 The Arhanes village lies in the Temenos Region, just 15 kilometers from Heraklion and its inhabitation has been documented for over 5000 years. According to history, King Minos had a summer palace in the Arhanes village. Arhanes boasts beautiful mountains and neoclassical buildings, and is a beautifully preserved and protected village. Arhanes is a very important Minoan site, and contains several Byzantine Churches. There is a wine festival held each year in July to celebrate the town exporting of wine, raisins, and grapes. On the outskirts of Arhanes, you will find the Villa Arhanes, which is actually a lovely 19th century mansion that was recently converted into a small hotel. There are six houses facing a lovely inner courtyard. The Archaeological Museum holds many fascinating pieces from earlier ages, and the town is filled with quaint clubs and restaurants that offer authentic cuisine local to the area. The traditional section of Arhanes boasts narrow, natural slab roads, and stone buildings with tiled wooden roofs. |
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Arhanes Crete island Greece
Rethymnon Crete
 Rethymnon is the capital of the Rethymnon Prefecture and is located just 80 kilometers east of Iraklion and 60 kilometers west of Hania on the northern coast of Crete. To the east of Rethymnon you will find one of the largest sand beaches in Crete, a 12 kilometer beach, and to the west there is a rocky coastline that leads to another 10 kilometer stretch of beautiful beach. Rethymnon’s city limits are defined by the Fortetza, a large, beautifully preserved Venetian fortress which overlooks the lovely city below. Beautiful sights to behold while on Rethymnon include the Rimondi Fountain, which was built by A. Rimondi to provide citizens with suitable drinking water in 1626, and the Neratzes Mosque, which was formerly the Holy Virgin church, and used today as a music conservatory. The Porta Guora is the entrance to the town, and today is the only remnant of the defensive wall left. In the Folklore and History Museum you will find a beautifully restored Venetian building that houses cultural items dating back to the 17th century. The Archaeological Museum holds clay figures, funerary coffers, statues, and other objects dating back to the Neolithic and Roman periods. Rethymnon is the most mountainous province in Crete, and boasts a wonderfully warm and mild Mediterranean climate. Sunshine prevails most of the year and temperatures are mild during every season. |
Malia and Stalis Crete island Greece
 Malia is a beautiful coastal town and municipality on the Crete Island located just 33 kilometers east of Heraklion, in the beautiful and scenic Bay of Malia. Malia is the seat for the municipality of Malia which also includes the area of Stalis, as well as the village of Mohos and Krassi. Malia is primarily a tourist city, noted highly for its archeological sites and its thriving nightlife. Malia is one of Crete’s and Greece’s oldest inhabited areas.It provides a beautiful climate, as well as friendly locals. You will find a splendid array of gift shops, hotels, restaurants, and night clubs to enhance your stay in this beautiful coastal paradise. Very close to Malia’s old village are 5 km of beautiful sandy white beaches that offer the cleanest sea, perfect for swimming and water sports. The road through the mountain region south of Malia will provide you with a stunning glimpse of the hamlet of Krasi, which was used as a natural resort for some of Greece’s most famous contemporary writers. |
kreta ierapetra
 Ierapetra is a modern town located just 36 kilometers south of Aghios Nicolaos. It sits at the Southern coast of Crete, beside the beautiful Libyan Sea. It is the most southern town in Europe and faces the African coasts. Kreta Ierapetra is a very active tourism spot and is well known for its beautiful sandy beaches and mild climate. Most days on Ierapetra are spend in glorious sunshine. There are a number of beautiful and historic sights found on Ierapetra. The Venetian Castle of Kales, which was built in the 13th century, is today found in ruins, however it makes for a wonderful sightseeing adventure. The Church of Saint George, which was built in 1856 and the Church of Aghios Spyridonas, built during the 14th century are also wonderful places to visit. The Archaeological Collection and Folk Museum provide visitors with a look into the historical culture of this beautiful seaside paradise. |
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Hersonissos (Limin hersonissou) Crete Greece
 Hersonissos is located just 25km east of Iraklion, and is the most cosmopolitan city in Crete. Its existence dates back to the Hellenistic Period, and Hersonissos has maintained a continuous and lively presence throughout the Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Arab, Venetian, and Turkish Periods as an important and thriving port. Hersonissos is world known for its beautiful and scenic beaches and exciting night life, although there is much more to be seen in this historical and beautiful city. The village of Old Hersonisos was built due to the fear of pirates, and near here, Piskopiano and Koutouloufari overlook the busy resort of Limin Hersonissos. Places to visit while in Hersonissos include the Lychnostatis, an open air folklore museum, which allows a glimpse of the Cretan folk heritage, and AquaWorld Aquarium with samples of the local sea life. There are also many water game locations located within easy distance of Hersonissos, including activities for mountain biking, snorkeling, golfing, and horseback riding. Like many other cities located on Crete, the economy of Hersonissos is not solely based on tourism, but on agriculture also. During the fall when tourism is slower, many locals who normally work within the tourism realm earn their income helping with the olive harvest. |
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Heraklion (Iraklion) Crete island Greece
 Heraklion is the largest city in Crete and is the capital of Crete as well. Heraklion is also called Iraklio, and for centuries was known as Candia. The most popular visitation spot in Heraklion are the ruins of Knossos, which was the biggest center of population on Crete during Minoan times. This was the palace of King Minos, and is believed to be the starting point for the mythological Minotaur’s labyrinth. There are speculations that a port has existed in Knossos since 2000 BC, although no archeological evidence has been found to support the speculation. The current city of Heraklion was founded by the Saracens in 824 AD. Arhanes is also a beautiful town and is a wonderful excursion from Heraklion, with just a 30 minute or less drive. Arhanes has been sited as one of Crete’s most valuable archaeological sites. Climate on Heraklion is typically Mediterranean, with warm, dry summers in the lowlands, and cooler, more rainy days in the mountains. Frost and snow are very rare in the lowlands. The Heraklion International Airport was named after Nikos Kazantzakis, who was a Greek writer and philosopher. This is the second busiest airport in Greece, and is located just 5km east of Heraklion. |
Chania Crete Island Greece
