Greece is a fairly popular country for tourism. It is chosen by both lovers of sights and beautiful nature, as well as connoisseurs of comfortable service. In our article we will tell you in detail everything about Greece: its attractions, hotels, weather conditions and other nuances so that your holiday in this country brings maximum pleasure and is memorable for a long time.

Ancient architecture and centuries-old history

Greece is a country with rich history. It is called the land of the gods, the birthplace of philosophers and the cradle of European civilization. This is a country with a great architectural past, in which special attention is paid to the erected temples of extraordinary beauty and majesty.

Where is

Greece is located on the Balkan Peninsula and its surrounding islands, which make up one fifth of the country. It is washed by the Mediterranean, Aegean and Ionian seas. The total area of ​​the territory is 131,957 square kilometers.

Greece map

How to get there from Moscow

Tours to Greece from Moscow are best done by plane. Aeroflot and Olympic Airways operate flights between Moscow and Athens with ticket prices starting from 180 euros. You can get to Thessaloniki with East Line, Aeroflot, Ellinair and UTair airlines. The average price will be from 230 euros.

During the holiday season, airlines offer direct flights to the Greek islands with prices starting from 349 euros; in winter, you need to fly to them with a connection in Thessaloniki or Athens.

It is also possible to travel to Greece by train, changing in Belgrade or Sofia. But this is a rather complicated and expensive option. The travel time will be more than 90 hours, and the time spent on Railway tickets the amount will exceed the cost of air tickets.

Popular holiday destinations in Greece

Greece is a country where everyone can choose a corner where they can relax with pleasure. The most popular destinations for relax:

• Island with wonderful beaches, of which the most famous are Red Beach, Kamari and Perissa.
• Corfu (Kerkyra). Clean beaches, rich architecture and picturesque nature are on full display on this island washed by the Ionian Sea.
• The largest Greek island. The north side will appeal to lovers of a lively holiday; for lovers of pristine beaches and solitude, the south side is suitable.
• Presented by clean beaches and constant parties, as well as picturesque nature. Various types of water sports are widely developed.
• A very sunny island with lots of beaches and beautiful architecture.

Among the cities of Greece, the most popular are Athens, Thessaloniki, Volos, Ioannina and Nafplio.
The best ski resorts- Vasilitsa, Kaymaktsalan and Seli.
The best mountain places in Greece are Olympus, Zagorochoria, Parnassus, Pelion.

Weather in the land of white sands

The climate in Greece is temperate Mediterranean, resulting in humid winters and very hot summers. The best time to relax is from May to October; the rest of the time there may be frequent rain.

Water temperature

The lowest water temperature in the resort months is in May, it is +19 degrees, the warmest water is in July-August, up to +26 degrees, in other months it is +23...+24 °C.

Air temperature

The average air temperature during the holiday season is +30 degrees. The hottest months are July and the first half of August. During this period of time, the thermometer can reach +35 degrees.

For curious tourists

When planning a vacation, every tourist will be able to find a suitable resort for themselves, plan excursions and visit interesting places.

The main attractions of Greece can be considered:

• Acropolis. It is located in Athens and is famous for its temples, including the Temple of Poseidon on the coast Aegean Sea and the Parthenon Temple. The first theater will also be interesting Ancient Greece- Theater of Dionysus.
• The island is famous not only for the number of resort areas, but also for its interesting places. Among them are the Palace of Knossos, which, according to mythology, was built by Daedalus, and the Palace of Rhadamantha, impressive with the unusual shapes of the rooms.
• Sanctuary on the island of Peloponnese, where the Olympic Games originated and were held. Since 1896, the Olympic flame began to be lit in the sanctuary again, which is sent to the site of the next Olympic Games.
• The island is the largest center of knightly culture. The main attraction there is the Castle of the Knights, the construction of which dates back to the 14th century.
• Located in central Greece at the foot of Mount Parnassus. There you can visit the Temple of Apollo and the ancient Delphic Theater.
• Epidaurus. The ruins of this city are located on the Argolis Peninsula. A landmark of Ancient Greece is the 1,400-seat Epidaurus Amphitheater, which is famous for its wonderful acoustics.
• It is located 160 kilometers from Thessaloniki. The monasteries stand on steep cliffs, to which a road has now been built. There you can admire ancient icons and art objects.
• Mycenae. Located in the northern part of the Peloponnese. Here you can see the Lion Gate, the royal palace and the tomb of Agamemnon.
• Is in national park in the Pindus mountains. Named by the Guinness Book of Records as the deepest in the world. Its depth is 490 meters and its length is about 20 kilometers.
• It is located 26 kilometers from the city of Areopoli. The cave has a stunning atmosphere with wall galleries, stalactites and stalagmites. There is also an underground river flowing there, which allows you to move around the cave in a boat.

