also to Greeks.

katakolo

285

loutra in kilini

ilini is a charming little seaside village, inhabited since antiquity. Loutra has a good tourism infrastructure and its name derives from the hot springs of the area, known since the Roman Era. Nowadays, there is a very well organized SPA there. Most of the region is covered by a pine forest, which stretches all the way to the long, sandy beach. Today, the port of Kilini connects Peloponnese with the islands of Zakinthos and Kefalonia.

getaway to greece:mycenae,

kaiafas, katakolo, loutra in kilini

atakolo is a seaside village with island flair. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s built on the ground of Ancient Feia in a beautiful natural environment, attracting lots of visitors every year. Tons of cruise ships from all over the world arrive daily in the port of Katakolo, with tourists who wish to visit the ancient monuments of Olympia and of the wider area.

mani imposing

ani is a very special place. Charming, mountainous, wildly beautiful, powerful, mysterious and inviting. At a small distance from the sea, the inaccessible mountains, the impressive gorges, the breathtaking paths, the unique flora and fauna give their own definition to the expression â&#x20AC;&#x153;natural beautyâ&#x20AC;?. There are about 600 flora varieties, 120 of them are endemic and 32 local. The area is vegetated and has a lot of aromatic herbs and plants. In Mani, there are also 85 types of birds, the majority of which

are raptors, 20 types of mammals, 33 types of reptiles and amphibians and a large number of insects (110 types of butterflies). As easily understood, the natural beauty of the area is incomparable. Traditional products, amongst the purest and most delicious in the world, are olives and olive oil, cheese, salted meat, pasta, candied fruits, jams, aromatic herbs, oregano and tea. Goes without saying that the local recipes are unbelievably tasty, even for the most demanding gourmet connoisseurs!

The traditional architecture in Mani is distinctive. All buildings are designed and constructed according to this specific architectural style, where stone, marble and wood dominate. The local stonemasons are excellent artists, breathing life, beauty and functionality into their work. Cobbled roads, bridges, watermills, Byzantine and Christian churches, tower castles and fountains are some of the examples of this art. Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s craftsmen perfectly preserve this style in all restorations and renovations taking place in buildings and houses all over Mani.

287

mistras graphic

access

nary buildings are Palataki in the northern part and the Laskari Mansion in the southern part of the state. Next to the castle-state you may visit the beautiful village of Mystras with substantial tourist infrastructure, ideal for those who are interested in exploring the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rich history.

You can get to Sparti, Monemvasia, Neapoli, Gerolimenas by bus from Athens.

magical

monemvasia

s you approach this castle-state by car, you will feel amazed by its dominating view. A long narrow paved street connects Monemvasia with the southeastern side of Peloponnese. Park your car and walk towards the bulky entrance of the castle. You will then discover a bustling city, like it came out of a Byzantine

painting. Monemvasia has about 40 churches and, under the arches, all the narrow streets which are paved with stones are like a maze. Wander around and admire the architecture of buildings and churches. Discover the numerous bars, cafes, restaurants and traditional guesthouses, which are perfectly blended in the ambience. Travel with your mind through time and live an extraordinary experience in this historic place. Just across from the islet of Monemvasia there is a modern town with excellent tourist infrastructure, ready to welcome you in this amazing part of Greece!

mistras, monemvasia

Today, all the buildings are intact and

constantly renovated, giving the chance to the hundreds of visitors, who arrive there daily, to admire the architecture of that era. Mistras is not currently inhabited and it hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t been for a long time now. Impressive mansions with distinctive crests demonstrate not only the historical importance of the state, but also the fact that some of the richest and more powerful families of that era were living there. The most extraordi-

getaway to greece:mani,

istras is the most fascinating castle-state in Greece. This famous state started to be heavily inhabited after 1262 A.C., during the Byzantine Empire, and it was built on a large plateau of a hill. It is actually the only example of a byzantine palace, in Greece, and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s considered a significant historical monument.

getaway to greece: messinia, kalamata

289

messinia and the beautiful kalamata

getaway to greece:messinia,

kalamata

Kalamata is a beautiful town in the southern Peloponnese. Relaxed atmosphere, long sandy beaches, numerous sights, high aesthetics holidays, water sports and nature exploration. Kalamata and the gorgeous beaches of Messinia are definitely worth a visit, during your holidays in Greece.

