Athens — Beachcomber Pete Travel Adventures

Kythnos, Greece

Kythnos is a Greek island, approximately 100 kilometers from Piraeus, the harbor city of Athens. Until recently, Kythnos has had few foreign visitors as many travelers opt for the more famous and popular Santorini, Crete, or Mykonos. However, with history going back to the Mesolithic Era, Kythnos has a wealth of rich culture.

The quaint village of Chora sits atop a hill as a stunning example of Greek architecture. With its white stone houses, modest churches, and narrow cobblestone streets, Chora is a gem to explore. Kythnos is well-known for its delicious capers, olive oil, and almond cookies in addition to the typical Greek seafood cuisine. Chora offers an abundance of restaurants to choose from, all serving fresh fish and seafood.

Outside of Chora is Loutra, a town famous for its hot springs, which some locals believe have healing water. Dryopida is another small town near Chora and is famous for the Kataphyki cave, one of the biggest caves in Greece. Dryopida is also home to the fascinating Folklore Museum of Kythnos.

Merichas, the island’s main port, bustles with activity. Hotels, restaurants, and coffee shops can be easily found along with luxury and entertainment. Despite being a port town, the surrounding waters are clear and blue, appropriate for both swimming and fishing. Merichas also has a vibrant nightlife with its bars and taverns. Vryokastro, the ancient capital of Kythnos, is very close by with ruins of Roman buildings, temples, and altars to explore. The church of Panagia Flambouriani is also worth a visit.

Kythnos has more than 50 beaches, though some are more difficult to reach than others. The best beaches to visit are Kolona, Apokrousi, Skylou, and Potamia. Each offers calm waves, white sand, and most of all, peace and quiet. Most beaches are accessible by scooter or foot. The most unconventional and adventurous way, however, is by parachute. Kolona, which is arguably Kythnos’ most beautiful beach, is popular because it is a narrow strip of land with waves lapping on both sides. Kolona is reasonably close to Merichas, and the pleasant hike along the coast should not be missed. During the months of June to September, Kythnos is at its peak of perfect weather. Days are warm and sunny, making great visits to the secluded beaches.

Kythnos being just a short 100 miles from Athens, makes getting to Greece’s largest city from several European destinations a easy way to find you enjoying that Greek vacation in no time.

Filed Under: Aegean Islands, Aegean Sea, Athens, featured, Greece, Kythnos

Popular Things To Do In Athens, Greece

There are so many Popular Things to do in Athens, Greece , that it is practically impossible for tourists not to find something they like. With so many available options, it actually gets difficult to make a choice! However, there are some things that stand out from the crowd.

Ancient Greeks were highly credited with inventing drama and comedy, and this tradition carries on into the present. There are hundreds of active theatres in Athens, where many wonderful plays are presented (often enough, more than one play is presented in a theater), usually from October to May.

Tourists who visit Athens during the summer months should visit the ancient theatre of Epidaurus to watch great Greek Tragedies. The ancient theatre of Epidaurus is famous for its amazing acoustics, which allow all of the 15,000 spectators to listen very clearly, regardless of their seating.

Athens offers a big variety of shopping opportunities, including not only the traditional Greek-style souvenirs, but also art, jewelry, clothes and shoes. There is something for everyone to buy.

For tourists looking for T-shirt shops and handmade budget jewelry, Plaka is the place to go. There is a huge variety to choose from, so it is for sure no one will leave with empty hands.

At the Sunday flea market on Avyssinias Square, tourists will be able to find old dishes, metal ware and memorabilia. It is the perfect place for those who are on a tight budget and are avid collectors of vintage timepieces.

Some of the best boutiques and home furnishing stores are located in Kolonaki. Less expensive stores can be found in streets nearby, like Ermou and StadiouStreet.

There are numerous places to eat in Athens, most of them offering traditional Greek cuisine. There are also places to enjoy Italian and Asian cuisine, but it is recommended to taste Greek cuisine while visiting Athens.

Taverns offer steam-tray dishes well known as ‘’mageirefta’’, grills, pre-cooked meals and local wine. Ideal for tourists wanting to enjoy a delicious, home cooked meal with their families, without paying much.

