Excursions to Greece. shrines of northern Greece. Passport expiration date

  • Thessaloniki
  • Meteora
  • Kastoria
  • Meteora Delphi
  • Olympus Dion Vergina
  • Cruise along Mount Athos
  • Garden of the Virgin
  • Transfer from Thessaloniki Airport with Sightseeing tour around town
  • Acropolis
  • Ancient Argolis
  • Excursion to ancient Olympia

The country will find something to surprise even experienced travelers. A short flight and a mild climate are conducive to rest with children. They will get the impression of resorts immersed in greenery and trips to places shrouded in ancient legends. Tours to Greece are selected individually, each age category will find a place for relax. In addition to the sea and excursions in the country expect water sports sports, spa treatments, nightclubs, water parks, bargain shopping. The price of the tour is affected by seasonality, demand for the resort, flight occupancy. Vacation package in Greece high season better to buy in advance. It is inexpensive to relax and visit the places where the gods lived, in early spring and late autumn. At this time of the year, the country is warm and dry, prices for accommodation and excursions are reduced.

The best trails in Halkidiki

The peninsula is famous for its interesting religious sites. Well-preserved remains of cities and places of worship, many active monasteries with miraculous icons and relics of saints.

Meteora - UNESCO World Heritage Site

The road to Meteora passes through mountains, resting against clouds and pomegranate plantations. The first impressions of the seen landscape are surprise and admiration. Rocks of bizarre shapes, looking up into the sky, are majestic and mysterious. Surprisingly, monasteries perched on their peaks, like birds. How they were built remains a mystery. The road to these places was laid relatively recently. The monastery complex in the 16th century consisted of 24 cloisters, today 6 of them operate and receive pilgrims. When choosing a tour to Greece, ask if there will be excursions to Meteora.

Note! Those wishing to visit the monastery must dress appropriately. IN Holy place entry in shorts, miniskirts, open T-shirts is prohibited.

Kastoria - a city of churches and fur factories

It's unfair to come to town just for quality fur. More than 70 monasteries and temples with rare frescoes have been preserved here. Tourists remain impressed for a long time after inspection stone cave. In the city, you can visit factories or go for fur products in the Edika complex. many taverns and restaurants serving local dishes.

Olympus-Dion-Vergina: get closer to the gods

During a vacation in Greece, no one will refuse to visit the place of residence of the gods, to imagine how ancient holidays took place at the foot of Mount Olympus. Roman baths, ancient streets, statues have survived in Dion. In Vergina, they visit the tomb of Father Alexander the Great and a museum with royal treasures: armor, jewelry, frescoes.

Important! Going on excursions in Greece, grab comfortable shoes. Every city has many interesting places that cannot be bypassed.

Thessaloniki - a combination of antiquity and modernity

Despite the destruction and fires in the city, the monument to Aristotle, Byzantine walls, White Tower, In the museum Byzantine culture is a collection of artifacts. The arch of Galeria, built at the end of the 3rd century in honor of the emperor's victory, is adjacent to modern high-rise buildings. In the historical part of the city, the remains of the Roman Forum have been preserved. There is a museum on its territory.

Meteora - Delphi - a touch of ancient history

Once upon a time, pilgrims sought divination in Delphi. Now tourists come to see the ruins of the sanctuary. Among the most interesting ancient buildings of Delphi are the ancient stadium, the ruins of the Temple of Apollo and the Sanctuary of Athena. From Delphi, tourists go to see the most amazing sight in Greece - a mountain monastery complex with functioning monasteries and icon-painting workshops.

When selecting excursion tour Please note that the program is designed for two days. Travelers dine in local taverns, for rest they are accommodated in the hotels of Arachova at the foot of Parnassus. Here it is ski resort. There are many clubs and places of entertainment in the village.

Cruise along Mount Athos - the opportunity to enjoy the magnificent church architecture

From the deck of the ship, the monasteries on the mountainside are clearly visible. A visit to the Holy Mountain is available only to men after obtaining a special permit. But traveling along the western coast of Athos, you can see eight active monasteries. Tours take place during the summer. The cruise ends at the port of Ouranoupoli. In the town you can have lunch, walk along the ancient streets, buy souvenirs, icons painted by monks.