Beach Greece

Most beaches in Greece are sandy, with small pebbles and rocks being less common. All beaches are municipal; umbrellas and sunbeds can be rented for an average of 4 euros per day. Some beaches offer free rental of umbrellas and sunbeds if you buy drinks there.

In 2017, 486 Greek beaches were awarded the Blue Flag, which confirms their high quality.

In order for the trip to be successful, we will get acquainted with the resorts of Greece and consider where it is better to relax, focusing on the purpose of the trip.

Without children

Among tourists eager to have a fun and exciting holiday, the beaches that stand out are the priority entertainment programs. Among them the most popular are:

• Faliraki on the island of Rhodes;
• Super Paradise Beach on Mykonos Island;
• Sidari on the island of Corfu;
• Adelianos Kambos on the island of Crete.

A holiday on such beaches will definitely not be boring and will be remembered for a long time.

The best places to relax with children

For tourists traveling with children, the priority when choosing beaches is comfort, shallow sea, as well as the availability of the benefits of civilization and various attractions for children.

Greece has a large number of beaches for families to relax, of which the following are especially popular:

• Agios Gordios (Corfu island);
• Elafonisi (Crete);
• Marathi (Akrotiri Peninsula);
• Agios Georgios (Naxos island);
• Monastiri (Paros island).

On any of these beaches, little pranksters will be able to enjoy their holiday to the fullest, just like their parents.

For lovers of "spicy"

Beaches and excursions are not all that can be said about tourism Greece. For lovers of risk and extreme sports, there will also be interesting activities here:

• Rafting. These risky boat trips are especially popular on the Peloponnese island, where every tourist can choose a rafting trip with a suitable level of difficulty.
• Canoes and kayaks. Practiced in quiet lakes such as Plastira and Cremaston in Thrace.
• Jeep safari. Those who want to experience speed and extreme sports can safely go to the mountainous Nafpaktos and Kisavos.
• Tracking. Walking along lost paths, descents into gorges and ascents into the mountains are best done in Zagorochoria, Vikos Gorge on Olympus and in the Tembi Valley.
• Rapel. This is a descent down steep slopes using special equipment. The most suitable place for this is Meteora with a route along the old monks' path.

Thrill-seekers will definitely find something to see in Greece and get extreme experiences.

In Greek homes, shoes are not removed, and an invitation to visit does not imply sharing a meal.

Nightlife in the land of white sands

Nightlife in Greece is vibrant and fun with a wide variety of cafes and bars. Nightclubs are open until 6-7 am, offering vacationers a rich program and music for every taste. The most popular places among party-goers:

• Athens. They are rightfully considered the club center of Greece, but the prices here are not cheap. Admission ticket a disco costs about 15 euros, food - from 40 euros, and a bottle of alcohol can cost 150 euros.
• Thessaloniki. This small town amazes with the abundance of various nightclubs for every taste, which can be not only in the city center, but also on the roofs of buildings.
• The most famous island with nightlife. It is also often called the second Ibiza.
• The main concentration of entertainment facilities here is in the resorts of Lindos and Faliraki and in the capital of the island. Here everyone will find a night spot to their liking.
• Skiathos. First of all, it is famous for its beaches, but the local population has perfectly adapted to the tourist demand for nightlife. The island has a large number of nightclubs and discos.

Did you know? During siesta (from 14:00 to 18:00) and after 22:00 in Greece it is not customary to make phone calls.

Food and accommodation

The primary task of every traveler is to most conveniently resolve issues with food, accommodation and transport.

Where to live?

Greece is famous for its hotels for every taste and budget. You should take care of choosing a hotel in advance, especially during the peak tourist season. Hotels charge the highest rates for accommodation in the period from May to September, but various discounts and promotional offers are possible throughout the year.

The price for accommodation depends on the season. On average, a room in a two-star hotel costs 30-60 euros per day, hotels with three or four stars offer accommodation for 60-120 euros, and five stars offer starting prices for rooms from 100 euros.

Staying in hotels with an all-inclusive system is also gaining popularity in Greece, but you should be prepared that the daily price will be at least twice as high as the cost of a standard room.

Public transport and car rental

Most developed public transport in Athens and is represented by the metro and a wide network of buses and trolleybuses. The one-way fare for all modes of transport is 1.50 euros.

IN major cities Greece has a well-developed bus network, and in small ones, transport can run on a schedule to which you will have to adapt.

The cost of a taxi is 3.20 euros plus 25 euro cents for each kilometer.
To rent a car, you need an international driver's license, at least three years of driving experience and an age from 25 to 70 years. The average cost of an economy class car is 40 euros.

Most gas stations in Greece usually close at 19:00. The exception is gas stations in large cities and on expressways.

