Birthplace of democracy, the Olympics and philosophy, Greece is a country with an unmatched historical and cultural heritage. Its ancient wonders, including the iconic Parthenon, capture the imagination of all its tourists. Aside from these treasures of the past, Greece also has 1,400 islands sprinkled along the rich, blue waters of the Aegean, Ionian and Mediterranean Seas. Here, modern-day adventurers can experience all the wonders that have been written about in Greek legends for thousands of years.

Athens (Piraeus)

Just 30 minutes from the port of Piraeus lies the ancient city of Athens. With its magnificent architecture, legendary cultural attractions and unparalleled place in history, this capital city known as "the cradle of Western civilization" is a must-see destination for world travellers. A captivating blend of the classical and the contemporary, Athens boasts some of the world's oldest and most renowned landmarks, and wears its ancient heritage proudly.

Attractions

• Remnants of Ancient Greece: The Acropolis, capped by Athens’ crowning glory, the Parthenon, the most recognisable Greek landmark. Built in honor of Athena, goddess of wisdom, the Parthenon also gives a bird’s eye view of two of Athens’ most famous theaters, the Odeon of Herod Atticus and the 17,000-seat Theatre of Dionysius.
• The Temple of Athena Nike, dedicated to the winged maidens who attended to her; and the Erectheion "Porch of the Maidens"
• In what was the ancient walled quarter of Athens, the striking Hadrian’s Arch, a gift to the city by the Roman Emperor, and the majestic Temple of Olympian Zeus, built over a 700-year period beginning in the 6th century B.C.
• The Hill of the Muses, where legend has it Socrates paid the price for his advanced ideas on youth and religion by drinking a fatal cup of hemlock. In Horologion, known as the Tower of the Winds, listen closely for the voices some say speak from an ancient time.

Chaniá

Chaniá is the second largest city of Crete, and one of the most beautiful. It lies along the north coast of the island at the east end of the Gulf of Chaniá. Chaniá is the site of the ancient Minoan settlement the Greeks called Cydonia (Kydonia), which was mentioned in Virgil's Aeneid. The site has been continuously inhabited from Neolithic times-at least 5000 years. The city's rich history can be traced through historic buildings and monuments with Venetian, Turkish and Greek architecture.

Corfu

Known as the "Emerald Island" because of its lush greenery and breathtaking beauty, Corfu is one of the hidden treasures of the Mediterranean. Possessing an intense culture and unparalleled coastline, the island has provided endless inspiration for many artists and literary figures. One of the most beautiful islands in all of the Mediterranean, Corfu casts a magical spell on those fortunate enough to visit its shores. Silvery olive trees grace the countryside, lemon trees scent the air, vivid blooms catch your eye, and the sapphire sea against the verdant land is a stunning contrast. Corfu is undoubtedly the greenest island in all of Greece. A leisure stroll through the narrow alleyways will reveal many local treasures from fine wines to fresh seafood.

Attractions

• Achilleion Palace. Built by the Empress Elizabeth of Austria in 1891, it has breathtaking gardens and a spectacular panoramic view of the Ionian Sea. The Achilleion Palace also houses the Terrace of the Muses, which was a tribute to the nine muses of Greek mythology.
• Old Corfu Town, where you’ll immediately be struck by the colonial atmosphere of its picturesque streets.
• Sailing along Corfu’s staggering coastlines aboard a ‘kaiki’, a beautiful traditional wooden fishing boat.
• Stunning beaches for a swim in the crystal clear waters of the Ionian Sea.
• A leisurely drive along wonderful Corfu countryside, full of olive groves, pine, cypress, lemon and orange trees.
• Hiking to the top of Mount Pantokrator for a perfect view of Corfu's lush greenery.

Iraklion/Heraklion

Iraklion, the capital city of Crete, rests on the side of a hill overlooking the Cretan Sea. The city is named after Hercules (Herakles, or in Modern Greek, Iraklis). Though a bustling metropolis, Iraklion is also the gateway to the nearby stunning ancient ruins of advanced civilizations. Discover Crete’s astonishing Minoan sites. Or simply bask on the glorious north coast beaches or socialize and people-watch in the cafés and restaurants of Platía Venizélou (Fountain Square).

Attractions

• Knossos Palace, one of the remnants of the Minoan civilization that flourished in Crete during the Bronze Age, around 3000 to 1100 BC. The palace has been linked to the mythological King Minos, the labyrinth and the Minotaur, and the story of Daedalus and Icarus. Excavations have further revealed the astounding palace, villas, roads, columns, courtyards, temples and theater.
• The Archeological Museum of Crete, which features the Snake Goddess, Phaestos Disc and the Bull's Head.
• The Koules Venetian Fortress, for a glimpse of what it was like to defend Iráklion from behind its impressive stone walls.

