30 best islands in Greece

Greece owns almost 3,000 islands, which occupy about 20% of its area. Among them there are many uninhabited land areas with pristine nature. Over 300 are inhabited. There are many ancient sights, unique natural conditions. Everything that tourists need. The islands of Greece are suitable for holidays for people of all ages throughout the year. An early acquaintance with the conditions of each of them will help make the trip interesting and useful. Get from Athens airport by several types of transport: taxi, ferry.

Crete

The island where Zeus lived, was ruled by King Minos, Theseus defeated the Minotaur, the famous artist of the Middle Ages El Greco was born, is the largest and most popular among tourists from different countries. The greatest civilization of the ancient period existed on it, leaving monuments, legends, myths, and philosophical knowledge for generations.

It is offered to get acquainted with its historical past with accommodation in modern hotels with restaurants, swimming pools, entertainment infrastructure. Relaxing on gorgeous beaches formed by several seas. A walk among picturesque rocks, valleys and unusual mountains. Every corner breathes with ancient history. Visiting them can be compared to a journey of millennia.

This is an inspection of the Labyrinth of the Minotaur in the palace of King Minos, the cave of Dikti Andron (the birthplace of Zeus), turned into a temple. Mosques from the times of the Ottoman Empire, monasteries, fortresses, castles from the Byzantine period. The sights of different centuries and bygone civilizations harmoniously coexist with modern buildings.

Rhodes

The largest island, lost in the waters of the Aegean and Mediterranean seas, is a magnificent resort and treasury of the country's historical and cultural heritage. You can wander along the embankment for a long time, admiring the Rhodes fortress, listen to stories about the famous landmark, included in the 7 Wonders of the World, the Colossus of Rhodes, despite the fact that the statue has been absent since 226 BC.

The capital city of Rhodes appeared in 408 BC. NS. Among the numerous temples, divine sculptures, there was a statue of the god Helios, standing in one of the five ports of the city. This is the famous Colossus of Rhodes. Now you can walk along the street of the Knights of John, inspect the palace of the Grand Masters (it stands on the site of the ancient temple of the god Helios), visit the ancient city of Kamiros, the Valley of the Butterflies, see the ruins of the Temple of Aphrodite. Swim in the turquoise waves of the gentle Aegean Sea, soak up the wonderful beaches of the resorts of Rhodes: Lindos, Faliraki, Kolimbia, Ixia.

At the Kallithea resort, experience the healing effects of the famous thermal springs. Two seas, 300 sunny days a year, sandy, pebble beaches with entertainment for every taste, excellent infrastructure, numerous historical monuments of ancient cultural heritage attract a large number of tourists all year round.

Kos

In ancient times it was called the "Garden of the Aegean Sea". Lush tropical vegetation covered the entire small island, along with the significant temple complex of the time dedicated to Asclepius. Here the famous Hippocrates founded the first medical school. The symbol is the sycamore tree with a trunk diameter of 12 m, which he planted.

Preserved Christian churches, part of the old city, along with a section of the fortress wall. The beaches allow you to go diving, surfing, yachting. The largest recreation area is the Kardamen resort. Boats with tourists regularly come to the small bay. Many modern hotels have been built here, food, entertainment, recreation conditions for children are organized.

There are supermarkets, boutiques, shops, cafes, restaurants in any city. Fans of nightlife can have fun until the morning in cozy nightclubs and bars. By bus, private taxi, it is easy to get to any part.

Corfu

The country's second largest island is located in the northern part of the Ionian Sea. Legends about Jason, who mined the Golden Fleece, about the brave Odysseus, who found shelter in Corfu, were born here. The god of the seas Poseidon settled here the daughter of the god of rivers and named the land area Kerkyra (Corfu in Greek). Amazing nature inspired famous artists and poets when creating their creations. Napoleon was amazed at the beauty of the surroundings. The Paleokastritsa area is considered the cradle of the island. Numerous picturesque bays are surrounded by villages that are frozen right on the rocks.

