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Crete
It is the largest island in Greece and the fifth largest Mediterranean Sea and is one of the seven decentralized administrations from Greece. Its capital is Heraklion . Until the beginning of twentieth century It was also known by the name of Candía, which was applied to it by the Italian sailors and merchants of the Middle Ages . It was formerly the center of the Minoan civilization ( 2700 - 1420 BC ), considered one of the oldest civilizations of which there are records in Europe .
How to get to Crete
Plane: To get to Crete, like most of the Greek islands, the best option is undoubtedly the plane. In fact, the island of Crete has three major airports, two international and one domestic: the Nikos Kazantzakis International Airport in Heraklion (HER), the Ioannis Daskalogiannis International Airport in Chania (CHQ) and the small Sitia National Airport (JSH). Crete can be reached with direct flights from the main European cities, even with low cost airlines. only at the two international airports.
Boat: You can take a ferry from Piraeus, the port of Athens, to Crete. Shipping companies reach Kissamos, Souda (port of Chania), Rethymno, Agios Nikolaos and Sitia with connections that, in high season, reach the frequency of several daily trips. The trip takes 9-10 hours with fast ships, 18-22 hours with slower ferries. Crete is connected to other Aegean islands with various companies.
How to get there from airports
Public transport: It is a safe, cheap and reasonably punctual service that can be booked via the web or by phone. There are bus stations in the cities of Agios Nikolaos, Rethymno and Chania while Heraklion's main station, called “station A”, is located in San Koundouritio. The “B” is located near the Hania Porta station on the western side of the city center.
Taxi: they are still quite cheap in Greece; its price is around €1 per km. However, it is important to set the price in advance. There is a small surcharge at the port and airport terminals, as well as on some holidays (Christmas, Easter).
How to get around in Crete
Bus: Greece has a national service called KTEL. It is a safe, cheap and reasonably punctual service that can be booked via the web or by phone.
Car, motorcycle or moped: rental prices vary according to the type of vehicle, the duration of the rental and the season of the year. Compared to rental prices in other European countries, renting a car in Greece is not very cheap
What to see in Crete
Crete It is the largest of all the Greek Islands and is divided into four regions: chania, Rethymnon, Heraklion and Lassithi.
chania
Also known as Chania, it is one of the most interesting and beautiful cities in Crete. Located on the ancient settlement of Kydonia, it was inhabited since Neolithic times and after the destruction of Knossos it became the nerve center of the island of Crete.
If something stands out in the port, it is the Mosque of the Janissaries, the oldest Ottoman building in Crete, built in 1645 and which ceased to function as a mosque almost a century ago.
With the arrival of the Arabs, the city experienced a period of decline, but with the arrival of the Venetians, it flourished and became the “Venice of the East”.
Heraklion
The capital of the island is an almost obligatory place to see in Crete. The places more interesting are the Koules fortress that surrounds the port that was built in the 13th century, after the Venetians conquered the city. and for centuries it has fulfilled various functions: from storing food to recruiting prisoners; Agios Minas Cathedral, cathedral of the Orthodox Church of Constantinople seat of the Archbishop of Crete and one of the largest cathedrals in Greece, with a capacity to hold 8,000 faithful; the Fountain of the Lions (or Morosini Fountain), is the heart of the historic center of Heraklion. It is more than 400 years old and, in addition to its magnificent lions typical of Venetian art, it exhibits scenes from Greek mythology on its lower part.
The Minoan Palace of Knossos
About 5 kilometers from Heraklion you can see the remains of the palace of Knossos. Built around 2000 BC, it was the political and cultural center of the Minoan civilization. It is the oldest city in Europe; in its heyday it had up to 100,000 inhabitants; its ruins They were discovered in 1878. It was rebuilt after an earthquake and with the eruption of the Santorini volcano in 1450 BC came its final destruction.
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It is one of the most interesting museums in Greece It is located in the historic center of Heraklion . Its impressive contents are finds from the Cretan Minoan period, coming from the many important cities and palaces of Crete. The oldest pieces it houses date back more than 5,500 years and range from the Neolithic to Roman and Byzantine times. Some of its pieces are priceless and they contain mysteries not yet revealed, such as the famous clay disc of Phaistos. all your objects They make it easier for us to understand everything we can see in the archaeological sites of the island.