Messinia Beach

alamata is built along a beautiful coastline, with many different kinds of beaches. Sandy, with pebbles, secluded, crowded, big, small, quietâ&#x20AC;Ś The very well organized beach of Kalamata is popular and offers the chance for water sports. The sandy beach of Foinikountas is ideal for surfing and other water sports. However, the most impressive beach is Voidokoilia with its emerald waters, the beautiful bay and the thin sand. Enjoy them!

access Kalamata is connected by bus from Athens. It is also connected by train to Kalamata, Kiparissia and Kalo Nero.

F.Y.R.O.M

Bulgaria

Albania

Ilia

Hellas

Turkey

Arcadia Kalo Nero Kyparissia Meligala Filiatra

Messinia Alagonia Gargaliani Sparti Messini Marathopolis Kalamata Ag. Avgoustinos Verga Laconia Gialova Petalidi Pylos Ahladohori Hrani Kardamyli Ag. Andreas Petrohori Stoupa Vounaria Methoni Harokopi Nomitsi Finikounta Koroni Messiniakos Kolpos

endless coast

kalamata K

alamata is built atop the location of Ancient Farae. It’s one of the most modern towns in Greece, with excellent urban and tourism infrastructure, and it can be a starting point for traveling around in the southwestern Peloponnese. The old town, the Frank Castle, just above the port, the numerous byzantine churches and the monasteries unveil the historical importance of this part of the city. In its picturesque narrow streets

you may find many stores with local traditional products that you should definitely pay a visit to. The new town is a modern city with many neoclassical buildings and beautiful beaches. The marina on Navarinou Street, with the luxurious yachts and the numerous restaurants, is considered the city’s jewel! From there you can visit all the nearby beaches, should you have a boat. Aristomenous Street is the heart of the city, where there are many

291

restaurants, bars, cafes and stores. Don’t be surprised if you actually see Greek and foreign songs being danced by locals, according to the traditional “kalamatianos”, a famous Greek folk dance. The city has a bustling night life. Many bars, clubs, restaurants, live music events will keep you entertained, while in town. Kalamata will always be in your heart, for being the city that actually combines everything!

Kalamon Olives

This olive is big and juicy and its kernel can easily be crushed. The oil produced by this variety is one of the best being

beauty and functionality into their work. Cobbled roads, bridges, watermills, Byzantine and Christian churches, tower castles and fountains are some of the examples of this art. Today’s craftsmen perfectly preserve this style in all restorations and renovations taking place in buildings and houses all over Mani.

getaway to greece:messinia,

used for cooking, with a distinctive taste and aroma. Kalamon olives and olive oil are widely used in the Greek households, for cooking and salad dressing.

alamata has a very fertile, rich soil and a mild climate, both facilitating this variety of olives flourish. For the last 100 years, the world known cultivation of olive trees in Kalamata is the main occupation of its inhabitants.

kalamata

The most famous Greek olive in the world

getaway to greece: patra

293

patra

a gateway to the west Patra is a very modern city and one of the biggest ports in Europe. This beautiful, cozy town is welcoming you and waiting for you to discover it. Patra is one of the biggest cities in Greece. It has an excellent urban and tourism infrastructure, many conference centers, major annual cultural events, historical monuments, restaurants, bars, clubs, bookstores etc. It combines everything a modern traveler might need and this is what makes it one of the most interesting cities in the country.

getaway to greece:patra

The city is built underneath Panachaikos Mountain, where a medieval castle dominates the scenery. Today, a number of cultural events are taking place in the castleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premises, like concerts, public discussions, conferences etc. Almost all the buildings are neoclassical, creating a romantic and upscale ambiance. Among the most impressive ones are the Apollo Theater and the Old Hospital.

wine For the wine lovers, Achaia Claus is the best and oldest winery of the city. Well known personalities from all over the world have visited the historic production factory. Thus, you should definitely dedicate some of your time to visit it as well and get to know everything about the production of wine in this region of Greece.

carnival If you happen to be in Patra during the Carnival, you are in for an adventure! A weekend of dancing, singing and drinking. Patra has the biggest and the most famous carnival in Greece, with participants from all over the country. The fun usually starts early in the afternoon and lasts until the small hours. The city is packed, colorful, interesting, alive and kicking! Enjoy it!

access

The biggest drawbridge of Europe is located right outside Patra, in location Rion. This bridge connects Peloponnese with the prefecture of Aetoloakarnania. By crossing the bridge, the visitors can reach the island of Lefkada, the prefecture of Epirus, the village of Delphi and many more interesting destinations.