 Chania is located along the northern coast of Crete, and is the second largest city of Crete and the capital of the Chania Prefecture. Chania enjoys a normal Mediterranean climate, with sunny and dry summers and mild and rainy winters. Between April and October you can expect practically every day to be clear and sunny. Minor early heat waves have been known to occur in March or April, during a Saharan dust event, but typically heat waves are not terribly common. Snows and frosts are also not common in Chania. For the most part, the weather is always beautifully clear and warm. Chania is filled with beautiful ancient visions and places to see. Despite the fact that during World War II Chania’s Old Town was bombed heavily, it is still considered to be the most beautiful urban district located on Crete. The central area of the old town, Kasteli, has been inhabited since the Neolithic times, and is found on a small hill next to the seafront. The Old Town’s main square is the Eleftherios Venizelos Square. Here you will find the heart of activities for tourists. Other beautiful landmarks to visit while in Chania are found in Kasteli. The Kasteli Archaeological Area and part of the Byzantine walls are very popular destinations to see. The remains of the Government House of Palazzo of the Venetians dates back to the 17th century, and the former Santa Maria de Miracoli Monastery was constructed in 1615. In Splantzia you will find the Dominican Monastery of St. Nicholas from the early 14th century, the Church of St. Rocco from the early 17th century, and the Minaret of St. Nicholas. On Halidon Street are located the Stivanadika, or traditional leather stores, and on bulwar Sabbionara you can visit the Church of Agioi Anargyroi and the Bulwark San Salvatore. Be sure to leave time to visit Kissamos, where you will find that the ancient Greek traditions and myths are still alive. |
Agios Nikolaos, Crete, Greece
 Agios Nikolaos is the capital of the Province of Lasithi, on the coast of Crete. It sits partially on the ruins of the ancient city, Lato pros Kamara. In this beautiful and tranquil city, you will find a beautiful view of the gulf of Mirambellou and the lake of Agios Nikolaos, which links to the sea by a narrow canalAgios Nikolaos derived its name from Saint Nicholas, who is the patron saint of Greece. Thousands of tourists visit Agios Nikolaos each year and enjoy the beautiful scenery, as it is the heartbeat of Crete. One of the main tourist attractions located in Agios Nikolaos is Spinalonga, which is the most famous island on Crete. The fortress was built during Venetian times with material used in an ancient fortress, and sits upon a beautiful rock in the Bay of Elounda. The climate in Agios Nikolaos is wonderfully warm during the spring and summer seasons, and mild during winter. |
Viotia Greece
Viotia or Boetia is a Prefecture located in central Greece. Viotia’s capital is Livadeia and Thebes is its next largest city. Viotia lies just north of Attica. The landscape in Viotia includes the Parnitha ranges in the southwest and a mining district in the southeast. There are mountainous areas in the south and the west. Mount Parnassus, Viotia’s ski resort is located in the western region. The climate in Viotia is typically mild during winter and hot during the summer. In the mountainous or higher areas, temperatures turn quite a bit colder during the winter, and cooler in summer.
Viotia’s capital, Livadeia, is built between two hills on the sides of a gorge. The springs of Erkina run through the gorge, and on top of the hill, Profitis Ilias, you will find a wonderfully preserved medieval castle from the 14th century. Livadeia is credited with being the site of the famous Oracle of Zeus Trofonios. Easter in Livadeia is celebrated with festivals in the Livadeian tradition. The entire township comes out for an open air barbecue and spitted lamb and kebabs are served, along with red wine made locally. Folk dancing and music carries the celebration well into the night.
Arhova is a mountainous town that has seen little change from modern development. It sits at an altitude of 940 meters, and the homes are built up the slopes of Mt. Parnassos. It sits above the valley where a river flows to Livadeia and the Cephissus River below.
Local inhabitants create beautiful handmade rugs and bags, and the local cuisine and tavernas are very popular. St. George’s day is celebrated in Arhova each year on april 23rd. The celebration endures for three days and includes men dressed in local costume racing, followed by a feast on roast lamb. Just 10km east is Distomo, where you can view rare and important archaeological finds. The monastery of Ossios Loukas holds mosaics and frescoes from the 11th century, thought to be some of the finest in Greece.
In Chaironia you will find many archaeological interests. Among them is the birthplace of Plutarch, near the battlefield where Philip of Macedonia defeated allied forces from other Greek states in 338 BC. The site of the battlefield was discovered in 1818, along the with Lion of Chaironia The Lion of Chaironia, an almost 20 foot tall symbol of bravery and courage, lies at Chaironia’s entrance. The ruins of the acropolis and theatre are near this spot.
The Byzantine Church of Dormition of the Virgin from the 9th century is found in Orhomenos, as well as the Mycenaean tomb, the Treasury of Minyes. The trout prepared in Orhomenos is well known throughout Greece as one of its most delicious locally prepared dishes.
In the city of Thebes, you will find many other archaeological interests. Thebes is said to have been the birthplace of Hercules. Oedipus is another hero of Thebes, and is known as one of mythology’s most tragic heroes. Also be sure to visit the remains of the Cadmea, the central fortress of ancient Thebes.
Just 18 kilometers from Thebes is Plataiai and Lefktra. Thebes also lies very close to Vathi, where the ruins of ancient Avlida is found. Avlida is the spot where Agamemnon sacrificed his daughter Iphigenia to the goddess Artemis.
While you are in the area, be certain to visit the beautiful beaches of Distomo, Andikira, Vathi, and Sarandi Beach, where you fill find lovely sand or pebbles. All the beaches in this area are beautifully clean, and offer wonderful clear sea water.
Viotia’s capital, Livadeia, is built between two hills on the sides of a gorge. The springs of Erkina run through the gorge, and on top of the hill, Profitis Ilias, you will find a wonderfully preserved medieval castle from the 14th century. Livadeia is credited with being the site of the famous Oracle of Zeus Trofonios. Easter in Livadeia is celebrated with festivals in the Livadeian tradition. The entire township comes out for an open air barbecue and spitted lamb and kebabs are served, along with red wine made locally. Folk dancing and music carries the celebration well into the night.
Arhova is a mountainous town that has seen little change from modern development. It sits at an altitude of 940 meters, and the homes are built up the slopes of Mt. Parnassos. It sits above the valley where a river flows to Livadeia and the Cephissus River below.
Local inhabitants create beautiful handmade rugs and bags, and the local cuisine and tavernas are very popular. St. George’s day is celebrated in Arhova each year on april 23rd. The celebration endures for three days and includes men dressed in local costume racing, followed by a feast on roast lamb. Just 10km east is Distomo, where you can view rare and important archaeological finds. The monastery of Ossios Loukas holds mosaics and frescoes from the 11th century, thought to be some of the finest in Greece.
