These are the most famous Athens tourist attractions & sight tours which sees thousands and millions of visitors each year:
A Complete Guide to Greek Islands 2018 >>
Santorini |
Mykonos |
Crete |
Corfu |
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| Top Five Beaches |
Red Beach:Red Beach is a magnificent beach near Akrotiri, in the southwestern part of Santorini. Edged by imposing red cliffs and featuring pebble and red sand, it is a very photogenic site. You can access the beach via a hillside path. Bring all necessary equipment because there is no shade during the day. Red Beach isn't especially large and gets easily crowded.
Kamari Beach:Kamari Beach is about 5 kilometers long and is among the longest beaches in Santorini. The beach has a Blue Flag award due to its crystal-clear waters. The black-sand beach is an organized one, with umbrellas, sunbeds, snorkeling activities and water sports available. The location of Kamari Beach is in the eastern part of Santorini, near the island's airport.
Perissa Beach:Black sands of Perissa Beach contrast majestically from transparent waters of dark blue sea. The beach is 7 kilometers long and overshadowed by the Mesa Vouno rock that stands between Perissa and Kamari beaches. This organized beach features the Blue Flag award, and facilities for entertainment and water sports.
White Beach :Accessible from Red Beach by boat or walking, tiny White Beach has a magnificent environment consisting of white cliffs and crystalline waters. Besides a number of parasols and sunbeds, the beach doesn't have other amenities. It is far less visited, and thus more tranquil than Red Beach.
Vlychada Beach:Vlychada Beach is another scenic beach of Santorini, featuring looming, white cliffs, dark sand and pebbles, parasols and sunbeds. There are a number of taverns on Vlychada Beach, which you can find on the south coast of the island. |
Paradise Beach:Paradise Beach is among the most popular beaches of Mykonos. This organized beach features bars, taverns, water sports and a diving center. Paradise Beach is favored as a clubbing hub at night.
Elia Beach:Elia Beach is a long, sandy beach that avoids crowding most of the time. A part of the beach is organized, featuring restaurants, parasols, sun beds and water sports. Elia is popular among nudists.
Kalafatis:Kalafatis is another beach excellent for water sports. Another benefit for visitors is a lot of space since the beach almost never gets crowded. The sandy beach features parasols and sun beds for rent, but also a part that is empty.
Panormos Beach:Panormos Beach located on the northern coast of Mykonos, is a long, secluded and peaceful beach. It has few facilities, no parasols and no water sports. Hence, it is ideal for an utmost relaxation away from other tourists.
Kalo Livadi:Kalo Livadi is a popular beach among celebrities. It features all facilities you might need, from straw umbrellas and changing rooms to water sports and bars operating during the night. Kalo Livadi features soft sand and shallow waters. |
Balos Beach:Balos Beach located some 60 km away from Chania, is a lagoon featuring turquoise waters and amazing nature. A small island that faces the beach is the site of an old Venetian fortification. Soft, white sand and shallow waters make Balos Beach ideal for kids.
Elafonisi Beach:Elafonisi Beach located in southwest Crete, is a treat for soul and eyesight. Sand dunes of the peninsula are a shelter to endangered loggerhead sea turtles, and you can spot some rare plant species around, too. There is a small island you can access without problems when the sea isn't restless. Aside from a few cantinas, no other facilities are available on Elafonisi Beach.
Preveli Beach:Preveli Beach is another crown jewel of the Cretan coastline. Located some 40 km away from Rethymno, it features tropical vegetation. The river flowing into the Mediterranean right through the beach forms delta. Preveli additionally features pure waters and soft sand.
Vai Beach:Vai Beach is famous as Palm Forest. The large palm grove flanking the white-sand beach is the largest in Europe. The beach itself, located near Lassithi, is popular and much visited in summer. Certain facilities, such as bars, are available. The turquoise waters are usually calm.
Falassarna Beach:Falassarna Beach is another amazing Cretan beach you should check out, especially if you are based in West Crete. Turquoise waters are transparent while golden sand is soft. Sun beds and parasols are available for rent. Falassarna Beach is the great place for enjoying sunset. |
Tall cliffs and exuberant vegetation flank Paleokastritsa:The most picturesque beach on Corfu Island. In fact, Paleokastritsa consists of 2 beaches, one facing the open sea, the other sheltered by a promontory. The latter beach features calm waters and is suitable for children.