Ouzeris are traditional Greek taverns serving the famous Greek liquor ouzo, as well as finger foods, well known as ‘’mezedes’’. Those who are on a tight budget and want to eat something tasty after a long walk in the streets of Athens will absolutely love ouzeris.

Gourmet food lovers who look for top-notch quality and have no financial problems should visit some of the restaurants at the northern suburbs of Athens.

Athens is a great city, with lots of opportunities for tourists to have a great time. Most definitely, it should be the first choice for tourists planning on visiting Greece.

Filed Under: Athens, featured, Greece

Milos, Greece

Milos is one of Greece’s more sought-after island destinations, with white washed buildings perched on steep cliffs, plentiful beaches, ancient historical sites, and Mediterranean beauty.

An ancient volcano between Athens and Crete, Milos is not big, only 14 miles wide and 8 miles long with 4,700 residents. It is a mountainous island thanks to its volcanic past, with steep crater walls disappearing into its deep water harbor and an uneven landscape. It’s highest point is Mount Profitis Elias, 2,454 feet.

Milos is a typical Cyclades Island in that despite the plentiful blue waters surrounding it, it has a fairly dry and arid climate. This results in an absence of lush vegetation. However, the temperatures are mild year-round and there is plenty of sunshine.

In ancient times, Milos was known for its obsidian, a black volcanic glass that is still plentiful on the island. Ancient settlements on the island, including the old city of Milos, thrived on this industry. The main village now is Plaka, located on a plateau above the harbor. Adamas is the port city and main entrance to the island. Several famous artworks have been discovered on Milos, including a statue of Aphrodite, the goddess of love.

There are two ways to get to the island of Milos: by airplane via the Milos National Airport, or by boat from another island or the mainland. The direct boat service from Athens takes 5 hours and is the cheapest. High speed boat service is expensive but can be as swift as 2.5 hours. Airplane trips from Athens are only 30 minutes long and several direct small-plane flights go to Milos each day.

Diving, horseback riding and yachting are all popular activities on Milos. Mediterranean waters are known for their cobalt and turquoise hues and marine life abounds near the shore. Sandy beaches make for memorable horseback rides and, for those who prefer life above the waves, sailing or canoeing is available. The towns on Milos also have a vibrant shopping, music and restaurant culture.

Some of Milos’ major attractions include archaeological sites, like the ancient city of Klima with its Roman theater and the prehistoric settlement of Fylakopi. There are also early Christian catacombs on the island. The northern part of Milos contains a geological wonder, Sarakiniko, a moonscape-like shoreline with water- and wind-carved volcanic rocks that jut out into the Mediterranean Sea. It is one of the most photographed places in the Greek islands.

Filed Under: Aegean Islands, Aegean Sea, Athens, Crete, Cyclades Islands, featured, Greece, Milos

Kythira, Greece

Situated between the Ionian and Aegean seas, Kythira, Greece is one of the most beautiful Ionian Islands, visitors and travelers will find the island is a wonderful travel destination.

According to legend Isiodos, Kythira is the island where Greek Goddess Aphrodite was born. In the second millennium BC, Kithira was a Minoan Colony and later on, a Spartan outpost. During the Peloponnesian war, Kithira was taken over by the Athenians, and it served as an Athenian outpost till Romans arrived.

Tourists can get to Kythira either by plane from Athens or by ferry into the port of Agia Pelagia and Diakofti.

Before travelling to Kithira, it is important for accommodation to be ensured, especially from May to September. While the island does not have mass tourism or commercialization, it however attracts many tourists who seek peaceful holidays by themselves, with a few friends or with their love partners.

Tourists can stay in rooms & apartments, traditional houses, hotels, as well as houses &villas. There is something for everyone.

The beaches in Kythira are considered to be the cleanest in the entire Mediterranean area. Kaladi, is according to many the most beautiful beach on the island. That particular beach is divided into three parts, the most impressive of which being the third one, a small cave that leads to a tiny beach. Not everyone can get to that beach though, since in order to get there, tourists will have to descend the 120 stone steps.