Among them are modern hotels, shops, restaurants. The rich infrastructure allows you to spend any type of vacation. For children, here is the best water park in Europe, play centers. Fans of active recreation are provided with a variety of sports grounds, there are schools for equestrian sports, surfing, and diving.

It is proposed to climb Mount Pantokrator (you can ride on donkeys). Explore the old fortress of Paleo Frurio, listen to a musical concert in it. To see the temple of the Mother of God among the caves of Panayia Spiliotissa, walk along the New Fortress, see the Temple of Kardaki. Walking along the famous capital street Liston, choose a souvenir, visit numerous restaurants and boutiques.

Zakynthos

The southernmost island in the Ionian Sea is Zakynthos. It is surrounded by small beautiful bays with sandy, pebble beaches, bizarre rocks, caves, grottoes. In some bays there are springs with medicinal hydrogen sulphide water. The famous Blue Caves, Navayo Bay, a park with animals and plants from all parts of the planet "Askos" are located in the northern regions. Old fortresses, castles, Byzantine churches, modern hotels rise among the thickets of orchards. There are many historical monuments and museums in the capital city of Zakynthos.

Here is the beautiful church of St. Dionysius, which is popular with tourists. It contains his miraculous powers. In one of the bays, there is the Caretta-Caretta turtle reserve. They come here to breed. If you are lucky, you can meet the oldest Satyris turtle, sailing to the tourist center of Lagance.

The 100-year-old animal calmly takes food from the hands of vacationers. The beaches are small, scattered along the shores of the bays. From many places you can take part in exciting sea trips. Excursion "Jeep Safari" allows you to make a sightseeing trip with a visit to its main attractions.

Euboea

It is separated from the mainland by several meters of three straits and keeps the history of the ancient cities of Chalkis, Eretria. Snow-capped mountain passes protect its beautiful nature, preserved historical monuments.Until now, you can see 16 active monasteries created in ancient times. There are many interesting places in Chalkida for representatives of any religion. Here are: a mosque, a synagogue, a Christian church.

Part of the Temple of Apollo, the ruins of other buildings, and the fortress of Karababa have been preserved. Beach holidays (the total length of beaches is 650 km) thrives from May to October. There is no influx of tourists, especially on the secluded shores of small bays. The Aegean Sea is clean, transparent without algae, jellyfish, allowing you to spend your holidays with children.

Most of the hotels, inns, apartments are of an average level. Many are on the mountain slopes. There are no places for entertaining nightlife. The best resorts are Karystos, Eretria, Edeps (with healing springs), the resort area of ​​Likhadonisia. You can walk from the mainland along the bridge, while observing the rare phenomenon of a change in the direction of water movement in the strait.

Thassos

A small area of ​​land, covered by 90% forests, is ideal for recreation for people who do not tolerate heat well. In any month of the year, there are comfortable conditions for families with small children. Silence, fabulous landscapes, an atmosphere filled with the healing aroma of pine needles, plane trees, oaks, chestnuts contributes to a good rest. You can go round Thassos in one day and see historical sites, ancient stone monasteries.

The capital is the ancient city of Limenas. Many ancient sanctuaries and altars have been preserved in it. Previously, the capital was a settlement in the Theologos mountains. Now there is an ethnographic museum, the ruins of the ancient city of Istanio. The best beach areas are named: San Antonio, Paradise, Psili Ammos, Makrimos, Glyfoneri, Marble Beach.

You can see coastal seascapes by climbing to the top of Mount Ipsario. To do this, you need to walk to the village of Potamya, which is hidden on the slope of the mountain. Here you can relax, visit the museum of the sculptor Vagis.

Mykonos

Refers to the number of expensive recreation areas in the country. He is chosen by lovers of nightlife, round-the-clock discos, show business stars, actors, wealthy businessmen. Modern hotels (they have created conditions beyond luxury, over prices), unique infrastructure have made it a bohemian, fashionable resort. The beaches are equipped to suit any type of recreation.