Agios GordiosAgios Gordios is another attractive beach, named after the adjacent church. Green hills surrounding the beach are full of vineyards and olive groves. Plus, a big rock flanking Agios Gordios Beach offers attractive photo opportunities. Water sports are available here.
Myrtiossa Beach:Myrtiossa Beach named after a nearby monastery, is a pristine, undeveloped beach. Sandwiched between exuberant hills and crystal-clear waters, the beach features soft sand and the picturesque environment. Myrtiotissa Beach is popular among nudists.
Glyfada:Glyfada is the organized blue-flag beach. Here, you can make use of parasols and sun beds, neighboring taverns, water sports, even shops. The surrounding area of Glyfada Beach features lush hills and rock formations. Gradual entry into the crystalline waters makes Glyfada suitable for kids.
Nissaki:Nissaki is another gorgeous beach of Corfu Island. Sheltered from the winds, it features calm waters and gradual entry into the sea. Edged by greenery and rocks, Nissaki boasts impeccably pure waters ideal for snorkeling. |
| Top Attractions |
Caldera :
Caldera is the top natural attraction of Santorini Island, consisting of rocks and towering cliffs. Walking paths are available, and you can cover the distance between Oia in the north and Fira in the south in a few hours. The Caldera offers exceptional views of the moon-shaped bay and other islands of the small archipelago.
Castle of Akrotiri:
Located in Akrotiri, the old Venetian castle is an exhibiting and performing venue. Here, you can examine the remains of the medieval fortifications, acquaint yourself with Greek instruments in a workshop and attend concerts.
Minoan Archaeological Site in Akrotiri:
The archaeological site is a former settlement of the Minoan Civilization, the oldest European civilization that spread into Greece from Crete. It was an advanced settlement before a volcanic eruption destroyed it. Pottery, murals, and other everyday objects and art pieces bear witness to the high level of development of the Minoan settlement.
Agios Nikolaos Monastery:
Agios Nikolaos (Saint Nicholas) Monastery is a Byzantine-style religious complex located between Imerovigli and Firostefani villages. This bright-white monastery overlooks Fira and the bay, and houses some precious Byzantine icons and a Folklore Museum.
Thirassia Island:
Thirassia used to be a part of Santorini before the volcanic eruption that destroyed the Minoan town separated them around 1500 BC. Thirassia boasts a few picturesque villages with splendid gardens, pristine beaches and preserved nature.
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Mykonos Island: Windmills above the Chora village are the iconic symbol of Mykonos Island. By accessing the viewpoint, you will be able to enjoy views of white-blue houses, Little Venice and the Aegean Sea.
Little Venice :
Little Venice is a beautiful complex of houses that access the seaside with balconies hanging over the sea. The place is charming and among the most photographed neighborhoods in Greece, even wider. The area is popular as a hanging spot with its discos and bars.
Paleokastro Monastery:
located near Ano Mera, is a nunnery dating back to the 18th century. The monastery is a fine example of the Cycladic architecture.
Gyzi Castle:
Gyzi Castle, overlooking Ano Mera, used to be a fortification of which only remnants remain. Still, this vantage point offers great views of the village and the surroundings. The site comprises the remains of the ancient town of Mykonos, too.
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Knossos Palace
Knossos Palace, near Heraklion, used to be a grand palace of the antiquity and the largest of the Minoan palaces. It abounded with beautiful frescoes, some of which, the Bull-Leaping fresco in particular, were successfully reconstructed. The surviving remains of the Knossos Palace reveal that the palatial complex comprised 4 wings encircling the courtyard. The big underground storage facility inspired the story about the mythical labyrinth and the Minotaur, a half human, half bull creature.
Venetian Loggia:
Venetian Loggia in Heraklion is one of the most striking buildings on Crete. Built in the 17th century, it today serves as the Town Hall. More so, the elegant Venetian Loggia is one of the finest surviving structures of the Venetian times on the island and a laureate of the Europa Nostra award. The ground floor features Doric columns flanking arches, while the upper floor boasts Ionian decoration.
