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The cradle of European Civilization, Crete is the largest island in Greece, and the fifth largest in the Mediterranean Sea with remnants of brilliant civilizations, rugged mountains, endless beaches and turquoise seas, charming towns and villages, and stunning countryside. Crete is the place where myths look like history and history is like a myth. Dry-stone farm buildings, villages perching on high plateaus, monasteries, isolated castles and chapels dot the countryside. Old cities hide behind walls, their complicated narrow alleys winding past squares, churches, and the ruins of palaces.
The Cyclades Islands (meaning `circular islands`) are the most famous island group in the Aegean Sea that comprise some of the most stunning islands in the world! Beautiful sandy beaches, architecture in white and blue, traditional lifestyle, folk music, warm, hospitable people and barren landscapes with isolated chapels turn a trip to the Cyclades into a lifetime experience.
Only a short distance from Turkey`s Turquoise Coast in the southeastern Aegean, the Dodecanese chain of islands lies in what is called the sunniest corner of Greece. With twelve larger islands and numerous smaller uninhabited islands and islets, the Dodecanese Islands have the right mix of tourism and tradition, a fascinating history, two UNESCO World Heritage sites and stunning landscapes.
The Ionian Islands is a cluster of six isles that are linked in a chain down the west coast of Greece. It is not only stunningly scenic but also has a character of its own that is set apart from other Greek islands. These islands are much lusher and greener than most of the other Greek islands. Adventure seekers, food lovers, culture seekers and beach bums, paradise awaits you in the Ionian Islands.
The Saronic islands, which include Hydra and Aegina, are the islands closest to Athens in Greece. This group of islands is a small, relatively sheltered gulf between Attica and the Peloponnese. You could describe them as “the islands off Athens”. There are a total of about 20 islands and islets in the Saronic Gulf, of which only 6 are inhabited. These islands are best known for their rich history, wealthy captains, neoclassical architecture and cosmopolitan character.
Because of its geographical position, Greece was a crossroad of civilizations that had left their traces everywhere: the architecture of the museums and settlements, daily life, food customs, art, and the amazing scenery in the various cities the mainland has to offer. Discover the interesting cities of the mainland such as Athens, a modern city that thrives in the shadow of the Acropolis. And not to forget the ruins of Delphi, Olympia and Meteora, all reminders of the great civilization that once existed in Greece.
The coastlines of southern Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa are shaped by the Mediterranean Sea. Not only does the Mediterranean have beautiful resorts and beaches on the mainland, there are literally thousands of islands to explore, each with their own beauty, over 2,500 miles from Spain east to Turkey. The cultural and culinary experiences of each Mediterranean country are unique and delightful.
Southern Europe is made up of all the countries close to the Mediterranean. Spain, Italy, Malta, Greece, Croatia, Bosnia, and Herzegovina and Montenegro are some of the most visited destinations in the region. It`s known for its incredible sailing, natural wonders, and ancient history.
Europe is home to hundreds of breathtaking islands scattered within and around the continent that range from long established celebrity hotspots to lesser-known hidden gems. While your first thought is probably resorts and beaches, don’t forget the many islands that boast rugged cliffs, hiking, adventure sports, and even skiing. With such diversity, history, and culture, you'll always find somewhere intriguing to explore in the Idyllic Islands of Europe.
Ferries/hydrofoils for the Islands do not operate in off seasons (autumn and winter) due to weather conditions
Driving Time
Heraklion - Rethmynon : 1 hr. 20 mins. approx.
Rethmynon - Heraklion: 1 hr. 20 mins. approx.
Ferries/hydrofoils for the Islands do not operate in off seasons (autumn and winter) due to weather conditions
Driving Time
Heraklion - Rethmynon : 1 hr. 20 mins. approx.
Rethmynon - Heraklion: 1 hr. 20 mins. approx.
Ferries/hydrofoils for the Islands do not operate in off seasons (autumn and winter) due to weather conditions
Driving Time
Chania (Crete)- Rethymnon: 1 hr. 10 mins. approx.
Rethymnon - Chania (Crete): 1 hr. 10 mins. approx.
Ferries/hydrofoils for the Islands do not operate in off seasons (autumn and winter) due to weather conditions
Ferries/hydrofoils for the Islands do not operate in off seasons (autumn and winter) due to weather conditions
Food is a huge part of Greek culture. The cuisine offers an incredibly rich and diverse array of foods and beverages that are the culmination of thousands of years of living, cooking, and eating. Flavors of Greek food change with season and geography, however, fresh vegetables, fishes and seafood always play a significant role in the dishes, mostly because of its long coastline. It’s all about the fresh ingredients, the lengthy procedure involved in preparing the food, and the culture of sharing dishes with others.
In ancient times, Greece was one of the most important wine making regions. Wine is closely related to Greek culture and religion with a much more diverse climate and terrain than most people realize. Out of the 700 wineries in Greece, only a few can produce enough to export, so many excellent wines come from small-producers and go undiscovered outside of Greece.
Western civilization was born in Greece over 4,000 years ago. It therefore comes as no surprise that this ancient land is home to 18 amazingly unique UNESCO Sites to visit. From Bronze Age citadels and the sacred Acropolis of Athens (on which stands the Parthenon, chosen by UNESCO as its official emblem), to Byzantine monasteries and Venetian fortresses, Greece’s ongoing efforts to protect and curate its sites and monuments is testament to the tireless work of archaeologists, conservators and heritage managers across the country. Click here to learn more about Greece's noteworthy UNESCO Sites!
Greece is a country where historic ruins, volcanic cliffs, and friendly locals meet the blue Mediterranean Sea. It`s the whole package spread out amongst thousands of gorgeous islands. Discover the historical heritage on a major European capital in Athens before taking in the whitewashed villages of the islands where you`ll find ample opportunities to enjoy swimming, eating and gazing at the deep-blue Aegean.
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