In Chaironia you will find many archaeological interests. Among them is the birthplace of Plutarch, near the battlefield where Philip of Macedonia defeated allied forces from other Greek states in 338 BC. The site of the battlefield was discovered in 1818, along the with Lion of Chaironia The Lion of Chaironia, an almost 20 foot tall symbol of bravery and courage, lies at Chaironia’s entrance. The ruins of the acropolis and theatre are near this spot.
The Byzantine Church of Dormition of the Virgin from the 9th century is found in Orhomenos, as well as the Mycenaean tomb, the Treasury of Minyes. The trout prepared in Orhomenos is well known throughout Greece as one of its most delicious locally prepared dishes.
In the city of Thebes, you will find many other archaeological interests. Thebes is said to have been the birthplace of Hercules. Oedipus is another hero of Thebes, and is known as one of mythology’s most tragic heroes. Also be sure to visit the remains of the Cadmea, the central fortress of ancient Thebes.
Just 18 kilometers from Thebes is Plataiai and Lefktra. Thebes also lies very close to Vathi, where the ruins of ancient Avlida is found. Avlida is the spot where Agamemnon sacrificed his daughter Iphigenia to the goddess Artemis.
While you are in the area, be certain to visit the beautiful beaches of Distomo, Andikira, Vathi, and Sarandi Beach, where you fill find lovely sand or pebbles. All the beaches in this area are beautifully clean, and offer wonderful clear sea water.
Fthiotida Greece
Fthiotida offers a beautiful and scenic retreat year round that caters to every taste. In a land of beautiful majestic mountains, and clean, sandy beaches, Fthiotida is a picturesque destination located in central Greece. Fthiotida is well known for its beautiful summer resorts and mountain villages covered in oak trees, as well as the modern ski resorts and the many facets of Greek history scattered around the region. There are also many thermal springs that are equipped with tourism possibilities.
In Lamia you will view the pine covered slopes of Mt. Othris lying very near the Sperhios River. A Frankish castle sits above on a hillside, dominating the city from the stones of an ancient acropolis. On a separate hillside sit’s the 18th century church of Agios Loukas with a majestic view of the Maliac Gulf. A museum in Lamia holds a fabulous collection of Classical and Hellenistic archaeological pottery, sculpture, and statues.
Just 18 kilometers of Lamia lies Thermopylae. Here you will find the statue of Leonidas and the cenotaph of his 300 Spartans from the battle in 480 BC. Thermal springs bubble nearby, and just 3km away is the historic bridge of Alamana.
To the north is another very popular resort/spa called Kamena Vourla. This resort is well known for its healing waters and typical Mediterranean climate. Coastal towns in this region are well known for their beautiful beaches and fresh fish dishes, prepared in a true authentic Fthiotidan style.
Another wonderful and popular beach is at Livanates, where you will also find the Church of Agios Theodoros. Close by at the coastal Theologos you will find Martino, famous for its delectable myzithra cheese, which is quite similar to ricotta.
Just west of Lamia is Ipati. Ipati is one of the most significant historical towns found in central Greece. It is built on the slopes of Mt. Oiti, and offers visitors a panoramic view of the beautiful sea below. Just 7 kilometers from Ipati lies the Moni Agathonos, a 15th century monastery. The Museum of Oiti Natural History is found here, also.
Other places of interest in Fthiotida include the thermal springs of Platystomo, and Domokis, which offers a beautiful view over the Thessaly valley. The coastal town of Stilida, fishing areas of Karavomilos and Achladi, and the beautiful beaches of Pelasgia and Glifa are very popular also.
Pelasgia is another wonderful place to consider visiting while in Fthiotida. Ruins just outside the village are believed to be the remains of the ancient Larisa Kremaste, which was a settlement that dates back to the 4th or 5th century BC, during Byzantine times. The wall boundaries are still highly visible, and mosaics from an early Christian basilica are a wonderful sight to see just a short distance away by the shoreline. This ancient settlement was mentioned in Homer in connection with an ancient tribe, known as the Pelasgians, from which the modern village derived its name.
Elateia is also very worth a visit. Here you will find the Agora, a temple of Asclepius that contains a beardless statue of the god. There is also a theater and an ancient brazen statue of Athena. This ancient city was repeatedly destroyed throughout history and was subject to several earthquakes. Many excavation sites have not been successful due to these problems, with the exception of the temple of Athena. Inhabitation of this valley is dated as far back as 6000 BC.
In Lamia you will view the pine covered slopes of Mt. Othris lying very near the Sperhios River. A Frankish castle sits above on a hillside, dominating the city from the stones of an ancient acropolis. On a separate hillside sit’s the 18th century church of Agios Loukas with a majestic view of the Maliac Gulf. A museum in Lamia holds a fabulous collection of Classical and Hellenistic archaeological pottery, sculpture, and statues.
Just 18 kilometers of Lamia lies Thermopylae. Here you will find the statue of Leonidas and the cenotaph of his 300 Spartans from the battle in 480 BC. Thermal springs bubble nearby, and just 3km away is the historic bridge of Alamana.
To the north is another very popular resort/spa called Kamena Vourla. This resort is well known for its healing waters and typical Mediterranean climate. Coastal towns in this region are well known for their beautiful beaches and fresh fish dishes, prepared in a true authentic Fthiotidan style.
Another wonderful and popular beach is at Livanates, where you will also find the Church of Agios Theodoros. Close by at the coastal Theologos you will find Martino, famous for its delectable myzithra cheese, which is quite similar to ricotta.
Just west of Lamia is Ipati. Ipati is one of the most significant historical towns found in central Greece. It is built on the slopes of Mt. Oiti, and offers visitors a panoramic view of the beautiful sea below. Just 7 kilometers from Ipati lies the Moni Agathonos, a 15th century monastery. The Museum of Oiti Natural History is found here, also.
Other places of interest in Fthiotida include the thermal springs of Platystomo, and Domokis, which offers a beautiful view over the Thessaly valley. The coastal town of Stilida, fishing areas of Karavomilos and Achladi, and the beautiful beaches of Pelasgia and Glifa are very popular also.
Pelasgia is another wonderful place to consider visiting while in Fthiotida. Ruins just outside the village are believed to be the remains of the ancient Larisa Kremaste, which was a settlement that dates back to the 4th or 5th century BC, during Byzantine times. The wall boundaries are still highly visible, and mosaics from an early Christian basilica are a wonderful sight to see just a short distance away by the shoreline. This ancient settlement was mentioned in Homer in connection with an ancient tribe, known as the Pelasgians, from which the modern village derived its name.