Ancient Gortyn:
Ancient Gortyn used to be an advanced and one of the largest Minoan towns on Crete. It existed since approximately 3000 BC until 828 AD, when the Arabs conquered the island and destroyed Gortyn. During the Roman era, Ancient Gortyn used to be the capital of Crete. Therefore, the old settlement is rich in Roman religious structures, sculptures and baths.
Agia Ekaterini (Saint Catherine):
Agia Ekaterini (Saint Catherine) Church in Heraklion used to be a Christian church converted into a Muslim mosque during the Ottoman (Turkish) rule. Influenced by the Venetian architecture, the Agia Ekaterini Church houses artifacts and items from the Byzantine period, introducing the history of Orthodox Christianity.
Aqualand :
Aqualand, near Hersonissos, is both a rehabilitation and educational center. Injured reptiles and marine species found in the wilderness are rehabilitated here, while people can learn a lot about various animal species inhabiting the region. Among other representatives of the fauna, turtles and snakes inhabit the Aqualand.
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Sidari Canal d Amour:
Sidari Canal d Amour, next to the Sidari village, is a complex of coves and canals. Romantically nicknamed Channel of Love, this rock formation, dominated by verdant forests, features various shades of yellow.
Old Fortress of the Corfu town:
Old Fortress of the Corfu town used to be the defensive facility that kept the Turks away from the town. From its top, views of the capital of the island and the Ionian Sea, all the way to mainland Greece, are fantastic. The Old Fortress dominates over Spianada, the largest plaza in Europe.
Achilleion Palace
Achilleion Palace, a villa south of the Corfu Town, is a majestic complex with beautiful works of art adorning its gardens. Some of these depict Achilles, the hero of the Trojan War. The Achillion Palace used to be a favorite residence to Elisabeth (Sissi), the Empress of Austro-Hungary.
Agios Spyridon:
Agios Spyridon is one of the most important churches in the town of Corfu. It features the Venetian architecture and the tallest bell tower in the island's capital. The Agios (Saint) Spyridon Church is the resting place of the venerated Greek saint after whom many people on Corfu are named.
Paleokastritsa Monastery:
Paleokastritsa Monastery, located on a cliff near the homonymous beach, is a picturesque religious complex. Besides enjoying fantastic panoramic views of the surrounding area, you can take a look into the collection exhibiting items from the island's Byzantine past.
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| Top Activities for Children |
Santorini Water Park, located in Perissa, is a beachfront property consisting of several swimming pools, slides and a play area. The complex adds a restaurant, bar, sunbeds and parasols. |
Meeting the most famous resident of Mykonos is the highlight of all children's activities on the island. You are likely to encounter Petros while strolling the streets of Chora. And he won't mind posing for a photo. Petros is a pelican, and a sociable one at that. |
Creteaquarium offers a great insight into the marine life and some rare species. It also introduces different sea ecosystems and educational activities through entertainment. Aqua Plus Waterpark is an entertaining area where both kids and adults have great fun. Some facilities of this big water park are Hydromassage Pool, Octopus Spacebowl and Aqua Slalom. Water games, table tennis and air hockey are just a few entertaining activities your children will enjoy here. Dinosauria Park is a themed area where children can take a look into the iconic world of dinosaurs and other ancient animals. More so, they could pretend to be paleontologists while excavating fossils. |
Aqualand is one of the principal children-friendly complexes on Corfu Island. Some past visitors state that it is even one of the finest such attractions in Europe. The Aqualand disposes of all necessary facilities and provides tons of fun. Hydropolis Waterpark features rides, slides and playgrounds suitable for various ages. A farm with domesticated animals, including rabbits, geese and ostriches, is also attached. |
| Museums and Art Venues |
Archaeological Museum of Thira
This extraordinary museum summarizes the development of art on Santorini and the Cycladic Islands since prehistory to the time of the Roman expansion. The museum displays thousands of exhibits, including vases, frescoes and statues.
Folklore Museum, Fira
Occupying the premises of a 19th-century house, the Folklore Museum exhibits a wide range of interesting and priceless exhibits. Carpets, manuscripts, books and various artifacts spotlight the culture of the island and its historical legacy.
Icon and Relics Collection of Pirgos
Artifacts on display in the Icon and Relics Collection trace the prosperous period of Santorini Island during the 17th and 18th centuries. The exhibition venue occupies the chapel of the Holy Trinity and showcases carvings, religious items, pottery and fine arts.