The Minoan Palace of Phaistos
Also called Phaistos it is 55 kilometers south of the city of Heraklion , in the Messara plain. Here the mysterious Phaistos disc was discovered in 1908, a clay disc with inscriptions on both sides and it is in the museum mentioned above. It is one of the biggest mysteries in archaeology, as its origin and purpose have yet to be discovered.
Agios Nikolaos
City located at one end of the deep Gulf of Mirabelou just 65 km from Heraklion. It was built on the ancient city of Lato, which became very important in the 3rd century BC, even minting its own currency. It is currently a very active tourist center due to its lively atmosphere, the picturesque physiognomy of the port and the city, its excellent beaches and the high quality of its tourist facilities A beautiful lake, Lake Voulismeni, occupies the center of the city and is linked to the sea by a canal built in 1870 to the port. In its As well as along the port, there are cafes and restaurants that make this place one of the liveliest places in the city.
Rethymnon
Between the big cities of Heraklion and Chania is Rethymnon, the third largest city in Crete. Although it is usually in the background at a tourist level, its historic center is beautiful: it has stone buildings, flowers hanging from the facades and Venetian patios. Luckily it has never suffered any natural disaster and is one of the best preserved on the island. The atmosphere is very lively thanks to the shops and restaurants that stay open late in summer. The most photographed point of the city is the Rimondi fountain, built in 1626 in the heart of Rethymnon and his Venetian fortress.
Arkady's monastery
Is close to Rethymnon being one of the places with more history to see in Crete since It has been a spiritual, religious and scientific center for almost eight centuries. It is an important space for memory, and even today it is part of the memory of Cretan independence from the Ottomans. Its Venetian church, located in the central courtyard, is a beauty. It can be reached by bus from Rethymnon.
Gortyn
Located 45 kilometers from the city of Heraklion with a history that has remained intact for more than 6,000 years and one of the largest archaeological sites in Greece. It preserves ruins from the Neolithic, the Minoan era and the later Roman era when the city was booming, being the center of power in Crete. The most interesting place they are the remains of the basilica of Agios Titos built in the 7th century following the Byzantine style.
Zeus' cave
Also known as Dikteon Antron, in addition to its impressive stalactites and stalagmites Near the village of Psychro on the Dikti mountain, east of Crete, on the Lassithi plateau, is this cave where, according to Greek mythology, the Titaness Rhea gave birth to Zeus. For this reason, the cave has been famous since ancient times and a place of worship for this great Greek God, as shown by the numerous offerings found in the place.
The small towns that occupy the area are surrounded by hundreds of traditional windmills with white blades. In the last century, the force of the wind was used as a motor for crop irrigation systems. Now new techniques have made them obsolete, but the Lasithi wind farm with thousands of windmills was the largest in the world.
loutro
It is located on the southern coast of Crete, at the foot of the Sfakia mountains. Located between Agia Roumeli and Chora Sfakion , this remote village is only accessible by a small path and in 20 minutes by ferry from neighboring Sfakia. In ancient times it was the port of Anapoli and for a long time it remained practically uninhabited. The arrival of tourism has turned it into a charming town of resplendent little houses overlooking the sea.
The Beaches of Crete
Elafonissi Beach
Turquoise water beach with fine pink sand, it looks like the Caribbean. The remains of shells on the shore make the sand look pink. The water is better than in a swimming pool, crystal clear, shallow and calm despite the wind. It is famous for the aforementioned pink sand and turquoise waters
Matala Beach
It is located to the southwest of the Island. At the end of the 60s became famous for welcoming the followers of the hippie movement. many dwelt the caves built by the Romans as tombs centuries before. Now it has become one of the most famous beaches in Crete. Surrounded by cliffs and caves, it has a unique landscape.
Mirabello Bay
It is one of the main treasures of Crete. There you can enjoy some of the best beaches on the island. One of the best would undoubtedly be Voulisma by crystalline waters. It is about a 20-minute drive from Agios Nikolaos. If you want to arrive by bus, there are also several frequencies a day from Agios Nikolaos.
Stavros Beach
near Chania, It has gone from being a fishing village to a great tourist destination thanks to its spectacular beach. In addition to having fine sand and turquoise water, the most original is the landscape that surrounds it. To its On one side stands a mountain famous for having appeared in the final scene of the film Zorba the Greek. It has all kinds of services: showers, lounge chairs and restaurants on the seafront.