Se Lon lia go nit s ika

Psathopyrgos Rio Rodini

Kalogria

a Ah

Egio

Patra Paralia

Kaminia

Nikoleika

Fteri Akrata

Ahaia

Kalavryta Kalentzi

Ilia

Cave Of The Lakes F.Y.R.O.M

Bulgaria

KORINTHIAKOS KOLPOS

R E od Di leon ia ak a of s to Kr ath io

Ar a Io xos n i La ki k A Ni ope kti fo tr re a Al ika iss os

Bozaitika

Klitoria

Albania

Ag. Lavra Zarouhla Kastria

Filia Hellas

Dafni

Turkey

Arcadia 0

20Km

The port of Patra is one of the biggest ones in the Mediterranean Sea. There are daily departures for the Ionian Islands of Kefalonia, Zakynthos and Corfu, but also for Italy. The trip to Italy lasts about 15 hours. There is also a lot of commercial traffic from other European ports.

Greek Emergency Numbers Emergency Health Assistance................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 166 European Emergency Number.................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................112 Fire Department................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 199 Police.............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 100 Tourist Police............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................171 Piraeus Coast Guard......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................(+30) 210 4147800 Rafina Coast Guard.................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. (+30) 22940 28888 - 22300 Thessaloniki Coast Guard.................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................(+30) 2310 531504 - 5 Lavrio Coast Guard....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................(+30) 22920 25249 - 60188

Foreign Embassies in Greece Albanian Embassy in Athens, Greece .................................................................... Phone: (+30) 210 6876200 Algerian Embassy in Athens, Greece ...................................................................... Phone: (+30) 210 7564191, .....................................................................................(+ 30) 210 7564192 Angolan Embassy in Athens, Greece .Phone: (+30) 210 6898681, (+30) 210 6898683, (+30) 210 6811811 Argentinian Embassy in Athens, Greece ........................Phone: (+30) 210 7224753, (+30) 210 7224710, ............................................(+30) 210 244158, (+30) 210 7220946 Armenian Embassy in Athens, Greece ....................................................................... Phone: (+30) 210 6831130 Australian Embassy in Athens, Greece .................................................................... Phone: (+30) 210 8704000 Australian Consulate in Thessaloniki, Greece .................................................................... Phone: (+30) 2310 827494 Austrian Embassy in Athens, Greece .....................................................................Phone: (+30) 210 7257270 Azerbaijani Embassy in Athens, Greece .........................Phone: (+30) 210 3632721, (+30) 210 7248236 Bahamian Consulate in Athens, Greece ......................................................................Phone: (+30) 210 9411603 Bangladeshi Embassy in Athens, Greece .................................................................... Phone: (+30) 210 6720250 Belgian Embassy in Athens, Greece ............................Phone: (+30) 210 3617886, (+30) 2103617887 Belizean Consulate in Athens, Greece ......................................................................Phone: (+30) 210 6899512 Bosnian Embassy in Athens, Greece ....................................................................... Phone: (+30) 210 6411375 Brazilian Embassy in Athens, Greece ......................................................................Phone: (+30) 210 7213039 Bulgarian Embassy in Athens, Greece .............................................................Phone: (+30) 210 6748105/108 Cameroonian Embassy in Athens, Greece ......................................................................Phone: (+30) 210 6724415 Canadian Embassy in Athens, Greece .....................................................................Phone: (+30) 210 7273400 Chadian Embassy in Athens, Greece ......................................................................Phone: (+30) 210 9916523 Chilean Embassy in Athens, Greece Phone: (+30) 210 7252574, (+30) 210 7292647, (+30) 210 7252536 Chinese Embassy in Athens, Greece ..........................Phone: (+30) 6973730680, (+30) 6973430531 Colombian Embassy in Atenas, Greece .................................................................... Phone: (+30) 210 7236848 Costa Rican Consulate in Athens, Greece .................................................................... Phone: (+30) 210 3225946 Croatian Embassy in Athens, Greece ........................Phone: (+30) 210 6777059, (+30) 210 6777037 Cuban Embassy in Athens, Greece .................................................................... Phone: (+30) 210 6855550 Cypriot Embassy in Athens, Greece ........................Phone: (+30) 210 7232727, (+30) 210 7239377 Czech Embassy in Athenes, Greece ............................Phone: (+30) 210 6719701, (+30) 210 6713755 Danish Embassy in Athens, Greece .................................................................... Phone: (+30) 210 7256440 Ecuadorian Embassy in Athens, Greece ................................................................Phone: (+30) 210 4223800-4 Egyptian Embassy in Athens, Greece .............................................................. Phone: (+30) 210 3618612 - 13 Eritrean Consulate in Athens, Greece ......................................................................Phone: (+30) 210 7015870 Estonian Embassy in Athens, Greece .................................................................... Phone: (+30) 210 7475660 Ethiopian Embassy in Athens, Greece ....................... Phone: (+30) 210 9403483, (+30) 210 9430922