Wine Museum
Located in Kamari, the underground wine museum allows you to learn the history and the process of wine cultivation on Santorini. Some museum's highlights are tools originated between the 17th and 20th centuries.
Santorini Nautical Museum
The museum highlights the island's maritime history of the 19th and 20th centuries. Besides nautical equipment, you can examine uniforms, documents and ship replicas among other exhibits.
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Mykonos Folklore Museum exhibits an outstanding collection of artifacts, items used in everyday life in the past and crafts among other showpieces. The museum consists of 6 sections, and some masterpieces on display are Byzantine icons, old furniture and the maritime items. Among other exhibits, pay attention to lithographs related to the Greek War of Independence from Turkey (1821) and to the Second World War (1939-1945).
Archeological Museum of Mykonos showcases a rich collection of sculpture, vases from the Hellenistic period (circa from the 320s BC to the 30s BC), jewelry and ceramics. Of special importance is the Pithos of Mykonos, conveying the fall of Troy to the Mycenaeans.
Aegean Maritime Museum safeguards and elaborates the celebrated Greek maritime history. The museum disposes of a comprehensive collection consisting of navigational instruments, models of the ships, maps and ancient artifacts among other exhibits. Pay attention to the model of a pre-Minoan ship. Thousands of priceless books and manuscripts in the library are other precious exhibits of the Maritime Museum.
Delos Archaeological Museum located on nearby Delos Island, has exhibits spanning different periods and fields of study. Among other items on display, you can examine marble statues, plaques, pottery and objects that were in everyday use once. Some highlights of the museum are the Ivory Plaque, illustrating the typical Mycenaean soldier, statue of Apollo and the torso of Kouros - a young athlete.
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Archaeological Museum of Heraklion exhibits artifacts spanning the period from Neolith to the Roman era. The highlight of this astonishing museum is the Minoan collection, which is the largest such in the world. Statues made of marble and stone, pottery, jewelry and objects used in everyday life once are some exhibits of the Archaeological Museum.
Maritime Museum of Crete located in Chania, spotlights the turbulent naval history of the island. You will find models of vessels since the Persian Wars onward on display here, as well as depictions of some big battles during history. Besides, you can trace the development of the Greek navy in the Maritime Museum.
Byzantine Museum occupying the premises of the San Salvatore Church in Chania, showcases various exhibits of Byzantine and Venetian origins. Among other pieces on display, you can examine religious items, ceramics, frescoes and jewelry.
Wooden Sculptures Museum at the village of Axos displays outstanding art pieces carved out of wood. Many works of art are life sized, while others are enlarged to a great extent. Some masterpieces of this extraordinary museum are The Eagle and the Serpent, The Little Mermaid, Our Family Tree and Hercules and the Lion of Nemea.
Natural History Museum of Crete consists of Anthropological, Zoological and Botanical departments. Located in Heraklion, this museum is the largest of its kind in the entire Mediterranean region. Some highlights of the museum's rich collection are the skeleton of Deinotherium giganteum and the earthquake simulator. The collection of the Natural History Museum is suitable for both kids and adults.
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Archaeological Museum showcases exhibits spanning the period from the Prehistory to the Hellenistic era (c. 320 BC to c. 30 BC). Among other showpieces, you will find marble sculptures, ancient money, jewelry and pottery items. The highlight of the Archeological Museum is the huge pediment of Gorgona-Medusa, which belonged to the Artemis Temple. The masterpiece is over 3 meters tall and 17 meters wide.
Museum of Asiatic Art has a large collection counting around 10 000 exhibits. Some findings on display are:
The ornamentation from the Shang period (approx. 1500-1000 BC). Items decorated with semi-precious stones. And objects made of clay during the Chou dynasty (c. 1000-220 BC). Pay attention to the Buddha statue made of bronze, which is one of the museum's highlights.
Byzantine Museum located in Antivouniotissa, displays beautiful icons originated between the 15th and 19th centuries. Some personalities represented by those are saints Sergius, Bacchus, Cyril of Alexandria, and Christ Pantokrator. The icon known as "Touch me not," depicting the encounter of Christ and Mary Magdalene after the resurrection, is among the museum's highlights.