Falassarna Beach
Another recommended stop to do in Crete, near Chania, for beach lovers it is Falassarna. It is a set of five with white sand that makes the blue color of the water look amazing. Thanks to their west-facing location, these beaches have great sunset views. Falassarna can be easily reached by bus from Chania or Kissamos.
Seitan Beach Limania
This small cove 20 kilometers from Chania is a true paradise to see in Crete. It is considered a "cursed port" due to the large waves in the area. But the cliff perfectly protects from the waves and the water is crystal clear, calm and with an ideal temperature. It can be reached by bus from Chania
beach and Balos Lagoon
Balos beach and its lagoon, one of the most photographed destinations in Crete, is about 56km northwest of Chaniá , and 17km northwest of Kissamos. This beautiful lagoon is located between the Cape of Gramvousa and the small Cape of Tigali. Its incredible turquoise waters and its beautiful and exotic nature make it one of the favorite destinations of tourists.
gastronomy of Crete
It is a very healthy cuisine, rich in vegetables and based on olive oil, also because Crete is the place with the most olive groves in all of Greece, given that the island produces up to 70% of all Greek oil. Some of the most traditional dishes are:
Mousakas: typical Greek dish that you can find in Crete also made of minced meat alternated with pieces of eggplant and potatoes.
Dakos: stale bread soaked in water, grated tomato, oil and Burgos type cheese.
Fava: broad beans beaten with onion and oil.
Agria Xorta: with various types of vegetables depending on the season, normally boiled and served with oil, salt and lemon.
Biftekia: kebab-type hamburger, flavored with garlic and mint.
Paidakia: lamb chops.
Gemista: tomatoes or Rice Stuffed Peppers.
Kolokithoanthoi: pumpkin flowers stuffed with rice and herbs.
Horiatiki: Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, green peppers, olives, onions and feta with olive oil and oregano
In Crete you can also eat fish although its sea does not offer good fishing.
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Mykonos
In Greek Μύκονος, Mýkonos, is a small island of Greece belonging to the archipelago of the Cyclades Islands , located in the waters of the Aegean Sea , between the islands of Tinos (to the northwest), Syros (to the west), Paros (to the southwest) and Naxos (to the south). Along with Delos and other smaller islands, it forms the peripheral unit of Mykonos, belonging to the periphery of the South Aegean . The capital and main city of the island is Chora or Hora. Among its main attractions are the beaches , the nightlife and being the closest island to Delos , one of the four main archaeological sites in Greece .
How to get to Mykonos
Mykonos has an international airport that is 4 kilometers from the capital and two ports, one used for cruise ships and the other for ferries that connect it with Piraeus (Athens) and other islands in the Aegean Sea.
Plane: it is the most convenient and economical option to get there since there are many direct flights arriving in Mykonos from the main European airports. Many low cost companies offer frequent flights and if you buy at least two months before you can find good prices.
Ship: from Piraeus, the port of Athens and from Rafina, many ships arrive every day at Tourlos, the new port of Mykonos. The boat trip takes about 9 hours with the ferries and about 5 hours with fast boats. Therefore, it is preferable to choose the plane because it saves time and often money.
How to get around the city
Car rental or motorcycle: it is the most recommended way to tour the island, especially if it is high season, renting car or a moped that can be purchased at any of the many rental companies located throughout the island.
Bus: There are two local bus stations: North Station and the south station. In addition, a third bus line also passes through the port. Tickets can be bought at the station itself, supermarkets, tourist offices, newsstands or tobacco companies.
What to see in Mykonos
The New Port it is the port to which the large ferry boats and all cruise ships arrive without exception. It occupies an important area about 2 kilometers from Mykonos town. All the ships of the BLUE STAR company arrive and also the so-called HIGHSPEED of the HELLENIC SEAWAYS company, as well as any other ferry with a significant volume. The famous small fast ferry boats, the SUPERJET, the SEAJET2 and the FLYINGCAT moor at the Old Port of Mykonos (in Chora or Mykonos town).
old town
It is one of the most popular places on this island, which stands out for its charming houses painted in White. It is very cute lose yourself in its haunted alleys, to discover the fascinating corners and some of the most beautiful areas of the entire city and an ideal place to go shopping, as you will find everything from typical products to stores of the most recognized clothing brands worldwide.
Also known as Alefkandra and through which every traveler ends up passing is one of the most photographed areas of the island. Its houses built practically on the sea stand out, as in Venice and hence its name, "Little Venice" and one of the best places to see the sunset time.
