Greece’s history dates back thousands of years, and it is here that Western civilization began as a result of its many powerful ancient gods and goddesses who inspired the great deeds of heroes like Hercules, Odysseus and Achilles. Today this colourful past is visible in nearly every location, from ancient Greek temples to picturesque whitewashed villages nestled in the countryside.
Greece is a beautiful destination for tourists because it offers something for everyone. From stunning beaches to archaeological sites, there are plenty of interesting and attractive places to visit. You can explore the ancient ruins, delve into its unique history, or simply relax on one of its many beaches with stunning ocean views. Nature lovers can also enjoy the gorgeous countryside of Greece with spectacular mountain ranges and scenic islands to explore.
The largest city in Greece is Athens which is the political, economic and cultural centre of the country. Home to the Acropolis – one of the world’s most recognizable ancient landmarks – as well as some amazing museums and galleries, no trip to Greece would be complete without a visit to Athens.
For a different atmosphere and plenty of activities, Thessaloniki on the north coast is an ideal destination. In addition to its vibrant nightlife scene, Thessaloniki also offers some beautiful Byzantine churches and monasteries, excellent shopping opportunities, stylish cafes and restaurants and long stretches of Mediterranean beaches.
One of the top destinations in Greece is Crete where visitors can enjoy excellent hiking trails in Samaria Gorge National Park or take boat trips around Chania Bay in search of historic sights and sunken wrecks. On the island of Zakynthos (Zante), swimming with loggerhead turtles and exploring shipwreck beaches are popular activities while Corfu has an air of sophistication due to its impressive Venetian-style buildings, cobbled streets and turquoise waters fringed with white sand beaches.
If you’re looking for a magical experience close to nature, then Delphi is the place for you. With its huge archaeological site perfectly situated between olive groves on Mount Parnassus, Delphi makes an unforgettable visit with its hauntingly beautiful landscape featuring stunning views out across Greece.
The best time to visit Greece is in spring (April-May) or autumn (late September-October), when temperatures are milder than summer but without too much rain. Unfortunately, crowded tourist spots like Athens can be quite hot during the summer months.
Greece proudly prides itself on its wonderful cuisine, which includes famous dishes like moussaka, gyros and souvlaki. Specialities tend to vary depending on the region and seasons, so you can expect lots of delicious food to try while visiting!
Greece is home to around 11 million people living in an area of 131,957 sq km (50,949 sq mi). Greek is the official language but English is widely spoken in major tourist destinations.
The currency used in Greece is the Euro. Prices vary depending on the place you visit and where you dine, but it won't necessarily break your budget if you plan carefully and stick to shopping at local markets for souvenirs.