Greece’s Only Travel Guide You Need For A Great Trip in 11 Easy Steps

 Greece’s Only Travel Guide You Need For A Great Trip in 11 Easy Steps

Greece’s Background

 

The birthplace of Western civilization is traced back to 7,000 BC with Stone Age farmers in Greece, until the beginning of the Bronze Age around 3,000 BC, which led to a more sophisticated society appearing by 2,500 BC on the island of Crete known as the Minoans. This civilization invented linear writing, a type of hieroglyphs, as well as tools and weaponry which helped in their expansion and development. They also traded with Sicily, Egypt, Cyprus, and other Mediterranean civilizations. After 1450 BC, the Minoan civilization began to crumble. The Mycenaeans swept throughout the mainland around 1600 BC but declined around 1200 BC. After Dorains conquered Mycenae and brought iron, around 800 BC, Athens and Sparta arose as civilizations. Darius led a Persian army to Greece in 490 and 480 BC, but they were crushed both times. Before then, Greece had no allies or a united front until Athens created the Delian League. They fought Sparta from 431 to 404 BC, but Sparta won. Thebes defeated Sparta in 371 BC, and Sparta and Athens later joined forces to attack Thebes and won. In the 5th and 4th centuries BC, Greece produced the world’s finest thinkers, mathematicians, and the Olympic Games. In 338 BC, the Macedons defeated a Greek coalition and took control of Greece. Shortly after, Alexander the Great’s dominion included Macedonia, Greece, Egypt, and India, spreading Greek civilization to the Middle East. When Alexander’s strength declined, Greek city freedom was short-lived as Rome rose. Romans conquered Macedon in 168 BC and Athens in 86 BC, however, Greece prospered under the Romans.

In the 1st century AD, St. Paul visited Greece and converted many to Christianity. When the Roman empire split, the eastern Roman Empire became the Byzantine Empire, with Constantinople as its capital. During Heraclius’ rule, Greek became the official language of the Byzantine Empire as links with Western Europe faded. In 1054, the Eastern Orthodox Church split from the Western Church. The Byzantine Empire lost land to Crusaders in 1204, but Constantinople was restored by 1261. However, the Empire remained in decline once the Ottoman Turks emerged. Constantinople’s collapse ended the Byzantine Empire in 1453, and from the 15th to the 19th century, Greece was ruled by the Ottoman Turks until nationalism developed and the French, British, and Russian fleets won the Battle of Navarino in 1827, lead to Greek independence in 1829. In 1833, King Otto founded Greece’s monarchy with western aid and later followed by King Dane, though, many Greeks left to the US in the 19th and 20th centuries. In 1912, Greece and her allies Bulgaria and Serbia battled against Turkey, then fought against Bulgaria, increasing Greek territory. First neutral, then allied, Greece took Smyrna in 1922. (Izmir). They made peace with the Turks and began a large population swap, with millions of Greeks leaving Turkey and hundreds of thousands of Turks leaving Greece. In 1940, Italians invaded Greece but were immediately forced back into Albania. In 1941, Germans attacked and occupied Greece alongside the Italians. In 1944, due to the suffering defeat in WWII, the Germans retreated. During the 1950s and 1960s, Greece grew prosperous for a short period. Soon after, political and civic instability erupted, leading to Greece becoming a republic. A 1967 military coup introduced military dictatorship, but democracy was restored in 1974. Greece then joined the EU in 1981 and adopted the euro two decades later. Since then, Greece has recovered from its turbulent history, and despite its economic struggles, it remains a dream tourist destination to millions.

Greece sits on the southeastern flanks of Europe at the tip of the Balkan peninsula, and is a country that’s a fast-growing hotspot for tourists and for obvious reasons. It is the epicenter of the western civilization and has left an indelible mark on the world in many ways, including the way we think, create art, play sports, and even speak. Greece has had an effect on everything from the Olympic games to the words we use and the politics that shape our daily lives. Greece is also a popular destination for vacationers in search of sunshine thanks to its Mediterranean climate, beautiful beaches, picture-perfect islands, and rugged interior outlines by a mysterious Olympian pagan mythology. In terms of diversity, this country is ideal for tourists because it provides something for everyone.