Kato Milli Windmills
used in the past to grind the grain of the island thanks to the winds of its coasts at present there is a museum in which travelers are shown its great history. Being located in the upper area of Chora, they do not offer incredible views of the sea and one of the most beautiful sunsets on the island.
Church of Paraportiani
One of the oldest churches on the island, it stands out for its simplicity, curved lines and a white color that amazes thanks to its contrast with the blue of the sky, which changes depending on the light and the time of day. It was completed in the seventeenth century, is part of a group of 5 churches.
It is probably one of the most beautiful places not only in Greece, but in the world. narrow alleys with Stunning white houses and colored windows make up this neighbourhood, where brand name stores mingle with charming restaurants and venues, in the network of small streets, such as Matogianni, Enoplon, Dynameon and Mitropoleos the main streets. to go around
peter the pelican
One of the most famous inhabitants is the Pelican Petros, who arrived on the island in 1954 and after a fisherman treated his wounds, he never wanted to leave the island again, becoming one of the symbols of Mykonos. He died in 1986 and a German returned to bring another specimen in 1986 to continue the tradition.
It is the only town in the interior of the island and one of the essential things to do in Mykonos. Located just 7 kilometers from Chora, it is worth spending a couple of hours to get lost in its little streets, much quieter than those of Chora, and its huge central square, as well as eating in one of its most recommended restaurants.
Beaches of Mykonos
It is probably one of the most visited since it is close to the capital, as well as being spacious and having parking. There is an area where there is a service of sun loungers and umbrellas and it is quite sheltered from the wind.
It is located right next to Paraga and to which you can go by car or on foot along the coast, on a journey of about 700 meters, highly recommended for the views of the two beaches. They also have sun loungers and umbrellas. About 7 kilometers away is another very nice beach called Super Paradise
Panormos Beach
To the north of the island we find this wonderful beach. At the beginning of the beach there are lounge chairs and a nice restaurant. arriving at end, you will find that this beach is wider and more comfortable.
Agios Sostis beach
Also to the north of the island, just the beach that follows Panormos. Just as beautiful, with the plus that it is a totally virgin beach, it does not have any type of services, except for a tavern, called Quique, which is very famous and is located a little higher.
Platys Gyalos Beach
A beautiful beach, but crowded. The favorite place for millionaires to anchor their wonderful yachts, being a super nice place to dine at night.
Delian Island
On this neighboring island, which politically belongs to Mykonos, is one of the best-known archaeological sites in Greece, which began to be developed around 2500 BC Since 1990 it has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site. To reach you must take a ferry from Chora.
Archaeological remains of Delos
Several temples have been found, three of them dedicated to Apollo in front of the altar, which according to tradition he erected himself, and another to Artemis as well as other deities. The Oikos of the Naxians, the Monument of the Bulls and the Terrace of the Lions.
Mount Cynthus
On the slope of this mountain on the island of Delos there is a majestic theater for 5,000 people. at the summit there are the remains of a residence from the 3rd millennium BC, the House of the Dolphins, the House of Dionysus or the House of the Masks.
Gastronomy of Mykonos
The traditional mid-morning snack called meze , includes different delicacies such as cheeses, sausages, olives and other specialties that are tasted accompanied by ouzo, a traditional Greek liqueur, with an aniseed flavor and strong gradation. Greek cuisine is fundamentally Mediterranean and is repeated in the Greek cities that were already mentioned, such as:
L to moussaka which is the traditional dish of Greece; It can be found in almost every restaurant. Is a casserole prepared with aubergines and other ingredients, which are arranged in layers like a vegetable lasagna.
The fish are found in the restaurants located in the ports and in the stalls of the beaches. The fried red mullet and the grilled and grilled fish are fresh and exquisite, seasoned with lemon and spices.
The meats that are part of different typical preparations: kleftiko or lamb roasted with lemon, gyros (roasted meat accompanied by tatziki sauce), the souvlaki (grilled lamb skewers).
The kopanisti, intensely spiced cheese with a strong aroma. Although this variety is made throughout the Cyclades, Mykonos' own is reputed to be the best.
Greek desserts cover a wide range of sweets, from baklava (honey sweet imported from Russian confectionery ), to the cream cake known by the name of ghalatoboureko. In Mykonos it is also possible to taste loukoumia, a dessert known in Europe as "Turkish delight", and loukoumades, a kind of sweet fried doughnuts bathed in honey syrup.