Elateia is also very worth a visit. Here you will find the Agora, a temple of Asclepius that contains a beardless statue of the god. There is also a theater and an ancient brazen statue of Athena. This ancient city was repeatedly destroyed throughout history and was subject to several earthquakes. Many excavation sites have not been successful due to these problems, with the exception of the temple of Athena. Inhabitation of this valley is dated as far back as 6000 BC.
Evia Island
Evia, also known as Euboea, is the second largest of the Greek Islands, after Crete. It is separated from the very close mainland of Greece by the Gulf of Euboea and the Evripos Straits. It is long and narrow and seahorse shaped. If you are viewing Evia on a map, you may not realize that it is actually an island, you may, instead think that it is part of the mainland. Evia is connected to Mainland Greece via an iron bridge, there are also ferries, buses, and a railway for transports.
Evia is believed to have once been part of the mainland, and separated from it by an earthquake. Due to the fact that it lies in close proximity to a fault line, this belief has been deemed probable.
A main highway and ferries from many terminals provide transportation to the island, which is the center of attraction for tourists seeking natural beauty. Evia offers many towns alive with tourism or peaceful smaller villages that have maintained their ancient culture and traditions. Mountain climbers are amazed at the wooded mountainsides ripe for climbing. Other visitors simply lounge around on one of the many beautiful and peaceful beaches.
Halkida is Evia Island’s capital, and is the perfect starting place to explore the island in entirety. The roadway from Halkida to Eretria takes you past the Malakonta beach which is a tourist favorite, and then passes through the Vassiliko village which boasts a distinctive local color and a beautiful Venetian tower. The shoreline settlements of defiant and Kambos lies very close to this spot.
Heading south from here will take you to Karistos, which is overgrown with pinewoods and where fossils of prehistoric species have been found. Heading north from Halkida will land you in Steni Dirfios, which has maintained its traditional character and offers a wonderful starting point for a climb to the alpine rest hut.
Also located in Evia is Limni, a very charming township that is rumored to be the site of ancient Elimnion, where the wedding of Zeus to Hera was performed. The ancient temple, however, was destroyed long ago by an earthquake. Sights to be seen include the early Christian Church’s mosaics, the chapel of Zoodochos Pighi, and the Galataki convent, which was built over the site of an ancient temple of Poseidon, and is now occupied by nuns. The monastery of Osiou David geronta contains frescoes from the 17th century.
Artemision is a cape that looks across the straits to Mt. Pelion. Ancient history has linked it to the goddess Artemis who is believed to have gone there hunting. The remains of a temple found there are dedicated to Artemis. You will also find the churches of Agio Paraskevi and Agios Georgios here.
Pefki is north of Artemision, and is situated in a pine forest, offset by a beautiful serene beach. Just a bit from here will take you to Istiea, where legend says the sacred bulls of the goddess Hera grazed. Its port, Orei, offers a Frankish fortress which separates Istiea into two separate parts. On the west side, castle ruins can be seen. There is also a Byzantine church.
In Chalcis the bays are so confined that they have been said to give credentials to the legend of Agamemnon’s fleet having been detained there by high winds. Where the strait is at its most narrow in Chalcis, it is called the Euripus. The highly unique changing of the tides in this area have been notably recorded since the ancient ages. At one moment the current may run like a river in a single direction, and the next moment sees it running with the same force in the other direction. In the twenty first year of the Peloponnesian War, 410 BC, a bridge was constructed across this passage.
Evia is believed to have once been part of the mainland, and separated from it by an earthquake. Due to the fact that it lies in close proximity to a fault line, this belief has been deemed probable.
A main highway and ferries from many terminals provide transportation to the island, which is the center of attraction for tourists seeking natural beauty. Evia offers many towns alive with tourism or peaceful smaller villages that have maintained their ancient culture and traditions. Mountain climbers are amazed at the wooded mountainsides ripe for climbing. Other visitors simply lounge around on one of the many beautiful and peaceful beaches.
Halkida is Evia Island’s capital, and is the perfect starting place to explore the island in entirety. The roadway from Halkida to Eretria takes you past the Malakonta beach which is a tourist favorite, and then passes through the Vassiliko village which boasts a distinctive local color and a beautiful Venetian tower. The shoreline settlements of defiant and Kambos lies very close to this spot.
Heading south from here will take you to Karistos, which is overgrown with pinewoods and where fossils of prehistoric species have been found. Heading north from Halkida will land you in Steni Dirfios, which has maintained its traditional character and offers a wonderful starting point for a climb to the alpine rest hut.
Also located in Evia is Limni, a very charming township that is rumored to be the site of ancient Elimnion, where the wedding of Zeus to Hera was performed. The ancient temple, however, was destroyed long ago by an earthquake. Sights to be seen include the early Christian Church’s mosaics, the chapel of Zoodochos Pighi, and the Galataki convent, which was built over the site of an ancient temple of Poseidon, and is now occupied by nuns. The monastery of Osiou David geronta contains frescoes from the 17th century.
Artemision is a cape that looks across the straits to Mt. Pelion. Ancient history has linked it to the goddess Artemis who is believed to have gone there hunting. The remains of a temple found there are dedicated to Artemis. You will also find the churches of Agio Paraskevi and Agios Georgios here.
Pefki is north of Artemision, and is situated in a pine forest, offset by a beautiful serene beach. Just a bit from here will take you to Istiea, where legend says the sacred bulls of the goddess Hera grazed. Its port, Orei, offers a Frankish fortress which separates Istiea into two separate parts. On the west side, castle ruins can be seen. There is also a Byzantine church.
In Chalcis the bays are so confined that they have been said to give credentials to the legend of Agamemnon’s fleet having been detained there by high winds. Where the strait is at its most narrow in Chalcis, it is called the Euripus. The highly unique changing of the tides in this area have been notably recorded since the ancient ages. At one moment the current may run like a river in a single direction, and the next moment sees it running with the same force in the other direction. In the twenty first year of the Peloponnesian War, 410 BC, a bridge was constructed across this passage.
Piraeus Greece
Piraeus is the third largest city in Greece in terms of population, and because Piraeus’ commercial harbour is one of the Mediterranean’s most important. Piraeus is also Europe’s largest port in terms of passenger transportation, and the third largest port in the world. It is the terminus for the electric train service that is incorporated into the Athens Metro, the Line 1.