Another very popular beach in Kithira is the beach of Agia Pelagia. Lying in the northeastern part of the island, that beach is famous for its fine gray sand as well as the exceptionally clean waters. Because it is on the main road, Agia Pelagia beach is accessible to everyone. It is also the ideal place for sports fans, since a variety of sports tournaments such as beach volley and beach racket play are held there every summer.

Tourists should not miss the opportunity to visit the two museums in Kythira. The Archaeological Museum in Chora has two halls. The first contains mostly findings of Prehistoric and Classical Years of the Island, while the second contains important findings of recent excavations as well as later samples of the island’s rich history, such as the statue of Aphrodite and Eros.

In the church of Analypsis, granted by the Holy Metropolis of Kithira, there is the Byzantine Museum, where tourists can see a collection of murals, religious paintings and ceramics. Many of those items have been collected by the Archaeological Service to prevent the destruction of church murals.

For those looking for a place to spend some quiet and quality time, the island of Kythira will certainly not disappoint.

Filed Under: Aegean Islands, Aegean Sea, Athens, Europe, featured, Greece, Ionian Islands, Kythira

Naxos, Greece

Naxos, Greece is the biggest and most fertile island in Cyclades, a Greek island group in the Aegean Sea. A popular tourist destination, Naxos provides amazing beaches, sunny weather, intense night life, and memories that will last for a lifetime.

Naxos is the island where according to Greek mythology, hero Theseus abandoned Cretan Princess Ariadne after she helped him defeat the Minotaur and escape from the labyrinth in Crete. Ariadne married God Dionysus over there and from that moment on, the wine made in Naxos became famous as being the ideal antitode for a broken from a break up heart.

Naxos is accessible both by air and by sea. There are daily flights to Naxos from Athens and Thessaloniki. Fairies sail from Piraeus Port in Athens.

Golden sand and an amazing turquoise color is what characterizes the beaches of Naxos. The beach of Agios Georgios is the most popular one, mainly because it is ideal for water sports but also because its shallow sea is safe for children. The beaches of Agios Prokopios and Agia Anna while also popular are however less crowded, because they are long enough and therefore it is easier to find some private spots.

Rooster, lobster, pasta lamb and cheese pie are some of the most famous local recipes that tourists can try. There are plenty of restaurants all over Naxos, but the best are the ones located in the fishing villages.

With hundreds of cafes, bars, beach bars and nightclubs, tourists have a variety of options on how to spend their nights and it is for certain that they will find something to their liking. It should be noted that Greeks usually eat after 8.30 pm and go to bars after 12 pm, therefore tourists should be able to adapt to this routine.

Portara, or else called ‘’The Great Door’’ is a massive doorway, remain of the ancient temple dedicated to Greek God Apollo, close to the port of Naxos and is considered to be a special landmark.

Another famous monument is Naxos Town Castle, located on a hill in Chora, capital of Naxos. What is impressive about Naxos Town Castle is that is still inhabited and still preserves its main characteristics.

The Archaeological Museum of Naxos is located in Chora, in a 17^th century building and exhibits amazing works of art as well as unique objects from the Late Neolithic period until the Early Christian Times.

An island rich in history, with a unique charm and diverse land, Naxos will certainly satisfy even the most difficult tourists.

Filed Under: Aegean Islands, Athens, Crete, Europe, featured, Greece, Naxos, Thessaloniki

Lesvos, Greece

Mild temperatures, natural features and historical sites make Lesvos Greece a must-see location. Birthplace to many famous Greeks, the island has become legendary due to numerous mentions in Greek mythology. Lesvos has also emerged as a premier travel destination for lesbian tourists. Greek is the official language of the area, but many residents also speak English, Spanish, French, Italian or German. As of 2002, euros became the official currency of Lesvos.

Lesbos, also known as Lesvos, is the third largest island in Greece. The land was privately owned until 580 Before Common Era (BCE). Average temperatures range from 50 to 79 degrees Fahrenheit. 90,000 people reside on the island, with many living in the capital city of Mytilene.