Kitchen and food

Greek cuisine is famous for its abundance of vegetables and herbs, cheeses, olives, olive oil and wine. In various cafes and restaurants with local flavor you can taste a variety of dishes to suit every taste. The food portions are usually large and the prices are reasonable. If you do not order expensive dishes and alcohol, the average bill at a restaurant will be 15-25 euros.

You can also eat in hotels, the average price per day is 15-20 euros.

Shopping and Greece

Many tourists go to Greece for shopping. In this country you can buy leather shoes and high-quality knitwear at a profit. The price of a fur coat is usually 1500-3000 euros.

If your main purpose of visiting this country is shopping, then it is most advisable to do it during seasonal sales. August-September is the time of sales for the summer collection, and February-March for the winter collection.

In Greece, when purchasing fur products, you must keep a receipt, which you will need to present at customs.

Greece is a country to which you want to constantly return. Its rich architecture, clean beaches, Amazing places and excellent cuisine will make your holiday in this country unforgettable.

When to go

The first problem a traveler faces is choosing the season. It is worth traveling to Greece from April to November. The main tourist season begins in summer; the hottest weather (up to 40 degrees) is in July and August. From May to October there are the most sunny days and the least chance of rain. If you want to go cheaper, look for tickets for March, April, May and October (≈ from 7,000 rubles).

Visa issue

Greece is part of the European Union, so you will need a Schengen visa. It can be done V Greek Visa Application Center . Visa application costs about 3450 rub. (more expensive if you haven’t taken biometrics yet - fingerprints).

Excursion holidays

Athens

• How to get there: ticket from Moscow to Athens - from 100 € (≈ 7300 rubles).

Start your trip to Greece from Athens. Tourists come here to see the ancient culture, the center of which is Acropolis. All the sights of Ancient Greece are collected here - Parthenon, Theater of Dionysus, sculptures of Phidias. Entrance - 20 € (≈ 1440 rub.). Within walking distance ismuseum The Acropolis, which houses ancient treasures (for example, portraits of Greek gods). Entrance- 5 € (≈ 310 rub.).

Parthenon.

When you get tired of looking at antiquities, go to the areaMonastiraki - this place is filled with bars and coffee shops, and there is also a famous , where you can stock up on inexpensive souvenirs (Greek vases, home decorations, accessories, you can even buy an old typewriter). What else is worth bringing from Greece, read in . As a bonus, there is a beautiful view that opens from here to the ancient architecture of the Acropolis.

Coffee break

In Greece The coffee culture is very developed - locals like to hang out in coffee shops in the morning. Order regular coffee (sketo), coffee with sugar (metrio) or very, very sweet coffee (glyko). A cup costs on average 1.5 € (≈ 110 rubles). We recommend trying all this at the coffee barMind the Cup - the establishment was included in the list of coffee shops that you must visit, according to Buzzfeed.

Youth resorts and beach holidays

Mykonos

• How to get there: Airplanes from Russia do not fly to the island of Mykonos. You can get here from Athens airport, a ticket will cost 30 € (≈ 2160 rubles) or take a sea trip by ferry (the ticket price is the same) but the journey will take 4.5 hours. But what views!

If from your trip to Greece you are not looking forward to excursions and trips to museums, but to lazy beach holiday, bars, discos, night parties and cocktails, this is definitely the place for you.

Mykonos is one of the most popular resorts for young people and nightlife lovers. Let's start with a beach holiday: all the beaches here are perfect - crystal clear water, White sand and, most importantly, tourism infrastructure . We especially recommendSuper Paradise beach (though it’s not cheap here) - 30 € (≈ 2160 rub.) per day for two sunbeds with an umbrella and 10 € (≈ 730 rub.) for a place on a towel. In the evening, noisy parties are held here (music starts blaring from 17:00).

Pelican Petros is a symbol and walking landmark of Mykonos.

If you suddenly get a headache from endless parties and want to take a break from them (and not from work), we know where to go: go to the nearby island of Delos - one of the most sacred islands in Greece.

Legend has it that it was on Delos that the Greek gods Apollo and Artemis were born.From Mykonos pier ferries go here (return ticket it will cost at 20 € / ≈ 1440 rubles). Here you will find many historical monuments: the temple of Apollo, the remains of a phallic monument to the god Dionysus and other ancient Greek sights. When entering the island you will need to pay 12 € (≈ 870 rubles).

Hotel recommendations from Ostrovok.ru (choose and book)

Milos

• How to get there:There are no direct flights to Milos from Russia, but it can be easily reached from Athens. Air travel will cost from 70 € (≈ 5,000 rubles), travel time is 45 minutes. Ferry ticket from Athens portPiraeus cheaper - from 35 € (≈ 2500 rubles, but you will have to swim for 3.5 hours.