In medieval times, Piraeus was known as Porto Leone. It’s name was given because of a huge stone lion that guarded the entrance to the port.
When you visit Piraeus, you can walk around the central harbor which is shared by cargo and passengers from all over the world. The Kastella offers a beautiful view of the Saronic Gulf from atop a glorious hill covered with houses. Also plan to visit the Municipal Theatre which was built in the 1880s and dominates one of the city’s central squares.
The Monastiraki of Piraeus is a flea market where you can find wonderful bargains each Sunday.
The Maritime Museum offers exhibits of Greek Naval history that date back to at least 3,000 years.
Athens
Athens
Athens is the capital city, as well as the largest city in Greece. The history of Athens goes back at least 3,000 years. Athens was host to the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. Athens has many sights to offer including the Parthenon on the Acropolis, which serves as a landmark of western civilization. There are also a number of Roman and Byzantine monuments standing in Athens. Athens offers sunshine nearly every day, and access to beautiful beaches and scenic islands. Modern Athens is a metropolis of activity for visitors. From shopping to dining, there are many ways to enjoy the traditional Greek heritage in Athens. Due to its large number of four and five star hotels, Athens is currently the sixth most visited capital city in all the world. Planning a visit to Athens is planning a trip back in time to an era when gods and mystical creatures traveled the world, and the first Olympic Games were held in the 700’s B.C.
Embasies
(Phone Code 0030)
UNITED NATIONS INFO. CENTRE Amalias Ave. 36 Athens 01 5230640, 01 5230462
ALBANIA Karachristou St. 1 Athens 01 7234412
ALGERIA Eratosthenous St. 1 Athens 01 7264191-3
ARGENTINA Vas.Sofias Ave. 59 Athens 01 7224753, 01 7224710
ARMENIA Singrou Ave. 159 Athens 01 9318100
AUSTRALIA D.Soutsou 37 Athens 01 6450404
AUSTRIA Alexandras Ave. 26 Athens 01 8257230, 01 8257240
BANGLADESH Akti Miaouli 81 Pireas 01 4283315-7
BELGIUM Sekeri St. 3 Athens 01 3617886-7, 01 3600314
BELIZE Kifissias Ave. 62B Maroussi 01 6199200, 01 6182000
BOLIVIA Filonos St. 86 Pireas 01 4295206-8
BRAZIL Filikis Etairias Sq. 14 Kolonaki 01 7213039, 01 7234450
BULGARIA Stratigou Kalari St. 33A Psihiko 01 6748105-8
CAMEROON Kifissias Ave. 180-182 Neo Psihiko 01 6724415
CANADA I.Genadiou St. 4 Athens 01 7273400
CHAD Alimou Ave. 114 Argiroupoli 01 9916523, 01 9922774
CHILE Vas.Sofias Ave. 25 Athens 01 7292647
CHINA (PEOPLE'S REP) Krinon St. 2A Psihiko 01 6723282-3
COLOMBIA Vrassida St. 3 Ilissia 01 7231420
COSTA RICA Gr.Lambraki St. 4 Glifada 01 9680620-1
CROATIA Tzavela St. 4 Psihiko 01 6777049, 01 6777059, 01 6777033
CUBA Sofokleous St. 5 Filothei 01 6852276, 01 6855550
CYPRUS Herodotou St. 16 Athens 01 7237883, 7232727
CZECH REPUBLIC Seferi St. 6 Psihiko 01 6710675
DENMARK Vas. Sofias Ave. 11 Athens 01 3608315-6
DENMARK Akti Posidonos 26 Pireas 01 4225000
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC Evrou St. 23 Athens 01 7784381
ECUADOR Sotiros St. 6 Pireas 01 4223800-4
EGYPT (ARAB REP. OF) Vas. Sofias Ave. 3 Athens 01 3618612-3
EGYPT (ARAB REP. OF) Zalokosta St. 1 Athens 01 3618612 ,01 3621905
EL SALVADOR Sarantaporou St. 22 Kifissia 01 8077531
ESTONIA Patriarchou Ioakim St. 48-50 Athens 01 7229803
ETHIOPIA Dimokritou St. 5 Athens 01 3610766
FINLAND Eratosthenous St. 1 Athens 01 7519795
FRANCE Vas. Sofias Ave. 7 Athens 01 7297700
FRANCE Vas. Konstantinou Ave. 5 Athens 01 7290154-6
FYROM (LIAISON OFFICE) Marathonodromon St. 13 Psihiko 01 6749585
GABON REPUBLIC Aristidou St. 1 Athens 01 3541361
GERMANY Karaoli Dimitriou St. 3 Athens 01 7285111
GEORGIA Michalakopoulou St. 85 Athens 01 7289180-1
GUATEMALA 2nd Merarhias Stratou St. 3 Pireas 01 4138103 (AMFITRION TRAVEL)
GUINEA (CONAKRY) Pireos St. 226 Tavros 01 3423500-5
GUINEA (EQUATORIAL) Pilou 10, Paleo Faliro 01 6712737
HAITI Dimokritou St. 5 Athens 01 3610766
HONDURAS Vas. Sofias Ave. 86 Athens 01 7775802
HUNGARY Kalvou St. 16 Psihiko 01 6725337, 01 6723753
ICELAND Papanastassiou 60 & Kalari St. Psihiko 01 6726154,
INDIA Kleanthous St. 3 Athens 01 7216227, 01 7216481
INDONESIA REPUBLIC Marathonodromon St., Psichiko 01 6712737
IRAN (THE ISLAMIC REP.) Stratigou Kalari St. 16 Psihiko 01 6741937
IRAQ Mazaraki St. 4 Psihiko 01 6749690, 01 6722330
IRELAND Vas. Konstantinou Ave. 7 Athens 01 7232771-2
ISRAEL Marathonodromon St. 1 Psihiko 01 6719530-1
ITALY Sekeri St. 2 Athens 01 3617260
ITALY Meandrou St. 19 Ilissia 01 7239045, 01 7249117
JAPAN Messoghion Ave. 2-4 Athens 01 7758101-2
JAPAN Vas. Sofias Ave. 64 Athens 01 7233732
JORDAN P.Zervou St. 30 Psihiko 01 6744161
KUWAIT Marathonodromon St 27 Psihiko 01 6743593-5
LATVIA (LETONIA) Akti Posidonos 24 Pireas 01 4123138, 01 4177603
LEBANON 25 Martiou St. 6 Psihiko 01 6755873-4
LIBERIA Efplias St. 2 Pireas 01 4183191-3
LIBYAN ARAB JAMAHIRIYA Vironos St 13 Psihiko 01 6742120, 01 6742122
LITHUANIA Vas. Sofias Ave. 49 Athens 01 7294356
LUXEMBOURG Skoufa St. 11-13 Athens 01 3640040
LUXEMBOURG Tzavella St. 42C Psihiko 01 6721891