Excursion cost in Greece depends on many factors: the excursion program, the remoteness of the resort, organizational features (group size, food during the tour, etc.). On average, the price ranges from 40 to 70 euros.

Attention! To visit temples, monasteries, you must be dressed appropriately.

(click on the name of the tour you are interested in)

SOUTHERN GREECE

Sightseeing tour of Athens

This tour will give you the opportunity to get in touch with the life of one of the most unique cities in the world. Among the many attractions you will see Presidential palace(former Royal), guarded by the soldiers of the National Guard - the colorful Evzones, the White Marble Olympic Stadium - the venue for the first modern Olympic Games in 1896, Zappion Park, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the arch of Hadrian, the theater of Dionysus, the Constitution Square (Syntagma), the Parliament building, the Academy, University, National Library, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Omonia Square. Visit the pearl of Athens - the ancient Acropolis with its magnificent temples of the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, the Temple of the Goddess Nike Apteros and the Acropolis Museum, which houses authentic masterpieces ancient Greek sculpture. From the Acropolis Hill you will see the ruins ancient market- Agora, Portico of Attala, Temple of Hephaestus, Archopagus Hill.

You will have the opportunity to walk around the old district of Athens - Plaka, where there are various souvenir shops and numerous taverns.

Byzantine Peloponnese

Byzantine Peloponnese

A trip to the Peloponnese would not be complete without a visit to the Byzantine ghost town of Mystras. You can visit the Church of St. Demetrius, the Cathedral of Mystras, where the last emperor of the Byzantine Empire, Constantine Palaiologos, was crowned, the Cathedral of St. Sophia, many other churches and medieval mansions, bordered by labyrinths of winding streets.

Excursion to Ancient Olympia

Located in the Peloponnese near the Ionian Sea, Ancient Olympia is famous today as the place where the Olympic flame was lit. In Olympia you will see the place where the first Olympic Games were held in 767 BC, you will visit Altis, a sacred grove where the mighty athletes of antiquity once competed with each other, you will see the temple of Hera - the oldest stone temple of all Greece, the temple of Zeus Olympian, visit the Archaeological Museum, where all the surviving sculptures are now located, among which is the original work of Praxiteles - Hermes with the baby Dionysus, recognized as the best antique statue preserved to this day.

Excursion to Delphi

Delphi for people ancient world were the main place on earth. The most authoritative oracle of the deeply revered Apollo was located there, and the ancient Hellenes loved to look into the future. You will see the sanctuary of the god Apollo, where the mysterious Pythia predicted fate on his behalf, you will touch the “navel of the earth”, you can wash yourself with the water of the Castal spring, which, according to legend, has a rejuvenating effect.

Tour of Argolis

One of the most interesting excursions offered in Greece. waiting for you an amusing trip in three regions - Attica, Corinthia, Argolis. You will visit the ancient theater, famous for its acoustics, the sanctuary of the god of healing Asclepius, ancient Mycenae, whose history was described by Homer, the ruins ancient city, including the "Lion's Gate", the royal burials of the XV-XVI centuries BC, discovered by Schliemann, the palace of the Mycenaean kings and the famous "tomb of Agamemnon".

Zakynthos island

Zakynthos island

Having sailed by ferry to the island (from the Peloponnese the road takes 1 hour and 15 minutes), you find yourself in the capital of the island, Chora. You can visit blue grottoes, a Venetian fortress, which was built in 1646 and survived almost intact. From June to August, you can see the giant carriage-carriage turtles that come to the island once a year to lay their eggs. You can visit the monastery of St. George, which is located in a dense forest high above sea level, the cave where St. neighboring island Kefalonia.

Excursion to Meteora

You will climb the Meteora rocks, visit two monasteries. This unique place- a monastic state built on giant steep cliffs.

It should be noted that for admission to the monasteries it is necessary to be appropriately dressed. On the way back you will have the opportunity to see the famous Thermopylae, where in 480 BC. The Spartan king Leonidas and his 300 warriors gave one of the most famous battles in history.

