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10 must-see attractions in Zagorochoria

The region of Zagorochoria is the first in preference destination of montane Greece. Behind the Mitsikeli mountain there are 52 villages surrounded by wild nature, lakes, gorges and countless species of flora and fauna. From the famous Vikos Gorge to the Stone Forest and from the stone-built bridges to the Ovires and the waterfalls, the visitor has so many choices that they certainly will not leave disappointed. Wear your sports shoes and set off to…

Discover the most important attractions in Zagorochoria

13 must-see attractions in Thessaloniki

The capital of the North has been a crossroad for cultures that left their marks on the city. Its history, buildings, museums and archaeological sites hold the interest of the visitor unabated with their every step. From the city’s emblem, the White Tower, to the Byzantine Castle and from the Nea Paralia (New Seafront) to the area of Ladadika, Thessaloniki will guide you through trails that you will remember forever.

Discover the most important attractions in Thessaloniki

13 must-see attractions in Chania

Chania is the favorite destination in Crete. The city of Chania, the villages, beaches and dozens of activities, attract people all year long and mainly during the summer. A walk around the Old Town, a dive at Elafonisi and Balos, an excursion in Paleochora, a cruise at Gramvousa and, of course, the countless glasses of raki are only a few of the reasons to visit the beautiful region of Chania.

Discover the most important attractions in Chania

20 must-see attractions in the Peloponnese

The Peloponnese, the largest peninsula in Greece and the birthplace of the Olympic spirit, awaits for you to explore it end-to-end. From the mountainous Arcadia to the majestic Messinia and from the Laconian land to the historic Ilea, Morias will captivate you with its attractions and hidden beauties. Large cities and small villages, seas and lakes with crystal waters, mountains and picturesque ports, as well as world-renowned monuments are only some of the reasons to visit it.

Discover the most important attractions in the Peloponnese

15 must-see Attractions in Santorini

The first questions that come to mind of whoever decides to travel to Santorini are “What should I see and do”. Santorini is a gorgeous island with its strong weapon being the rare geological attraction, the Caldera. But this on its own is not enough to fill your days. However, this should not concern you, as you will have so many things to see and do that at the end of the trip you will be saying “I could use a few more days”! We present you with the best attractions in Santorini.

Check out the best Attractions in Santorini

13 must-see attractions of Athens

The capital of Greece invites you to explore it and learn about all the hidden secrets of its history, through many activities and sites. Athens will leave nobody indifferent, as there is always something to see and do. From 1the Acropolis to Kifissia, and from the ancient to the modern, Athens is one of the best once-in-a-lifetime destinations! The capital of culture, the city that birthed democracy, science and fine arts, opens its arms and welcomes you.

Discover the most important attractions of Athens

The Acropolis

The Acropolis is the most significant ancient monument of the western world and among the five most important of world history. The top of the rock of Acropolis has been adorned, for 2,500 years, by the imposing presence of the Parthenon. The temple of Parthenon has exquisite architecture, while awe is the only feeling that one is bound to experience while standing in front of the living history of our world. On the Sacred Rock you will also see finds that date back to 3,500 BC, such as the Erechtheion, the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Monument of Agrippa and more. Finally, from the Parthenon you have the chance to gaze at the wonderful view of the entire basin.

Suggested visit time: 1.5-2 hours
Open: Every day 08:00-17:00 (30 minutes before closing).
Cost: Standard ticket 20€, Reduced 10€, Free for Children >18, Unemployed (Standard Combo for all public archaeological sites: 30€, Reduced 15€).

 The know-it-all says: Every year around 7 million people visit the Parthenon!

White Tower

The city’s emblematic tower is undeniably its most DoDo attraction/monument, attracting hundreds of visitors daily. The 34 meters tall tower is divided into six floors that each host collections with the city’s history. At the entrance you receive a free audio guide*, which offers lots of historical information about the tower, as well as the city. The magic, though, is captured at its top, where, after going up 96 wide, spiraling steps, you will have the chance to admire a panoramic view of the beautiful city of Thessaloniki. It is worth mentioning that the rooms are not air-conditioned, which makes the summer tour a bit hard. Finally, the ideal time to visit it is right before sundown, so you can enjoy the amazing colors in which the sky dresses the Nymph of the North.

