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.

Little Chaple in Village of Skala Sykaminias, Lesbos, GreeceThe 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.

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Heraklion, Greece


Crete is an island of diverse and breathtaking landscapes. Fertile valleys framed by rugged mountainous terrain and bordered by miles of lovely coastline, the ancient Koules Venetian Fortress presenting an imposing presence in the Harbor of Heraklion as it has for nearly 500 years.

The prefecture of Heraklion is one of four on the island and is the largest and most densely populated on Crete. The city of Heraklion is the fifth largest city in Greece and the hub of social and economic activity for the island of Crete. Heraklion is also a city that holds great historical significance with many archaeological discoveries having been found within the city from the classical and Hellenistic periods as well as indisputable evidence that the city was once known as the seaport of Knossos with origins dating as far back as 2000 BC. Many of the archaeological treasures that have been found here were discovered during excavation for new construction projects in the city and surrounding areas.

Port of Heraklion, GreeceHeraklion has been under the control of various rulers and countries throughout the ages, but today the island of Crete is part of the Kingdom of Greece.

The city of Heraklion is the capital of the prefecture. It is a diverse mixture of the ancient and the modern with thriving commercial enterprises and industry mingled with sites from the Byzantine, Venetian and Minoan periods.

While visiting Crete, there are a number of outstanding archaeological sites that should not be missed. These include the Palace of Knossos, an impressive ruin and the most popular attraction on the island, the Kamilari, a remarkably well preserved circular Minoan Tomb dating back to 1900 BC, the Palace of Malia, the palace city of Phaestos and many others. For lovers of Greek and European history, Crete is the perfect destination.

The Archaeological Museum located in the city also contains many significant artifacts that detail 5500 years of Cretan history and civilization. It is one of the top five museums in the Greek Isles.


The Loggia is a recreation of an elegant part of the Venetian culture of Crete and is located in the city of Heraklion. The original Loggia was built in the early 17th century by General Francesco Morosini and was once the playground and meeting place of the nobility of the day. The current Loggia is open to the public and is home to the Heraklion Town Hall.

Although best known for its historical significance, Heraklion also has its modern charms and attractions. The Heraklion market offers a wide variety of items ranging from souvenirs to fine jewelry as well as traditional local products such as wine, olive oil, honey, tempting Greek foods and Cretan delicacies.

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Greece

Aegean Sea

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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.

Cable Stayed Bridge, Patras, GreeceThe 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.

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Aegean Sea


The Aegean Sea may hold more history and legend in its waters than any other body of water in the world. Located in the eastern Mediterranean, this is the sea upon which those thousand Greek ships sailed when they set out to sack Troy and rescue the lovely Helen. The Aegean is where western civilization was born; the Myceneans, the Minoans, and later, the more well-known states like Athens and Sparta lined its coast. Plato likened the situation to “frogs around a pond.”

A history lesson and a few thousand years’ worth of ancient ruins, however, are just a couple of the many reasons to visit the region. Located in the eastern part of the Mediterranean, the Aegean enjoys a comfortable subtropical climate. This makes it an ideal destination for cruises and vacationers: summers are dry with warm to hot temperatures, and the winters are fairly mild with more rainfall. While other nations and states have shared the Aegean coast in the past, only Greece and Turkey border it nowadays.

Yachts in Aegean sea near Poros, GreeceThe Aegean Sea covers roughly 83,000 square miles, with the Black Sea feeding into its northeastern corner via the Dardanelles. On the western side is Greece and a strait that connects to the Ionian Sea, which lies between the Italian peninsula and the Dalmatian coast.

Hundreds of islands are to be found in the Aegean, both large and small. Most of them belong to Greece, but recent decades have seen some disputes with Turkey over the details. Despite a lack of technology, many ancient travelers found it easier to travel over the water than to navigate Greece’s rough land routes. An Aegean sailor was never very far from landfall. Crete, at the southern edge where the Aegean meets the Mediterranean, is the largest of the Aegean islands. It is perhaps the most famous as well, but none of them are short on beauty.