Milos is a worthy alternative to the popular Santorini. This island is also volcanic (which means you will find landscapes similar to Santorini with snow-white houses), but there is no invasion of tourists here yet.

Sarakiniko beach is one of the most famous in Milos.

Milos is a great place for a romantic getaway for two or honeymoon. The best thing to do here is to relax on one of the excellent beaches, swim and sunbathe - in general, to truly relax. We most recommend going to the beach Sarakiniko , or “moon beach”, - it is all covered with white rocks of volcanic origin. The entrance is free.

When you get tired of romance, mix it up with some creepiness (we know, many couples love it!) - Milos has the largest Greece catacombs , entrance - 4 € (≈ 290 rub.) per person.

Hotel recommendations from Ostrovok.ru (choose and book)

Sidari Water Park - the water park is located 10 minutes from the beach. Entrance - 5 € (≈ 360 rubles) per person.

We recommend organizing a family boat trip: dad will be the captain, mom will be the boatswain and a couple of enthusiastic cabin boys. In Greece, boats with a power of up to 30 horsepower can be rented without a license; renting a small boat will cost about 40 € (≈ 2800 rubles).

Panoramic view of the bay of Porto Timoni.

How bigger boat, the more expensive the rent will be. Plus you'll have to pay for gas, but it's worth it - A family trip to the Aegean Sea will be remembered by loved ones for a long time. You can stop for a swim and eat anywhere: on the coast you will definitely come across dozens of cute taverns where you will be fed inexpensive Greek cuisine . For example, have a snack at a restaurantAquarius - parents will like seafood, and children will like desserts. The average check is 40 € (≈ 2900 rubles).

Greece is a win-win option for a vacation, because here everyone will find something to their liking. So grab your swimsuit, a book of myths, and your favorite sunglasses. And rest there for us. Well, which resort to choose is up to you.

We'll tell you where to go for the first time in Greece. We chose three directions: for active rest, lie on the beach and places with cool attractions.

Greece only seems like a small country. In fact, each of its regions is a whole world, filled with ancient monuments, picturesque beaches and places that remain in the memory for a long time. Therefore, when going here for the first time, tourists rightly ask themselves: from which island or part of the mainland should they begin their acquaintance with Hellas? Some prefer a leisurely holiday on the idyllic coast, others do not miss the opportunity to see legendary historical monuments. Let's try to figure out where to go to Greece for the first time.

See the sights of Greece

Nowhere is the atmosphere of Greece's rich past more palpable than in Athens. And at the same time, none of the Greek cities can boast of more rapid development. The metropolis, and once the center of Western civilization, has preserved the most iconic sights of Southern Europe, which many have heard about from school textbooks.

Excursions to the sights of Athens should begin with the Acropolis, the heart of which is the Parthenon and the Temple of Zeus. Not far from the Acropolis is the Agora - the center of life in ancient Athens with its Temple of Hephaestus.

The capital of Greece is rich in museums. It is difficult to choose one of them to visit - the collections on display are so interesting. But among the most impressive are the Benaki Museum, the Acropolis Museum and the Cyclades Museum.

Even the districts of Athens are attractions with a special atmosphere. For example, Monastiraki with the same name flea market or picturesque Plaka, whose buildings stand on the foundations of ancient structures. There is also Anafiotika - an area whose architecture is more reminiscent of the Cyclades islands.

Planning a trip? That way!

We have prepared some useful gifts for you. They will help you save money while preparing for your trip.

If you want to get to know ancient Greek sights better, you can settle in the Peloponnese. This is a great starting point for organized excursions, and for independent travel. The most legendary places in Greece are concentrated in the Peloponnese: the archaeological park of Mycenae, the once powerful Epidaurus, the ruins of Tiryns, Delphi with its sanctuaries and Olympia, to which the world owes the appearance of the Olympic Games.

In the North of Greece lies the Thessaly region, which amateurs cannot pass by. excursion holiday. It is famous not only for its excellent landscapes, but also for its rich history. Here the most popular object to visit is Olympus - the highest mountain range country covered in legends. Today it has been turned into National Park. Nearby is Meteora, one of the iconic and most important religious sites in Greece. Monasteries that rise on the rocks and seem to float in the air, all year round receive a flow of believers and tourists.

Relax on the beach in Greece

Greece has been recognized for many years in a row the best country Europe in terms of the number of clean and picturesque beaches. There is no doubt about it: every summer the number of people who want to lie down on the Greek coast and forget about the bustle of big cities only grows.