*The audio guide is not given to Greeks, as everything is written in Greek

Suggested visit time: 1-2 hours
Open: Every day. November-March 09:00-16:00 & April-October 08:00-20:00. Closed: Easter, May 1st
Cost: High season (April-October) Standard ticket 4€ – Reduced 2€. For the rest of the year 2€ general entrance. Free for unemployed, university students, school students of the E.U.

 The Know it all says: In 1890, tower-imprisoned Nathan Guéledi agreed to whitewash it, in exchange for his freedom. Since then, it is referred to as Beyaz-Kule, namely the White Tower!

Nea Paralia (seafront)

The new seafront is the ideal place to spend a few hours and get…lost in its beauty. Thousands of people of every age, couples, groups and families visit it daily, to relax, exercise and spend some carefree hours, gazing at Thermaikos Bay. Along it you will find the imposing statue of Alexander the Great, the fountains’ square and the umbrella-themed artwork, which became a must attraction since the first day of its installation, in 1997. Furthermore, from the Opera House to the White Tower, there are theme parks, sports courts and canteens, which make it even more interesting. The ideal time to visit it would be around dusk, when all the colors of the sky get entangled with the sea’s reflections, offering a magical result. Cross it on foot, on a carriage and by single or family bike (rent HERE). Care for a walk at Paralia.

Important: The hours when it is less crowded are 08:00-10:00 in the morning and 15:00-17:00 in the afternoon (on weekdays). It is safe throughout the whole day and night

Suggested visit time: 2-3 hours
Open: Always
Cost: Free

 The Know it all says: Thessalonikians used to swim there, before it was landfilled!

Vikos Gorge

This gorge mesmerizes even the most “difficult” of the visitors with its rare, natural beauty. Its numbers and records are nothing compared to the unique, natural images that you will come across. The best way for one to enjoy it is by crossing it through the trail (O3), which starts at Monodendri and ends up at Vikos. The trip lasts for about 7(!) hours and it is safe and accessible almost all months of the year. Also, there are shorter routes starting from there (40 minutes up to 3 hours), which offer equally charming sights of the area. The most suitable months for you to walk through it individually are March-October. But if you choose to do it with an organized group, you can cross it any season you like. The main prerequisites are basic fitness, good mood and comfortable clothing, so you can move easily in all conditions.

Suggested visit time: 40 minutes-7 hours
Open: Always
Cost: Free (individually) – up to 40€/person (organized group)

 The know it all says: Because of its rare diversity, it has become a meeting point for the top climbing teams from all around the world!

Nafplio

Anapli, as Nafplio is otherwise called, is the town where you would like to stay forever! Quiet but lively, coastal with high hills, modern with very long history, beautiful…like no other! It will win you over from the very first minutes. It could not be any other way, since the combination of red (rooftops) and grey (walls) on a blue-green background (sea) prevails on your every look! Walking around the neighborhoods of the old town, you will get lost in the beauty of the venetian and neo-classic buildings, while the bougainvilleas and cordial residents will be filling your photographic canvas.

Learn everything about Nafplio through the Complete Guide

 
Suggested visit time: 2 days

 The know-it-all says: The famous 999 steps of Palamedi are only 913!

The 3 Bridges: Noutsos’ or Kokkoris’, Plakidas’, Misios’

At a distance of about 3km you will find these three historic, stone-built bridges. They were constructed in different time periods, from 1748 to 1814, while each one of them bears its own architecture and story. Cross Plakidas’ bridge with the three arches and get lost in nature’s serenity. Explore Kokkoris’ famous bridge, in which there is the cave that bandit Davelis was hiding in. Finally, follow the path from Kokkoris’ bridge and proceed to the one of Misios’. It is a smooth trail of 1.4km in distance (around 25 minutes), next to the Voidomatis river. The sounds of the birds and water will make you feel relaxed and refreshed.