The island has extremely diversified flora, or plant life. Hikers gaze upon miles of olive or fruit trees covering 40 percent of the land. A visit to the Western section of the island reveals the second largest petrified Sequoia forest in the world. A series of wetlands make Lesbos a bird watching paradise. Watchers highly recommend the Kalloni and Potamia areas.

Local hot springs are perfect for travelers seeking a more therapeutic visit. A dip in the springs at Thermi, Eftalou of Mithymna or Polichnitos is said to alleviate many physical discomforts. With average temperatures between 76 and 91 degrees Celsius (168.8- 195.9 Fahrenheit), waters at Polichnitos are the hottest in Europe. Local residents claim the springs help with everything from kidney problems to arthritis.

According to the World Monuments Fund, twelve churches in Lesbos are included among the 100 most endangered sites in the world. Tourism, exposure to the elements and age are destroying many unique and culturally relevant sites. Moni Perivoli, a stop for many religious pilgrims, features wall paintings depicting the complete life of Christ.

Lesvos cuisine includes stuffed pumpkin flowers, filled with cheese and fried in hot oil. Liokafta, referred to as the fisherman’s favorite dish, requires a great deal of patience. Fresh fish is seasoned, dried in the sun for up to two days and grilled. Local desserts include a light, flaky pastry called baklava and sugared almonds.

It is impossible not to mention a trip to Lesvos without mentioning its attraction to Lesbian couples. Sappho, a Greek poet who wrote detailed pieces about members of the same sex, was born on Lesvos. Her works have continued to attract large numbers of lesbian couples to the island.

Greece
Greece	Aegean Sea	Mediterranean Sea
Athens	Heraklion	Kavala
Larissa	Patras	Thessaloniki
	Volos
Islands of Greece
Crete	Euboea	Lesvos
Rhodes	Santorini

Filed Under: Aegean Sea, Athens, Crete, Europe, featured, Greece, Heraklion, Lesbos

Larissa, Greece

In the heart of the dazzling Thessalian plain lies the historic capital city of Larissa. Larissa is the capital of the Thessaly region of Greece. It is surrounded by Pieria and Kozani on the northern border of Thessaly; and Fthiotida and Magnisia on the southern border. The Thessaly Region hosts a breathtaking scene of lakes, rivers, forests, plains and mountains. The mountain range Olympus, which houses the twelve ancient gods of Greek mythology, is located in the region as well as Mitikas, the highest peak in Greece.

Larissa is the largest city in the region and has a long history with a very strong connection to Greek culture. The city has a variety of historical landmarks and attractions. One such landmark is The Church of Agios Achilios. There is a horse, a symbol, in front of the church. In the past, Larissa was well known for its horses. The horse symbolizes this. Nearby is the Alcazar Park. The park is a great place for a picnic or relaxing with the family. There are sculptures, statues, and fountains throughout the park as well as a playground and an amphitheater. Also in the vicinity is another popular landmark, an ancient Greek theater. In addition, there are also several museums and art galleries.

The Municipal Art Gallery of Larissa – G. I. Katsigras Museum was established in 1983. The museum houses a large collection of Greek paintings dating between the 19th and 20th centuries.

The Archaeological Museum of Larissa has an enormous assortment of artwork dating back to the Palaeolithic period and continuing to the Roman period. The museum has some very interesting exhibits including amazing tomb inscriptions written in Roman and Archaic, fascinating fossils dating back to the Palaeolithic period, primitive monuments, Roman and Hellenistic sculptures, evidence of Byzantine and Archaic structures, and variety of beautiful artifacts and artwork dating back to the Archaic epoch, the Neolithic epoch, and the Geometrical epoch.

The Folklore Historical Museum of Larissa was established in 1983. The museum has enormous displays of artwork and artifacts presenting the middle class society of the pre- industrial time period. In addition, there are also displays of religious artwork, photographs, documents, maps and engraved pieces of artwork.

For those looking for fun and relaxation, Larissa offers the natural beauty of the mountains and beaches. Tourists can find many All inclusive deals, visitors will enjoy hiking along one of the many trails through the mountains either on foot or by horseback. Tourists can also enjoy frolicking and swimming in the crystal clear water of any one of numerous beaches available including Agiokampos, Karitsa, Paliouria, Stomio, Rakpoptamos, and Velika.

