Greece

Fit for the gods

From the coasts of the Mediterranean to the top of Mount Olympus, Greece is a place grand enough for mythical gods and friendly enough for travellers alike. Uncover its ancient ruins and relics and take in an iconic landscape of whitewashed homes. This is only the beginning of the endless wonders you’ll find when you first set foot on Greek soil.

Santorini:

This is the most spectacular destination in the Mediterranean and holds the most prehistoric settlement in the region. The ancient town of Akrotiri was once destroyed and consequently preserved by a volcanic eruption around 1450 B.C. The excavation site of this city is known as the “Minoan Pompeii.” But perhaps the island’s greatest draws are its vineyards, whitewashed chapels, volcanic cliffs, and famous wines of Santorini.

Mykonos:

Known as the “whitewashed jewel of the Cyclades islands” or the “Island of the Winds,” it is said that the island was formed from the petrified bodies of giants killed by Hercules. It also gets its name from the grandson of Apollo - “Mykonos.” In the island’s capital town you will find the church, town hall, castle, the Archaeological, Folklore, and Maritime Museums, and a shopper’s paradise – Matoyianni Street.

Athens:

Athens is the capital city of Greece and the historical capital of Europe. It is home to many celebrated ancient monuments including the imposing Acropolis, the ruins of the Temple of Zeus, the Royal Palace, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the Olympic Stadium, and Hadrian’s Gate – the symbolic entrance to the city. It also has the charming Plaka neighbourhood which has been without interruption since antiquity.

Olympia:

One of the most well-known tourist destinations in Greece, Olympia is located in the western Peloponnese, known as the “Valley of the Gods.” Surrounded by beautiful scenery from the Arcadian Mountains, it is home of the first Olympic Games that were held in 776 B.C. You can walk through the ruins of the ancient Olympic stadium, witness amazing sculptures at the museum, or even attend one of the many festivals held throughout the year.

Meteora Monastery:

Over 600 years ago Byzantine monks chose to build their monastic community atop limestone rock “towers” that extend nearly 900 feet into the air, making them virtually inaccessible. It is one of the greatest monuments in the world, and is the most important monastic center in Greece. You can climb these rocks and travel the paths hidden behind the massive rocks.

Delphi ruins:

Delphi was regarded as the center of the world and had the most famous oracle of ancient Greece. The site includes two sanctuaries dedicated to Apollo and Athena, and other buildings that were mostly intended for sports. The earliest finds in Delphi date back to 4000 B.C. from the Korykeion Andron, a cave where the first rituals took place. The ruins are filled with an enormous amount of history and beauty.

Greek Olive Farm:

Olives and olive oil are staples of the Mediterranean diet, and Greece is a major grower and producer of olive products. A visit to a Greek olive farm can provide a taste of Greek culture and serve as a window into everyday life in the country. Tours, tastings, meals, and cooking classes hosted at olive farms are all wonderful options on the table when venturing into Greece’s countryside.

The Plaka:

Travel back in time with a visit to Athens’s old city – the Plaka. The hilly cobblestone streets are lined with historic buildings housing small shops, sidewalk cafes and family-owned restaurants making this neighbourhood Athens’ crowned jewel. The neighbourhood comes alive at night. The alleyways fill with music and dancing and locals and visitors alike dine on their favourite traditional dishes.

"Of all of the tours my sister and I have taken with Collette (this year is our fifth), Janice and I agreed that Greece was spectacular. Not only the historicity of Greece shored up with Heather Larsen's keen grasp of cultural, sociological, et al knowledge but the people. For us, whose Mother is from Madeira, we experienced the Greeks to be very calm, warm, loving, intelligent, helpful, like the Portuguese. The Delphi Oracle. Wow! And Santorini. Greece is humbling and magnificent"

Anonymous

Expert Advice

Getting around is easier than you would expect. Greeks can speak English enough to assist travellers, and street signs are in both Greek and English.

Much of your trip may focus on the ancient past yet I suggest you also take time to explore the vibrant traditions that still live in today’s Greek culture.

Greece is a welcoming destination year-round. Consider visiting October through May to beat the summer bustle, and with Greece’s 250+ days of sunshine in an average year, don’t forget your sunglasses.