Suggested visit time: 2-3 hours
Open: Always
Cost: Free

 The know it all says: In the entire Zagori region, there are 93 stone-built bridges!

Old Town

The old town is by far the most beautiful part of Chania. Among the dozens of narrow streets, hide aspects and buildings of the city’s Venetian history that have remained unchanged until today. Almost every building has been restored, while maintaining the style of the past. The dozens of colors, in combination with the bougainvilleas and the stores that are full of people, keep it alive through day and night and offer the city the most wonderful tone. In the streets there are dozens of taverns, cafés, bars and hundreds of tourist shops to buy your souvenirs. We advise you to get away from the commercial streets and wander around the more remote, and even the ones that lead to a dead end, because that is where the beauty of the old town lies. You do not need to rush and pressure yourselves, close your eyes and let the narrow pathways lead you to the best places…They know best!

Suggested visit time: 3-4 hours
Open: Always
Cost: Free

 The know it all says: The Kastelli Hill, which is located in the heart of the city, has been inhabited since 5500 BC!!

Oia

Oia could be characterized as the Ekali of Santorini! It is pinned on the north part of the Caldera and it is a daily attracting factor for thousands of people, as (by all accounts) it has the most wonderful spots for one to enjoy the sunset. Along the central, luxury walkway of Oia you will find tens of stores for shopping, to have some coffee or a drink, as well as for dining. Oia also stands out for its marvelous churches, the Venetian castle of Agios Nikolaos, the windmills and its colorful streets.

Suggested visit time: 1-2 days

 The know-it-all says: In Oia there are more than 60 churches!

Elafonisi

Elafonisi is included in the top 10 most beautiful beaches in the world and not unjustly! It is a real gem, as the combination of the blue-green, crystal-clear waters, the pink sand and the natural lakes can only cause positive impressions. Elafonisi is washed by the Libyan as well as the Cretan sea and it is a worldwide famous destination for swimming. The beach might not be fully organized, yet it has umbrellas and loungers, which you can use without charge. In the area you will also find showers, dressing booths and a store to grab a quick bite and get water. The beach is pretty long and has unique beautiful traits on every spot, so if you want to see them all, it would be best to move around constantly.

Suggested visit time: 4-6 hours
Open: Always
Cost: Free

 The know it all says: Its real name is Lafonisi, based on the loot (λάφυρα in Greek, read as “lafera”) that pirates used to hide on the island (no connection to Deer –or Elafia as read in Greek)!

The Acropolis Museum

The New Acropolis Museum is one of the main points of interest, not only in Athens, but the entire Greece. Built under the shadow of the imposing Parthenon, it is today one of the best and most modern museums in the whole world. The artificial and natural light, in combination with the setting of the exhibits, offer the visitor a wonderful journey to one of the most important civilizations of Antiquity. The Acropolis Museum hosts exhibits across more than 14,000m², among which the ones that stand out the most are the Caryatids and the Parthenon Frieze. The building’s architecture and the hundreds of years old statues, fill the visitor with images and knowledge.

Note: It is important to book a tour so that you know what you are looking at.

Suggested visit time: 2-3 hours
Open: Check the hours here.
Cost: General entrance 5€, Free for Unemploeyd, Students, Children >18.

 The know-it-all says: The white marble statues were once painted with vivid colors!

Arch of Galerius (Kamara)-Rotunda

The triumphant arch of Galerius is one of Thessaloniki’s most important monuments. It stands at the heart of Egnatia Street for more than 17 centuries and symbolizes the city’s prosperity, after the battles against the Persians. Nowadays, it goes by the name of “Kamara” and it is the most popular meeting point for Thessalonikians and especially students, as it is located next to the campus. 200 meters north of it we find one more impressive construction of Galerius (UNESCO monument), the Rotunda, which used to be directly connected to the arch. It may seem empty, but it carries a long history, as it has been an important religious site, being the Metropolis of Thessaloniki for a few years (before being transformed into a mosque by the Ottomans). The site’s redevelopment and restoration lasted for almost 100 years, while its gates opened to the public just in 2015. The extremely affordable ticket and the heavy heritage classify it as a monument worthy of visiting.

