Greece
Introduction
Greece is located in southeastern Europe, on the southern part of the Balkan Peninsula, bordering the Mediterranean Sea in south and the Ionian Sea in west. It shares borders with Albania, Bulgaria, Turkey, the Republic of Macedonia, and maritime borders with Cyprus, Egypt, Italy, and Libya.
Greece has a rich and fascinating history that has left a lasting impact on the world. It was the birthplace of democracy, philosophy, and the Olympic Games, and has been home to some of the world’s greatest thinkers and artists.
Greece is a wonderful travel destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and delicious food. Its beautiful landscapes, welcoming people, and fascinating traditions make it one of the most popular destinations in Europe.
The temple of Ephesus
Santorini
Practical Information
Travel Requirements
Visitors from many countries, including European countries and the USA can enter Greece with just a valid passport. However, it is important to check the specific requirements for your country before travelling, as some countries may require a visa or other documentation.
Currency
The currency in Greece is the Euro, which is used throughout the country. Visitors can exchange money at banks, exchange offices, or ATMs, which are widely available in major cities and tourist areas.
Transportation
Public transportation in Greece includes buses, trains, and ferries. Ferries are the best way to travel between the Greek islands, while buses are an excellent way to get around the mainland.
Climate
Greece is known for its sunny and warm weather, with hot summers and mild winters. Some Greek islands are windy in the summer which can be quite pleasant but Greek islands tend to be crowded in July and August. The best time to visit Greece is in the spring and fall, when the temperatures are comfortable and the crowds smaller.
Food
Greek cuisine is famous around the world, with dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, and tzatziki being the top favourites. Greek food is delicious and uncomplicated and is often made with fresh ingredients, including vegetables, herbs, cheese and olive oil.
1
The Acropolis in Athens
This ancient
citadel is home to the Parthenon,
one of the most famous landmarks in Greece and a symbol of Western civilization.
2
Delphi
This ancient sanctuary was considered the center of the world in ancient times and is home to the Temple of Apollo, the famous oracle of Delphi, and stunning mountain views.
5
Mykonos
This popular island is known for its lively nightlife, picturesque beaches, and charming whitewashed buildings.
7
Thessaloniki
Explore the old city of Thessaloniki, rich in Byzantine history, and enjoy its lively food scene and nightlife.
9
The Temple of Poseidon at Sounion
Located on the southern tip of the Attica peninsula, this ancient temple offers stunning views of the sea and is a popular spot for watching the sunset.
3
The Meteora Monasteries
Located in central Greece, these monasteries are perched on top of towering rock formations, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
4
The Palace of Knossos
This ancient Minoan palace on the island of Crete is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece and offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of the region.
6
Santorini
This beautiful island is known for its stunning sunsets, blue-domed churches, and iconic white-washed buildings perched on steep cliffs overlooking the sea.
8
Olympia:
This ancient site was the birthplace of the Olympic Games and is home to the ruins of the ancient stadium, as well as other important historical sites.
10
The Peloponnese
This southern region of Greece is home to many ancient sites, including the ruins of Mycenae, Epidaurus, and the Venetian castle of Nafplio, as well as stunning beaches and picturesque villages.
There are so many beautiful places to see in Greece. If you are undecided, take a look at Foreverlivingyes’ blog post 10-day island hopping itinerary for some great suggestions!
FUn facts about greece
1. Home of the First Olympic Games
The ancient Olympic Games were held in Olympia in 776 BC. The modern Olympics were also revived in Athens in 1896, making Greece the birthplace of the Olympic movement.
2. Over 6,000 Islands
While Greece has around 6,000 islands, only about 227 are inhabited. Some of the most famous include Santorini, Mykonos, Crete, and Rhodes.
3. A Land of Ancient Languages
Greek is one of the oldest written languages still in use today. The Greek alphabet has been used for over 2,500 years and many English words (like “philosophy” and “democracy”) have Greek roots.
4. More Tourists than Residents
Greece attracts more than twice the number of tourists than its population each year. With a population of around 10.3 million, Greece welcomes around 30 million visitors annually.
5. The Blue and White Colours
The colours of the Greek flag (blue and white) represent the sky and the sea, and are also the dominant colours of the stunning architecture you’ll see on islands like Santorini and Mykonos.
6. No Point in Greece Is More Than 85 Miles from Water
Due to its geography, Greece is never far from the sea, with 13,676 km (8,498 miles) of coastline, making it one of the longest in the world.
7. It’s Illegal to Wear High Heels at Ancient Sites
To preserve the ancient ruins, visitors aren’t allowed to wear high heels when visiting historical sites like the Acropolis. The sharp points could damage the stones!
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