The beach is at the area of Nea Krini, on the south-east part of the city and it makes for a fun excursion. Start your walk by gazing at the sea from the “balcony” (upper level), take the pleasant route among the trees and pick one of the many benches to rest on. Then, go down to the marina where you will find a mini amusement park, the cafeteria and the playground next to the sea. The seafront (lower level) is also ideal for a bike ride, a walk or some jogging. During the summer months there are various events being held, while throughout the year the dozens of boats/sail boats work as an inspiration for artists and couples in love, who sit next to them. Finally, it is worth mentioning that along the seafront street (N. Plastira) you will find lots of cafés, taverns, fast-food restaurants and sweet shops. The best period to visit it is May to September.

*Route HERE

Suggested visit time: 1.5-2 hours
Open: Always
Cost: Free

 The know it all says: The marina has 242 spots for boats up to 30 meters long!

On the way to Elafonisi, do not miss out on visiting the Topolia Gorge, starting at the homonymous village and ending at the village Koutsomatados. Although it is just 1.5km long, you will need at least one hour to cross it. The route is easy and offers endless quiet and wonderful images of the mountainous Crete. But even more impressive are the vertical slopes, which go as high as 300m, and the mysterious caves that exist in its walls. According to the legend, fairies used to live in them, while Talos, the giant-guard of Crete used to rest in the gorge’s bed. Those of you that do not have the stamina or time to cross the gorge, visit the cave of Agia Sofia, located just above the road. After all this, the only thing you’re going to need is a shot of raki. We have the solution for this, too!

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

 The know it all says: In the Cave of Agia Sofia, a rare species of spider has been discovered that lives only there (Pholcus Creticus)!

If you are not a fan of uphill hikes in mountains and forests, then we have for you the Foloi Forest. No, we are not joking. The Foloi Forest is the only flat forest in Greece! The amazing oak forest is located 20km away from Ancient Olympia, while it is also known as Ilea’s balcony or the forest of the Centaurs. 42,000 acres await you for unique hikes, or rides with a bike or a 4×4. Follow one of the dozens of trails and admire the valley of Alfios River, the creeks and stone-built bridges of the area.

Suggested visit time: 1-2 hours

 The know-it-all says: In the forest there are around 5,000,000 trees that reach up to 20 meters!

The Attica Zoo is the largest and most organized zoo in Greece. Within an area of 200 acres, it hosts many species of birds, elephants, cheetahs, giraffes, crocodiles and many more. The attraction that stands out the most is the dolphins’ show, which is quite interactive and is included in the ticket price. Another wonderful note are the lemurs that climb all around you! All the areas of the park are clean and well-kept, while the living conditions for the animals are very good. It is worth mentioning that the park protects a lot of endangered species and supports many actions. The experience is strongly recommended for families, as both the number of animals and activities will leave children and parents with a wonderful taste.

Suggested visit time: 3-4 hours
Open: Every day 09:00 until sunset.
Cost: Adults 18€, Children 3-18 years old 14€, Children >3 years old Free. For more prices, see HERE.

 The know-it-all says: It started out as an Ornithological Park with the third largest collection of birds in the world!

Ancient Thera is built on Mesa Vouno, at an altitude of 400m. In order to reach the once bright city, you will have to travel a quite uphill, S-shaped route of 4km, which starts from the village of Kamari. But it is worth making the effort, as the view from the top will relax you, while your gaze will run as far as the black beaches of Perissa and Kamari, the hill of Prophet Elias as well as the Aegean Sea. Among the ruins of the archaeological site you will find agorae, temples, baths, churches, as well as the theater.

Mini tip: Before the entrance is also the starting point of the trail to Perissa.

Suggested visit time: 1-2 hours (including the climb up and down)
Open: Every day 08:30-15:00, Closed: Monday
Cost: 4€, Reduced 2€

 The know-it-all says: Santorini used to be known also as Stroggyli, Kallisti or Kallisto, Thera, Fileteri or Filotera, Kalavria, Karisti, Tefsia, Therameni and Renia!