NORTHERN GREECE

Cruise to Mount Athos

Cruise to Mount Athos

An exciting boat cruise that starts in the small bay of Ormos Panagias, in the northeastern part of the Sithonia peninsula. The ship is heading towards west coast the peninsula of Agios Oros (Holy Mount Athos), where the only Orthodox monastic state in the world is located. Listening to the guide's story about the founding of the monasteries and the life of the monks, tourists from the deck of the ship enjoy a magnificent view of the monasteries built on steep slopes near the sea. From a distance of 500 m, you can see eight of the twenty active monasteries and admire the virgin nature of this peninsula. The cruise gives guests the opportunity to get acquainted with the history and architecture of Athos, where miraculous icons are deeply revered and known to Russians. Mother of God“Worthy is”, “Merciful”, “Sacrifice”, “Iberian”, “Mammary”, “Joy and Consolation”, “Quick Hearing”, “Konevskaya” and “Three Hands”.

After the tour, travelers have the opportunity to relax for an hour and a half in the city of Ouranoupoli, at the very border with the monastic state, where you can swim in warm waters Aegean Sea, take a walk along the promenade or dine in one of the Greek taverns.

Excursion to Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is the second largest city in Greece. He is considered to be one of the most beautiful cities country, and is often referred to as the "bride of the north", as Thessaloniki is the capital northern Greece or Macedonia. During the tour you can visit:

the acropolis of the city and the fortress walls, from where you can admire beautiful view to the city of Thessaloniki.

"White Tower", built in the 15th century, and which is the symbol of the city.

Church of St. Demetrius, the patron saint of Thessaloniki.

Before or after the tour you will have free time, which will give you the opportunity to visit the shopping centers and shops of the city, as well as stroll along the city's famous embankment, and find out what it feels like when the Thermaic Gulf splashes at your feet.

Jeep Safari around Halkidiki

Jeep Safari around Halkidiki

lovers exotic vacation! This group day trip is for you. You will see the peninsula of Halkidiki from a slightly different side: country roads, untrodden fields, mountain streams, deserted coasts... And all this from comfortable eight-seater Jeep Land Rover cars, accompanied by experienced drivers.

You will visit unique lake small turtles, which you can not only photograph, but also feed (if you stock up on bread beforehand) Saturated colors of green and black coniferous forests will delight your eyes, and your impressions will become even more vivid during the stop, when you enjoy the aroma and taste of Greek coffee.

Then the route will take a course to the sea. And then a surprise awaits you: a stop for swimming will be made in a place that will become another adventure.

Next, you will have lunch in a traditional Greek tavern by the sea, where you can taste fresh fish. During this breathtaking trip, you will learn many memorable facts from the stories of your guide - a native Greek.

Notes: It is mandatory to use seat belts during the tour.

Dion-Olympus-Vergina

Dion-Olympus-Vergina

Dion- an ancient Macedonian city, where the sacrificial altar of Zeus was located. The archaeological center will pleasantly surprise you: the sanctuary of Demeter and Isis, the ancient Odeon, Roman baths, the residential part of the ancient city, the “Palace of Dionysus”.

After the excursion to Dion you will find legendary mountain Olympus. After all, here, according to the ideas of the ancient Greeks, was the home of 12 Olympic gods. The bus rises to an altitude of 1000 m above sea level, where you can see the magical beauty of the Olympic mountain range and a magnificent view of the Aegean Sea.

Vergina- the first capital of ancient Macedonia, which, according to legend, was founded by Karan and called it Eges. The heyday of this city falls on the V-IV centuries. BC.

In 1977, Vergina became widely known: archaeological excavations allowed to discover the royal tomb of Philip II - the father of Alexander the Great.

Inside the marble sarcophagus of Philip II, a golden chest was found with the remains of the murdered king, a golden royal crown and much more, which is of great interest from a cultural and historical point of view.

In Vergina, the excursion program includes a visit to the archaeological museum.

Aquapark

Aquapark

Just 8 km from Thessaloniki, in the town of Tagarades, one of the most modern water parks WATERLAND is located. The total area is 150 thousand square meters. meters. On the territory of the water park there are tennis courts, a basketball court, bars, restaurants, souvenir shops.

SANTORINI

Cruise to the volcanic islands

Cruise to the volcanic islands

The tour starts from the old port of Fira to the island of Nea Kameni. At its top is an active volcano crater. Next, you will visit the island of Palea Kameni, where you will have the opportunity to swim in hot springs. On the island of Thirassia there will be free time for lunch, for swimming, visiting the classic village of Manola.