As for drinks, in addition to ouzo , it is possible find other liquors that are tasted at the end of meals, such as raki or tsipouro . Among the most popular wines are the retsina (white or rosé wine, with an ancient tradition that owes its name to the custom of sealing the wooden barrels with pine resin, which gives it a very special intense aroma) and the wines of the Peloponnesus.
Santorini
Located in the southern Aegean Sea, about 200 km southeast of the mainland greek . It forms the southernmost group of islands in the Cyclades , with an approximate area of about 73 km It was devastated by a volcanic eruption in the 16th century BC. C., which shaped its rugged landscape. the houses built in its 2 main cities, Fira and Oia, they cling to the cliffs above an underground crater. These have a view of the sea, the small islands to the west and the beaches of white, red and black lava stones.
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How to get to Santorini
Ferry: one of the most appropriate and used to get to Santorini, whether from Athens or another island, is without a doubt the ferry . The most common routes are from Athens, Crete and Mykonos. There are two ferry options from Athens to Santorini: the conventional one takes around 6h to 8h and the high speed one takes between 4h to 5h.
Airplane: there are flights to Santorini from Athens throughout the year, and international flights during the high season. considering also that the prices are usually very reasonable, not exceeding in many cases 50 euros per person. The companies that operate from Athens are: Aegean Air , Ryan Air and Volotea (only in high season).
How to move through the city
Car rental: it is without a doubt a success, since in this way you will be able to enjoy total freedom of schedules and movements.
Motorcycle or quadricycle : very widespread options in the Greek islands that can also be a very good alternative
Public bus: it is a very good option both for price and for the number of routes it covers. The only bad thing is that in high season, in places like Oía or Fira, you may have to wait a long time, since the buses tend to fill up very easily.
What to see in Santorini
Is the capital, located in the western part of the island, at one end of the crescent or volcanic caldera that the explosion cut in two. It is the main arrival point for tourists. Large ships cannot dock in the port of Fira and must anchor at a certain distance and small boats bring passengers and their luggage ashore. Arriving at the port, some climb the steps by cable car, donkey or on foot, which involves a tiring 30-minute climb.
heard
Located in the extreme north of the island, it is one of the places that, with the beauty of the architecture of its houses, painted white and ocher, contrasts pleasantly with the arid towns of the interior. Considered a place with the best sunsets in the world and the characteristic of the two blue domes that are the most famous and that dot the cliffs make picturesque and romantic as well as the old fishermen's houses carved into the rock.
or also called Byzantine is another of the best-known points in Oía, especially at sunset, which you can access after crossing the network of small streets that seem to protect it from the crowds that usually form every day when sunset time arrives. Sun.
Another of the most famous places in Santorini is the small village of Firostefani, located right next to Fira. Known for housing more affordable accommodation, it is also the place where you can see one of the most famous images of Santorini, the Agios Nikolaos Monastery in Imerovigli, with the volcano in the background.
It is one of the most important Minoan Bronze Age settlements in the Aegean Sea and transports the visitor to ancient times, to an archaeological site that shows a civilization over 3,000 years old. It is known as the Greek Pompeii, since in it you can see the remains of the city, which was buried under the ashes after the eruption of the Santorini volcano.
Santorini is a complex of volcanic islands, being that one of these islands has an active volcano. To see it you can take the boat from the port of Athinios (for ferries and commercial boats) to the Nea Kameni island. descend and walk to the almost volcano 1 hour on a path on a surface with tons of black rocks that surround the trail. At some points you can feel the sulfurous heat of the underground steam holes.
It is close to the Fira bus terminal, and reveals treasures and the evolution of the ancient civilization of the Cyclades islands.
The museum is very small and yet interesting.
There are ceramics, beautiful paintings from the Akrotiri murals, and a golden goat statue.
Watching the Santorini sunset, whether in Firostefani, Oia or any other town, is a wonderful sight. As the sun darkens and turns on a small bright spot in the middle of the ocean, shades of gold, orange and amber appear painting the sky, and the white houses seem lit like candles at sunset.
beaches of Santorini
This is the tourist beach best known as well as being the most curious, for being red. Being the color of its red sand, like the wall that protects it, they make it a truly unique image that contrasts with the blue of its waters and that have made it one of the most visited places in Santorini.