Suggested visit time: 30-40 minutes
Open: Kamara: Always. Rotunda: Every day, Winter Schedule: 08:00-17:00 & Summer schedule 08:00-19:00
Cost: Kamara: Free. Rotunda: Standard ticket 2€ – Reduced 1€. Free for unemployed, university students, school students of the E.U.

 The Know it all says: The tram line used to pass under the Kamara until 1954 (when it was abolished)!

Trip to Santorini’s volcano (Nea Kameni)

A visit to Santorini’s volcano (Nea Kameni) is something that is considered a given. The trip is divided into visiting the volcano (Nea Kameni) and optionally the thermal springs (Palea Kameni) and Therasia. Meet the place where everything began and climb up to the top of the volcano (20-minute ascent). Walk around the large crater (named Daphne) and you will be impressed by the topography and the sulfur smell that oozes from the ground, reminding us that the giant still exists.

Mini tip: Daily trips from the old port that start from 10:30-12:00 (only for the volcano) and 11:00 & 14:00 (springs & volcano).

Suggested visit time: from 1.5 hour (volcano) up to 5 hours (volcano-springs-Therasia)
Open: Every day
Cost: from 12€ (volcano) to 25€ (volcano-springs-Therasia)

 The know-it-all says: The volcano’s latest explosion happened in 1950!

Kolympithres (Ovires) Papigo

On your route from Mikro to Megalo Papigo, or vice versa, you will come across the Rogovos stream. Between these two villages, the stream has created small craters, which are called ovires or kolympithres. It is another one of nature’s beautiful creations, with crystal clear waters that flow down mount Gamila’s springs. Do not hesitate to dive, of course only if the weather and your stamina allow it, since the water is very cold, even during the summer months. You should always be careful, as the spots that the sun doesn’t shine on are slippery and there is chance of falling. For the bold explorers we recommend the waterfall, which is at the end of the demanding route. The best seasons to visit them are spring and summer.

Note: Outside the ovires there is space for 10-12 cars, which means that during high season it will be hard to find parking space.

Suggested visit time: 1-1.5 hours
Open: Always
Cost: Free

 The know it all says: Even Ali Pasha of Ioannina used to enjoy his bath into ovires’ cold waters, during the summer season!

Paleochora

Paleochora is located on the south border of the district and it is a great choice for a day trip. To reach the Nymph of the Libyan sea it will take you about 1.5 hours through a route full of turns, but the destination will compensate you in full. At the village you will have the chance to walk through cobbled alleys, visit the Venetian Fortress and find dozens of choices for food and drinks. Do not miss out on its night life. Paleochora may seem bare during the day, yet it is not, as it lives and breathes for the night, when the taverns and bars get swarmed with people. If you move west of the village you will find some of the most amazing beaches, the best one being the MAGICAL beach of Psilos Volakas. The beach has crystal-clear, turquoise waters, rocks for countless dives and quite the dose of peacefulness, as it is not (yet) famous. Going even further to the west, you will find the beaches of Grammeno and Krios that are worth making a stop for a swim.

Suggested visit time: 1 day
Open: Always
Cost: Free

 The know it all says: The European trail E4 passes through the area!

Mani

Mani, Doused in Light, Dressed in Stone! This blessed land hides inside it the beauty of the whole Greece. The visitor’s eye cannot move away from the wild beauty of the Maniot land, the stone-built Maniot towers and its clean, deep-blue waters. Mani also has a unique architecture, with stone having the first and last words. As for the sun, do not mind. It is “smiling” most days of the year, filling with light every stone-built mansion and making the arid land ever-thirstier!