It’s not hard to see why stories like ones involving Zeus and other mythological deities originated in this area. Everywhere you look there’s a legacy lying around the corner. As these mystical characters sit on their throne above Mt. Olympus they can look down at the dazzlingly blue Aegean Sea sparkling with the myriad jewels we call islands, scattered as far as the horizon, it is a fairytale view full of excitement. Whether you choose to reflect in solitude like Plato and Aristotle or go wild and party like the Bacchantes, the country has it all.

Greece is a land of sun-bleached ruins that penetrate the blue sky, the warm waters of the Aegean that lap at an infinite shoreline, and a culture that pulses with ardent music, delicious food, and exciting adventures. Enter the first Olympic competition arena. The monasteries of Meteora are set atop massive rocks, and to reach them, visitors must up stone stairs. Take in an old outdoor play under the stars, be awed by colossal marble statues salvaged from the Aegean, and muse over the wisdom of the oracle in Delphi. Then you’ll come across some striking examples of contemporary art, the bluesy pulse of rembetika, and craftspeople giving fresh life to age-old practices. The cultural events calendar in Greece is jam-packed with holidays, celebrations, and exhibitions.

 

“Greece has a legendary history as a crossroads of numerous civilizations, making it a tourist hotspot with attractions everywhere from its crowded cities to its secluded hilltop vistas. Go on an adventure into the wilds of the country, share a meal with some friendly people, and discover the region’s rich history and world famed legend.”

 

The Greek people are resolute and proud people who enjoy life and value their drama series, but above all, they have the knack for making it out of adversity and surviving. Their stories of survival are legion: the Persians tried to conquer them and received a blow to their pride ; the Romans conquered them but discovered they had been so thoroughly absorbed into Greek culture that they may as well have been Greek themselves; then the Ottoman Turks ruled over Greece for a long time too; and so on and so forth; but one thing remains true, is that they went through it all and preserved their identity. In Greece, spending time with friends and family is more than a hobby; it’s a need. Young people chitchat and elderly residents argue animatedly at the cafes. Friends stroll arm in arm and restaurants are packed with long tables for large parties. The squares are the hubs of community activity. Coffee, ouzo, a bouzouki chorus, and local celebrations are all great ways to immerse oneself in the culture. Even in the midst of adversity, the Greeks maintain their fiery spirit and zest for life. The end effect is a country that seems like it’s full of problems but is actually full of happy people.

Many of the staples of Greek cuisine may be grown right in the kitchen garden. While staples like feta and olive oil are available everywhere, visitors will also want to taste the regional specialties and cuisines that make a trip to Greece so memorable. Try some of the local specialties, such as mussels boiled in ouzo, bread baked with olives, and fresh seafood. Try some sharp, hard rounds, honeyed soft cheeses, and crumbly feta. Discover Turkish spices weaved into light desserts and Italian inspiration in risottos and pastas. Chefs are taking classic dishes to new gastronomic heights as part of a resurgence in traditional cookery.

From island to museum hopping, Greece has a lot to offer visitors. Greece has something for everyone, whether you’re an extreme sports fanatic or a beach bum at heart. Under a clear blue sky and a sea dotted with islands, each with its own stretch of the white sand, pine tree-shaded beaches of your fantasies, the days will seem to blur into one another. Explore the verdant woodlands, ride your bike by dolphins and marine turtles, and pedal along Byzantine trails. Walk leisurely among olive orchards, quaint towns, and petrified woods. Extreme sports enthusiasts may find breathtaking spots to go kiteboarding, wreck diving, or rock climbing. You may perhaps just go on a boat and sail off into the azure horizon. The terrain is dotted with ancient temples and ruins, villages are painted white to keep off the summer heat, the deep blue sea hides treasures, olive orchards fill the valleys, and the mountains provide enough chances for outdoor recreation. And when the day is done, you may reward yourself with some of Greece’s renowned culinary specialties, and they are fantastic!