This small beach was located very close to Oía, approximately 2 kilometers away, it is a small beach of black volcanic sand, which despite its location so close to the busy Oía, does not usually receive many visitors, so it can be perfect for spending a afternoon or a few hours at the beach.
Or Black Beach is a black sand beach and one of its most famous beaches, as it receives a large volume of young people, who come to enjoy this area of the island with a very festive atmosphere. There is a huge rock called Mesa Vouno that rises from the beach.
It is 13 kilometers by car from Perissa, also black sand and panoramic which can be a perfect option if you prefer to escape from the sometimes overcrowded Perissa. It is of an important natural beauty and a unique place being that it is very well connected by public transport
It is a little less accessible than Red Beach but it is worth visiting. It is also located on the southern coast of Santorini, 13 kilometers from the capital. The most impressive are its carved cliffs. It is extensive, shallow and perfect to visit with the family.
It is located just below the cliff of Oia and there you can enjoy beautiful water.
To get there you will have to go down the 250 steps and walk about 10 minutes along the coast.
This quieter beach is located in the east of the island, very close to the airport and Kamari beach.
Also, being calm and shallow, it is a great option for families.
The best beaches in Santorini are located on the south coast of the island and this beach is no exception. It is located just east of Perissa. In fact, we could say that it is a continuation of the same beach. The sand is grayish in color and the water is quite clear.
On a scenic level, it is one of the most beautiful. Has some impressive cliffs. The positive is that there are very few people. If you want to be calm on the beach it is one of the best beaches in Santorini to relax. The negative is that it is impossible to get there by public transport, only by car.
Santorini gastronomy
The Gastronomy of Santorini is characterized by a great variety of flavors and also colors. Olive oil has an essential presence in the Greek national dish par excellence: It is similar to that I inform in the link of Athens. I rename them for reference.
Moussaka: meat dish with aubergines, cinnamon and red wine;
Tararmasalata: sauce with fish roe, bread, onion and lemon,
Keftedes: a kind of spicy meatballs and the Tzatziki sauce yogurt, olive oil, garlic and cucumber.
Feta cheese: white sheep's milk cheese; it's fresh and a little sour
Dishes based on fish (sea bass, sea bream) and shellfish, especially octopus and squid.
Dolmades: stew with vine leaves.
Avgolemono: chicken, rice, eggs and lemon.
Desserts
Glika kouta liou: fruits in syrup (glikothiki).
Baklavas: Baked puff pastry cake with almonds, honey and vanilla.
Loukoumades: puff pastry buns with honey and cinnamon.
Kourabiédes: almond cake flavored with aniseed Ouzo liqueur.
Moustalevria: cake made with grape must.
Karidopita: walnut cake bathed in brandy syrup.
As for the coffee, it is "Turkish style", due to the influence of their culture and they are very strong and with a lot of sugar.
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Athens
The capital of Greece and the largest city in the country. It is the main centre of Greek economic, cultural and political life. Its history spans over three thousand years, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities. During the classical period of Greece it was a powerful city-state that came into being along with the development of maritime navigation from the port of Piraeus and which played a fundamental role in the development of democracy . It was also a cultural centre where many of the great artists, writers and philosophers of antiquity lived.
How to get to Athens from the airport
Metro: This is the quickest way to get to the city centre, taking the metro line 3 (blue) stop. It offers good frequency, schedules and prices and takes only 45 minutes. It leaves every half hour from 6:30 in the morning until 23:30 at night.
Bus: This is the cheapest option, although not always the most convenient. The advantage of using the bus to go from the airport to the city centre or vice versa is its timetable. The buses that cover this route operate 24 hours a day. There are 4 lines that take you directly to the centre (and vice versa) and you can choose the one that leaves you closest to your accommodation.
Train: They leave every hour and the journey to Larissa (central train station) takes about 50 minutes. The cost of the ticket is the same as the metro.
Taxi: This is always the most convenient option, but it is more expensive than the ones mentioned above. Getting around by taxi is convenient, especially at night.
Private transfer: Without a doubt, the most efficient and safe way to get to your accommodation, if you book it in advance. They will wait for you with a sign with your name on it in the arrivals area, take you comfortably to your hotel and it doesn't matter if you don't speak Greek or English. The price is also fixed.