Learn everything about Mani through the Complete Guide

 
Suggested visit time: 3 days

 The know-it-all says: Mani has never been conquered by enemies, this is why on its flag it bears the motto “Victory or Death” and not “Freedom or Death”!

Monemvasia

Monemvasia is a castle-town in Peloponnese taken out of a fairytale! A small piece of land with unsophisticated beauty that calls you to get to know it, any season of the year. But is it an island or part of the mainland? Probably something in-between, as it used to be a part of mainland Greece, until it got detached after a powerful earthquake. It is now accessible through only one road, and specifically through a bridge, to which fact it owes its name. We are talking about the most romantic excursion, the most beautiful castle-town of Greece, and maybe even of Europe, Monemvasia!

Learn everything about Monemvasia through the Complete Guide

 
Suggested visit time: 2 days

 The know-it-all says: It is called “Gibraltar of the east”, as it resembles the well-known rock of Gibraltar!

Plaka-Anafiotika

Welcome to the oldest –possibly- neighborhood of Europe, the beautiful Plaka. In the most picturesque area of Athens, with the low houses and the bougainvilleas, time seems to have stopped. The area is an oasis inside the chaos of the metropolis with its dozens of narrow alleys inviting you to get lost in the magic of old Athens. To a time when laternas, the milkman and the newspaper delivery boy were the only things that raised db levels! In the shadow of the Sacred Rock of the Acropolis you will also find a neighborhood that is the extension of Plaka, the Anafiotika. Through narrow, uphill cobbled roads and the Cycladic scenery, you will take a quick trip to…the Aegean.

Important: Escape the crowds and get lost inside the picturesque streets of the area. The quiet and colors will captivate you!

Suggested visit time: 4-5 hours
Open: Always
Cost: Free

 The know-it-all says: The neighborhood was built following the architectural style of Cyclades!

Hagia Sophia

This is the most prominent, paleo-christian byzantine temple of Thessaloniki and it has been proclaimed a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Hagia Sophia is located in the city center and carries a long history of 16 centuries, which make it one of the most important religious sites of Greece. Its interior is dull, as all of its murals were covered with dark colors during the period of the Ottoman occupation, when it was turned into a mosque. It also looks quite neglected, as the department of archaeologies does not often attend to its preservation. The few hours that it remains open, it attracts dozens of visitors that want to see it and attend its liturgies. Around the church, you will find lots of stores for shopping, coffee, drinks and dining, as well as the newly developed pedestrian street that gives you the chance to spend a few pleasant hours.

Suggested visit time: 30-45 minutes
Open: Every day 07:30-13:00 & 17:00-19:00
Cost: Free

 The Know it all says: This church has the highest pedestrian crossing rates in northern Greece!

Imerovigli

The well-known Imerovigli, which the Greek singer Christos Kyriazis was singing about, is a romantic village for the few, as the prices of accommodation sites are pretty high. But equally high is its location! As a matter of fact, the highest in Santorini’s Caldera, thus offering images of rare beauty. Wander around its uphill winding roads, gaze at the wonderful view from the balcony of Agios Georgios and walk down to the picturesque chapel of Agios Ioannis. From there you will also see the famous rock of Santorini, Skaros, which you can visit through a 15-minute long trip.

Suggested visit time: 2-3 hours

 The know-it-all says: The name Imerovigli (imera is Greek for day and vigla roughly translates to observatory) derives from the latin verb vegliare, which means to guard!

“God’s Balcony” (Oxia, Vikos gorge)

The exquisite route through the Stone Forest leads to the well-known Oxia viewpoint. From that point, a stone-paved path takes you to the famous God’s Balcony, which offers a breath-taking view of the world’s deepest (according to the Guinness Book of Records) gorge, that of Vikos. Both the trip and the perfect work of nature rivet and inspire awe. We do not recommend it to acrophobics, as the view into the void may frighten even those who are not afraid of heights! For the daring ones that would like to take the experience one step further, we recommend the narrow path (80m.) beyond the balcony, which leads up to the edge of the cliff. You should know that at this point safety is non-existent, so watch your steps. It is worth visiting the location in any of the seasons, while the best time to do so is before the sunset.