Visitors can get to Greece via train, bus, car, air, or boat. Traveling between the Greek Islands is possible via ferry, but many visitors opt instead to set sail towards this stunning region. While Athens may be the most hectic city in Greece, it also provides some of the best opportunities to experience the region’s rich history, culture, and food. Regardless of how you choose to explore the area, you’ll probably be captivated by the region’s stunning natural beauty, delicious local food, and hardy inhabitants. The bus system and metro in this nation often offers the lowest fare options. Bus service is quick and reliable across the board. Although the train is more expensive and takes longer to get to your destination, it is the most comfortable way to travel.

Greece used to be one of Europe’s go-to spots for tourists on a tight budget. No longer is this the case, and costs are now on level with the rest of Europe. You can find better prices and lower travel expenses if you skip the more popular tourist locations, especially on the Greek Isles. Even the cost of food has been known to fluctuate widely. Get off of the main plazas and away from the hordes of tourists. A lot of the eateries here are family-run and/or locally-owned, thus the prices are more reasonable. Go souvenir shopping while cruise ships are not in port so you can avoid the crowds. When it is not assumed that you have just disembarked from a cruise ship, you will find that prices drop significantly. However, you can even find great deals in the shoulder season and definitely better ones in the low season, but with a tradeoff, and that is the weather.

Staying on the move will allow you to take advantage of all that Greece has to offer visitors. This Cruisit Greece travel guide provides an itinerary that strikes a balance between leisure and exploration. Arrive in this untapped paradise in the Southeastern Europe, with a European and Balkan vibe, and enjoy it to the fullest. The following itinerary for Greece is tailored to the country’s peak tourist season, but is best enjoyed during the shoulder months. With sunny days spent in ancient parts of town in the company of legend, or surrounded by verdant peaks and dramatic picture-perfect scenery, and tens of species to spot while exploring on your hikes, Greece will fulfill your wildest dreams.

Moreover, we will provide you with all the information you need to go across Greece with ease by providing you with a comprehensive travel guide. As you read on, you’ll learn about the best of what Greece has to offer—its cities, sights, transit options, and more. If you’re pumped up enough, then let’s get started!

Top Places in Greece

Acropolis of Athens

The Acropolis of Athens is an ancient fortress on a rocky outcrop above Athens that comprises the ruins of various ancient structures, the most renowned being the Parthenon. The Greek words v and form acropolis. Many additional acropoleis exist in Greece. In ancient times, the Acropolis of Athens was known as Cecropia, after the first Athenian monarch, Cecrops. Pericles directed the construction of the hill’s most prominent buildings, including the Parthenon, the Propylaea, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike, in the fifth century BC. During the 1687 Venetian siege of Athens during the Morean War, a projectile hit Ottoman gunpowder stored in the Parthenon and exploded.

The Temple of Poseidon

This temple was constructed around 444 B.C. and is devoted to the god Poseidon. It may be found in Cape Sounion. Do not pass up the opportunity to admire the breathtaking panoramas of the city that can be had from the summit of the hill; the temple complex itself is rather remarkable.

Nafplio

A picturesque town that, despite being overrun with tourists, has successfully preserved its old-world appeal. It is also conveniently placed only a couple of hours ride away from Athens, which makes it a wonderful day trip or weekend getaway destination.

Oia

Oia is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Santorini. It’s the island’s second-largest village, after the capital of Santorini, Fira. The town’s whitewashed homes are perched precariously on the edge of a cliff above a large crater filled with water. This section of Santorini is more upscale than Fira, despite their similarities.

Meteora

One of the largest and most steeply erected complexes of Eastern Orthodox monasteries is located on the Meteora in central Greece. Each of the six monasteries is perched atop one of the area’s many massive natural pillars or rounded boulder hills. The ancient people of the region revered the rock formations for their spiritual significance, and in the 13th and 14th centuries, twenty-four monasteries were built atop the cliffs. Towards the northern border of the Plain of Thessaly, close to the Pineios river and the Pindus Mountains, is where you’ll find the spectacular Meteora monasteries. This area is also home to the little town of Kalabaka. Criteria I, II, IV, V, and VII were all met in order to add Meteora to the UNESCO World Heritage List. This word’s etymological roots may be traced back to the word for meteor, which gives it the meaning “lofty” or “elevated.”