MADAGASCAR DEM.REP. Dimitressa St. 18 Athens 01 7242845
MALAYSIA Alimou St. 114 Argiroupoli 01 9922774
MALTA Efplias St. 2 Pireas 01 4185715-6
MAURITIUS Ê.Tsatsou St. 4 Athens 01 3246257
MEXICO Filikis Eterias Sqr. 14 Kolonaki 01 7294780-5
MOROCCO Mousson St. 14 Psihiko 01 6744209-10
NEPAL Irodotou St. 8 Psihiko 01 7220165
NETHERLANDS Vas.Konstantinou Ave. 5-7, Athens 01 7239701-4
NEW ZEALAND Kifissias Ave. 268, Chalandri 01 6874701
NORWAY Vas. Sofias Ave. 23 Athens 01 7246173
NORWAY Akti Miaouli 91 Pireas 01 4290780-9
PAKISTAN Loukianou St. 6 Athens 01 7290122
PANAMA Praxitelous St. 192 Pireas 01 4286441-7
PARAGUAY Alopekis St. 2 Athens 01 7249511-5
PERU Vas. Sofias Ave. 105-107 Athens 01 6411221, 01 6411321
PHILIPPINES Antheon St. 26 Psihiko 01 6721837, 01 6721883
POLAND (REP.OF) Chrissanthemon 22 Psihiko 01 6775740-1
PORTUGAL Vas. Sofias Ave. 23 Athens 01 7290096, 01 7290052, 01 7257505
ROMANIA Em. Benaki St. 7 Psihiko 01 6728875-6
RUSSIAN FEDERATION Nikiforou Litra St. 28 Psihiko 01 6726130,
SAUDI ARABIA Marathonodromon St. 71 Psihiko 01 6716911-3
SENEGAL Akti Miaouli 87 Pireas 01 4597000
SINGAPORE Kifissias Ave. 10-12 Maroussi 01 6834875
SLOVAKIA REPUBLIC Georgiou Seferi St. 4 Psihiko 01 6776757-8
SLOVENIA REPUBLIC Mavili St. 10 Psihiko 01 6775683-5
SOUTH AFRICA Kifissias Ave. 60 Maroussi 01 6806645-9, 01 6106645
SPAIN Dionissiou Areopaghitou St. 21 Áthens 01 9213123
SWEDEN Vas. Konstantinou Ave. 7 Athens 01 7290421
SWITZERLAND Iassiou St. 2 Athens 01 7230364-6
SYRIAN ARAB REP. Diamantidou St. 61 Athens 01 6711604
TAIWAN Marathonodromon Ave. 57 Athens 01 6876750, 01 6776750
THAILAND Taigetou St. 23 Psihiko 01 6710155, 01 6749065
TOGO Filellinon St. 7 Athens 01 6207200
TUNISIA Anthenon & Marathonos St. 2 Halandri 01 6717590, 01 6749791
TURKEY Vas. Georgiou B St. 8 Athens 01 7245915-7
TURKEY Vas. Paulou St. 22 Psihiko 01 6714828
UKRAINE Delta St. 2-4 Filothei 01 6856172
UNITED KINGDOM Ploutarhou St. 1 Athens 01 7272600
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA Vas. Sofias Ave. 91 Athens 01 7212951-9, 01 7218401
URUGUAY Likavitou St. 1C Athens 01 3613549
VATICAN Mavili St. 2 Athens 01 6743598
VENEZUELA Vas. Sofias Ave. 112 Athens 01 7709962, 01 7708769
YEMEN REPUBLIC Patission St. 9 Athens 01 5246324, 01 5220623
YUGOSLAVUA Vas. Sofias Ave. 106 Athens 01 7774355
ZAIRE Ariadnis St. 2 Filothei 01 6776706
EUROPEAN COMMISION Vas. Sofias Ave. 2 Athens 01 7272100UNITED NATIONS INFO. CENTRE Amalias Ave. 36 Athens 01 5230640, 01 5230462
Passport - Visa
To enter Greece one needs a valid passport or, for EU nationals, travel documents (ID cards). When registering in a hotel or pension in Greece, your passport or EU travel documents must be shown. Nationals of Australia, Canada, all EU countries, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, Iceland, Switzerland and the USA can stay in Greece for up to three months without a visa. Greek embassies have a list of other nationalities allowed in without a visa. The list changes, but includes nationals of the European principalities of Monaco and San Marino and most South American countries. Those not on the list, such as South Africans, need a visa. For an updated list of these nationalities, contact your nearest Greek embassy.
Take note that Greece will refuse entry to Somalian nationals with passports issued after January 1991 and holders of Yugoslav passports with a 'Macedonia' renewal stamp.
Greek embassies can provide assistance to travelers and are usually the best places to contact for the most recent information.
All foreign embassies in Greece are in Athens and its suburbs. There are consulates of various countries in Thessaloníki, Pátra, Corfu, Rhodes and IráklioSafety
If you come in summer, be prepared for hot temperatures: Bring sun-block, dark glasses, and a hat.
Tap water is generally safe, but bottled water is readily available and better to drink.
Restaurant food is generally safe to eat. Avoid dishes made with ground meat.
Although traditionally Greece has had a low crime rate, in recent years this has changed somewhat, with theft on the increase, particularly in crowded places like urban areas and holiday resorts. Don't be paranoid, as many people are scrupulously honest, but for your own peace of mind keep your valuables under lock and key at all times. Women may find that they experience a degree of harassment; the best way to deal with this is to make it very clear that you are not interested.
For emergency police reaction, dial 100. The tourist police emergency number is 171, and 166 is for medical response.Transportations
Air Travel
Greece has sixteen international airports, but only those in Athens, Thessaloníki, Iráklio (Crete), Rhodes and Corfu take scheduled flights. Athens handles the vast majority of flights, including all intercontinental traffic. Greece has an extensive domestic air network. The majority of flights are handled by Olympic Airways and its offshoot, Olympic Aviation. Olympic Airways has offices wherever there are flights, as well as in other major towns. Travelers can contact the Olympic Airways head office in Athens for more details.
