Area

Greece conjures up exotic images of white-washed houses, shimmering blue sea, ancient palaces, and mythical creatures. Its many contributions in philosophy, science and art have spread all over the world as the genesis of Western culture. Days can be spent lazing along tranquil shores, exploring the countryside and museums, marvelling at ancient sites, and dining on delicious cuisine. Evenings are enjoyed under magical moonlight or partying until dawn. Whatever you are seeking, Greece is likely to supply.

Geography

Greece – is a country in southeastern Europe, situated on the southern end of the Balkan Peninsula. The country has borders with Albania, the Republic of Macedonia and Bulgaria to the north, and Turkey to the east. The Aegean Sea lies to the east and south of mainland Greece, while the Ionian Sea lies to the west. Both parts of the Eastern Mediterranean basin feature a vast number of islands, islets and rock islands.

Climate

Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) are the best times to visit Greece. Summers (June-August) are hot and dry, while the winter months (November-March) bring cool rain and cause most of the tourist infrastructure to shut down. Many hotels are closed from the end of November to the beginning of April.

Spring and autumn conditions are ideal as the weather is pleasant (16-28°C). Winters are mild in the south (6-16°C) but much colder in the north (0-6°C) where it often snows on the mainland and mountains of Crete and Evia. It will occasionally snow in Athens. November to March is the rainy season, although there are plenty of days of sunshine and some visitors prefer the tranquillity of that time.

Visa

Schengen visa is required for our citizens.

Custom

Import of foreign currency is unlimited! Export of the currency more than 1000 usd or other currency on the same sum is under declaration!

Sightseeing

Athens. The capital city of Greece is dominated by the historical hill of the Acropolis, site of the 2400 year old Parthenon, one of the most famous monuments in the world. Spread around the Acropolis is the old quarter town of Plaka, famed for its flea market, craft shops, small taverns and narrow winding alleys. Nearby are the Theatre of Dionysus and the restored Odeon of Herodes Atticus, a superb theatre which hosts open-air performances of the Hellenic Festival and August Full Moon Festival. The ruins of Ancient Agora and its Agora Museum are also places of interest. The centre of modern Athens, especially Kolonaki, has many designer boutiques, sophisticated restaurants and international-class hotels. The city has a thriving nightlife, with most bars and clubs staying open until at least 3am.

Resorts

Chios. Lying just 8km from Turkey, this surprisingly unexploited island offers excellent beaches, unspoilt medieval towns and stunning landscapes. The north side of the island is dominated by Pelinio, a 1297 metre high mountain of volcanic origin. The capital and main port, Chios Town, lies on the eastern shore. Several of the town's churches date back to Byzantine times. In the hills east of town lies the splendid 12th-century monastery of Nea Moni, one of the country's finest Byzantine monuments, with a beautiful octagonal church adorned with golden mosaics. There is an airport, providing daily flights to and from Athens.

Corinth. Aside from its beautiful location, the main attractions are the ruins of ancient Corinth on the slopes of Akrokorinthos Hill, 8km from modern Corinth. On the hilltop stands a medieval fortress built upon an even more ancient site, where the remains of the Temple of Apollo have yet to be seen. From the highest point, at the Temple of Afrodite, one can enjoy a magnificent panorama.

Corfu. The northernmost island of western Greece, Corfu is the best-known, busiest and most cosmopolitan of the Ionian Islands. Although its natural beauty has led to massive development along parts of its coast, visitors who arrive during spring or autumn will still find idyllic beaches, romantic landscapes studded with cypresses and olive groves, and unspoilt countryside villages. Corfu can be reached by ferry from either Patras or Igoumenitsa (on the northwest coast of mainland Greece, just south of Albania), and there are direct ferries from Italy in summer. The island's airport offers direct flights to Athens and several other European cities.

Crete. Despite its busy tourist industry concentrated along the north coast, Crete has preserved its nature, local traditions and ancient monuments. Crete's climate is ideal and its cuisine is one of the healthiest in the world. There are magnificent mountain ranges, long sandy beaches, rocky coves, water-sports, tranquil locations, clean seas, beach bars and nightlife. The ancient city of Knossos is an interesting place and the mythical home of the minotaur (half-bull half-man). You can visit the Palace of Knossos, the royal villa, the House of Frescoes, and the Temple Tomb. Crete can be reached by ferry from Piraeus or by airplane from Athens, plus a number of European cities.

Mykonos. The most visited and most expensive of all the Greek islands, Mykonos is known for its lively nightlife and some of Greece's best discos. Mykonos Town, also known as Hora, comprises a modern harbour, whitewashed houses and churches, shops selling local arts and crafts, small taverns and cafes, and is backed by a hill with five thatched windmills. It is possible to visit the uninhabited island of Delos by boat from Mykonos Town. Through summer, there are daily flights between Mykonos and Athens.

Rhodes. One of the most popular and best-developed islands in the Mediterranean, Rhodes offers international-class hotels and varied nightlife. It has 370km of coastline with good public transport linking most of the towns and villages. The medieval castle is still inhabited by some 6000 residents who still live and work in the same buildings in which the Knights of St. John lived six centuries ago. Rhode's marvellous beaches, friendly locals, historical sites, restaurants and entertainment make it a worthwhile place to visit. Flights are available from Athens.

Thessaloniki. A favourite among tourists and Greeks, Thessaloniki is the perfect city for people who need a place to relax and have fun. Walk along the beach, sit in a pub and meet the locals, go to the Aristotelous Square, and explore the city. There are many museums and archaeological sites close to and within the city. The locals are friendly, helpful, easy going and most of them speak English. Many people who plan a short visit end up staying in Thessaloniki for years. Flights are available from Athens.