Greece is in the temperate climate zone. With mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers, Larissa is an ideal vacation getaway.

Greece
Greece	Aegean Sea	Mediterranean Sea
Athens	Heraklion	Kavala
Larissa	Patras	Thessaloniki
	Volos
Islands of Greece
Crete	Euboea	Lesbos
Rhodes	Santorini

Filed Under: Aegean Sea, Athens, Crete, Europe, featured, Greece, Larissa, Patras, Santorini

Patras, Greece

The combination of a perfect climate, gorgeous views, and a rich and diverse history all make Patras, Greece the ideal tourist attraction. Nicknamed Greece’s Gateway to the West, Patras is an international commercial hub due to its centrally located ports. Patras also has a famous reputation as a supporter of indigenous culture; the emphasis placed on ancient performing arts and modern literature helped secure Patras the European Capital of Culture in 2006.

The third largest city in Greece, Pastra is located in northern Peloponnese. The oceanfront city, located at the foothills of Mount Panachaikon, overlooks the Gulf of Patras. A famous port city, Patras has long been a buzzing hub for commerce and culture in the Mediterranean. Offering a discerning view into the local culture, Pastra is an essential destination for anyone looking to soak up some of the local culture.

With a history spanning over four millennia, Patra’s history is as diverse as it is interesting. During the Roman era, Patras was a cosmopolitan center of the Mediterranean world and the rumored place of Saint Andrew’s martyrdom. The city is riddled with museums offering insight into its rich history in the arts. Ancient testaments to antiquated architecture are abound in the city, and Patras proudly displays its rich culture.

Patras is home to several Ancient Greek, Roman, and Byzantine architectural feats. The Roman Odean, an open-air theater, has recently been renovated and now hosts a slew of artistic performances during the warmer months. A Roman amphitheater built around 200 AD still towers in Lifestou Street, and offers unparalleled views of the city. The city offers a host of parks and squares including Ethinikis Antistaseos Square, Psilanlonia Square, and Georgious I Square. All feature excellent renovations and are the perfect place for one to catch up on their thoughts or admire the local architecture.

One of Patras’ most famous industries is its foodstuff. A leading distiller of wines and other such fine foods, a visitor to Partas is sure to eat quite well. Offering an eclectic set of restaurants which correspondences with its diverse culture, Patras has a reputation for fantastic food.

Patras’ European Capital of Culture award was well deserved; it offers unmatched insight into Roman, Greek, and medieval culture. The Patras Carnival, a famous celebration and the largest of its kind in Europe, attracts participants from across the globe, Travelers will find many bargain holidays available during carnival. Influenced by spontaneity, improvisation, and volunteerism, this carnival is a testament to human creativity and cooperation. The local Patras municipal and Regional Theatre offers ancient Greek plays and also features an international inventory of performances.
The rich and diverse city of Patras is sure to please all. A unmatched history, a delicious set of dining locations, and a host of local performances and landmarks ensure even the most veteran traveler is captivated and enthralled.

Greece
Greece	Aegean Sea	Mediterranean Sea
Athens	Heraklion	Kavala
Larissa	Patras	Thessaloniki
	Volos
Islands of Greece
Crete	Euboea	Lesbos
Rhodes	Santorini

Filed Under: Aegean Sea, Athens, Europe, featured, Greece, Heraklion, Patras, Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki, Greece

With a population of over 790,000 people, Thessaloniki is the second most populous city in the country of Greece. Thessaloniki has an extremely long history that dates back to ancient Macedonia. Thessaloniki was founded in 315 BC, and was named after the wife of King Cassander of Macedonia. The city became a part of Greece during the First Balkan War after the Ottoman empire surrendered. Nazi Germany took control of Thessaloniki during World War II, and was eventually destroyed by Allied bombs. The city underwent major reconstruction in the years after the war, and Thessaloniki is currently one of the major hubs of tourism in southern Europe. The beautiful weather and great culture make Thessaloniki a wonderful place to visit any time of the year.