A few kilometers away from the city center, in Maroussi, is the Mall Athens. It is a shopping center, based on international standards, which daily attracts thousands of visitors of all ages. Inside its five floors, you will find stores for clothing, footwear, cosmetics, technology, dining and cinemas. It is ideal for families, as many events and happenings for the young and the old take place often. Access is easy, while it offers parking upon charge. Visit it on a weekday, if you cannot stand large crowds, and enjoy some coffee on its balcony with a view of Athens.

Suggested visit time: 1-2 hours
Open: Commercial stores 10:00-21:00, Dining area 09:00-01:00.
Cost: Free

 The know-it-all says: The Stoa of Attalos used to stretch across two floors with a length of 120 meters each!

Close to Koum Kapi, on the east side of the old town, there is the Splantzia Square. The square was once the center of the city and was known as the “Turkish neighborhood”. There you will also find the Venetian church of Agios Nikolaos, which operated as a central mosque until the end of the Turkish occupation. But the square’s must is none other than the historic plane tree that stands proud in its center. Under its shade, only beys and aghas had the right to rest, while later lots of Greek Christians were tortured and hanged from it. Nowadays, the square is crowded with locals, who enjoy their coffee and cool off under the thick, centuries-old plane tree.

Suggested visit time: 20-40 minutes
Open: Always
Cost: Free

 The know it all says: It is the only temple in Greece that maintains a bell-tower and a minaret!

The next suggestion comes from the world of shopping and reminds something of the Mediterranean, as its name states. It is 11 km away from the city center and access to it can be achieved via car, taxi or bus. The mall has more than 160 stores for clothes and all kinds of products, 11 movie theaters and a specially designed dining area, where you can enjoy a meal, some dessert or a cup of coffee. Inside the mall, there are events held for all ages, in which you can participate! Both its interior and exterior spaces are extremely well-kept and clean, with the mall’s main concern being the customers’ comfort. The only disadvantage is the parking lot’s fee, which may be small, but it is unnecessary for such a place.

Suggested visit time: 2-3 hours
Open: Every day 09:00-02:00 (supermarkets & commercial shops. Closed on Sundays)
Cost: Free (unless you have a car; otherwise, you have to pay 1.5€)

 The know it all says: It attracts almost 8.000.000(!) visitors yearly!

Kalamata, the greek city widely known for its tasty olives, hand-made handkerchiefs and traditional dance, must “steal” some of your time. The Messinian capital surprises the visitor as it offers rich history, unique flavors and unforgettable moments of entertainment. During your visit, it is worth going up to the Frankish castle with the panoramic view of the city, get inside the Kalogreon Monastery (Monastery of the Nuns) and the church of Ayioi Apostoloi and walk in the railway park. Explore the old town, pass by the central square and walk along the beautiful coastal Navarinou street, next to the palm trees and the wonderful golden beach.

Suggested visit time: 2-3 hours

 The know-it-all says: The “Kalamon” olives that are produced in the region of Messinia are sold with the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) “Kalamata”!

Crossing the busiest and most commercial street in Athens, Ermou, you will come across the small and quaint Church of Panagia Papnikarea. It is a Byzantine church that has been standing in the historic center for more than 1,000 years. Inside, the half-faded murals and plain adornment denote the passing of time and offer moments of serenity. Every day many events take place in front of the church, while it is the perfect spot to feel the rhythm of Ermou Street. Try to visit it on a Sunday morning to attend the liturgy, accompanied by a Byzantine choir.

Suggested visit time: 20 minutes-1 hour
Open: Every day 08:30-15:00.
Cost: Free

 The know-it-all says: It is in the possession of the University of Athens for the needs of the School of Theology!

With their motto being “If you don’t walk, you cannot discover a city”, Thessaloniki Walking Tours offers a wonderful walk in the city. And to be exact, not the same walk, but a different one each time! Presenting targeted themes, the tour gives you the chance to discover some hidden secrets and places you have not heard of, and taste traditional Thessalonikian recipes. The walking tours take place in groups of 20-25 people, 1-3 times a week, during the months that the weather allows it. The drive, love and zest of those who are involved in this activity are what make it stand out and bring it high on people’s preference. The experienced guides have a lot to reveal…are you ready to listen.