There is a place for lazy sunbathing, sports games, sea entertainment, walks on snow-white yachts. The bohemian part of the inhabitants of different countries gathers on separate fashionable beaches. The capital is the city of Hora. In ancient times, among the labyrinth of narrow city streets, buildings made in the traditions of Cycladic architecture, the population reliably hid from pirate raids. Now the city is a single complex of entertainment and trade.

The central street is filled with boutiques with clothes of the best brands in the world, jewelry stores, cafes, bars, restaurants, art galleries. A relaxed, festive atmosphere is observed here 24 hours a day. The locals are calm about any mood of the holidaymakers. An excursion to the uninhabited island of Delos, where traces of the Aegean civilization have been preserved, is especially popular. Homeland of Artemis, Apollo is protected by UNESCO.

Tyra

In the Cyclades archipelago it occupies the main place. There is hardly a person who is not interested in the lost Atlantis. One of the versions of its existence refers to the famous Santorini. In 3000 BC it was called "Round" and was inhabited. The explosion of a terrible volcano ended life on Tire.

Only near the huge caldera in the center of the volcano are traces of the Minoan civilization preserved. The rest of the land has turned into numerous islands (among them Fira, Firasia, Aspronisi, new volcanoes in the center of the caldera), where modern life originated.

Snow-white houses have grown on the slopes. There are hotels, places of entertainment, equipped beach areas that provide relaxation for guests of all ages. There are many health centers with swimming pools, solariums, medicinal baths, spa salons. Along the coast there are beaches with black, white, golden sand, clear sea. There are many options for beach areas. For families with children, Monolithos is most often chosen with a shallow, warm area of ​​the sea.

Fans of parties and bars are in a hurry to the famous Perivolos beach. Romantic couples in love go to Thira. Many of them are getting married right at the top of an extinct volcano. Local legend says that such an alliance will be strong, indestructible. The blue roofs, white walls of the city of Santorini against the backdrop of the blue sea create an unusually beautiful view.

Kefalonia

According to one of the legends, the largest island in the central part of the Ionian Sea is named after King Kefalus, who was exiled here for the murder of his wife. In the Scriptures Melit is called. Glorified by Homer in the Iliad, the paradise piece of land, despite the devastating earthquake, has preserved many monuments of ancient antiquity, beautiful nature, and places that call to rest. The maximum influx of tourists coincides with the Day of the Assumption of the Virgin on August 15.

This is one of the main religious events in the country. They say that at this time thousands of harmless snakes with crosses on their heads crawl to the church of Panagia Languvard in the settlement of Markonulo. They are collected and brought to the icon of the Mother of God. They apply to sore spots and believe in the healing power and a good omen of a strange invasion.

Another surprising fact is considered to be the water rivers under the skeleton, passing through the Melissani cave to the lakes. The largest city is Argostilion. It has modern hotels and the best beaches on the Mediterranean coast. Two monasteries have survived. In them you can see ancient icons, listen to interesting facts.

Paros

Part of the Cycladic group. From a geological point of view, it represents the top of a mountain hidden deep under water. The peak of Profitis Ilias comes to the surface. It is famous for its beautiful nature, magnificent hotels, beaches along the shores of the Aegean Sea (the best of them is called Kolimbithres) and the famous snow-white marble. It was used to create sculptures, statues of Hellas, which survived for millennia. Life began here in the Stone Age.

Throughout the territory you can see traces of the Minoan, Mycenaean civilizations. The deposits of marble, their own fleet allowed the creation of a strong island state here. Now the rest includes water activities, a visit to the best water park in the country with 13 different types of slides designed for any age. It is located on the territory of the PORTO PAROS hotel, which is convenient for traveling with small children. The capital is the city of Parikya.

Here is the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin, the construction of which is associated with the legend of St. Helena, hurrying to Palestine in search of the Cross of the Lord. An archaeological museum with the history of the island carved into a marble slab.The castle, built in 1260 and many other attractions. Together with children, you can take a trip to the famous Valley of the Butterflies, where a bear butterfly lives among the pristine gorge.