On the mainland best beaches boasts the Halkidiki peninsula. Its coastline stretches for almost 500 kilometers, so everyone can choose a suitable vacation spot. On the Kassandra Peninsula, the palm goes to the beaches of Sani for its impeccable clean sand. By the way, the best and most comfortable hotels are concentrated here. A large and long beach will delight guests of the Afitos resort. It stretches for almost 4 km and will appeal to anyone looking for a calm coastline. The Sithonia Peninsula is the leader in the number of clean beaches. Vourvourou, Porto Carras, Porto Koufo, Toroni and Akti Elias are distinguished by their beauty. The advantage of a beach holiday in Halkidiki is its proximity to developed resort villages and any infrastructure.

Going to Greece for the first time, many tourists bet on its islands. You can start exploring Greek beaches in Zakynthos. It is famous for its turquoise bays and protected areas. Tourist brochures feature pictures of Navajo Bay, with its small but impressive beach. Laganas Beach is much larger in size (9 km). Its shallow sea and soft sand allow you to relax comfortably with children. For a relaxing beach holiday, you need to go to the Gerakas coast. There is a sandy beach, green landscapes and no crowds even in high season.

It’s hard to go wrong when choosing Kefalonia for a beach holiday. No wonder it is called the Island of Blue Flags. The beaches here are crowded and empty, sandy and pebbly, but they are united by the immaculate purity of the turquoise sea. In Kefalonia, it is worth relaxing on Myrtos beach, included in the ranking of the best in Greece. It is shaped like a crescent moon, and surrounded by white rocks with lush greenery. Other famous beaches on the island include Xi with dark orange sand and well-equipped Antisamos with large white pebbles.

Active holiday in Greece

There is no better place in Greece for an active holiday than Crete. The island seems to be created for those who are not used to sitting still and prefer any type of activity. There are many leisure options, but the most popular ones are:

• Trekking through the gorges. The best way explore Crete - on foot. The island has both well-explored routes and those accessible only to professionals. You can start with a hike through the gorges of Samaria, Imbros and Aradena;
• Mountain biking. Mountainous Crete is a haven for lovers of mountain bike tours. You can plan your trip yourself or use the services of special agencies. For beginners, short routes of up to 30 km are provided, for experienced tourists - up to 100 km;
• Canyoning. This is an option for those who are in search of new sensations. Descents through the canyons of mountain rivers, high cliffs, breathtaking landscapes - all this will leave a lasting impression;
• Family fun. Since Crete is popular for family vacation, you can spend active time in any of the four water parks on the island.

Greece is one of Europe's most underrated windsurfing destinations. But at the same time one of the most promising. An example of this is Paros, which annually hosts major competitions. During the summer, this island has a stable wind, which creates ideal conditions for windsurfing. From time to time it weakens, and then Paros is the best choice for beginners in this sport. The most popular places for skiing are Santa Maria and Golden Beach.

It is difficult to find a traveler who would be completely indifferent to the ancient beauties of Greece, its beaches and clear sea, aromatic coffee and spicy cuisine, lively dances and unreal sunsets. The country is accustomed to the attention of tourists, knows how to receive them, and offers relaxation to people with different budgets and capabilities.

In the last few years, when the economy of Hellas not only shook, but very dangerously “frozen”, prices for vacations went down sharply. However, the problems did not affect the quality of rest. The only inconvenience for tourists is that it is better to come here with cash; ATMs are often completely empty.

All the numerous ruins and museums are in place, the sun is still warm and gentle, and the sea is clear. You can get a Schengen visa yourself by adding a completed application form, insurance, tickets and hotel reservation to your passport (they will ask for 35 euros for the visa). Everything is fine? Let's fly!

Budget season

For modern Greeks, tourism is the only straw that saves the country from complete economic collapse. This circumstance forces us to keep prices for accommodation and other services quite high during the “high” season. It begins in early June (prices in May are already different from April!) and continues until the beginning of September (in September prices are somewhat lower, but not yet the most budget-friendly). It is expensive to vacation in Greece in January (Christmas is a popular time for tourists).

For those who consider only beach pleasures a real vacation, it is best to come to Hellas in April or in the second half of September. And for those who come to Greece for the sake of ancient antiquities, best time- October-November or February-March. At this time, air tickets will be the cheapest.

The Acropolis of Athens is a rocky hill with a flat top.

Road

The cheapest flight from Moscow to Kos, Crete or Rhodes will cost approximately 190-250 euros. These are prices for Ellinair tickets, outside the tourist season. The ticket price can be significantly lower if you fly from Vilnius or Kaunas, which can be reached by bus or your own car. A plane ticket costs from 120 euros round trip (Rhodes, Athens), which is cheaper even taking into account a bus ticket to Vilnius from Moscow. The secret to cheap tickets is simple - direct flights from Kaunas and Vilnius to Greece are provided by RYANAIR, known for its budget prices.

You can save even more on travel costs if you try to get to chartered flight, which serves tourists who have purchased tours. An application for a ticket can be submitted to any large company. In this case, a ticket will cost hardly more than a hundred euros round trip. But this method of travel is unreliable. There may be no free seats, or there may not be a flight on the desired day.