8-day Itinerary in Greece

Day 1

 

Arrive in Athens

A warm welcome to Greece! Take your reserved transport, a rental car, or a cab as soon as you land in Athens and begin your journey to your hotel. Athens, like many European cities, has the benefit of being easily navigable on foot. That means you may forego renting a car unless you plan on making frequent trips to distant places. Check into your accommodation, and if you have time, visit the Acropolis, Athens’ must-see landmark. When you get there, be sure to spend some time at the Acropolis Museum, where you can learn more about the site’s rich history and see some of the artifacts that have been discovered there. Visit the Acropolis after the museum for breathtaking views of the city. 

The Parthenon, the first structure of its kind to be constructed completely of marble, may be viewed while you are there. Your route in will take you through the Propylaea, Erechtheion, Temple of Nike, Ancient Theatre, and Odeon of Herodes Atticus. Once you’ve finished exploring the Acropolis, it’s time for lunch, grab yourself a traditional gyro for an authentic taste of the culture.

The next stop is the gorgeous Plaka district, which is home to both neoclassical and Byzantine architecture. Proceed to Agora, ancient Greece’s social, political, and cultural epicenter. When you’re done, take a stroll through the nearby Monastiraki marketplace. Finally, visit Philopappos Hill to take in a breathtaking sunset. You can spend the night at the Gazi neighborhood and then return to your lodgings for the night so that you may get some sleep and be refreshed for the day ahead.

  • Backpacker: 
  • Budget: 
  • Mid-range
  • Luxury

Bedbox Hostel
Evripides Hotel
Amalia Hotel
Wyndham Grand Athens
Electra Metropolis

When it becomes dark, a foreign city may be twice as dangerous - especially if you don't understand the language and are unfamiliar with the area. There is little reason to be alarmed about walking alone in the city since there low crime rate in Athens and some of the only crimes are pickpockets. You can walk safely at day, but be wary while walking at night and be alert in crowded areas or unlit alleys or streets. You can always take taxis, if you don't feel comfortable, Be wary of petty crime by taking precautions mentioned in the safety section above.

From the Airport to Athens' Center

By Taxi
Getting to the heart of Athens by cab will take approximately 50 minutes and cost around 40 euros. Don't be intimidated by the length of the line. It has the potential to appear impressive, but in reality it is very quick.

By Metro
Avoid the hassle of driving at rush hour by hopping on Metro Line 3 (the blue line). In 45 minutes and for around €8, you may reach the heart of the city.

By Bus
Take the bus route X95 and you'll reach Syntagma Square in under one hour, every hour of the day. The cheapest way to go to the heart of the city only costs 6€.

Alternative Option
Another possibility is to inquire with the hotel about their airport transfer service. They can anticipate your arrival time and whisk you away from the terminal to your lodgings.

Day 2

 

Exploring Athens

Get going today at once to either Kallimarmaro or Panatheic Stadium after a hearty breakfast. Designed to accommodate a variety of athletic events, including chariot racing and gladiator bouts. It was renovated for the first Olympic Games in the modern era.

Keep exploring by visiting the Zappeion Park and National Garden, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and the Arch of Hadrian. To witness the House of Parliament and the Changing of the Presidential Guard, head across the park to Athens’ largest plaza, Syntagma. Ermou Thoroughfare is Athens’ commercial street, and it’s easily accessible from Syntagma Square.

Then, stroll around Athens’ National Archaeological Museum to see artifacts from the Neolithic through the Roman periods that were unearthed in Greece. Come evening, head to Mount Lycabettus, one of the greatest spots in all of Athens to take in the sun going down. To get to the top, you may either walk or use the cable car. Return to your hotel once you’ve completed your business here.

Day 3

 

A Day Trip from Athens

It looks like you should take a day excursion on your third day in Athens. After a delicious breakfast, you may pick from a wide variety of day trips, including visits to historical places outside of Athens, as well as trips to the beach at locations like Cape Sounion, the Peloponnese, Delphi, and the Saronic Islands.

A trip to Delphi from Athens takes around 2.5 hours. You can find the Temple of Apollo on Mount Parnassus, which is where the Pythia, the oracle of Delphi, would bring down divine decrees from the gods to earth. Not only will you get to see the theater and the stadium, but you’ll also get to take in a spectacular panorama of the valley below. The Delphi Archaeological Museum is also worth your time.

