The shipwreck in Zakinthos
Lunch in Elafonisos
Myrtos beach in Kefalonia
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Greece
Greece, has so many fabulous holiday options, you really are spoilt for choice. The beaches are to die for with sea so blue and clear you will never want to swim in a swimming pool again. In addition to the gorgeous beach life, history oozes out of everywhere, marvellous myths and monuments will leave everyone awestruck. We’ve loved visiting Greece's islands, each one has its own very different character right down to their own culinary specialities. We've particularly enjoyed islands that are just that bit harder to reach - those without an airport and involve a boat trip! They tend to be a little less crowded, a little more authentic and also a bit better value for money. Even on popular islands though it's always possible to get off the beaten track and find unspoilt coves and peaceful tavernas. Alternatively if it's a party you're looking for the nightlife on many popular islands (notably Mykonos, Corfu, Zakinthos and Kos) will keeping you dancing well into the night. Mainland Greece also has loads to offer, the west coast has some beautiful beaches and pretty villages; the Peloponese is full of history and there are day trips possible to lots of different islands; and the Pelion peninsula is breathtakingly beautiful. The capital, Athens is a wonderful, energetic, city to explore. The museums and the Acropolis are well worth a visit for a huge helping of ancient history and the old part of the city, Plaka, is charming and fascinating with cobbled alleyways filled with boutiques, cafes and tavernas. Greece is very welcoming to families, there are lots of comfortable accommodation options and food is fresh, simple and delicious with lots of small sharing dishes on offer in most places. Toddlers will love the clear, shallow, warm sea and sandy beaches and older children will enjoy history lessons set in ancient temples and castles. It's hard not to be impressed by some of those Greek myths when you're standing in the Acropolis or looking out over Dellphi. Boat trips are also fun for everyone whether you're getting a ferry to another island, hiring your own little boat for the day or going on a glass bottom boat trip. |
The Acropolis Museum in Athens
Sea so blue you will never want to swim in a swimming pool again!
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How to travel to and in Greece Greece covers a huge area with over 1200 islands. Flying direct from the UK takes between around 3 to 4 hours. There are 15 main airports on a handful of the islands and on the mainland. Islands with airports are well set up for tourists with some fabulous resorts, great accommodation and restaurants but don't be put off going a little further if it takes your fancy. Boat and ferry services are great especially in the Summer months so it's very easy to reach other islands (check out routes and timetables here). From Athens airport you can get a train to the main port at Pireas where you'll find ferries to dozens of islands. By land & sea: We've driven to Greece from the UK in our campervan twice and it's a long but beautiful journey. Ferries leave from Venice and other ports down the east coast of Italy. For options and bookings following this link. If you are travelling in a campervan or motorhome look at the 'camping on board' option as this allows you to sleep in you vehicle on deck. if you want to take the train check out your options here. Most popular airports: Mainland: Athens, Thesaloniki, Kavala, Preveza & Kalamata Islands: Kefalonia, Chania (Crete), Heraklion (Crete), Mykanos, Santorini, Kos, Rhodes, Skiathos, Corfu & Zante. Go to How to Book a Flight for loads of flight booking tips and tools. |
Sikia Camping taverna overlooking the beach
Our very own Jacuzzi in Thassos
Athens
Sikia camping by the beach
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Accommodation There is huge range of accommodation in Greece from beachside apartments to sumptuous hotels. Prices vary wildly between islands so make sure you research accommodation before you book a bargain flight. Although there are some amazing resorts throughout Greece if you're looking for more of a bargain break apartments and studios are plentiful and offer simple but comfortable rooms and almost always come with a large dose of warm Greek hospitality. One thing to remember is that with such warm, clear sea to swim in you might not need a swimming pool quite as much as you think. A few favourites: Athens Sweet Home Hotel - this friendly, boutique hotel is located in the heart of Athens with many sights within easy walking distance. The rooms are cosy and the breakfast scrumptious. Thassos Royal Paradise Hotel and Spa - large, comfortable hotel on the beach with kids club and swimming pools. Totally recommend the rooms with a terrace and your own jacuzzi! Lefkas Captian's Studios - Simple but comfortable apartments with views over the port of Vasiliki. Numerous bars and restaurants a short stroll away and friendly and helpful staff. Delphi Apollo Hotel - lovely hotel with stunning views from the terrace down the valley to the sea. Great location with loads of restaurants nearby and the archeological sights of Dephi less than a kilometre away. Volos/Pelion region Sikia Camping and Apartments - Situated in an olive grove on the seashore this beautiful campsite is a great place to stay. In addition to the campsite there are apartments and pre-erected tents and a wonderful taverna serving a range of Greek specialities. |
Elafonisos, Greece
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