Suggested visit time: 40 minutes-1 hour
Open: Always
Cost: Free

 The know it all says: This spot offers a view of the gorge’s deepest spot (about 1km deep)!

Seitan Limania

The cursed harbors, or, as they are widely known, Seitan Limania, is one of the most beautiful beaches, not only in Crete, but in the whole of Greece. The unknown, until a few years ago, beach became famous fast, thanks to a few facebook posts! It is 20 minutes away from the city of Chania, while no introduction is needed for its white waters, wonderful seabed and the weird “s” shape that ends at the Cretan sea. Access can be achieved only on foot, after a 10-minute descent through an impromptu, steep* trail, which starts at the chapel. The best time to visit it is at 07:00 in the morning so you can be alone, away from the hordes of people that swarm the limited area of the beach. Get lost in the magic of the curse.

*Note: If the pathway that everyone follows is hard for you, prefer to go through the smoother trail on the left. It takes more time but it is not that steep.

Suggested visit time: 2-3 hours
Open: Always
Cost: Free

 The know it all says: The appellation “cursed” (“seitan” during the Turkish occupation) came from the dangerousness of the swell of the sea in the area!

Cretan Raki

The Cretans say that everything wonderful starts and ends with some raki! In the meantime, you should certainly not switch to another drink, but keep on with raki…It is Crete’s main drink, served in shot glasses and drunk in one gulp. Ask for it to be frozen (from the freezer) and indulge in it fearlessly. (Its quality and origin are, of course, of great significance, so you don’t wake up with a headache the next day, while its alcohol content is 18-24%.) Some refer to it with its second name, “tsikoudia”. No matter how you call it, one thing is certain; it should not be missing from your table. Caution: Under no circumstances should you start gulping down shots of raki if you have to drive. Cheers!

 The know it all says: The custom of “rakokazano” (=raki distillation) was established by Eleftherios Venizelos in 1920!!

Hellenic Parliament

The former Palace of Otto and George has been the temple of Hellenic democracy during the last few decades. The building is accessible for individual visitors, with tours in many areas. In front of the Hellenic Parliament stands one of the most important attractions in Athens, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. There you have the chance to watch the change of guard by the Evzones, which has no reason to envy the one at the Buckingham Palace. The change of guard takes place every hour, for all 24 hours of day, and lasts for about 15 minutes.

Important: Do not miss the change of guard on Sunday at 11 in the morning, when 120 Evzones create a one-of-a-kind spectacle! !

Suggested visit time: 1-2 hours
Open: Tour every Sunday 12:00 (upon reservation), Change of Guard daily, every one hour.
Cost: Free

 The know-it-all says: The construction of the palace cost 100,000 pounds, which were given by Louis from his personal fund as an interest-free loan!

Sunset in Santorini

It is no secret that Santorini is known to the entire world for its sunset. Thousands of people visit it every year just to see for themselves the red sun diving into the Aegean. There are tens of ideal spots, but the most well-known is the castle of Oia. You can also enjoy it from Fira, Firostefani, Imerovigli (Skaros), as well as from the Lighthouse, in Akrotiri. Alternative locations are Prophet Elias (Pyrgos) and the beach of Vlychada, with the volcanic landscape changing colorations as the sun is setting.

Mini tip: In order to reserve a spot in Oia, you must be there at least 2-3 hours in advance!

Suggested stay time: 2 hours

 The know-it-all says: 98% of visitors have watched the sunset from Oia at least once!

Byzantine Walls

The Byzantine walls are located at Thessaloniki’s northern part and they have protected her until today, 17 centuries later! The 7km-long walls did not only delimit the city, but they were also the strongest defensive weapon against any enemies. Walking along the Byzantine castles, you will take a journey through time, with the city’s living history by your side. Start your tour at the hospital of Hagios Demetrios and move uphill along them, making a coffee stop at the “Ohi” (=No) Boulevard. With the Nymph of the North lying under your feet, continue for the Trigono Tower, from where you will enjoy the best view of the city and catch a few breaths before the final destination, which is the Eptapyrgio or Thessaloniki’s Acropolis. Over there, among the rocks and ruins, you get to meet the prison of Yedikule and the historically significant surrounding space. Finally, take advantage of every standpoint that will offer you some very special views of the city.