Symi

Symi (25 km from Rhodes) is only 11.5 km long and 9 km wide. In ancient times, it was the capital of the Dodecanese archipelago. Homer wrote this about him in Hellas. The ship of the Argonauts was built here to travel for the Golden Fleece. And not according to ancient legends, the inhabitants were considered the best shipbuilders. This skill and the famous catching of sea sponges helped Symi to develop under any rulers.

Currently, hotels have begun to appear here, the infrastructure of the city of Symi is being formed. It is recommended to lie down on the wonderful beaches (the most famous of them is Agios Nicholas), wander through the beautiful surroundings, coming from Rhodes. At the same time, in the bay of the port of Yialos, all ships are greeted by an interesting sculpture of a fisherman boy.

Steep stairs leading to the center are visible along the coast. Some of them are not easy to overcome. At the height there are about 500 shrines in the form of Christian temples. Monasteries, chapels. Excursion routes pass through the most interesting places.

Lesbos

Among the picturesque islands of Greece, Lesvos does not stand out for its unique landscapes. Rocks, stones, the sea, the Petrified Forest dominate here. Hundreds of trees covered with eruptions of an ancient volcano seem to have been preserved and preserved in the atmosphere of Ancient Greece.

Tourists come to rest in these places for the sake of comfortable beaches, sports activities on the water, and exciting hikes in the surroundings. Lovers of ancient architecture will get real pleasure when examining fortresses, monuments of the Ottoman Empire. There are many beaches along the long coastline. The most popular are Skala Eressos, Molyvos, Skala Kalonis.

Yachting, scuba diving, windsurfing, snorkelling in the emerald waters of the Aegean are offered at all recreation areas. Nearby are olive and oak groves. Individual trees are more than 500 years old. Lovers of nightlife will find them in numerous clubs, taverns, restaurants and bars in the capital. Interesting Greek evenings are often held here.

Aegina

It is chosen for an exciting beach holiday. To do this, there are over 20 comfortable beach areas on it, the most popular of which are located near the capital. These are Avra, Agia Maria, Colona, ​​the beach for the youth of Eginitissa, the calm bay of Klima. Nearby there are old buildings preserved thanks to the care of the residents. Until now, Aegina is decorated with columns, the foundation of the ancient Temple of Athena. It is hard to believe that the structure is over 2.5 thousand years old.

Among the beautiful nature is the monastery of St. Nektarios, which has been operating for over 100 years. Interesting holidays are held here every year. The city center is adorned with the famous Kivernio building. It was the seat of the first government after independence, the bishop of Eginsky lived, refugees were hiding, a women's school, an archaeological museum worked.

Now it houses the Historical Archives of Greece. In the vicinity of the capital, it is proposed to see the archaeological area of ​​Colon (the remains of the Temple of Apollo), ancient frescoes in the church of the Asomatia area. Get to Aegina by ship from the port of Piraeus. Vessels of different comfort leave every hour.

Hydra

It is part of the Saronic group and is a favorite vacation spot for the inhabitants of Athens and the intelligentsia coming from many countries. In ancient times, it was almost uninhabited. It hid pirates and refugees. For many years, they were afraid to build private houses for permanent residence because of the constant raids of pirates. In the 18th century, the inhabitants mastered the principles of building ships, began to take an active part in sea trade.

The heyday of the main city of Hydra took place in the 16th century. Outstanding military leaders of Greece Miaulis, Kandouriotis were born on this island. Pablo Picasso and Marc Chagall worked here. Aspiring artists from Athens come here to work in the art academy workshops. The popularity of the small land area arose after the screening of the film "Boy on a Dolphin" with the participation of Sophia Loren in 1957. It quickly became a favorite destination for tourists.

There are few famous beaches (apart from Mandraki), but the city is always full of fun. Walking along the narrow stone streets, visiting 300 churches, 5 monasteries are especially numerous on weekends. Ships with passengers, snow-white yachts often sail to the only city in Greece where the use of cars and other vehicles is prohibited. Silence, beautiful nature contribute to a good rest. For longer stays, it is suggested to choose the Miramare Hotel.