Due to its location near the sea, Thessaloniki has a Mediterranean climate. The summer months of June, July and August can get rather hot in the city. The average high temperatures for this time will usually be between 30 and 31.5 °C. Once the sun goes down, the weather is quite mild in the summer with very little rain fall occurring. The best times for cheap holidays are the spring and fall months of April, May, September and October. During this time, the city features very mild temperatures and not much rain.

The expanse history of Thessaloniki is on display in all of the museums that are housed in the city. Thessaloniki’s most visited and famous museums are the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki and the Museum of Byzantine Culture. Both of these museums are widely known throughout Europe and regarded as some of the best museums in the area.

The Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki was established in 1962 and features artifacts of the city throughout its history. Most of the artifacts on display in the museum were found through archaeological excavations of the city. The most popular exhibitions in the museum are the Gold room and the Derveni krater. Most of the gold and the krater were found in the tombs throughout the city.

The Museum of Byzantine Culture was opened in 1993 and features various items that show the history of the Byzantine Empire. There are currently three exhibits at the museum that focus on the early Christian churches and how the early Christians lived. Some of items on display include clothing, jewelery and paintings. Cemeteries and graves of the era are also shown.

If museums are not your favorite, Thessaloniki also hosts various festivals throughout the year that revolve around music, art and film. The Thessaloniki International Trade Fair is the largest of the annual festivals in the city. It attracts more than 250,000 visitors each year and is one of the most important economic events in the area.

Greece
Greece	Aegean Sea	Mediterranean Sea
Athens	Heraklion	Kavala
Larissa	Patras	Thessaloniki
	Volos
Islands of Greece
Crete	Euboea	Lesbos
Rhodes	Santorini

Filed Under: Aegean Sea, Athens, Europe, featured, Greece, Thessaloniki

Euboea, Greece

Across the Euripus Strait from the Greek mainland lies the island of Euboea. Also known as Evia, this island is part of a great mountain chain forming the eastern border of Thessaly and extending beyond Euboea to form the neighboring islands of Mykonos, Tinos and Andros. Euboea has a rich, colorful history and today is a growing tourist destination.

The island was settled by Ionian Greeks from Attica, who established the island’s major cities, Eretria and Chalcis. These cities grew to prominence and became colonizing powers in their own right, establishing the colonies of Sicily, Cumae and Rhegium among others. Because of its wealth and strategic position, Euboea was a choice plum and much desired by the mainland Greeks. In the fourth and fifth century BC, both Eretria and Chalcis were defeated by Greeks who forcefully deported the residents and moved their own colonists onto the island. Throughout the Middle Ages the island was fought over and occupied by the Lombards, the Venetians and the Ottomans, finally becoming a part of the Greek state established by the Greek War of Independence in 1830.

Today Euboea is a perfect holiday destination for travelers because it has been largely undiscovered by tourists until recent years. Now the island is slowly coming to the attention of the world, but still remains relatively unspoiled. There are archaeological sites, excellent spas and beautiful beaches with good diving.

Ancient Chalcis, now spelled Khalkis, is still the principal city of the island, and attracts countless travelers. Visitors can see the ruins of the old walls in the Kastro, a Turkish district, as well as the fifth century church of Ayia Paraskevi and the ancient aqueduct. Just outside the city is the Kastelli, a 13th century Venetian castle from the island’s period of Latin domination. Moving out from the city, travelers can see the archaeological dig at Ramnous with its burial grounds, ruined fortress and sanctuaries. In the village of Ayia Thekla there is a 15th century church with exquisite frescoes.

Euboea has natural geothermal springs that have been praised for their therapeutic value since ancient times. Today visitors can have a luxurious spa experience at Loutra Adipsou or Kamena Vourla, a restful interlude in a tour of Euboea’s northern coastal region.

The natural scenery is a main attraction in Euboea. Hikers and divers can find countless little-known places of stunning beauty waiting to be explored.

Greece
Greece	Aegean Sea	Mediterranean Sea
Athens	Heraklion	Kavala
Larissa	Patras	Thessaloniki
	Volos
Islands of Greece
Crete	Euboea	Lesbos
Rhodes	Santorini