Options in the vicinity that are also worth considering

  • Go to Cape Sounion, at the very tip of the Attic Peninsula, to see the Temple of Poseidon. Along the way, you’ll pass through some of the Coast of Apollo’s most renowned beaches. After that, you’ll go to Poseidon’s Temple. This temple is on a hill, and the view from there is stunning, especially after dusk.
  • Travel to the Saronic Islands from Athens by spending the day on the water. Poros, Hydra, and Aegina are three islands worth seeing while you’re in the area. Lunch is on the house.
  • A day journey to Mycenae and Epidaurus from Athens: Visit the ruins of ancient Mycenae, formerly the palace of King Agamemnon. The following step is a visit to Nafplio so that you may take in the sights of the Palamidi Fortress. At the conclusion of your journey, you will see Epidaurus and its ancient theater. The price includes entrance fees, transportation, a guide, and lunch.
  • If you don’t want to get out of Athens at all, consider going to sites that you may have missed or haven’t gone to like The Ancient Agora, Hadrian’s Library, Temple of Olympian Zeus, Roman Agora, Aristotle’s Lyceum, or Kerameikos

Spend your final night in Athens reflecting on the incredible sights you saw today.

Days 4 to 6

 

Off to Santorini

Today, we’re going to experience a dramatic shift in the scenery by flying to the Cycladic island of Santorini. Getting there by ferry will take practically a whole day, so flying is the better option. Furthermore, having access to a rental car is a huge convenience while exploring Santorini.

Fira, a picture-perfect hamlet on the caldera’s edge, is first on the itinerary. Follow the signs through the picturesque neighborhood of white and blue homes and five-star hotels with infinity pools overlooking the ocean and the distant islets. Firostefani and Imerovigli are two other towns you may visit while in Fira; they are perched on the caldera’s very edge.

After that, fuel up with some local food like a souvlaki or gyro and drive or walk to the nearby village of Oia on Santorini. An hour or so before the mystical hour, find a nice vantage point from which to see the sun go down. At this time, everything seems even more gorgeous, thus a lot of people show up. Enjoy the evening as you choose and then return to your lodge for the night.

The next day, go across the island by car to find even more hidden gems. Pyrgos, Megalochori, and Emporio are three picturesque settlements worth a visit. Visit Akrotiri, another ancient city destroyed by a volcanic eruption like Pompeii. Akrotiri was inhabited by the Minoans. Mesa Vouno, a hill with breathtaking views of Ancient Thera, is another must-see.

Also, there are beaches to check out, albeit they may not be up to par with others across the globe due to their often stony nature. Red Beach, framed by towering ochre cliffs, is a popular destination due to its striking contrast to the black sands of Khamari and Perissa.

There, you may get a flight to Mykonos or head back home via a connection in Athens.

  • Backpacker: 
  • Budget: 
  • Mid-range
  • Luxury

Aethrio Hotel
Caldera Premium Villas
Theodora Suites Apartment
Andronis Boutique Hotel
Katikies Hotel

Galatia Villas
Lilium Santorini Villa
Cosmopolitan Suites – Small Luxury Hotels of the World
Aria Suites

Memories Beach Hotel
Rose Suites
Hippocampus Hotel
Meltemi Village Hotel

When it becomes dark, a foreign city may be twice as dangerous - especially if you don't understand the language and are unfamiliar with the area. There is little reason to be alarmed about walking alone in the city since there's low crime rate in Santorini and some of the only crimes are pickpockets. You can walk safely at day, but be wary while walking at night and be alert in crowded areas or unlit alleys or streets.

From the Athens to Santorini

By Ferry

 

By Plane

Dasy 6 to 8

 

Off to Mykonos

Mykonos is the more laid-back and charming island; it has the best beaches and is flatter than other Greek islands. You may get around Mykonos by renting a vehicle, taking the buses, or just walking.

Even on the island of Mykonos, a trip to a historic site is never too far away while you’re in Greece. Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an excellent choice for a half-day excursion. The Delos Museum showcases many excavated wonders that are worth a look.

Restaurants, nightclubs, and other businesses compete to be the finest in Mykonos. As a result, finding a location to eat or relax while getting your lunch is not tricky.