However, the Aegean is not a place to go in search of a lush tropical paradise; it is generally too dry during the warmer parts of the year. Most of its islands are rather rugged, some are volcanic, and some are downright barren. The beaches, however, are excellent, as is the food. The pristine blue waters of this sea draw visitors from across Europe and the rest of the world. You’ll find the standard delicious Mediterranean fare here: lots of wine, olives, olive oil, and other Greek staples. Seafood, of course, is never in short supply. It’s as healthy as it is tasty.

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Athens, Greece


There are few cities in the world that can boast such as rich a culture and history as Athens. Athens is the capital and the largest city in Greece. It is also one of the oldest cities in the world and is often referred to as the Cradle of Western Civilization and the Birthplace of Democracy, due, in part, to a fierce commitment to education, culture and improving and evolving civilization. The city is named for Athena, the goddess of wisdom. Today, Athens is a modern city with advanced culture, technology, infrastructure and tourism all combined with the rich history and culture that has made Athens great for over 7,000 years.

Acropolis and the city of Athens, GreeceAthens is home to some of the most famous and remarkable architecture in the world. Buildings such as the Parthenon, the Acropolis, the Herodes Atticus Theater and the Academy of Athens all stand as landmarks and architectural wonders in the city. The buildings and architectural features of the city are such a prominent part of Athens culture and history that the city makes a large number of taxi, bus and trolley tour services available to tourists on a daily basis. These tours have been greatly improved since 2004, when Athens was host to the Olympics. At the time, the city used much of the profits from hosting to improve the infrastructure and bring travel and tourism more up to date with modern transportation options.

Museums, of course, are an important part of a city with such a notable cultural and historical background. The city of Athens has no shortage of museums such as the Natural Archeological Museum, the largest archeological museum in the country or the Numismatic Museum, which contains a fantastic collection of both ancient and modern coins. Athens has long been home to amazing art and is particularly well known for its statues. The Byzantine and Christian Museum houses some of the most notable Byzantine art in the world while the Museum of Cycladic Art displays some of the statues for which Athens is famous in addition to a vast collection of art.


While certainly known for a rich historical significance, Athens also has a prominent scene of modern activities and attractions. There are shopping, entertainment, dining and nightlife opportunities a plenty in Athens. The city also offers a number of live theaters and cinemas for great entertainment. Perhaps most important to the local culture, is the dining and nightlife in Athens. Europeans are often known for their affinity for late nights and the culture in Athens readily reflects that. Athens is home to a vast array of restaurants, cafes, bars and clubs to provide endless entertainment and excellent dining. The city of Athens has much to offer and is an excellent choice in tourist destinations.

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Crete, Greece


Greece is a beautiful and intriguing vacation destination that offers travelers a wealth of diversified characteristics. It is located in Southern Europe and borders the Mediterranean, Ionian and Aegean Sea. Home to some of the most startling scenery in the Mediterranean, the Greek Islands have won the hearts of vacationers from all around the world. Crete is located 155 kilometers south of mainland Greece and has a population of approximately 650,000 friendly residents, most of whom reside on the island’s north coast. The diversified culture of the island provides a welcoming atmosphere for visitors.

Coastline of Crete, Greece

Crete boasts a turbulent history, including a 22-year siege after which it fell from Venetian rule to the rule of the Ottoman Turks in 1669. In 1897 it regained autonomy, and eventually became a part of Greece in 1913. Crete is well-known for its outstanding scenery, such as the impressive mountain chain that runs throughout the island directly to the sea. The primary vacation destination on the island of Crete is Chania, where numerous resorts and tourist attractions can be found.

Golden Beach is by far the most popular beach on Crete and is within easy walking distance from most of the island’s resorts and from Chania’s downtown district. On the southern coast of Crete one will find the beautiful beaches of Heraklion and Lentas, as well as the Matala Beach Caves, one of Crete’s best-loved landmarks. Most of Crete’s beaches have been awarded the European Blue Flag, which is given only to beaches that are found clean and fully equipped on a consistent basis. Crete also offers some of the best nightlife in Greece, and resorts such as Paleohora and Platanias provide dancing and live entertainment seven days a week during tourist season.