Suggested visit time: 3-4 hours in total
Open: Always for the Castles and the Tower of Trigonio and 08:00-15:00 for the Eptapyrgio
Cost: Free

 The Know it all says: Their shape was trapezoid and their perimeter was almost 7 kilometers, of which only 3 have survived!

Agia Paraskevi Monastery

While exploring Zagorochoria, you will find many monasteries and churches dedicated to Agia Paraskevi, the most well-known located in Monodendri. Before sitting at the village’s square for some coffee or tsipouro, follow the stone-paved alley (400m), just a little down the road, in order to visit the Holy Monastery. What makes it stand out is its location, as it “sits” at the edge of the cliff and, more specifically, the world’s deepest gorge. It is stone-built, while the dark, low-ceilinged spaces, which used to serve as a shelter during the Turkish occupation, are really impressive. Do not miss out on going out to the balcony, where the amazing view will take your breath away and blow your mind! Also, from this point, you can play with your voice, through the famous echo.

Suggested visit time: 45 minutes-1 hour
Open: Always
Cost: Free

 The know it all says: Past the Monastery, there is a path that leads to vaulted caves, which used to serve as shelters during the Turkish occupation!

Elafonissos

Elafonissos, a piece of paradise colored turquoise! This unknown island of the Mediterranean calls you to get lost in its magical waters, explore its rich flora, as well as its full-of-history seabeds. Elafonissos will win you over with its simplicity, quiet and, of course, its magical beaches. The much-awarded Simos beach takes the lead, as it is on the list with the 10 best beaches in the world! Do not miss out on snorkeling at Pavlopetri, swimming at Lefki Beach, taking a walk at the natural sand-dunes and exploring the hidden caves!

Learn everything about Elafonissos through the Complete Guide

 
Suggested visit time: 2 days

 The know-it-all says: Before the bridge to the chapel of Ayios Spyridon was built, people would visit it by passing through the rocks!

Beloi viewpoint

Vradeto means hiking! Apart from the stairway, there is a trail that leads to another natural balcony. It is a trail of average difficulty, taking up 20-25 minutes, through an uneven, stone and dirt road, via a faint path. At the end you will find possibly the best spot to admire the gorge, with the view into the void being literally breath-taking. This path of rare beauty is suitable for families, children, couples and friends, who love hiking, while it is not recommended for elderly people and people with health issues. It should also be avoided by everyone when it rains, as the ground, at certain spots, gets swampy and makes its passage hard and dangerous. Finally, tracksuits and boots are a good choice of outfit, in order to feel comfortable during the entire trip.

Suggested visit time: 1-1.5 hours
Open: Always
Cost: Free

 The know it all says: You will find the same limestone slabs, as in the Stone Forest, on which you can lie, gazing into the void (zero safety)!

Balos

The lagoon of Balos is a story on its own, as it is a rare natural phenomenon, of unique beauty. The beach is constantly voted as one of the best in the world and it is protected by the European program NATURA 2000. Access to it can be achieved in two ways, either via cruise, or through the hard road network! Both ways have a positive and a negative. The cruise will get you there at rest (positive), but you will only have three hours to enjoy its emerald waters (negative). By car, on the other hand, you will be able to stay as many hours as you wish (positive), but to get there you will go through a small odyssey through rough roads and 30-minute walks (negative)! Whatever you choose, know that the –almost- boiling hot pools of water, the pink sand, as well as Balos’ emerald green waters will make you quickly forget any hardship.


Find and Rent a car in Chania.. HERE


Suggested visit time: 4-5 hours
Open: Always
Cost: Free

 The know it all says: Years ago, Prince of England Charles and Princess Diana’s luxurious yacht anchored at the beach!