Milos

The volcanic landscape and the richness of natural resources distinguish it from other land areas in the western Cyclades. He gained fame thanks to archaeological finds of the 19th century. The statue of Aphrodite, located in the Louvre, attracted lovers of history and ancient architecture to Milos. They were followed by a string of people who love active beach holidays.

The most popular resort is Pollonia. Modern hotels, well-thought-out infrastructure create opportunities for a full, interesting rest. During a break from beach activities, it is suggested to visit the archaeological area of ​​Filakopi and learn the history of the emergence of the Minoan civilization. Nearby is the famous Papafranga Cave.

Four snow-white rocks surround the entrance to the dungeon. You can ride on it by boat, admiring the beauty of the mysterious kingdom, which served as a refuge for pirates. There are many unique caves, catacombs, ruins of ancient fortress walls, monasteries. The capital city of Milos (Plaka) can be chosen as the main place of residence.

Patmos

Wildlife attracts many travelers here. More recently, it was a quiet, secluded corner of the Aegean Sea. Cozy beaches (Kambos, Grikos, Aspri, Vayo, Meloi), numerous taverns, bars, entertainment centers, rich history, over 50 churches, monasteries, the famous cave of the Apocalypse have made Patmos popular.

The apostle John lived in it and wrote the Revelation. The cave is a place of pilgrimage and worship. Nearby, at the top of Mount Chora, there is a 17th century monastery. Battlements, 5 chapels are visible from different parts of the city, the coastal strip. The monastery's treasury contains ancient Byzantine icons, embroidery, parchments, manuscripts, and frescoes.

Patmos is surrounded by headlands offering an extraordinary view of the sea. Many interesting caves are hidden among them. Nature has created conditions for recreation here for every taste. Most often they come here for the whole day, without staying overnight. Patmos has the only port of Skala. All ships come to it. In the XX century, it was included in the lists of the world heritage of the planet and was named the "Holy Island".

Samos

Beach lovers go to the greenest island, buried in tropical plants. The coastal slopes are striking with thickets of orange and olive groves. Palm trees, slender rows of cypresses, spreading figs, rare flowering plants create a wonderful coolness, a magical mixture of flower smells along with the sea breeze.

There are no large flows of tourists, which ensures the preservation of the pristine beauty. The best beach areas are Tsabu, Mikali, Tsamadu, Kokkari, Limonakkia. The coastal entertainment season runs from April to early November. At this time, you can swim, engage in any kind of sports activities on the water, climb steep cliffs to mountain waterfalls.

There is a piece of paradise in the Gulf of Pythagorea. The figure of the ancient sage Pythagoras rises above him. Most of his life he lived on this island. Epicurus, Aristilles, Aristarchus were born in this place in Greece. Pirates constantly robbed residents. It was uninhabited for almost 500 years (late 14th to 60s of the 15th century). Now they come here from Fr. Piraeus, Ikaria, Cyclades. From the territory of the neighboring state of Turkey.

Lefkada

Ancient white cliffs surrounding the western part of the Ionian Island gave it the name "White Island". Its main wealth is considered to be sandy beach areas. On the world-famous Kathisma beach, 7000 km long, you can simultaneously be on the shores of the turquoise sea and under natural sun canopies created by the roofs of overhanging rocks.

Many caves have formed in the rocks, available for inspection. Their size is striking, for example, ships were hiding in the Papanikolis cave during the hostilities. On one of the slopes, the buildings of the town of Perigiali are frozen, where you can stay for rest. In my spare time it is interesting to know the history.

Look at the preserved ruins of ancient fortresses, monasteries, ordinary dwellings. Walk to the beautiful Nydri waterfalls, visit the Archaeological Museum, art gallery. An important attraction is the bridge leading to the mainland. From here you can see the fortress of St. Mavra, the town of Lefkada with its special architecture.

Skiathos

Tourism began to develop here recently. Numerous beaches (equipped and wild, in small coves) quickly gained popularity. Water sports, well-equipped roads for driving cars, mopeds, motorcycles attract guests here.