While there see the beautiful windmills and walk around Mykonos town through Matogianni Street. Have lunch or dinner at Alefkandra, also known as Little Venice, and enjoy the views. Walk around the Old Harbor, and see the Panagia Paraportiani Church. If you’re craving some beach time, head to Agios Sostis Beach, Elia Beach, Kalo Livadi Beach, or Kalafatis Beach for a good time in the company of the water, sun, and maybe some good music.

  • Backpacker: 
  • Budget: 
  • Mid-range
  • Luxury

When it becomes dark, a foreign city may be twice as dangerous - especially if you don't understand the language and are unfamiliar with the area. There is little reason to be alarmed about walking alone in the city since there's low crime rate in Mykonos and some of the only crimes are pickpockets. You can walk safely at day, but be wary while walking at night and be alert in crowded areas or unlit alleys or streets.

From the Santorini to Mykonos

By Plane

 

By Ferry

 

From Mykonos to Athens

By Plane

 

By Ferry

Day 9

 

Last Day

This tour through Greece provided a glimpse into the life of the locals and the region’s rich history. You’re supposed to be at the airport yesterday, but if you didn’t go yesterday, today is your last chance. If you have some time left before your flight, you may go for one more walk around Athens. If not, you must hurry to the airport once you reach Athens.

The Most Popular Food in Greece

There is no finer example of Mediterranean cooking than Greek. Fruits and vegetables take center stage, while lamb and shellfish are the major sources of protein. The Ottoman menu is heavily influenced by Roman and Byzantine cuisine, as well as Balkan, Slavic, Levantine, Persian, and Arabic influences, although the dishes are still authentic. The food in Greece is very different from what you’ll find in most restaurants that brand themselves “Greek” outside of Greece. Gyros are basically a fast food option in Greece. Each dish is made with love and only the finest, freshest ingredients are used.

Gyros

Gyros are a delicious and affordable option for dinner. Gyro is the term for a type of roasting in which the meat is cooked while spinning on a vertical spit. Hold on, we’re not through here. The gyro is sliced and then piled inside a pita with condiments including sauce, onions, lettuce, tomatoes, and potato chips to amp up the flavor.

Souvlaki

Meat and veggies are skewered and grilled in this classic Greek fast food. Typically lamb is used, and it can be eaten on skewers, in a pita, or as the main part of a meal. Dinnertime accompaniments generally include potatoes. To save money, substitute pork for lamb in your next order of souvlaki.

Spanakopita

Spinach and feta cheese are baked inside of phyllo dough to create a delicious pie. If you’re on a tight budget, you may substitute ricotta for the mozzarella in this meal. It’s versatile enough to be made into a big casserole or little pastries for each person (recipe).

Keftethes

Inject some variety into your meal with these Greek meatballs, which are both juicy and crunchy. The Greek meal keftethes is typically served as an appetizer with a creamy sauce and pita bread. You can make a whole dinner out of this dish by serving it with basmati rice and Greek feta salad.

Baklava

Although its origin is disputed, baklava encapsulates all that is wonderful about Greek cooking. Many of the calories, fat, and sweetener in this meal come from the abundance of nuts, butter, and sugar. The crisp phyllo layers quickly absorb the sugary syrup when it is poured over them as soon as they come out of the oven. When it comes to Greek desserts, this is the one that everyone loves. The crisp crust and enticing scent heralded the beginning of a happy lunch.

What's the Travel Budget for Greece

Final Thoughts on Greece

Greece is appealing for many reasons: its rich history and culture, which can be seen in its traditional architecture and rural landscapes, its unusual and beautiful landmarks, many of which are listed on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list, its unbelievable warmth despite the cooler weather, its exciting music and festivities, and its vivid picture-perfect surroundings of highlands and pristine beaches, ideal for lounging on and watching the sunset. Evidence suggests that Greece’s history extends back much further than the 7,000 B.C. when it was first documented. The cradle of Western civilisation and a meeting point for a number of different cultures; one of the top travel destinations. With its stunning scenery, wide variety of fauna, and intriguing historical sites, Greece is quickly becoming a popular tourist destination. Intent on making a trip to Greece?

When did you last visit Greece? Post your thoughts, questions, and concerns down below.

Cruisit Team

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