The best housing option: hotel or apartments, guest house or apartment?

Resort accommodation is expensive in any country. In Greece, it all depends on how close the hotel or apartment is to the sea. Outside the season, a double room in a mid-level hotel will cost no more than 30 euros. In a higher category hotel, a double room with breakfast costs from 45 euros/day (half board - from 65 euros).

Weekly housing costs will not exceed the amount of 100-120 euros (provided that the sea is more than 300 meters away) if you rent an apartment or stay in a family boarding house - this is the most budget option.

Hotel Divani Apollon Palace & Thalasso (Vouliagmeni, Athens)

Restaurants, cafes, taverns, supermarkets: cuisine features, prices for food and products

The Greeks have always loved to eat delicious food. Restaurants delight customers with huge portions, low prices and very tasty dishes.

In Greece you should definitely try:

• moussaka - a type of “lasagne” with layers of eggplant;
• fried sardines;
• octopuses;
• Tzatziki is a thick sauce made from yogurt and garlic.

As for drinks, in addition to a wide variety of excellent quality wines, you can’t do without:

• ouzo - aniseed brandy;
• Retsina - wine with the smell of pine resin.

As everywhere else abroad, you need to choose those food establishments that are designed for local residents. IN resort areas This is not easy, here every eatery counts on wealthy and generous visitors. The main rule when choosing a cafe or restaurant in Greece is that the farther from the sea, the cheaper. However, the quality of the dishes is the same.

If you make it a rule not to eat on the beach or near it (you should walk 700-800 meters from the sea), then your lunch or dinner with wine will cost no more than 7-9 euros per person.

Self-catering in an inexpensive apartment in a resort town or village is even more budget-friendly. A trip to the supermarket (or market) and a week’s supply of food for a family of three people costs 60-70 euros. Taking into account the fact that you will only use olive oil, and fruits will be a mandatory addition to breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Ancient sights, natural parks, nightclubs - what to choose?

Several volumes could be written about tourism opportunities and attractions. In our case, we will stay at the resorts of Northern Greece, as well as on several islands of the archipelago, where holidays are the cheapest, and the opportunities are not inferior to the most “promoted” resorts.

On the mainland

Northern Greece is a combination sea ​​air and the aroma of pine forests, beaches and monasteries, ancient ruins and modern nightclubs. The Peloponnese is proud of its numerous monuments ancient civilization on the continent, beaches, nightlife and eco-tourism opportunities. Here you can improve your health, relax in style, learn about fifty myths and legends and take with you the most pleasant memories of shopping.

Among the budget resorts of mainland Greece, we especially highlight:

• Halkidiki is one of the “three teeth” of the peninsula, the most budget holiday possible in Sithonia (middle tooth), among the attractions it is worth paying attention to Mount Olympus, hometown Zeus Dion, caves, monastery on Mount Athos, monastery of St. Panteleimon (one-day tour of natural and cultural attractions - from 50 euros, three-day tour - 175-200 euros);
• Peloponnese is a large peninsula in the southern part of Hellas, best places for recreation - the Gulf of Corinth, Laconia region. You need to see the ruins of the Olympic Stadium, the ruins of the Temple of Hera, ancient Corinth, and the ruins of Sparta. Sightseeing tour - from 35 euros (three-day - from 140 euros). The region is distinguished by its rich nightlife - the clubs TREZOR, SUMMER LIFE, WAVES will not let even the most demanding traveler get bored.

Islands

It is on the islands of the Greek archipelago that the most famous and popular resorts Hellas. Most of them (Santorini, Mykonos, Lesbos, Samos, Rhodes) are different high level prices and complete lack budget housing. Wealthy businessmen, Hollywood stars and politicians with their families relax here.

You can save a lot of money if you vacation on the islands:

• Kos is a small island off the coast of Turkey. The birthplace of Hippocrates - among the attractions are the ruins of an ancient hospital. Picturesque fishing villages, delicious fish dishes in restaurants, opportunities for surfing, many inexpensive villas and guest houses for tourists;
• Crete is a large island with a pleasant warm climate, an abundance of comfortable beaches, perfect place for lovers of windsurfing and horse riding. The number of ancient monuments is enormous. The size of the island allows you to take a week-long trip around it (tour - from 350 euros). Grottoes, caves, ancient royal palaces and labyrinths - the list of entertainment is far from complete;
• Euboea is an island separated from Attica by a narrow strait. Besides the beaches, warm sea and an abundance of attractions, here you can undergo mud therapy and other healing procedures (treatment in large centers can be very expensive, but there are many small spa hotels on the island where you can buy a course of procedures for 50-70 euros). It is from here that the easiest way to get to Athens is as part of a one-day tour (from 50 euros).

