Summer is already here and our bodies are asking for a well deserved rest under the sun after months of hard work. If you don’t have your holidays planned already, check out these travel ideas for Greece by Voyage Privé to go to one of the best summer destinations ever: Greece. Here are some of the islands that you can visit
Santorini
Santorini is one of the most popular destinations among tourists who want to discover Greece. Why? Well, mainly because of the beauty of each of its beaches, its sunsets and its differentiating element with respect to the surrounding islands: its geological characteristics. The island is located in a volcanic caldera that gathers different volcanoes, turning the area into the volcanic centre of the Aegean Sea -which translates into impressive beaches. Each beach of Santorini has particular characteristics that makes it unique and exceptional. The brilliant black rocks, and the white, black and red sand make up an unforgettable scenery. Most of the beaches are well organized and offer umbrellas and loungers as well as various water sports. The characteristic white houses of the Cyclades will let you discover their treasures little by little and the sunsets will take your breath away.
Rodhes
If you are one of those traveling ‘nerds’ who enjoy spending time in the beach but don’t know how to go on holiday and without also discovering the most cultural and historic part of the destination, Rodhes is probably the best destination for you if you want to travel to Greece.
This island was very famous in antiquity for having the great Colossus of Rhodes 30 meters high, one of the wonders of the world, which served as a lighthouse for ships arriving on the island. Unfortunately, an earthquake in 227 B.C. destroyed the sculpture, although its history remains alive in the city.
Today, however, one of its most interesting places is the old city centre of Rhodes, declared a World Heritage Site, where its medieval past stands out with the great walls that surround it, in which you will discover cobblestone streets and labyrinths, stone palaces, fortifications, mosques, minarets and ancient temples. After getting to know every corner of the old city, you can rent a car and get to the beautiful village of Lindos, find the archaeological sites distributed around the island and bathe in the beautiful beaches and coves with turquoise waters.
Corfu
In Corfu, Greece is mixed with Italy, a pinch of France and a touch of Great Britain. Each bite of this ancient city will make you fall in love with nature and history. Corfu is the greenest Mediterranean island, with 3 million olive trees, and it is also packed with small rocky coves, only accessible by boat. The old town of Corfu, is a marvel with influences in its buildings of the different conquerors, among which stand out the Ancient Fortress built by the Venetians, the Square of the Esplanade or Spianada, or the palace of Achileion, summer residence of Sissi Empress, located on the outskirts of the capital. Pontikonisi, a small island on which the Pantocrator Monastery is located, one of the most photogenic places on the island, is only 15 minutes from the centre by car and we recommend you not to miss it.
Crete
Crete is the biggest island of Greece and here you can satisfy every one of your desires. You will be fascinated by the crystal-clear beaches and the rugged mountains, dotted with caves and gorges, you will be amazed. The traditional cuisine, the beautiful villages and their charming people, and above all the numerous archaeological relics will not leave you indifferent.
Therefore, if the legends of the Minotaur or Icarus resound in your head, then Crete is your destiny. Greece’s largest island hides hundreds of secrets that any enthusiast of history, beaches and good food should visit. Here you can get lost among archaeological sites such as the impressive Knossos Palace, with its murals and striking red columns, or Festos and Gortina, worthy of a visit.
Kos
Cos is one of the pearls of the Aegean Sea. It goes from west to east giving life to one of the most international localities of Greece. Besides being rich in history because of the importance of its archaeological areas –only Rodhes has more, Cos is also the paradise of cyclists. You can rent a bicycle for 5 euros a day and the trails are very well maintained. It is one of the main destinations for Europeans and is one of the meccas of Greece’s nightlife: once the sun sets, the party begins and never seems to end. The long beaches are ideal for families with children but also for all those who love being on the beach without sacrificing comfort.