Finnish Embassy in Athens, Greece .................................................................... Phone: (+30) 210 7255860 French Embassy in Athens, Greece ......................................................................Phone: (+30) 210 3391000 Georgian Embassy in Athens, Greece .......................... Phone: (+30) 210 6716737, (+30) 210 6724271 German Embassy in Athens, Greece .........................................................................Phone: (+30) 210 7285111 Greenlandic Embassy in Athens, Greece .................................................................... Phone: (+30) 210 7256440 Guatemalan Consulate in Athens, Greece .......................................................................Phone: (+30) 210 8945181 Guyanese Consulate in Athens, Greece ............................Phone: (+30) 210 8137320, (+30) 210 8137321 Hungarian Embassy in Athens, Greece .....................................................................Phone: (+30) 210 6752300 Indian Embassy in Athens, Greece ........................... Phone: (+30) 210 7216227, (+30) 210 7216481 Indonesian Embassy in Athens, Greece ....................... Phone: (+30) 210 6774692, (+30) 210 6742345 Iraqi Embassy in Greece .....................................................................Phone: (+30) 210 6722330 Irish Embassy in Athens, Greece ......................................................................Phone: (+30) 210 7232771 Israeli Embassy in Athens, Greece ......................................................................Phone: (+30) 210 6719530 Italian Embassy in Athens, Greece ...................................................................Phone: (+30) 210 36 17 260 Jamaican Consulate in Athens, Greece ......................................................................Phone: (+30) 210 5053321 Japanese Embassy in Athens, Greece .................................................................... Phone: (+30) 210 6709900 Jordanian Embassy in Athens, Greece .......................................................................Phone: (+30) 210 6744161 Kuwaiti Embassy in Athens, Greece ...................Phone: (+30) 210 6473593/5, (+30) 210 6473690 Latvian Embassy in Athens, Greece .................................................................... Phone: (+30) 210 7294483 Lebanese Embassy in Greece ........................Phone: (+30) 210 6755873, (+30) 210 6755874 Liberian Consulate in Athens, Greece .....................................................................Phone: (+30) 210 6779345 Libyan Embassy in Athens, Greece ................................................................. Phone: (+30) 210 6742120/2 Lithuanian Embassy in Athens, Greece ....................... Phone: (+30) 210 7294356, (+30) 210 7294357 Luxembourg Embassy in Athens, Greece .................................................................... Phone: (+30) 210 7256400 FYROM Consulate in Athens, Greece .......................Phone: (+30) 210 6749585; (+30) 210 6749548 Malawian Consulate in Athens, Greece ....................... Phone: (+30) 210 8003754, (+30) 210 8003744 Maltese Embassy in Athens, Greece .........................Phone: (+30) 210 7785138, (+30) 210 7785235 Marshallese Consulate in Athens, Greece .....................................................................Phone: (+30) 210 4283933 Mexican Embassy in Athens, Greece .Phone: (+30) 210 7294780, (+30) 210 7294781, (+30) 210 7294782 Moldovan Embassy in Athens, Greece .......................Phone: (+30) 210 6990372, (+30) 210 6990665 Moroccan Embassy in Athens, Greece ........................ Phone: (+30) 210 6474209, (+30) 210 6474210 Nepalese Consulate in Athens, Greece ........................... Phone: (+30) 210 7220165, (+30) 210 7211879 Netherlands Embassy in Athens, Greece ........................................................................Phone: +30 210 7254900 New Zealand Consulate-General in Athens ......................................................................Phone: (+30) 210 6924136