Two words about the crisis

After 2012, Greece is trying with all its might to overcome negative trends in the economy. The country is periodically shaken by banking collapses, problems in paying salaries to government employees and other troubles.

Most of these problems do not affect tourists in any way, but you still need to know some rules:

• ATMs, especially on the islands, are often empty, and it is not always possible to pay with a card in budget places. Exit - cash;
• unemployment, especially in large cities, has contributed to the flourishing of petty crime - wallets, cameras and documents must be stored especially carefully;
• in stores, and especially in markets, you need to bargain until you are completely exhausted, only in this case can you achieve an adequate discount ( experienced tourists they never make any purchases in the first days of their holiday in Greece, only properly, after sunbathing on the beach you can safely go shopping, the sellers will be much more accommodating);
• You can buy any tours exclusively in the offices travel companies or in hotels. A trip purchased from a sociable guy on the street will result in an ordinary loss of money, albeit small.

Excursions outside Greece

While vacationing in the North of Greece, you can go to Sofia and Plovdiv. Buses from Thessaloniki to largest cities neighboring country enough. The journey takes from 5 to 7 hours. Tickets start from 20 euros. If you are planning to stay in Bulgaria for several days, then it is worth buying a ready-made tour in one of the hotels in Halkidiki or Thessaloniki - from 200 euros (meals and hostel accommodation included - 3 days and two nights).

The island of Kos is only a few kilometers from Turkey. Sightseeing tour west coast Malaya (monuments from the era of Alexander the Great, picturesque bays of the Aegean Sea, the legendary baths of Diana) is very cheap. But in this case, you need to clarify what kind of visa is in your passport. Turkey is located outside the Schengen zone; it is possible that once you leave Greece, you will not be able to return there.

Since ancient times, hospitality has been the main characteristic of the Greeks. Tourists all over the world can confirm this. A traveler will always be helped to find the way to an attraction, recommended a restaurant or cafe, and in a small town or village they will definitely invite you to a cup of coffee, which may well turn into a hearty lunch.

Don't know where to go to Greece for the first time? We have selected for you the 4 most popular and favorite destinations among travelers from all over the world, talked about their features and shared tips on how to spend time, where to stay and what to see. Read and make your choice!

For the first time in Greece - where to go?

In Greece you can meet ancient culture and mythology, enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the Aegean Sea, bask in the Greek sun on the white sandy beaches of Greece, walk in the mountains with the purest air, admire the white buildings and taste delicious Greek cuisine.

Where to go and what to see

• Church of Panagia Paraportiani;
• "Little Venice"
• an area with 18th-century buildings, where the mansions of great captains with colorful balconies and stylish windows are everywhere;
• strange windmills perched imposingly on the slope;
• snow-white sandy beaches, stretching along the perimeter of the island.

Where to stay

Mykonos is a tourist island, and therefore you will not have problems finding accommodation. – from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses and hostels, you can also search for hotels using the form on the left. For the truly budget conscious, there is Couchsurfing.

Things to do

• In Mykonos summer time Many holidays and festivals are held, all this is accompanied by rivers of delicious wine and mountains of delicious food.
• Also, this “Wind Island” is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts; surfers and sailors gather here from all over the world. Mykonos has a large selection of windsurfing beaches. The best beaches are considered to be the most isolated ones: Kórfos, Fteliá, Meyáli Ámmos and Kalafátis. Almost all beaches teach surfing.
• In Mykonos you can play tennis or mini golf at Ayios Stéfanos, beach volleyball at Ayia Ánna, skydiving or jet skiing at Eliá or Kalafátis. Even diving enthusiasts will not be left out and will be able to explore the beauty of the underwater life of the Aegean Sea.

Mykonos is a standard choice for both partying and partying. interesting excursions, and enjoy your beach holiday to the fullest. Therefore, if you are planning to visit Greece for the first time, and your budget allows, visit Mykonos, you will not be disappointed.

First time to Greece: Paros

Paros is one of the most popular places for recreation among young people. Unlike Mykonos, this island is more budget option. Unrivaled natural beauty, developed tourist infrastructure, beaches with clear waters, Byzantine footpaths linking traditional Greek villages, breathtaking scenery and pulsating night life– all this awaits you on the island of Paros.

Parikia is the island's capital and is home to its famous whitewashed rectangular buildings and impressive neoclassical mansions.

Where to go and what to see

• the village of Naoussa, where the ruins of a Venetian fortress stand at the entrance to its small port;
• Lefkes is also a village, it is built into a mountain and is surrounded on all sides by greenery, located in the very high point the islands of Paros, from here you can enjoy breathtaking views of the island;
• Marpissa - traditional village with a bright medieval character, existing since the 15th century;
• marble quarries in Maráthi, where the famous Parian marble was mined.