The opportunity to visit nightclubs, cafes, restaurants, noisy discos made Skiathos interesting for young people. The best beach areas are located in the southern part. This is Koukounaries, Banana nudist beach. Elias. Mandraki, Agistros Beach, Hanemos, which turns into a fun open-air disco at night. Burtzi fortress is located near the central harbor.

It used to be the main residence of the Venetians. Now it houses a library, theater, museum. Many monasteries have survived. Among them are "Panagia Kunistra", "Evangelistria". The most lively place in the main city is the beautiful embankment. There are boutiques and cafes on it. restaurants, taverns, souvenir shops. Geographically, it is part of the Northern Sporades group.

Ikaria

Like any other island in Greece, Ikaria has an interesting legend of its origin. The mythical hero Icarus fled from about. Crete and collapsed into the sea (Ikaria) near the island named Ikaria. On the embankment of the capital, Agnos Kirikos, you can see a monument in the form of the legendary wings. The favorable climate, natural products grown in Ikaria, and numerous beaches with easy access to the sea make it a popular summer destination.

This is especially important for combining it with healing treatment in radioactive hot springs. Since ancient times, water from 8 sources has been used here. Perhaps this is one of the reasons for the appearance of long-livers of Greece in this place. Now on the basis of the sources, health resorts have been created, SPA salons are operating. The best beaches in Ikaria are Fles, Miliopo, Armeistis, Prioni, Kampos, and the beaches of Yaliskari.

There are many small towns and villages. The Koskini fortress, standing on the top of Mount Afera and visible from any point, is considered a symbol. There are convenient observation platforms inside the fortress. Archeology lovers can walk through endless caves where artifacts from ancient civilizations have been found.

Ithaca

According to ancient legends, Odysseus reigned on Ithaca. History buffs are still looking for archaeological items to support this fact. An important port of the Mediterranean Sea, Ithaca was the capital of the Ionian Kingdom and was distinguished by its power. Today it has become a favorite destination for tourists. Romantic coves, pristine beaches (Loutsa, Filliatro), groves of tropical trees are conducive to a good rest.

The main attractions can be seen in the capital city of Wathi. After settling in one of the hotels in the city, it is proposed to start your acquaintance with the cave of Nymphs Marmarospili, the settlement of Alalkomena, associated with the legend of Odysseus. Near the spring of Arethusa there is a cave in which the swineherd Evmeus sheltered him.

On the coast, it is a pleasure to snorkel, participate in sports activities on the water, rent a boat, yacht, participate in trekking in the beautiful surroundings, and go rock climbing. In the evenings, there is an opportunity to sit in small cafes, taverns, decorated with original paintings by local artists.

Naxos

The land area in the center of the Aegean Sea is often called the island of Ariadne. Walking along its rocky streets, surrounded by marble walls of ancient buildings, it seems that heroes from ancient legends come to life and participate in modern life. The impression is enhanced by looking at the Portara gate (the supposed entrance to the Temple of Apollo), the Kastro fortress, the Baseos castle.

You begin to believe that Dionysus was born here, Zeus lived. It is considered the largest of the Cyclades archipelago. On it there is a high mountain Zas, towering over the sea. There are numerous churches and windmills along Naxos. Residents were among the first to make sculptures from snow-white marble. Ancient statues of youths (kuros) are in the Archaeological Museum of Athens. The tourism business is starting to develop and more and more guests come here every year.

It is proposed to spend a beach vacation on a 100-kilometer coastal zone (Saints George, Procopius, Anna), there is an opportunity to sunbathe, swim, participate in various sports activities on the water. For lovers of nightlife, many cafes, nightclubs are open, open-air discos are held in the rays of an unusually beautiful sunset.

Chios

It is located in the eastern part of the Aegean Sea and is famous for its sandy beaches, amazing architecture of small villages, famous mastic trees.Since ancient times, their inhabitants have used mastic (called "Tears of Christ") for many purposes: medicinal, cosmetic, to obtain drinks, sweets. For accommodation we offer rooms in hotels, luxury hotels, villas, apartments.