Peak vacation season in Crete is June through August, during which time most establishments extend their hours to accommodate tourists and visitors. Crete enjoys over 300 days of sunshine each year and classic Mediterranean weather prevails throughout the island. From March to October one can usually count on pleasant sun-filled days. During the fall and winter months strong winds are often present and in the highest elevations snow is possible. Those traveling to Crete during peak season should consider booking their vacation well in advance to avoid being shut out. However, regardless of what time of the year one visits Crete, he or she can expect to have an enjoyable and interesting vacation.

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Greece

Greece

Aegean Sea

Mediterranean Sea

Athens

Heraklion

Kavala

Larissa

Patras

Thessaloniki

 

Volos

 

Islands of Greece

Crete

Euboea

Lesbos

Rhodes

Santorini

 

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Greece


If you come to Greece expecting one thing, you are going to be surprised. From breathtaking vistas of the Acropolis in Greece’s ancient capital city Athens, to the beaches and quaint fishing villages of the Aegean and Ionian islands, to the Byzantine-influenced historic sites and hip, contemporary culture of Thessaloniki in the north, Greece is a land of enchanting diversity, with something for everyone, no matter what their interests or budget.

Greece is famous as the cradle of Western civilization. Following the successful defense of their homeland against the Persians at Marathon and Salamis in the 5th century BC, Athens rose as a superpower among Greek city-states, introducing a system of government called democracy that has become a prototype for governance in our modern world. During the so-called Classical Era, Greece produced cultural, philosophical, architectural and scientific achievements through the teachings of Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, Pythagoras and Hippocrates, and the dramas of Sophocles, Aeschylus and Euripides, that continue to be relevant in the 21st century. Greece became the gateway for a thriving commercial culture that included the entire eastern Mediterranean as well as southwest Asia.

Beaches of Hydra Island, GreeceBut the Roman annexation of the free Greek city-states into their Empire presaged almost 2000 years of foreign subjugation, first by the Romans, than by the Byzantine Empire, and finally by the Ottoman Turks and the Italian city-states of Genoa and Venice. Greece did not achieve independence again until 1829. Greece was again invaded by a foreign power, Germany, once again during World War II.

Greek tourism began to flourish in the 1960s and 1970s. Today, Greece attracts close to 20 million visitors a year, most of them from other countries in the European Union.

Classical Greek culture, of course, is one of the very foundations of European civilization, and many travelers come to Greece to better acquaint themselves with it. The United Nations has included 17 Greek monuments on its list of World Heritage sites. Among them, of course, are Athens’ Acropolis with its quartet of ancient architectural masterpieces, The Parthenon, The Propylaea, The Erecchtheum and the Temple of Athena. The most perfectly preserved temple in all of Greece, however, is to be found in the wilder landscape south of Olympus, at the Temple of Apollo Epikourios on the slopes of Kotylion Mountain in Bassae.


Antiquities are not Greece’s only allure. Life on its many islands is famously relaxing and slow-paced. The most picturesque of the Greek isles? Santorini, where whitewashed villages nestle above dramatic volcanic cliffs overlooking the azure Aegean. Crete is Greece’s largest island, renowned as much for its splendid beaches and mountain climbing as it is for its archeological treasures. Mediterranean Corfu has more of a Riviera flavor; its sunny countryside abounds with lush vegetation, while its capital, Corfu City, is filled with Byzantine churches, French facades and sunny, Italian-style piazzas.

One of Greece’s most recently discovered tourist attractions is Chalkidiki in northern Greece where sun, sea and golden-sand beaches compete with Paleolithic site and medieval monasteries as must-see attractions.

Greece

Greece

Aegean Sea

Mediterranean Sea

Athens

Heraklion

Kavala

Larissa

Patras

Thessaloniki

Volos

Islands of Greece

Crete

Euboea

Lesvos

Patmos

Rhodes

Santorini

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