Odontotos

The legendary train of Odontotos maintains its engines running for 120 years, conducting the route Kalavryta-Diakopto. It needs one hour to take passengers, tooth(!) and nail, from Diakopto up to Kalavryta, through the Greek Grand Canyon, the Vouraikos Gorge. The 22km-long trail offers unique images, having as allies the river, the beautiful tunnels and a big part of the area’s flora and fauna. Nowadays, new roads to Kalavryta might have opened, but the ride with the Odontotos train will always hold a place in our hearts.

Suggested visit time: 30 minutes–1 hour
Open: From Kalavryta: Every day 10:17, 12:43 & 15:28 / Weekends & Holidays 14:03 & 17:23. From Diakopto: Every day 09:05, 11:30 & 14:05 / Weekends & Holidays 12:49 & 15:30
Cost: 9.5€ one-way & 19€ round-trip. Children 4-12 y.o. get a 50% discount.

 The know-it-all says: The maximum gradient of the line at spots with buttress is 17.5%!

Fira

Fira or Thera is the capital of Santorini, which offers a plethora of options for food, drinks and shopping. It is also where the heart of entertainment beats, with many cafés, bars and clubs. You can take shopping trips around its streets, walk to the old port (and return with the lift), visit the remote church of Agios Minas and walk up to the famous Three Bells of Fira, in order to enjoy the beauty of Santorini. Finally, do not miss out on visiting Firostefani, an especially pretty settlement, located between Fira and Imerovigli.

? You will get the best view from the “Patsouli” point.

Suggested visit time: 2 days

 The know-it-all says: In order to reach the old port of Fira, you must climb down 588 steps!

Syntagma Square

The Syntagma Square is located in the heart of modern Athens, in front of the Hellenic Parliament. The large size, strategic location and beautiful structure render it a reference point for Athenians and tourists alike. The square hosts all the large gatherings, protests and demonstrations, while many historic moments (positive and not) have been written there, from the time it was constructed. The Syntagma Square is the busiest square in the entire country, while it is also the starting point for some of the most important streets of the city. Sit on a marble ledge and gaze at the people who pass by non-stop, even at night.

Suggested visit time: 30 minutes-1 hour
Open: Always
Cost: Free

 The know-it-all says: It is one of the 100 largest squares in the world!

Aristotelous Street-Tsimiski Street

These are the city’s most well-known and popular streets. Although they are both in the city center, they differ both in structure and appearance. The only common thing is that they are crossed! Aristotelous is a 500m long pedestrian street that starts at the seafront and its most striking feature is the Neo-Byzantine architecture. Columns, alleys and arches dominate each of the 12(!) buildings that surround it, reminding something of the Rue de Rivoli. At its start, you will find the largest and most famous square of the city, which hosts many restaurants and cafés. Also, from time to time, important events and happenings are being held there. Tsimiski Street, on the other hand, is the city’s most busy and commercial street. Along it there are more than 300 stores, like banks, multi-stores and a handful of catering stores. It’s the street than never “sleeps”, as it is full of life even after midnight. The two streets are so different but so beautiful as well, and you will grasp their vividness only when you pass by them in every hour. Finally, close to their junction, you will find the “Makedonia” mall.

Suggested visit time: 3-4 hours in total
Open: Always
Cost: Free

 The Know it all says: Tsimiski Street has existed since before the Balkan Wars and it was called “Second Parallel”!

Pyrgos Kallistis

Pyrgos Kallistis is (probably) the most beautiful village on the island! It is located just 5km away from Thera and it is also the highest settlement of Santorini! It is an uphill, picturesque village with plenty of churches and cobbled alleys, which hide souvenir shops, cafés and restaurants. At its top you will find the castle, from which you will take the best view in the village but also in the entire island. The beautiful images, quaint corners and tranquility of the village will relax you from the hustle and bustle of the island.

Suggested visit time: 2-3 hours

 The know-it-all says: The village is built on top of underground galleries that were used as shelters!