Suggested visit time: 2-5 hours
Open: See the schedule
Cost: It varies, depending on the walk.

 The know it all says: In the city there are secrets of thousands of years, hiding before our very eyes!

The Municipal Garden and the Park of Peace and Friendship are the only green spaces inside the city. They are two beautiful and well-kept spaces that offer many breaths of fresh air and quiet. The Municipal Garden, with the old clock as its trademark, is very organized, since it has a cafeteria, a playground, swings, a mini zoo and lots of benches under shade. The Park of Peace and Friendship is on the top side of the Municipal Garden, it is smaller in size and not that clean and well used. Nonetheless, you can take a walk and drink a cup of coffee with a view of the lake and the old clock. Both parks are filled with people, especially in the afternoons.

Suggested visit time: 1-2 hours
Open: Always
Cost: Free

 The know it all says: It is here that the first municipal cinema in Greece started movie projections, and it is in operation until today!

Ammoudi Bay is located under the shadow of grandiose Oia and it is one of the most picturesque places in Santorini. Ammoudi is known for its taverns that serve fresh fish, right by the sea, while it is the point of departure for the caiques that take the daily trips to Therasia. Access is achieved through Oia by car or by climbing down the 200 steps. Do not miss out on taking a dive in the clear blue waters at the chapel of Agios Nikolaos, but also enjoy Santorini’s spectacular sunset from another point of view.

Suggested visit time: 1-2 hours

 The know-it-all says: It was the main port from where the Vinsanto wine was exported to all of Europe and Russia!

Between Elafonissos and the port of Pounta, four meters below the surface of the sea, hides an entire city. Pavlopetri, a 5,000-year-old city, was once a blooming textile industry, and due to a powerful earthquake it got lost in the bottom of the sea. Even though scuba-diving is prohibited, snorkeling at Pavlopetri is a pleasant way to explore it. Before the sunken city you find the Stroggyli lagoon, one of the most important wetlands in the area (Natura 2000).

Suggested visit time: 1 hour

 The know-it-all says: It is the most ancient sunken city it the world!

Kaiafas is located in the regional unit of Ilea, a bit outside the village of Zacharo, and it is known for its thermal springs. The lush green paradise, apart from the thermal baths, also surrounds a small lake, while it stretches over to the coastline, including a large area of sandy beach. It operates as a resort for those who wish to have hydrotherapy and do water sports inside a beautiful natural landscape. Between the pine forest and the beach you will find the old, picturesque train station (see photo).

Suggested visit time: 1-2 hours
Open: Always, Baths: 08:00-20:00
Cost: Free

 The know-it-all says: The temperature of the thermal waters ranges at 32-34°!

In the area of Paleo Faliro, in Athens’ southern suburbs, you will find the Flisvos Marina. On its walkway you can take walks, ride your bike or jog, while the lush green Flisvos park is offered for picnics. Around the marina there are stores and dining establishments, where you can eat or drink your coffee. The best time to visit it is during sunset, when all the colors are reflected on the water. At the Flisvos Marina you can also find the famous Averoff battleship, the legend of the Hellenic Navy, which nowadays operates as a museum.

Suggested visit time: 1-2 hours
Open: Marina: Always, Averoff: Tuesday-Friday: 09:00-14:00, Weekends & National Holidays: 10:00-17:00. Closed: Monday.
Cost: Marina: Free, Averoff: General entrance 3€, Reduced 1.5€, Children <6 years old, Unemployed and People with disabilities Free.

 The know-it-all says: The Averoff battleship weighs just 10,200 tons!