Sightseeing tour of Santorini

The tour will start from high point Santorini - Profitis Ilias, from where the panorama of the island opens, you will see the capital of the island, the city of Fira, historical Museum, then a trip to famous beach with the black sand of Perissa, where you will have a few hours of free time. After the rest - tasting of local wines.

CRETE

Knossos palace

Knossos palace

Excursion to the Palace of Knossos is one of the most popular among tourists. You will visit the excavations of the palace of Knossos center Minoan civilization, located just 5 kilometers from the city of Heraklion, the capital of Crete. The palace was excavated by the English archaeologist Arthur Evans. In some places, the palace reached a five-story height, had many passages and corridors. Its complex architecture resembles a labyrinth and amazes the imagination of visitors. You will see the place that gave rise to wonderful myths about the Minotaur, the beautiful Ariadne, the brave Theseus and the wise king Minos, the son of Zeus. The size and variety of surviving buildings, wall paintings and moldings throughout the palace give a general idea of ​​the life and life of the people of the Minoan era. Household items, tools, weapons, ceramics, seals, jewelry are all genuine masterpieces of ancient masters. After visiting the palace, you will go to the historical center, where you will find Venizelos Square or, as the townspeople call it, Lions Square. And here they are: solemnly and impregnably seated around the Morosini fountain, which received its name in honor of the Venetian Governor of the city. On the right is the Venetian Loggia, on the left is the city market, around taverns, restaurants, cafes. Peace, tranquility and peace await you a few steps further in Cathedral- Saint Titus. Visitors will also have enough free time for sightseeing modern city Heraklion, leisure and shopping.

Plateau of Lassithi. Zeus cave

Plateau of Lassithi. Zeus cave

This excursion is to the picturesque Lassithi Plateau, located in the Dikti Mountains, at an altitude of about 800 meters above sea level. The first stop will be in the village of Pesa, famous for the excellent wines produced here. You will see with your own eyes a small winery, where the old way of making wine has been preserved, as well as a traditional oil mill, where old presses for making olive oil are still preserved. If you wish, you can purchase these traditional products of the Cretan land. After that you will go to the Lassithi Plateau. Not so long ago, it was irrigated with the help of several thousand windmills. Today there are very few of them left, but they still adorn the landscape of the plateau with their white sails. We make a stop in the village of Psychro, where you will visit a small pottery workshop, where you will have the opportunity to create pretty pottery with your own hands on the potter's wheel. The next stop is at the foot of Mount Dikti, where you will visit the cave in which, according to mythology, Rhea gave birth to Zeus, the father of all gods and people. After exploring the cave, there will be a stop in the village of Seli, where those who wish can have a bite to eat and take pictures. On the way back you will visit the monastery of Our Lady of Kera, which has preserved ancient frescoes. And you will also be told unusually interesting story miraculous icon of the Mother of God, preserved from Byzantine times.

Spinalonga Island - Agios Nikolaos

Spinalonga Island - Agios Nikolaos

This is probably one of the most popular excursions among tourists. It begins with a visit to the port of the picturesque fishing village of Elounda (in the past, now the most fashionable resort on the island). Then, on a small ship, you will take a fascinating boat trip along the Mirabello Bay to small island Spinalonga. This is an island-fortress with a special history. Inside the fortress is a real medieval city, taking a walk along which, you will touch the ancient, tragic history of this island. After a tour of the island, we will continue a boat trip around the bay and moor at Kolokita Bay, which is a nature reserve. There you will be invited to swim in the crystal clear waters Aegean Sea and sunbathe on a wild beach. While you are resting, the ship's crew will prepare a juicy barbecue for you, which you can drink with young Cretan wine. Next we visit beautiful city Agios Nikolaos, the attraction of which is the “bottomless” lake of Voulizmeni, in which, according to legend, the goddesses Athena and Artemis bathed. While walking around the city, you can do some shopping or enjoy a cup of Greek coffee.

Traditional Cretan Evening

Traditional Cretan Evening

You will have a great opportunity to spend an unforgettable evening in a typical mountain village. Greek and Cretan dances performed in beautiful national costumes accompanied by folk musical instruments are an interesting spectacle. If you wish, you can take part in any dance you like. You will be shown the stage image of the national Greek hero - Zorbas, whose name passed from life to the pages of the books of the famous writer Nikos Kazantzakis and Hollywood films. You will feel the unique atmosphere of the Greek holidays - the famous Dionysius, dedicated to the god of wine and fun Dionysius, taste the dishes of the national Greek cuisine and great Cretan wines.