Katakolon

Whether you're into sports, history, art, or just lounging by the sea, the charming village of Katakolon is a good place to start. From here, it's just a quick trip to famed Olympia, birthplace of the modern Olympics and one-time home to a Wonder of the Ancient World. Or, if you're looking to do like the locals do - grab a seat at one of the town's seaside cafés and order a cool drink and some local mezes (Greek snacks).

Attractions

• The ancient city of Olympia (a short drive north of Katakolon), birthplace of the Olympics, which still has the remarkable ruins of many significant buildings: the gymnasium, the guesthouse, a workshop and the stadium itself. The ruins of the Temple of Zeus, which once held one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World - a magnificent 40-foot gold and ivory statue of Zeus, can also be found here.

Mykonos

In the deep blue waters of the Mediterranean lies one of the most inviting places in all of Greece - Mykonos. Its countless bays and beaches and its quaint cobblestone streets are bound to welcome any visitor. According to Greek mythology, it was here that Hercules slew the Giants; the large rocks that are scattered about the island are said to be their petrified corpses. True or not, you'll have to judge for yourself. Either way, the Island of Mykonos should not be missed.

Attractions

• Beautiful beaches and the endless waters of the Aegean Sea.
• Delos Island, by tour boat, to visit the birthplace of Apollo. Dating back to the third millennium B.C., Delos is one of the most significant archaeological sites in the world.
• The Archaeological Museum on Mykonos features important finds from the ruins on neighboring Delos.
• The islands’ charming cobblestone streets and iconic two-storey, whitewashed shops and homes.

Nauplion

Residing on the eastern coast of the Peloponnese peninsula, Nauplion is characterised by the Palmadi Fortress - a shining example of the city's Venetian occupation in the 15th century. The picturesque vista showcasing the Greek Islands is certainly worth the 999-step climb.

Rhodes

Rhodes, the largest of the Dodecanese Islands and the friendliest city in the Mediterranean, is truly a vacation destination with something for everyone: eternal sunshine, spectacular beaches on the Aegean Sea, a medieval walled city, an ancient acropolis, and much more. In ancient times, the people of Rhodes chose Helios, the Sun, as their divine patron. With an average of three hundred plus days of sunshine a year, the most number of sunny days in all of Europe, it's safe to say that Helios continues to smile upon Rhodes today.

This sunny retreat is also home to many historic sites ranging from the ruins of the Temple of Venus to the medieval Street of Knights.

Attractions

• The ancient ruins of the Acropolis of Rhodes, dating back to the 3rd-2nd century BC, on the north end of the island, overlooking the sea. Though the entire Acropolis has not been excavated, some amazing sections have been restored: the stadium; a marble odeion - a concert hall or theatre; four columns of the Temple of Pythian Apollo; and a few remains of the Temple of Athena Polias and Zeus Polieus.
• The Street of the Knights in the Old Town, a medieval, cobble-paved street on an ancient pathway from the Rhodes Acropolis to the port. In the early 16th century, the street was lined with inns housing the Knights of the Order of St. John, who once ruled the island. The inns that remain today are a study in history and architecture, definitely worth seeing.
• The Municipal Baths (Turkish baths) located in a 7th-century Byzantine structure in the old town - for a cleansing experience like no other.
• Beach and sea action - parasailing, jet-skiing, sailing, yachting.... Have a blast exploring the Aegean Sea!

Santorini

Black sand beaches, crystal-clear waters and villages of whitewashed houses accented with blue roofs on the side of volcanic cliffs make the island of Santorini a wonder to behold. Many visitors come to Santorini to uncover the mysteries of the lost kingdom of Atlantis, while others revel in its relaxed mountaintop atmosphere to enjoy the scenic waters of the Mediterranean.

Attractions

• Red Sand Beach, one of Santorini’s uniquely beautiful beaches, distinct because of the volcanic eruptions that created them. Bring your camera or simply admire this stunning natural phenomenon.
• The scenic clifftop village of Oia, a haven for artists and artisans, where you can explore shops, enjoy a drink or a traditional dinner while watching the sun set.
• The town of Fira, for spectacular views of white-washed buildings cascading along Santorini’s volcanic formations. Perched high above the black sand beaches and crystal clear sea, Fira can be reached by cable car, a donkey ride, or on foot.
• Akrotiri, one of the world’s most historically significant sites, an ancient city much like Pompeei, buried under a thick blanket of volcanic ash over 3,600 years ago.
• A visit to a Santorini wine producer to enjoy a glass and explore the important role wine has served in the island's growth.

Volos

Strategically nestled on the Pagasitic Gulf, at the foot of Mount Pelion, the town of Volos offers many unique opportunities. Highly recommended: an excursion to the Meteora Monasteries, a geological phenomenon perched high above massive granite rocks, hundreds of feet in the air (made famous in James Bond film, For Your Eyes Only). Volos is also renowned for its tsipouradika, charming waterfront dining establishments where you can sample tidbits of fresh seafood along with the local drink, tsipouro.