The modern side of the city is an alternative source for knowledge and spectacle. The Macedonian Museum of Contemporary Art is located inside the International Exhibition Center and it is open only 4 days a week. Its exterior space is decorated with many works of contemporary art, while inside you will find the permanent as well as the temporary exhibition with different themes, depending on the time period*. The works of modern art (paintings, sculptures, constructions) included in the permanent exhibition, radiate the museum’s extraordinary character, providing every visitor with the opportunity to interpret them in their own, special way. Besides, according to the great Greek poet Kavafis, the public’s eyes cannot grasp what the artist is seeing (free translation). Finally, the museum becomes even more colorful with the various educational, historical and musical events that are being held from time to time.

*During the time of our visit, it was dedicated to Yoko Ono.

Suggested visit time: 1-1.5 hours
Open: Thursday 10:00-22:00, Friday-Saturday 10:00-19:00 & Sunday 11:00-15:00 Closed: Monday
Cost: General entrance 4€ – Reduced 2€

 The know it all says: In the museum’s basement you will find the only ancient cobbled street of Thessaloniki!

The Municipal market of Chania is more than a century old and it is housed probably in the most beautiful building in the city. It was formerly the largest source of shopping for the locals, as it hosted fish-shops, butcher shops, greengroceries, shops for daily necessities and many small taverns. Today, it has been transformed into a tourist market, as souvenir shops and shops with –tourist- Cretan products have taken their place. Nevertheless, the aura of the old market is everywhere. The building is cross-shaped and has an entrance on each side. You can only wander around it on foot and it is a nice option to spend some time. Finally, you will find historical facts and photographs at its center.

Suggested visit time: 20-40 minutes
Open: Monday-Saturday 08:00-20:00
Cost: Free

 The know it all says: It hosts 76 shops-taverns!
 

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If you think that Santorini is majestic only during sunset, then you have not seen it wrapped in its black veil. The lights and the turquoise details, from the hotels’ pools, adorn the pitch-black caldera, while the lounge music from the bars and restaurants creates a chill atmosphere. You can enjoy the night scenery by taking a walk around the cobbled streets or have some drinks at the tens of bars in Fira and Oia.

Suggested visit time: All night

The fans of drone-taken photographs must put this island high on their list, as we are talking about the famous heart-shaped island! Actually, it is the small island on the south side of Sapientza. The main island (Sapientza) is uninhabited and has lush green, pristine vegetation and crystal-clear waters. You can swim in the golden beach of Ammos, swim over roman sarcophagi and walk to its southernmost point, where you will see rare plant species, as well as Cretan goats (Kri-Kris).

Suggested visit time: 2-3 hours

 The know-it-all says: South of the Messinian Oinousses is the Oinousses Shaft, or trench, which is the deepest spot of the Mediterranean (5,267m)!

The crystal waters of Santorini hide an underwater world that impresses all those who dare to dive a little deeper. Colorful sponges, corals, shells, octopi, lobsters as well as schools of small and large fish, make scuba diving in Santorini one of the most exciting experiences. Swim next to the active volcano, at Palea and Nea Kameni, explore underwater caves, small reefs as well as the island’s only visitable shipwreck (Nea Kameni bay). The options are many and cover all levels of difficulty.

Suggested visit time: half a day
Open: May-October
Cost: From 60€ per person

 The know-it-all says: Santorini has the largest submerged caldera in the world, 400m in depth!

The Panathenaic Stadium, also known as Kallimarmaro, is one of the greatest monuments in the world. Inside the oldest operational stadium, you have the chance to climb the tiers, run around the track and tour the roman gallery. The Kallimarmaro is inextricably tied to the Olympic Games, as it is the place where the Olympic flame is given away and the finish point of the Marathon Run. Visit it on weekdays, combining it with a walk at Zappeion and the National Garden. For the athletics enthusiasts, the stadium opens early for morning jogging.

Suggested visit time: 1-2 hours
Open: March-October: Every day 08:00-19:00, November-February: Every day 08:00-17:00, Morning jogging 07:30-09:00.
Cost: Marina: General entrance 5€, Reduced 2.5€, Children <6 years old and People with Disabilities Free.

 The know-it-all says: It is the only stadium in the world built entirely out of marble!