Sightseeing tour of the city of Rhodes

You will visit the port of Mandraki, where you will learn amazing story one of the Seven Wonders of the World - the famous Colossus of Rhodes. Visit Old city: Palace of the Grand Masters, knight's hospital, Gothic temples, arches and rotundas, Byzantine churches, Muslim mosques, minaret - all this makes an unforgettable impression, attracts like an old fairy tale.

Lindos and the Seven Springs

Lindos and the Seven Springs

The history of the city of Lindos has about 3500 years - it is a city of antiquity and the Middle Ages. The true jewel of Lindos is the Acropolis, one of the most significant in ancient Greece. From the height of the Acropolis, amazing mountain and seascapes, view of azure bay Saint Paul. You can walk around the city using the traditional Linden taxi - donkeys.

No less interesting will be a visit to the Valley of the Seven Springs, where nature rages in all its glory. Traveling along east coast, you will get acquainted with the charming bays and beaches, the villages of the eastern side of the island, their history and centuries-old traditions.

Filerimos and Butterfly Valley

Filerimos and Butterfly Valley

The tour begins with a visit to the city of Ialyssos and Filerimos Hill, where the early Christian basilica, the Church of the Virgin Mary with a medieval monastery, you will learn the secret of one of the main Christian shrines - the icon of the Filerim Mother of God.

Next you will visit unique reserve- Valley of the Butterflies. Nature did not stint on a magical spectacle: from June to September, bear butterflies (Callimopha Quadripuctaria) swarm here in millions, concentrating in a small valley of the island for the mating season. They are attracted by the smell of the resin of the styrax trees. The resin of these trees smells like vanilla and is used in the production of incense.

Greece itself is an attraction - a country where antiquity and modernity coexist perfectly. Every corner of it is filled with history and legends.

The Acropolis is a symbol of Greece, the main attraction along with the Parthenon temple located in the Acropolis. Excursions to the Acropolis include a visit to the temple of Nike Apteros, the first theater Ancient Greece- the theater of Dionysus, the theater of Herodes Atticus and the oldest sanctuary of the Acropolis - the Erechtheion.

In addition to the Acropolis, Athens has the main attractions: Agora Square - cultural, political and shopping mall cities in ancient times, the historical center of Athens - Plaka, the chapel of St. George the Victorious on Lycabettus Hill, Pnyx Hill, Omonia Square (Agreement Square), Archaeological Museum Piraeus, the National Archaeological Museum, the National Art Gallery, the Acropolis Museum, the Byzantine Museum, the Parliament, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the buildings of the National Academy, the National Library and the University of Athens.

Not far from Athens is Phokis, where “one day” excursions are organized. Here is the temple of Apollo, and ancient greek cities Galaxidi, and Amfissa, and Delphi, and the national villages of Rumeli, and the beaches of Itea, and even the rejuvenating Castal spring.

The city of Olympia in the northwest of the peninsula is a cult to Zeus. Since ancient times, once every four years in his honor were held here Olympic Games. In the north of the Peloponnese peninsula there is a fortified city - Mycenae with " lion gate", royal palace and the tomb of Agamemnon. In the east of the Peloponnese on the Argolis peninsula are the ruins of the city of Epidaurus, erected in honor of the god of healing. Until now, you can feel 5 years younger just by inhaling a fresh scent. pine grove that surrounds the city. There is also a stone amphitheater with amazing acoustics, allowing you to hear each other without the help of microphones. This amphitheater hosts various festivals every year.

In the south of the Attica peninsula is the temple of Poseidon and the ruins of the sanctuary of Athena Sunia.

It is customary to call the center of monasticism and the cradle of Orthodoxy. The monasteries of the Meteora monastery complex are located on the steep cliffs, which at one time could only be approached with the help of a manual lift or high ladders. Nearby is the town of Kalambaka, an obligatory component of the tour of Thessaloniki.

The attraction of the peninsula is the monastic republic of Athos, Mount Olympus and the city - the center for "shuttles" (shopping tours for fur products).