Municipal Art Gallery exhibits works of art by some notable Ionian artists of the 19th century. It has 3 principal collections - Samartzis, Aglaia Pappa and Philippos Markotsis. The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist, The Murder of Kapodistrias and Night in Corfu are among the masterpieces of the Municipal Gallery.
Sea Shell Museum boasts one of the strangest collections on Corfu and in the Ionian Sea. There, you can lay eyes on sea shells and fossils of the marine species from - the Pacific. The Greek expat who lived in Australia for decades collected the related exhibits and established a museum when he returned to his motherland.
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| Food & Drink |
Santorini is a first-class culinary destination that introduces the very best of Greek cuisine. The destination's restaurants combine quality vegetables, dairy products and wines for the premium dining experience. Some recommended specialties you should try are:
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As other Greek islands, diet on Mykonos is primarily based on fish, seafood, olive oil, cheese and meat. Have no worries if you are a vegetarian, delicious salads and veggies are plentiful, too.
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The Cretan diet consists of many tasty dishes. Some of the most popular ingredients in use are olive oil, tomatoes and sheep cheese.
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Just like everything else on Corfu, the local gastronomy is excellent. While touring the Corfu town, smells of delicious food will follow you constantly. Local products, such as olive oil, honey and dairy products are must-try here, as well as the following specialties:
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| Nightlife | Santorini Island has a rich nightlife. Main nightlife hubs are Fira, the capital of the island, Kamari and Perissa. Bars and clubbing venues are available in Fira. Other two settlements feature beach bars accessing the promenade.Top Nightlife Venues
Casablanca Soulis a bar popular among people who like to go home with the first light. You can listen to popular bands and drink cocktails at this renowned bar.
The Magic BusLocated in Perissa, The Magic Bus is the right place for Jazz and R'n'B fans. Delicious food, cocktails and spirits are available in the bar's menu.
Koo Clubin Fira is renowned for its loud music that keeps patrons awake until early morning. By visiting this popular night club, you benefit of great drinks and even greater spectacles.
Tango Barin Fira overlooks the Caldera and the sea beneath. The club is an ideal place for dancing and caters to early starters as well as to latecomers.
Mamounia Clubis another nightlife venue located in Fira. It features indoor and outdoor spaces and is popular among people who like to dance and listen to live Greek music. Mamounia Club is open until late. |
Mykonos Island has probably the most exciting nightlife scene of all islands of Greece, and these are several thousands. Chora, the island's capital, is the principal nightlife destination here. You can find fun on some beaches, too, with Paradiso and Super Paradiso beaches being the leading in this regard. In general, bars and clubs are open until morning hours.Top Nightlife Venues
Agyra Baris a nightlife venue located in Chora. DJ's are in charge of the mood, and patrons have a great selection of cocktails and wines to choose from.
Astra Baris another reputable nightlife hangout located in Chora. The bar boasts the nostalgic atmosphere of the 60s and 70s, and is popular among celebrities. Here, you can enjoy live and DJ performances.
Down Underis a small bar famous for big parties and great fun. Dance floor isn't especially large, but affordable prices for drinks are other main asset of the bar. Some types of music you can listen and dance to are Hip Hop and Reggae.
Cavo Paradisois a legendary night club and one of the greatest venues for night entertainment on Mykonos. Assuming the top of the hill overlooking Paradiso Beach, Cavo Paradiso boasts a large dance floor, swimming pool and podiums.
Super Paradise Beach Baris another great bar for hanging out at night. Parties by the seaside are mind blowing, wetted with champagnes and cocktails, and spiced up with loud music played by renowned DJs. |
Crete has attractive nightlife opportunities. Most of these, you will find in Chania and Rethymno. Also, towns and resorts east of Heraklion (Malia, Elounda…) offer great night entertainment, too. Clubs and bars typically operate up to 2 or 3 am on Crete.Top Nightlife Venues
Mylos Clubin Platanias accesses the sea and features an elegant ambiance. The dance floor of this popular nightlife venue is big and the played music is mostly mainstream Greek and electro house. Mylos Club also disposes of an outdoor lounge.
Splendid Clubis especially popular among young people. Here you should come to have a great dancing experience wetted with cocktails. Splendid Club also boasts delicious food and great views.
Metropolisis a bar in Rethymno, famous for its themed and karaoke performances. The bar, located next to the Venetian Harbor, is popular among the locals and tourists, playing rock, disco and Greek music.