Frequent ferries connect Igoumenitsa and Patrá with the Italian ports of Ancona, Bari, and Brindisi. Peraeus, the port of Athens, is the main gateway to the Aegean islands. Many nearby islands and points on the Peloponnese coast are served by hydrofoils, some of which go not from the main Piréas harbor, but from Zea Marina, about 3km away. Up-to-date timetables are published monthly by the Greek National Tourist Office. Ferries also sail from Rafína. Many mainland towns have services to nearby islands.
Greece has sixteen international airports, but only those in Athens, Thessaloníki, Iráklio (Crete), Rhodes and Corfu take scheduled flights. Athens handles the vast majority of flights, including all intercontinental traffic. Greece has an extensive domestic air network. The majority of flights are handled by Olympic Airways and its offshoot, Olympic Aviation. Olympic Airways has offices wherever there are flights, as well as in other major towns. Travelers can contact the Olympic Airways head office in Athens for more details.
International airport Athens (ATH) Located 27km northeastern of Athens, the new Athens International Airport, is accessible via "Attiki Odos", a six-lane motorway constituting the Athens City Ring Road. Public transport is provided by express airport bus connections with Athens center and the port of Piraeus on a 24 h basis, ensuring efficient transport of air travelers and facilitating linkage to key tourist attractions.
Approximate flight times: From London to Athens is 3 hours 15 minutes, From Los Angeles to Athens is 18 hours 35 minutes. From New York to Athens is 10 hours 10 minutes. From Singapore to Athens is 11 hours 25 minutes. From Sydney to Athens is 22 hours 5 minutes
Road Travel
Roads are fairly good. On the main roads, signs are in the Roman alphabet as well as the Greek one. Off the beaten track, signs are often only in Greek and you will need a working knowledge of the Greek alphabet to find your way. The speed limits are 50km/h (31mph) in built-up areas, 80km/h (50mph) outside built-up areas and 100km/h (62mph) on motorways.
Note that Greece has a high accident rate so make sure you drive defensively. Drive on the right-hand side and remember that safety belts are compulsory. Petrol prices are not regulated.
A full British or other EU driver's license is valid for driving in Greece. Most other nationalities require an international driver's license. This can be obtained before you leave home, or in Greece from the Automobile and Touring Club of Greece (ELPA). You will need your national driver's license, passport and a passport-size photograph.
Bus Travel
Buses link Athens and all main towns in Greece There are two terminals in Athens: Terminal A and Terminal B. For information on buses from Athens to the provinces, enquire at Terminal A, 100 Kifissou Street, Athens or Terminal B, 260 Liossion Street, Athens.
see also information of bus schedules
Inter-city buses are cheap, frequent and fast. Municipal buses within Athens and Thessaloníki display their number and destination on the front. Tickets can be bought before boarding from ticket booths near main stops, or from a corner kiosk. You will need to stamp your ticket in the machine at the door when boarding.
Train Travel
Trains are cheap but slow, with the exception of the express trains between Athens and Thessaloníki, which take six hours and fifteen minutes. Main routes run between Athens and Thessaloníki, Athens and Corinth, and Patrá and Kalamáta with international connections. The most spectacular rail journey in Greece is between Dhiakofton and Kalávrita.
Taxis
Taxis are cheap and are good value, even for long journeys, especially if you are travelling with friends. They should be metered. Drivers may pick up other passengers going in the same direction, but this will not reduce your fare. In Athens an empty taxi is often hard to find.
See also taxi fares in Greece
Frequent ferries connect Igoumenitsa and Patrá with the Italian ports of Ancona, Bari, and Brindisi. Peraeus, the port of Athens, is the main gateway to the Aegean islands. Many nearby islands and points on the Peloponnese coast are served by hydrofoils, some of which go not from the main Piréas harbor, but from Zea Marina, about 3km away. Up-to-date timetables are published monthly by the Greek National Tourist Office. Ferries also sail from Rafína. Many mainland towns have services to nearby islands.
Electricity
The power supply in Greece is 220 V AC at 50 Hz. You may require an adapter for the round two-pin sockets in use in Greece. Power cuts are not uncommon
Geography
Greece, officially known as the Hellenic Republic, is a state on the Mediterranean Sea, at the very tip of the Balkan Peninsula. It borders Albania, Bulgaria and the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia to the north, and Turkey to the east. Its beaches overlook the Ionian and Aegean seas. There are some 3,000 islands under the Greek flag, which comprise about 19% of Greece's total area. The sun-soaked coastline stretches over 13,676km (8,498 miles), providing some of the most magnificent and attractive beaches in the world. Greece is a relatively underdeveloped country agriculturally. Only 23% of the land is arable, and, although in the past Greece boasted some of the most wonderful forests in the world, now only some 20% of the country's area is covered in woodlands and forest.
Greece's capital city, Athens,(Population: 3,072,922 ) is also its largest, and is served by Piréas, which is the country's main port.
Time Zone
Greece is 2 hours ahead of Greenwich mean time (GMT), or 2 hours ahead of London, 7 hours ahead of New York, 7 hours behind Tokyo, and 6 hours ahead of Buenos Aires.
Phone Code
The international telephone access code is 30; the city code for Athens is 01, for Thessaloniki 031, for Heraklian 081, and for Corfu 0661. Omit the zero if calling from abroad. For international dialing instructions given in English, French, or German, dial 169. For directory assistance, dial 131.
Holidays
Holidays
Business holidays include New Year's Day (1 January), Epiphany (6 January), Lent (March; date varies), Greek Independence Day (25 March), Good Friday, Easter Sunday, and Easter Monday (March or April; dates vary), Labor Day (1 May), Holy Spirit Day (early June), Assumption (15 August), Ochi Day (28 October), Christmas Day (25 December), and Boxing Day (26 December).bussines hours
Banks: 8:00. to 14:00. daily, Friday 8:00. to 13:30. ,
closed Saturday, Sunday , and most holidays.
closed Saturday, Sunday , and most holidays.
Shops are open Monday, Wednesday and Saturday 9 am-3 pm and on Tuesday and Thursday 9 am-8 pm
Many tourist shops are open 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Gas stations are open 7 a.m. to 10 p.m Some are open 24-hours a day, 7 days a week.
Government offices: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily,
closed Saturday, Sunday and most holidays.