On the island of Corfu there is Achillion Palace, a lagoon-reserve of wild animals, the cleanest bays and youth resort Benitses.

Landmark of the major island is the Palace of Knossos, the longest gorge in Europe, Samaria, 4700 grottoes and caves, in one of which, according to legend, Zeus was born.

The composition includes 5 large ones (, Ithaca, Lefkada, Zakynthos) and a whole network of small islands. The Ionian Islands are considered to be the center of yachting holidays. The pride of Skiathos is the National marine park with disappearing monk seals, Lesvos Islands - an icon in the church of Ayasos, painted by St. Luke. The island is famous for the vision of "fire, smoke and brimstone" of St. John the Evangelist. The island once had over 3,000 statues and is famous as one of the wonders of the world thanks to the Colossus statue. On Rhodes is the palace of the Grand Masters with the image of Medusa Gorgon. Some call the island "Pompeii of the Aegean", others - "Atlantis". In fact, the island of Santorini is the monstrous consequences of a powerful volcano.

Excursions in Greece include visits to a number of monasteries and churches where clothing with covered shoulders and knees is required. Head covering is not required.

On Sundays admission to Greek museums is free.

Millions of tourists come to Greece to combine a beach holiday with self-education. Here in the heart ancient world and the cradle of European civilization, concentrated incredible amount attractions. Greek ruins can boast thousand years of history- We read about these places in textbooks and adventure novels.

This article is a kind of guide to Greek attractions. We will travel around the mainland, look at the islands, and make a list of the most interesting places for adults and children.

Landmarks of mainland Greece

Opinions of travelers about the merits mainland Greece often separated. Some wanderers believe that when visiting this country for the first time, one should focus on the surroundings of Athens, others prove the importance of the nome of Halkidiki. Each point of view has its own advantages.

Halkidiki is traditionally considered the center beach holiday. Therefore, you can slowly sunbathe on the local rocky beaches(many of them have steep slopes) and enjoy exploring interesting places.

  • Acropolis;
  • Hills of Lycabettus;
  • Parthenon;
  • Ancient Agora;
  • Lantern of Diogenes;
  • Panathenaic Stadium;
  • National Archaeological Museum.

Halkidiki is considered the center of beach holidays.

Not far from Athens, the port of Piraeus is localized - this place is famous for its open theater and the Naval Museum. If you drive from Athens 80 kilometers to the north, you can get to the resort of Loutraki.

The southern direction promises acquaintance with the Peloponnese peninsula. There are the ruins of Sparta, scattered many sanctuaries, ancient temples, fragments of the acropolis. Having penetrated the northern regions of the Peloponnese (the foothills of Igios Ilias), you can wander through the fortresses of Mycenae. Also on the mainland worth visiting:

  • Olympia (this is where the Olympic Games once originated);
  • Turkish fortress Palamidi;
  • Venetian castle;
  • Thermopylae Gorge (here 300 Spartans held the defense);
  • Stone of the Sibyl;
  • Holy Mount Athos;
  • Thessaloniki and Halkidiki.

The most popular places in Greece

Domestic travelers most often seek to get to the Greek region of Halkidiki. Another popular area on the mainland is ancient Thessaloniki.

But among the islands in terms of the number of interesting sights, Crete and Rhodes are in the lead. We will pay special attention to the latter.

Rhodes

Ancient Rhodes should be a must on your itinerary. The settlement was erected by the Knights of St. John in the fourteenth century and is now considered an object world heritage. ancient stone gate, old streets, the famous bay of Mandraki (the Colossus of Rhodes once stood there). Historical Center surrounded by a strong fortified wall.

What to visit in Rhodes? Here we are interested in the following attractions:

  • Collachio quarter. This area was built specifically for the residence of the knights. It is worth taking a walk along the two-hundred-meter knight's street and visiting the hospital of Joanites.
  • Archaeological Museum. It is located on the second tier of the hospital.
  • Palace of the Grand Masters. If you want to get there, move towards Platia Kleovulu Square.
  • fortress wall. To walk along this fortification, you need to pay 2 euros. In return, you will get unforgettable landscapes of the old city and the harbor with ultra-modern liners.
  • Socrates street. The trading heart of the Old City. Cafes and numerous souvenir shops are localized here.
    Be sure to wait until evening and relax in an old tavern.