How to get around the city
Metro: The new metro system dates back to 2001, when the restoration of the old Line 1 also began. It has three lines that run through much of the city. They are indicated by the colors Green, Red and Blue and always pass through the city center. Many of its stations resemble museums and exhibit artifacts found during the excavations of the metro.
Train: The local railway, called Proastiakos, is a new addition to the Athens rail network. The main line starts at Piraeus, runs via Larissis central railway station in Athens and west from Neratziotissa to Kiato and Corinth, and east to the airport.
Tram: The 3 lines of the new Athens tram connect the city centre with the southern districts and have connections to the metro lines.
Buses: A network of diesel buses, natural gas buses and electric trolleybuses operated by the Athens Urban Transport Organisation operate every 15 minutes from 05:00 to 24:00.
Taxi: They are yellow and not too expensive. The starting fare is €1, and then the taximeter shows €0.34/km (fare 1), or €0.64/km (fare 2), with the minimum fare being €2.65. Order them from travel agencies to avoid using pirate taxis, which can become dangerous.
What to see in Athens
The Acropolis
It is situated on a small hill in the centre of the city at an altitude of over 150 metres above sea level and on top of a large rocky promontory 140 metres long, above the Illisson valley. It is the most important site in Athens and consists of a group of historical buildings belonging mostly to the so-called "Pericles Age" (480 – 404 BC).
Most of its buildings, such as the imposing Parthenon, were built during the time of Pericles (from 499 BC to 429 BC). The walled enclosure on the upper part also includes the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheion and the Propylaea, masterpieces of classical Greece. In the southern part of the hill, you can also visit impressive buildings such as the Odeon of Herodes Atticus or the Theatre of Dionysus.
Acropolis Museum
Right at the foot of the Acropolis Hill stands this spacious, modern three-storey museum, opened in 2009, which houses some of the most important finds made during excavations on and around the Acropolis Hill, some of which are up to 2,500 years old, as well as pieces that have been returned to them by other museums.
You can see everything from the earliest archaic pieces found to some of the most precious works of art from the main temples, such as the frieze of the Parthenon or five of the original Caryatids from the Temple of Erechtheion.
Plaka district
It is known as “the district of the gods”, probably because it is the oldest in Athens, inhabited for some 7,000 years and which has not been modified by excavations. But also quite possibly because it is one of the few that preserves the Mediterranean essence of a city where concrete buildings abound. It is characterized by its labyrinthine and winding streets that clearly recall the period of Ottoman occupation. In addition to walking down Adrianou Street, the main artery of Plaka, or having a drink in the lively Filomousou Eterias Square, you should not miss the Anafiotika area, a small and charming corner of the district with its own identity and village soul and with its small white and blue houses.
Lycabettus Hill is located almost 2 kilometres from the centre of Athens, at 277 m, and is therefore one of the best viewing points. Although the Acropolis is a bit far away, the views at sunset with the illuminated monument are truly beautiful. The summit houses the small Orthodox chapel of St George the Knight, a restaurant and a theatre, among other things, where you can enjoy a spectacular view.
Monastiraki district
This is a neighbourhood adjacent to Plaka. It takes its name from the ancient monastery located in Monastiraki Square, from which several shopping streets run throughout the historic centre. This neighbourhood with Turkish influences has interesting places such as the Tower of the Winds, Hadrian's Library, the Fethiye and Tsistaráki mosques, the Pantánassa Church and the Pazari open-air market.
Roman Agora
Built by Emperor Augustus, between 19 BC and 11 BC it became the center of power, meeting and business of the Roman Empire in the city.
Located near the Ancient Agora, this large rectangular plaza, 100 metres long, preserves the remains of several important buildings such as the magnificent Tower of the Winds, the Gate of Athena Archegetis and Hadrian's Library.
To the west of Monastiraki, and very close to the Roman Agora, is the Ancient Agora or Agora of Athens, the centre of social, political, religious and economic life at different stages in the history of the city. It was the meeting place for the ancient inhabitants of the city, where social and political activity was mixed with commercial activity. With some resemblance to the Roman forum, this enclosure housed everything from administrative buildings, markets, temples to theatres and its origins date back to 600 BC. Most of the buildings are no longer standing, but there are at least two places worth visiting, the Hephaestion, or Temple of Hephaestus, and the Stoa of Attalus, a portico from the Hellenistic period (around the middle of the 2nd century BC).