The Cultural Route is the easiest and cheapest way to meet the city. Through a route that starts and ends at the White Tower, you have the chance to discover 50 sites of historical interest. Furthermore, the live tour (Greek & English) conducted by one of OASTH’s (Organization of Urban Transportation of Thessaloniki) guides provides even more information about the city. A major disadvantage of the Cultural Route bus is that it is closed, which makes it really hard to take pictures. Take the ride in the afternoon hours in order to avoid the tourist traffic.

Advice: You can get tickets from inside the bus without any extra charges. Prefer the back seats for a better field of vision.

Suggested visit time: 1 hour
Open: Every day June-September 08:00-21:00, October-May 09:00-16:00
Cost: General entrance 2€, Reduced 1€

 The know it all says: The Cultural Route passes through the history of 17 centuries!

One of the most beautiful and well hidden beaches of the Laconian land is the Beach of Vlychada or Glyfada. It is located in the area of Zarakas, between Kyparissi and Monemvasia. White, pebbled, with cold, deep and clean waters, it is the perfect spot for a few dives. Although it is not organized, in the summer months there is a food truck, while the large parking space is suitable for camping. Do not get discouraged by the remote and inaccessible location, the combination of mountain and sea and the color contrasts will compensate you.

Suggested visit time: 1-2 hours

 The know-it-all says: At the beaches of the Laconian bay, the Caretta Caretta turtles create around 200 nests a year!

Athens is famed for its kalamaki and the vivid night life. It can easily be characterized as the night capital of Europe, since when lights go out it is time to party and revel till dawn! The dozens of bars, taverns with live music, the bouzoukia, the big clubs, theaters and concerts are only a few reasons for you to get out of your house or hotel at night. But you should be cautious, as dangers lurk in the city during the night. Stay away from them and consume alcohol with moderation, so that your outing is full of only wonderful moments.

 The know-it-all says: The oldest bar in Athens opened in 1958 and has remained open ever since (Au Revoir on 136 Patission Street)!

Boat trip in Santorini, an activity that will offer you unique images! Apart from the usual tourist trips, there are dozens of companies that organize private tours. Small boats, inflatables, sailboats, catamarans, and even luxury yachts await for you to sail towards an…unforgettable experience. The tours include (one or more of the following) rides around the volcano, the thermal springs, Therasia, beaches, scuba diving, food and of course a romantic ride with Santorini’s famous sunset in the background.

Suggested visit time: 4-5 hours
Open: May-October
Cost: From 30€ to 250€ per person

 The know-it-all says: The island is visited by more than 400 cruise ships every year!

One more ancient monument is located in the center of Thessaloniki and it is none other than the famous Greek-Roman Forum. It has been standing there for more than 23 centuries and, before being turned into a gathering point for Thessalonikians, it used to house ceramists’ and other merchants’ workshops. Nowadays, the site looks nothing like the old Agora, as the only features than stand out among the ruins are the Crypt, the conservatorium and the museum. In the summer, on the courtyard’s loan, picnic nights are organized, with music melodies, wine, a romantic attitude and Thessaloniki’s moon keeping everyone company. The Forum is not very popular, so you will not meet a lot of people, no matter when you visit it. Nonetheless, prefer to do so on a clear, sunny day.

Suggested visit time: 30-40 minutes
Open: Every day 08:00-15:00 Closed: Monday
Cost: General entrance 4€, Reduced 2€, Free for Students-Unemployed

 The know it all says: Some of the Forum’s sculptures were transferred to the Louvre Museum by Frenchman E. Miller in 1864!
 

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The Cave of the Lakes is not yet another impressive cave of the Peloponnese, but a unique geological phenomenon in the entire world. It is located in the village of Kastria, holed up in the mountain range of Helmos, just 17km outside of Kalavryta. The cave’s uniqueness is based on its continuous and cascading lakes (13!), as well as to the different stalactite formations. On the tour you will only cross a small part of the cave, while the specialized tour guide will inform you about its history and morphology.

Suggested visit time: 30 minutes
Open: Every day 09:30-16:30
Cost: Adults 9€, Children 4.50€, Students / Multi-child families / Unemployed and persons over the age of 65 (Upon showing of the respective document): 4.50€.