Nicaraguan Consulate in Athens, Greece ........................Phone: (+30) 210 9025807, (+30) 210 9234333 Norwegian Embassy in Athens, Greece ......................................................................Phone: (+30) 210 7246173 Pakistani Embassy in Athens, Greece ..........................Phone: (+30) 210 7290214, (+30) 210 7290122 Philippine Embassy in Athens, Greece .......................... Phone: (+30) 210 6721883, (+30) 210 6721837 Polish Embassy in Athens, Greece ....................... Phone: (+30) 210 6778260, (+30) 210 6775742 Portuguese Embassy in Athens, Greece ....................... Phone: (+30) 210 7290061, (+30) 210 7290096, ..................................................................................... (+30) 210 7257505 Romanian Embassy in Athens, Greece ....................... Phone: (+30) 210 6774035, (+30) 210 6728875 Russian Embassy in Athens, Greece .........................Phone: (+30) 210 6726130, (+30) 210 6725235 Sammarinese Consulate in Athens, Greece ......................................................................Phone: (+30) 210 7228061 Serbian Embassy in Athens, Greece ........................Phone: (+30) 210 7774344, (+30) 210 7774355 Seychelles Consulate in Athens, Greece .....................................................................Phone: (+30) 210 6775858 Singaporean Consulate in Athens, Greece ....................... Phone: (+30) 210 6845072, (+30) 210 6834875 Slovak Embassy in Paleo Psychico Athens, Greece ......................................................................Phone: (+30) 210 6771980 Slovenian Embassy in Athens, Greece .....................................................................Phone: (+30) 210 6775683 South African Embassy in Athens, Greece ......................................................................Phone: (+30) 210 6106645 Korean Embassy in Athens, Greece .............................................................Phone: (+30) 210 6984080/1/2 Spanish Embassy in Athens, Greece .............................Phone: (+30) 210 9213123, (+30) 210 9213123 Sri Lankan Consulate in Athens, Greece ......................................................................Phone: (+30) 210 3614575 Swedish Embassy in Athens, Greece ......................................................................Phone: (+30) 210 7266100 Swiss Embassy in Athens, Greece ............................................................Phone: (+30) 210 7230364/5/6 Syrian Embassy in Athens, Greece ......................... Phone: (+30) 210 6722324, (+30) 210 6715713, ..................................................................................... (+30) 210 6725577 Taiwanese Embassy in Athens, Greece .....................................................................Phone: (+30) 210 6776750 Thai Embassy in Athens, Greece .........................Phone: (+30) 210 6710155, (+30) 210 6749065, ..................................................................................... (+30) 210 6756978 Turkish Embassy in Athens, Greece .................................................................... Phone: (+30) 210 7263000 Ukrainian Embassy in Athens, Greece ................................................................... Phone: (+30) 210 6800230, ........................................................................................(+30) 210 6856171 UK Embassy in Athens, Greece .................................................................... Phone: (+30) 210 7272600 US Embassy in Athens, Greece ....................................................................... Phone: (+30) 210 7212951 Uruguayan Embassy in Athens, Greece .....................................................................Phone: (+30) 210 3602635 Uzbekistani Embassy in Athens, Greece .....................................................................Phone: (+30) 210 6857077 Uzbekistani Consulate in Athens, Greece .......................Phone: (+30) 210 6855256, (+30) 210 6855256 Venezuelan Embassy in Athens, Greece ....................... Phone: (+30) 210 7709962, (+30) 210 7708769 Yemeni Consulate in Athens, Greece ......................................................................Phone: (+30) 210 6717280

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