Temple of Olympian Zeus
Its construction began in 515 BC under the command of Pisistratus but it was the Roman emperor Hadrian who managed to finish it by 131 AD. In his honour, the enormous 20-metre-high gate was built next to the temple. Located on the flat part of Athens, and 500 metres from the Acropolis, the remains of this temple are still impressive today. It is considered the largest temple in Greece.
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Syntagma Square
Its name refers to the majestic façade of the Greek Parliament, at the base of which is the Monument to the Unknown Soldier, a military monument from 1932 with the relief of a dying hoplite soldier guarded by the "Evzones", guards in the characteristic Greek uniform. It is very interesting to witness the changing of the guard that takes place every hour.
National Archaeological Museum
One of the most important museums of ancient history in the world. With more than 11,000 works of art classified as prehistoric antiquities, sculptures, metals, vases, Egyptian antiquities and Cypriot antiquities ranging from the Neolithic to the Roman period. Among many masterpieces you can see the Mask of Agamemnon, a gold funerary mask carved around 1,500 BC.
Filopapo or Filopappou Hill
It is 147 metres high and is one of the best viewpoints in the city. The name comes from the monument at the top in honour of the Roman consul Gaius Julius Philopappus.
Although the climb may seem difficult due to the vegetation, it will allow you to rest in the shade of the trees.
From the highest point you will get fantastic views of the Acropolis and the city.
The Panathenaic Stadium, or Kallimármaro, is an athletics stadium whose origins date back to the 6th century BC and which was originally intended to host the Panathenaic Games. In 140 AD, Herodes Atticus enlarged and rebuilt the old limestone stadium in marble, giving it a very similar appearance and capacity (50,000 spectators) to the current one. It was remodelled for the 1896 Athens Olympic Games, the first in modern history.
Central Market of Athens
Dimotiky or Kentriki Agora, situated between Mitropoleos and Athinas streets and a little away from the centre, is one of the busiest in the city and a good place to taste local gastronomic products. In this 19th century neoclassical building you can find meat and fish stalls in two separate areas and outside and in adjacent streets you will find the fruit and vegetable market, stalls selling olives, spices, sweets and nuts.
Gastronomy of Athens
Gyros: large pieces of pork or chicken that rotate around a large metal skewer from which thin strips are cut to be served inside a pita bread cone (wrap), on a plate or on skewers (skewer), always accompanied by salad, yogurt sauce and even French fries.
Joriatiki Salad: Salad of tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, bread and crushed feta cheese with plenty of olive oil and a touch of oregano.
Yogurt: a native of Greece. A product widely consumed by the inhabitants. It has a thick texture and is much less sweet than those known in other countries.
It is common to mix it with dried fruits, chocolate and especially honey.
Mussaka: originally from Greece, its preparation is very similar to Italian lasagna, but instead of pasta, eggplant is used as the main ingredient in a combination that is delicious with ground lamb, tomato, onion, white sauce and oil.
Gemista: a very common dish in Greece. It is made with chili peppers or tomatoes stuffed with rice, potatoes or cooked meat. As in all of Greece, the highlight of the dish is the spice.
Dolmadakia: a type of cigar made with vine leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice, minced meat and onion, accompanied by various spices and with egg and lemon sauce.
Spanakopita: or tiropita is the best-known variant of savory pies. It is a common type of pie in Greece, but varies greatly from region to region. Its filling is made of spinach, cheese and olive oil.
Souvlaki: a thin bread filled with pork, lamb, beef or chicken with pieces of onion, tomato and green pepper between the pieces of meat. It can also be found on a skewer, accompanied by French fries.
Tzatziki: a type of Greek sauce made with Greek yogurt, cucumber, lemon juice, onion, garlic and olive oil, although other ingredients are often added. It is usually served as an appetizer and accompanied by figaza-type wheat bread.
Pastourmá or Pastrami: a beef sausage that is air-dried and heavily seasoned with cumin. You can find it as a small appetizer, as a sandwich or to accompany dishes such as broad beans.
Soutzoukakia: the Greek version of meatballs. They can be spicy and are mostly made in tomato sauce and sometimes served with pasta or rice.
Fish: The most common are red mullet (barbounia), snapper (fagrí), sea bass (lithrini), fried squid (kalamarakia tiganitá), grilled octopus (jtapodi sta kárvouna) and lobster (astakós), served especially with pasta, a delicious dish called astako makaronáda.
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