 The know-it-all says: Hippopotamus fossils were discovered inside the cave!

What does Santorini have in common with the lost Atlantis and Plato? The truth is hiding in the Lost Atlantis Experience Museum! Through an interactive and fun 9D experience you will feel the earthquake, the tsunami and the dust from the volcano’s eruption, while you will discuss with Plato’s hologram and find out information about his life. Finally, you will watch the morphological evolution of the island and study the amazing diorama of Atlantis. The only museum in the world dedicated to the lost Atlantis excites visitors of all ages.

Suggested visit time: 30 minutes – 1 hour
Open: Every day 10:00-21:00
Cost: General entrance 12€, Reduced 6€ (7-12 years old), Free for children under the age of 6

 The know-it-all says: More than 200 locations contest the “paternity” of the submerged city!

Patras, the widely known city of the carnival, hides beauties that you can discover all seasons of the year. Start your walk at the port and the beautiful church of patron saint Ayios Andreas, then walk in the streets of the old town with the neoclassical houses and grand villas and finally, follow Agiou Nikolaou street to go up to the Patras Fortress and gaze at the city from above. Close to Patras you will find wineries to taste the PDO Mavrodaphne wine, beaches with crystal waters as well as the impressive bridge of Rio-Antirio.

Suggested visit time: 3-4 hours

 The know-it-all says: The holy temple of Ayios Andreas has the largest dome in Greece and fits 5,000 people!

The temple of Apollo Epicurius is located in the village of Vasses in ancient Figalia, in central Peloponnese. The imposing temple is a work of Ictinus, one of the two architects of the Parthenon, this is why it is called “the Parthenon of the Peloponnese”. The well-maintained and impressive construct is the only one that combines all three architectural orders (Doric, Ionic and Corinthian). Unfortunately, for maintenance purposes, the building is covered and as a result loses part of its splendor.

Suggested visit time: 1 hour
Open: Every day 08:00-20:00
Cost: 6€

 The know-it-all says: It is the first monument in Greece that was recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Monument, in 1986!

Those of you that cannot travel to Paris for a photograph with the Eiffel Tower, just swing by to Filiatra of Messinia. Over there, there is a replica of the world-renowned French Tower…only 300 meters shorter! The donation of Haralampos Fournarakis (Harry Fournier) adorns the city since 1960, while the photographs with the “famous” tower at the background will even fool the most well-traveled. In the town, apart from the Eiffel Tower, you can also see the huge Geographical Globe (in front of the high-school of Filiatra) and the Medieval Castle of Fairytales.

Suggested visit time: 20 minutes–40 minutes

 The know-it-all says: It is one of the 30+ replicas that exist in the world!

Finikounda is a small coastal residential area in Messinia. Despite being considered as one of the most tourist-attracting resorts of South Peloponnese, it is characterized by quiet and peacefulness. The famous beach, with the golden sand and blue waters, stretches across the houses. After you visit the sea, enjoy some fresh fish at one of the taverns, having at the background the largest island of the Messinian Oinousses, Schiza. Finikounda is also a rallying point for close excursions to Koroni, Methoni and Pylos.

Suggested visit time: 2-3 hours

 The know-it-all says: It used to also be known as a tavern, as fishermen would stop there to rest and have a meal!

The Leonidio-Kosmas route should not be missing from a road-trip in the Peloponnese. The road passes through the Dafnonas gorge and the steep slopes of Parnonas, offering images of the Peloponnese’s wild beauty. At the middle of the trail, perched on the red slopes, the Monastery of Eloni will appear before you, as if it is hovering in the air. The road continues and ends up at the traditional residential district of Kosmas, where you can enjoy a coffee at its square, a meal with local meats or a syrupy sweet with honey, from the fir forest of Parnonas.

Suggested visit time: 1-2 hours

 The know-it-all says: The route of Leonidio-Kosmas-Skala of Laconia is called the “Road of the 100 days”, as it was completed in 100 days!

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