The castles of Rhodes deserve special attention. Here is their list:

  • Fercalos;
  • Castelos;
  • Monolithos;
  • Asklipoi;
  • Lindos.

Thessaloniki

Many call Thessaloniki northern capital Hellas.

The cathedral is located near the amphitheater of the Agora. The second name of this place is the Roman Forum.

About a decade ago, the Agora was reconstructed, and at the same time they set up a museum here, which can be visited by the whole family.

The heart of Thessaloniki is Aristotle's Square. It's crowded and noisy, but extremely cubby. Many restaurants and cafes adjoin the square, street musicians and merchants scurry about here. In the evening you can go to the concert.

The iconic sights of Thessaloniki also include:

  • Monument to Aristotle. Hiding behind the trees in the center of the square of the same name. There is a belief that if you rub the toe of a stone philosopher, you will become smarter.
  • White Tower. This building was built by the Turks in 1430. The tower is surrounded by a halo of terrible legends - in the old days, many people were executed here. Localization - the coast of Thermaikos Gulf. You will have to pay 3 euros for entry.
  • Arc de Triomphe Galerius. The bas-reliefs of the arch demonstrate the campaign of Emperor Galerius against the Persians. Nearby is the Rotunda, it also needs to be examined.

Chalkidiki

The territory of Halkidiki is quite extensive. It is here that the famous peninsulas of Athos, Sithonia and Kassandra are localized. The last object, although it has an ancient origin, an abundance ancient monuments cannot boast. Pay attention to the sanctuary of Dionysus and the temple of Amon Zeus. From Kassandra you can go on an exciting excursion.

So, what to see in Halkidiki, the options are:

  • Edessa and Aridea;
  • Athens;
  • Meteora;
  • Santorini;
  • Olympus and Vergina;
  • Cruise "Trident of Poseidon".

On the mainland, you should definitely visit Edessa. This mountain village, surrounded by a cascade of gorgeous waterfalls. To reach the waterfalls, look for the sign " water park". It will not be possible to quickly reach the desired goal - Edessa is buried in greenery, moreover, it consists entirely of terraces and stepped passages.

The next mandatory item on the program is the monasteries of Meteora. This architectural complex located on the tops of the cliffs of Thessaly and gives the impression of an impregnable fortress.

Top 5 things to do in Greece

If you believe the famous phrase “Greece has everything”, then first of all it will concern the variety of excursion services that tour operators and local companies are ready to offer. At any resort area there is a Greek company with a set of excursions that is in no way inferior to the tour operator's program. What is better to choose in Greece and what disadvantages can you face?

Arriving in Greece with a tour operator, tourists first of all get acquainted with the offers of the host country. There are many advantages of such excursions:

  • Firstly, it is a great responsibility in relation to tourists from the first to the last minute. It is this stability and security that makes tourists opt for excursions purchased from tour operators;
  • With a high degree of probability, a qualified guide will accompany you on the trip. Often, tour operators who value their reputation employ tour guides with great experience;
  • An important plus - the service is in Russian.

But there are also disadvantages that you may encounter when buying an excursion from a tour operator:

  • Limited choice. Basically, tour operators offer a standard set of excursions, although the program is expanding every season;
  • commercial stops. On the way to the sights or back to the hotel, tourists will almost certainly be taken to a store with which there is a preliminary agreement;
  • High prices. An excursion with a tour operator costs an average of 70-200 euros. At the current exchange rate, this offer cannot be called profitable.

As for local companies, the advantages include:

  • Low prices. Over too cheap deals not worth chasing, but the benefits are obvious. For example, an excursion to Meteora from Greek companies can be found for 25-40 euros (against 70-90 euros from tour operators);
  • Unusual offers. Local companies are not limited standard routes and are ready to show places hidden from mass tourism.

It is not easy to choose between a tour operator and a local company - you can “run into” a bad guide or an overpriced price in both cases. If you want to visit the famous beach or go on a cruise, it would be cheaper and wiser to use the services of a local company - such excursions take place without a guide. And if you plan a 1-2-day trip to iconic sights, you can understand the desire of tourists for security and stability - this is precisely the task of the tour operator.

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