Language
The predominant language in Greece is Modern Greek (Demotike), with its origins dating back 3,500 years. English and French are also used as well as, to a lesser degree, German. Tourism is one of the largest trades in Greece, so visitors should get by with a basic understanding of any of these languages.
The main problem with a holiday in Greece is that you can feel totally illiterate. The Greek alphabet differs from the Roman one used in most Western countries, and not all street signs are written in both. But here are some useful phrases for you with the phonetic spelling.
Money
Currency: euro (EUR), formerly Drachma (dr)
Costs
Meals
Budget: US$4-8
Mid-range: US$8-20
Top-end: US$20-50
Banking Hours: each bank has its own but if you do your banking in the mornings, all of them are certain to be open from Monday to Friday, 08:00-13:00.
Credit Cards
All major Credit Cards as well as Euro-cheques are recognized and accepted in most hotels, shops, travel and car rental agencies and restaurants. Stickers in the front windows will advise you as to which cards are acceptable.
In case of loss or theft of your credit card call immediately:
Access
24 hour service
Tel.: 01-9503673
American Express Mon-Fri.:08:30-16:00
Sat.: 08:30-13:30
Tel.: 3244975-9
24 hour service
Tel.: (00-441273) 526840
Citicard (Citibank)
24 hour service
Tel.: 01-9290000
Diners
24 hour service
Tel.: 01-9290200
Eurocard/Mastercard
24 hour service
Tel.: 01-9503673
Visa International
24 hour service
Tel.: 01-9503673
TRAVELLER'S CHEQUES issued by all the major companies are widely recognized. You can cash your traveller's cheques in all Greek and foreign banks, exchange bureaus and big hotels, but do not forget to have your passport with you. Identification is necessary for the transaction.
Climate
Greece is perfect for those who enjoy the sun, as for over two thirds of the year the country basks under clear, sunny skies. Temperatures do vary, however. Winters are mild and rainy, with temperatures sometimes dropping to freezing point, especially in the north. Summers are long and dry, with extremes of 37°C (99°F), making the yearly mean temperature about 17°C (63°F). For those not overly fond of the heat, the mountainous areas offer some respite as they receive more rain in summer, and even snow in winter.
Rainfall figures vary, depending on the region. Thessaly is very dry, receiving around 38mm (1.5in). Portions of the western coast paint a different picture, however, receiving about 1,270mm (50in) of rain.
Greece can be divided into the northern and southern climatic regions:
Northern Greece
Northern Macedonia and the northern part of Epiros have a climate similar to the Balkans, with freezing winters and very hot, humid summers. Attica’s peninsula, the Southern Aegean Islands and the central and eastern Peloponnese have a typically Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and milder winters.
Snow covers the highest mountains during the winter, while the temperatures soar to 40°C (104°F) during July and August. During these months the meltemi, a strong northerly wind, sweeps the eastern coast of mainland Greece and the Aegean islands. The areas more to the south and to the west do not experience the meltemi.
Southern Greece
Crete stays warm the longest - you can swim off its southern coast from mid-April to November. Mid-October is when the rainy seasons starts in most areas, and the weather stays cold and wet until February, although there are also occasional winter days with clear blue skies and sunshine.
| Average air temperatures in °C | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Athens | Thessal. | Crete | Rhodes | |
| January | 10.2 | 5.0 | 12.1 | 11.8 |
| February | 10.6 | 6.6 | 12.2 | 12.0 |
| March | 12.3 | 9.7 | 13.5 | 13.6 |
| April | 16.0 | 14.2 | 16.6 | 16.6 |
| May | 20.6 | 19.4 | 20.2 | 20.5 |
| June | 25.1 | 24.2 | 24.3 | 24.7 |
| July | 27.9 | 26.5 | 26.1 | 26.9 |
| August | 27.8 | 25.9 | 26.0 | 27.0 |
| September | 24.2 | 21.7 | 23.4 | 24.6 |
| October | 19.5 | 16.1 | 20.0 | 20.7 |
| November | 15.5 | 11.0 | 16.7 | 16.5 |
| December | 12.0 | 6.8 | 13.7 | 13.3 |
| Average sunshine in hours per day | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Athens | Thessal. | Crete | Rhodes | |
| January | 4.2 | 3.1 | 3.8 | 4.4 |
| February | 4.8 | 3.5 | 4.3 | 5.2 |
| March | 5.9 | 4.8 | 5.7 | 6.6 |
| April | 7.7 | 6.8 | 7.6 | 8.0 |
| May | 9.4 | 8.1 | 9.7 | 10.0 |
| June | 11.2 | 9.9 | 11.7 | 11.7 |
| July | 11.7 | 10.5 | 12.0 | 12.1 |
| August | 11.0 | 9.5 | 11.2 | 11.5 |
| September | 9.2 | 7.7 | 9.4 | 10.1 |
| October | 6.7 | 5.3 | 6.4 | 7.8 |
| November | 5.1 | 3.9 | 5.0 | 5.9 |
| December | 3.9 | 3.3 | 3.9 | 4.5 |
Art - Culture
There are few places in the world with so rich and diverse an artistic and cultural history as Greece. In terms of archeology there are artifacts that are 200,000 years old, while architecturally Greece boasts Minoan and Dorian ruins dating back almost four millennia. Greece is also where drama originated, so there are plenty of ancient theatres to pick your way through
Museums
Greece is bursting at the seams with museums. Almost every single city, town, village, historical site, settlement and hole in the hedge has an archeological museum which details the archeological and historical significance of its surroundings
Historical Sites
There is certainly no shortage of these in Greece. Every city has their own specialties, like the Acropolis and the Ancient Agora in Athens, the Oracle at Delphi, the Palace of the Grand Masters in Rhodes Town, and so on. There are far too many to list here. It is suggested you get hold of a tourist map from the Greek Tourist Organization (EOT) which sets out all the ancient, Byzantine and medieval sites throughout the country. But some of the major historical sites you should make a special effort to see are listed below:
The Acropolis, Athens
The Ancient Agora, Athens
The Byzantine monument of Neá Móni on Chios
The Polycrates Wall and Eupalinos Tunnel at Pithagorio, Samos
The Oracle at Delphi
The Minoan palace city of Knossos, Crete
The ruins of Górtyn, Crete
Minoan ruined city at Phestós, Crete
Arch of Galerius, Thessaloníki
The White Tower, Thessaloníki
The Sanctuary of Isis, at Díon.
Dafní Monastery, Greece’s largest Byzantine monastery
Metéora Monasteries, perched on mountain outcrops, in Kalabáka
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