Greece is a land of timeless beauty.Wrapped in ancient history and culture, it is a world of discovery and enchantment from exciting Athens to the idyllic Greek Islands.Be amongst the shadows of Olympians, Spartans, and Mythical Gods of past civilizations.Immerse yourself in the modern-day culture and spirit of this legendary part of the world and treat your senses to an unforgettable journey.Discovering Greece on your own can be a very rewarding but tiresome process depending on your level of adventure.In a nutshell, it breaks down to those who just want to experience Athens to the more ambitious who want to include island hopping through the islands of Santorini, Crete, Rhodes, Mykonos, Paros and Corfu to name a few.THE MAINLAND AND ATHENS is the main region of ancient architecture and history.Whether you're into ancient history or not a trip to The Acropolis is a must for any visitor to Athens.A plateau rising almost 300 ft above the city of Athens, it is home to a slew of archaeological remains including The Parthenon, notably the most famous and recognizable Greek Structure.Dating back to 460 BC, these temples and landmarks are true Wonders of the World.A journey back into civilization will lead you to discover temples and statues honoring such gods Poseidon and Athena located on The Erecthion, the most sacred part of the Acropolis.The Acropolis Museum still houses many ancient artifacts and is Other must-see things in Athens and the mainland include. The Theater of Dionysus.Rebuilt in 342 BC, this stone theater was built to honor the God of Wine Dionysus with forms of entertainment and performances in the open air theater.Later expanded by the Romans to host Gladiator Games, it is still occasionally used today for concerts and entertainment.The Temple of Zeus and Olympia.This temple dedicated to the chief of all gods, Zeus, was built between 472 and 456 BC housed the Statue of Zeus and was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.Although only a few columns still exist, the remains still portray the massive size of this incredible structure.Also located in Olympia are the remains of the first Olympic Stadium.Mount Lycabettus .A hike up Mt.Lycabettus may be a bit strenuous, especially in the summer; however, you will rewarded for your efforts by an absolutely stunning view of Athens.If hiking isn't your thing, no worries as there is a small train to carry you up as well.Mount Olympus .For the extremely adventurous, conquering Mount Olympus is more of a "to-do" thing rather than a challenge.Home to 12 Olympian Gods, although you don't have to be a god to climb it experienced climbers can do it in a day.Climbing Mount Olympus is one of those out-of-the-way experiences but well worth it.Meteora .The Monasteries of Meteora are in a word spectacular.Perched on peaks and carved out of mountain cliffs, the Monks were initially hoisted to the Monasteries in net baskets although modern-day roads and paths make it easier accessible.The views you'll experience are incredible however don't disappoint yourself by being refused entrance because you didn't dress appropriately.These are monasteries and proper attire is required.ISLAND HOPPING is an extremely popular way of getting a taste of the different regions and experiences in Greece.Each island is unique in its own history and attributes but with literally thousands of islands to explore, the best option is to take a cruise through these most popular of the Greek Islands..Santorini .If there is only one Island you visit, make it Santorini.The island was literally blown apart by a Volcano and left behind a stunning setting for charming cafes, photography, hiking, and beaches.Set atop volcanic cliffs falling into the deep blue Aegean Sea, Santorini is the postcard island with its narrow streets snaking their way amongst the white and blue houses.Very lively, Santorini will not disappoint as it continues to be the most popular destination for Island Hoppers.Consider at least one overnight as the Island comes alive at night with bars, nightclubs and amazing restaurants serving the best of Greek Cuisine.Crete .The largest of the islands, it is also the most varied.From beaches to mountains, Crete offers excellent hiking, excursions to archaeological sites, photography, or just days lazing on the beaches.Mykonos.Quickly becoming a favorite among younger travelers to Greece, Mykonos is just as popular for the shopping, dining and beaches during the day as it is for the electric atmosphere in the numerous nightclubs and bars at night.Mykonos is a prime island for scenery, and beach lovers as well as hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.Rhodes.Shopping, dining and medieval architecture highlight this Greek Island like no other.Narrow alleys with ancient landmarks wind past incredible shops and restaurants.Rhodes is also has an active nightlife to fill your nights after a day of gastronomical pleasure.Corfu.With numerous coves and inlets, Corfu has some of the best beaches in the Greek islands.This scenic island also has varied landscape that will appeal to hikers and photographers alike.And then.There's the Food! It doesn't matter where you are or what you are doing in Greece, culinary delights are plenty.Everything from favorites like souvlaki and gyros to grilled calamari and baklava are only as far away as the closest restaurant and that's always just a plate's throw away.Combined with excellent wines and ouzo, taste is just one more sense that will be satisfied on a trip to Greece.Greece is a land of many opportunities and discoveries.The best way to see everything is with through a tour operator that offers everything from a-la-cart for those who want to go at their own pace or just spend time in Athens, to full island hopping cruises and escorted tour packages to experience all of the beauty of Greece.
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