It is best to start your acquaintance with hiking through the streets of its villages. There are no such beautiful houses in other parts of Greece. They are decorated with original ornaments made in the xist style. This is the medieval settlement of Pyrgi, Olympi, where there is a cave with numerous stalactites, stalagmites. See the rock of Daskalopetra, on which Homer taught his students. Nea Moni Monastery XI century.

The pristine nature, sandy, pebbly beaches (Karfas, Mavra Volna, Gerita, Ayia Markela) provide recreation areas equipped with everything you need. Fun on the water, walks on the sea on yachts, catamarans, water skiing are very popular here. Along the coast, there are cozy bays for secluded relaxation. In the cities of Karfas, Chios, there are many nightclubs, restaurants, places for entertainment.

Paxos

A small, green paradise on earth, lost in the Ionian Sea, among century-old olive trees (there are over 3000 of them here), ancient healing springs, allows you to spend an unforgettable vacation. The population is about 2500 people. They grow olives and produce the best oil in Greece. Residents are always glad to tourists and offer expensive stone villas and apartments for living.

Three small towns: Gaios (capital), Logtos, Lakka. According to an ancient legend, the sea god Poseidon formed two islands with a blow of a trident: Paxi and Antipaxi. It is convenient to see them during a boat tour. At the same time, listen and visit at least one of 40 sea caves hidden behind the majestic and mysterious arches of overhanging rocks.

Hiking will take you through the Sacred Olive Grove, next to the ancient wells for collecting rainwater and will lead to the famous healing springs. In addition to an amazing beach holiday, you can evaluate their effect on your own body. And also rare wines "Phidia" and "Petrokorinf" are offered.

Karpathos

The tourism business on the island of the Aegean Sea has begun to develop recently. Surfers from all over the world were the first to discover amazing places (near Leakey Cape) for their favorite activities. Luxurious beaches (for example, Afiartis) began to often receive guests, surprising with their capabilities. Modern resorts have grown (Kira-Panagia). Here are the best beaches, taverns, restaurants in Greece.

It annually hosts the famous festival in honor of the Assumption of the Virgin. In the second half of August it is filled with crowds of tourists. Small settlements (Volada, Pilies, Ofos, Stes) come to life from bright national costumes.

The sounds of ancient windmills, the dizzying aroma of plants. Virgin nature, original Greek settlements with their traditions have become popular among lovers of unexplored routes. During the hikes, you can see the ruins of the ancient settlement of Potideon, the ancient acropolis in Arkas, the ruins of a Christian temple of the 4th century. The capital is the city of Karpathos. It has many modern buildings, including comfortable hotels and inns.

Nisyros

Volcano lovers choose a trip here. You can live here for several days, having agreed with the locals or staying in hotels in the only city of Mandraki. Most often, tourists choose an excursion visit to Nisyros. At this time, you can see the main attraction: the active volcano Nisyros. It erupted for the last time many years ago. But the volcano is alive, active.

Its underground sounds are heard, yellow sulfur is constantly emitted, filling the surroundings with an unpleasant smell. The road leading to the asleep abyss is difficult. The inhabitants kept it like this to show real volcanic power and so as not to disturb the sleeping giant Polybotes, according to the existing ancient legend. The walk among the smoking craters takes about an hour. Then the route covers the sights of the city of Mandraki. Its blue and white architecture is similar to the famous city of Santorini.

You can see the ruins of the Paleokastro fortress, wander through the medieval streets, visit the museum, the Church of the Cave Virgin. Women suffering from infertility constantly come to her, and she helps them. The journey ends on the same day. But you can stay here at least for a day to hear the sounds of life lurking next to the volcano.

Andros

Located in the Aegean Sea. A necklace of majestic mountains, canyons, steep slopes, endless citrus groves, streams of falling water flying into the sea have made it one of the most beautiful of the Cyclades archipelago. Now it is a well-developed tourist center of the country. 99 beautiful beaches surround it on all sides along a 110 km coastline.

The created infrastructure allows us to satisfy any needs of vacationers: lazy beach, active among sea activities, hiking in the surroundings. The most popular are the beach recreation areas Vligada, Limnaki, Zorkos, Pyrgo. Modern buildings of hotels, the main tourist center are located on the coast among the beautiful landscape, cozy villages.