Rock CaféRock Café, next to the Venetian Port, has 3 bars and a dance floor. If you are fashionable, you are sure to enjoy this place. Rock, Disco, House and R&B are some types of music played here.
Banana night clubBanana night club, located in Malia, is one of the new venues offering entertainment. And it is open later than most nightlife clubs and bars on Crete - until 4 am. The party venue is mostly frequented by young people, and some types of music you can listen to are Garage and House. |
The principal nightlife hotspot on the island is Corfu Town. Still, resorts and settlements such as Dassia, Ipsos, Benitses and Kavos also offer nighttime entertainment. Whether you prefer a peaceful experience or an actual party, options are available. Nightlife venues, in general, operate until late.Top Nightlife Venues
B52is a very popular bar staging karaoke shows, parties and other themed events. A wide selection of music satisfies almost any taste. Find this exceptional bar in Ipsos, north of the Corfu Town.
Fuegois a beach bar located in Acharavi. It accesses the beachfront and features a lounge area for a peaceful experience. Fuego's DJs play pop and dance music.
54 Dreamy Nightsis a discotheque located in the vicinity of the Corfu port. The music repertoire consists of traditional Greek, Hip Hop and House among other types of music. Concerts and dance shows also take place in the disco.
Edem Beach Clubis one of the leading nightlife venues in Corfu. Party fans from all over the island come to Dassia to enjoy DJs' shows and dancing performances. Fun at Edem Beach Club ends only with the arrival of dawn.
Pazuzulocated on Glyfada Beach, is another popular nightlife hotspot of Corfu. Guest DJs are in charge of the mood. Furthermore, shower parties are the highlights of the bar named after a Mesopotamian demonic deity. |
| Festivals |
Greek EasterGreek Easter, just like Orthodox Christian Easter, typically falls on different dates than Catholic Easter. On Santorini Island, the celebration is accompanied with delicious food and wine. Visit the Pirgos Village on Holy Friday to enjoy the candlelight atmosphere.
Santorini Jazz FestivalSantorini Jazz Festival, taking place in July, attracts the international and local performers and audience. This popular Jazz event runs for 3 days in Kamari.
Santorini Ifaistea FestivalSantorini Ifaistea Festival starts in August and encompasses various cultural and entertaining performances, including concerts and dancing shows. The highlight of the festival is a fireworks show conceived to display the power of a volcano eruption.
Megaron Gyzi FestivalMegaron Gyzi Festival is also held in August, running from the 1st to the 3rd week of the month in Fira. During the festival, visitors benefit of art exhibitions, concerts, dances and other interesting events.
International Music FestivalInternational Music Festival is another popular musical event, lasting about 2 weeks in September. Taking place in Fira, this prestigious show is typically attended by famous international performers from around the world. |
Mykonos Art FestivalMykonos Art Festival runs from the end of June to the end of September. It offers to visitors an insight into the legacy, folklore and traditions of the island. Public concerts, art installations, readings, gastronomic events and film screenings are some events staged during the festival.
XLSIORXLSIOR is the gay festival taking place by the end of August. This popular event, attended by the gay community from all around the world, features DJ performances and top-notch clubbing.
Harvest Festival of Mykonos IslandHarvest Festival of Mykonos Island is an annual event held on the second Sunday in September. On the occasion, visitors enjoy sampling food and wine and listening to the traditional music. |
Agios Georgios (Saint John's) FeastAgios Georgios (Saint John's) Feast takes place on April 23. In the Asi Gonia village in the Chania prefecture, you can taste homemade cheese and fresh milk during the occasion.
Assumption of Virgin MaryAssumption of Virgin Mary is the most important Cretan festival. Held on August 15, it takes place in almost every village of the island. For experiencing the most magnificent celebration, head to the Panagia Chrissoskalitissa Monastery in Chania.
CarnivalCarnival takes place in many settlements on Crete Island, running from the second part of January to mid-February. It is also called Crete's Rio de Janeiro, featuring various entertaining shows, floats, costumes and else. Heraklion and Rethymno are towns where Carnival celebrations are most popular.
Houdetsi FestivalHoudetsi Festival, taking place in early August, is a musical event. Besides free concerts, the attendees benefit of the crafts market, seminars and classes.