Where to stay

It all depends on how much you plan to spend. There are options for every taste and budget.

Things to do

• Visiting a religious festival is a great opportunity to taste sweet wines produced in the Monemvassiá and Mantilariá vineyards. On August 15, one of these events is traditionally organized near the Panayia Ekatontapyliani church.
• Explore the island on horseback. There are two horse rentals here, one near the sea in Ambelás and the other in Ystérni. This walk around the island is a great way to see with your own eyes the most Beautiful places Paros.
• The sun-drenched beaches of Chrissí Aktí, Santa Maria, Poúnda and the crystal clear waters of the sea will captivate all beach lovers. You can also go surfing here.
• Kalóyeros Beach, surrounded by red and green clay rocks, will provide you with an effective and natural spa completely free of charge. Cover your body with clay and let it dry in the sun, after a while wash the clay into the sea - your skin will be soft and velvety.

Price statistics for tours to Greece

If you are not yet ready to travel on your own, then price statistics for tours to Greece will help you. Here you can find the most low prices on holiday to Greece from leading tour operators.

First time to Greece: Skiathos

Skiathos is the most popular resort island in the Northern Sporades. Despite the rapid growth of the tourism sector, it is still picturesque and unspoilt. The island is decorated with more than 60 beaches with absolutely clear waters, the most famous of which is Koukounariés beach, which is rightfully considered the third most beautiful beach in the Mediterranean. Add to all this the vibrant nightlife and you can see why thousands of travelers flock to this island every year.

Where to go and what to see

• the capital of the island is the city of Skiathos with its cobbled stones, cozy streets and white buildings;
• a picturesque harbor surrounded by 4 islands;
• the small island of Boúrtzi, where the ruins of a Venetian fortress nestle among dense vegetation;
• the house and now museum of the famous author Alexandros Papadiamantis;
• Church of the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary, which houses 4 museums.

Where to stay

Skiathos has many hotels, hostels and rooms at affordable prices. You can also stay at Camping Koukounariés.

Things to do

• Every summer the island hosts colorful cultural events, concerts and art exhibitions.
• Walk along a breathtaking route starting from Asélinos, past the Kounistra monastery, the small beach of Asélinos and Alygariés beach, ending at Kehriá beach.
• All the island's nightlife is concentrated on the street near the Old Harbor. Bars and nightclubs are open here all night until the morning and are always full of young people having fun. The Ammoudiá area often hosts outdoor parties (easy to find, just follow the road leading to the airport).

First time to Greece: Chios

The island of Ios is almost in no way inferior to the famous and sometimes overrated Mykonos and Santorini. Stroll the picture-perfect streets, admire the elegance of the buildings, swim in the warm, clear waters of the world-famous beaches of Mylopótamos and Maganári, and taste the outrageously delicious Greek delicacies.

Where to go and what to see

• Be sure to visit Hóra, located on the famous hill with its snow-white cubic buildings and covered alleys.
• See 12 windmills.
• Panayia Gremiótissa (Madonna of the Cliffs) is located at the highest point of Hòra, with amazing views of the bay and neighboring island Sikinos.
• Byzantine castle Paleókastro, built at the very top of the hill.
• Summer theater "Odysseas Elytis", built in one of the favorite places of the poet Odysseas Elytis and well preserved from 2800 BC.

Where to stay

There are many wonderful hotels and hostels, and there are cozy family pensions near the beaches. There are also several camping areas on the island. Keep in mind that Chios does not have the luxury of Mykonos and Santorini, but it does have many wonderful places to walk.

Things to do

• I think you already understand that August 15th is a special day for the Greeks, Ios is proof of this. On this day, one of the most impressive celebrations of the Panagia Gremiotissa takes place here, when a procession carries the famous icon of the Virgin Mary around the Hora, all accompanied by a banquet, playing traditional instruments and dancing.
• Walk along the ancient paths of Ayia Theodóti-Hóra, Ayia Iríni-Valmá beach, Hóra-Pýrgos-Psáthi, Hóra-Áyios Spyridonas-Perivolia-Áyios Prókopas-Pelekaniá, which are still used by local shepherds, and you will see the most beautiful locations of the island.
• The mountains of Ios are ideal for climbing, mountaineering or cycling. On the peaks you will have an unforgettable view of the island and the endless expanse of the Aegean Sea.
• On the beaches of Mylopótamos and Manganári you can rent equipment for aquatic species sports, the same surfing, water skiing, diving. Here you can learn how to surf and canoe.
• There are plenty of clubs, bars and restaurants on this island. Every day, crowds of young people enjoy colorful cocktails, dancing until dawn and night swimming.

That’s all, if you are going to Greece for the first time and don’t yet know where to go, listen to our advice. IN