There are many restaurants, cafes, swimming pools, entertainment centers for children and adults. Magnificent health resorts, spa salons offer services based on the treatment with healing water from local springs. In your free time, it is recommended to visit the capital, the ancient city of Chora. Walk along the footpaths lined with marble slabs, admire the architecture of elegant old mansions, visit its museums and churches.

Skopelos

Or otherwise Kalokeri (Summer), who became famous for the filming of the film Mamma Mia. In the group of the Northern Sporades Archipelago, it is not the greenest, but its numerous bays with secluded beaches, an abundance of fruits, natural healing agents, has made it an attractive holiday destination for the population of large cities in Greece for a long time.

125 churches, numerous burial places of different civilizations of mankind, mild climate make staying on it comfortable and pleasant. Here are the famous beaches of Velona, ​​Stafylos. Unlike other resort islands, silence, tranquility, and the pristine beauty of nature reign here. During walking tours, guests are invited to climb to the top of Mount Delphi, travel above the pine groves and see four depressions in the rock, preserved traces of the life of their ancestors.

These niches are burials of the Neolithic era. According to the existing legend, somewhere here lies the ashes of the first ruler Staphilus or the son of the legendary names of Aphrodite and Dionysus. Finding a place to stay is easy. These are the usual offers of hotel rooms, villas, apartments.

Lemnos

In accordance with ancient mythology, a small piece of land in the Aegean Sea was called the island of the fire god Hercules. It appeared as a result of the efforts of an ancient volcano. There are myths about Aphrodite, the Odyssey of agronauts led by Janson, the origin of the Minians from the connection of the Amazons with them. Life on Lemnos has been going on for over 2,500 years. His settlement Polinochia is one of the most ancient places of residence in Europe.There is no massive influx of tourists here.

Despite the fact that in terms of the length of the beaches it ranks fourth among all the islands in the country. Most of the beach areas are located in the vicinity of the capital. Among the best sandy beaches are Makrys Yalos, Louri, Agios Ioannis, Keros with a comfortable, gentle slope into the sea. There are many hotels with rooms of different levels: Porto Myrina Palace Hotel, Porto Plaza Hotel, Varos Village, Lemnos Village Resort Hotel. It is useful for vacationers to know that it is difficult to find more aromatic white dessert and dry wines in the whole country than in Lemnos.

Alexandrian Muscat vineyards allow you to create real wine masterpieces according to the ancient traditions of winemaking. Even the folk wine with “retsina” resin turns out to be special here. For a long time, you can remember the taste of the local feta cheese, "kalafaki", ripening in traditional baskets that form an amazing pattern on the cheese heads. Or Akhiladelis halva made from sesame seeds.

Travel will be a pleasure at any time of the year. You just need to know that the climate here is Mediterranean with dry warm summers, humid, cool winters. Choosing a summer vacation in August, you need to prepare for the heat above 40. The high season is the period from June to September. Surrounded by three seas, the warm sea helps to withstand the heat.

To avoid the influx of tourists, it is recommended to plan your trip in July. In August, it is better to make a choice in the resorts of the northern regions. From November to April, mountain resorts with ski slopes, acquaintance with the sights will fill the enthusiasts of active recreation with impressions. At this time, the popularity of resorts located near thermal springs increases.

Choosing a place to stay with children is a difficult problem. It all depends on the child's age, physical fitness, health. The general requirement is the convenience of beaches, a safe sea, comfortable living. The best time to travel with children is May, June, September, October. It is very hot here in July and August. The group of islands in the Ionian Sea has some of the best areas for families. These are Corfu, Zakynthos, Rhodes, Kos, Thassos are often chosen in the Aegean Sea. In the archipelago of Northern Sporades, Skiathos and Skopelos enjoy the advantage. Alonissos. Eastern Sporades call to rest on Samos, Chios, Lesvos. The Cyclades offer an experience of incomparable Santorini.

Islands of Greece on the map