Summer Wine FestivalSummer Wine Festival, organized by the Travel Club of Rethymno, introduces the Greek music and free Cretan wine. |
Carnival of CorfuCarnival of Corfu is probably the next closest thing to the Carnival of Venice. This popular event, introduced by the Venetian conquerors, features parades, period costumes and various festivities. The Carnival usually begins by the end of January and lasts until mid-February.
EasterEaster is the next grand event taking place on Corfu. On this day, religious ceremonies are accompanied with throwing of clay items from the balconies in the island's capital city.
Saint SpyridonSaint Spyridon is a religious event celebrated on four annual occasions. These are held on December 12, on Sunday preceding Easter, on August 11th and on the introductory Sunday in November. Although the saint's remains rest in Corfu, he never came to the island during his lifetime.
Special Solidarity FestivalSpecial Solidarity Festival, held in Spianada Square, introduces educational and entertaining events for 3 days in summer. Exchange of knowledge through classes and exhibitions, dancing performances and concerts are some main events during the festival.
Varkarola FestivalVarkarola Festival is a complimentary event of the Saint Spyridon Festival, held on August 11. On this occasion, choir singers embark boats and sing while fireworks symbolize the burning of the Turkish naval fleet. Saint Spyridon is considered the protector of the island who disabled the Muslim invaders to set a foothold on Corfu. |
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| Which Island is Better for Me? | Santorini Island is a destination that boasts a magnificent coastline and spectacular sunsets. Sunsets are most beautiful and romantic when experienced from Oia, the settlement on the island's northern side. Nightlife options are plentiful, especially in Fira, the capital of Santorini. Prestigious international events take place in the summer and the island has interesting museums and archaeological sites for exploring. | Mykonos Island is the perfect destination for party people. Rich nightlife takes place in the capital city's clubs and on some beaches. Furthermore, Mykonos boasts amazing beaches catering to solitude seekers and adventurers alike. Water sports are available on some of them. Albeit rich archaeological collections of the island's museums aren't the first thing that comes to mind, there is little doubt that you will enjoy them as well. | Crete is an excellent choice for all vacationers willing to combine exceptional sightseeing, a great selection of beaches and decent nightlife. The island is the first-class destination for an active vacation because it is rich in natural beauties and historical remains. If you don't wish to get around too much, better choose some other island to enjoy your holiday. | Corfu Island is a great destination combining everything you may wish of your vacation. It is ideal for sightseeing and enjoying the beautiful nature that earned Corfu "the Emerald Island" epithet. More so, it prides itself on rich nightlife and cultural activities. More so, the island is convenient for family vacations, with various children-related activities available. |
| Hotel Costs |
Given prices are approximate for August. During other months and seasons, deals are lower. |
Given prices are approximate for August. During other months and seasons, deals are lower |
Given prices are approximate for August. During other months and seasons, deals are lower. |
Given prices are approximate for August. During other months and seasons, deals are lower. |
| Check Hotel deals |  |
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| Car Rentals |
From 165£ to 315£ |
From 180£ to 315£ |
From 135£ to 365£ |
From 130£ to 150£ |
Santorini has strikingly-beautiful beaches. These may be virgin or organized beaches and you will find the most attractive ones in the southern part of the island. Some beaches have water sports, sunbeds and parasols. Snorkeling and diving courses are complimentary options, too.
Beaches of Mykonos are many and most of them are exceptional. You can enjoy water sports, relax at beach bars and dine at taverns on many of them. If you prefer staying out of sight,- suitable options are out there, too. Beaches that combine relative solitude and fun in the water are also available. The majority of the best beaches are located on the southern coast of Mykonos Island.
Cretan beaches are a reason enough for you to enjoy a vacation on the southernmost Greek island. Attractive beaches dot the entire coastline of Crete, accessing amazingly turquoise waters. Engaging water sports are available on organized beaches. One thing is sure, though - beaches of Crete, with their Mediterranean scenery, will unavoidably render you speechless.
Corfu Island is full of amazing beaches you should discover during your vacation here. Opportunities for everyone are vast, from isolated beaches away from the crowds to organized beaches with water sports and beach bars. Exceptionally clear waters and beautiful surroundings are assets you will find on most of them, though.
