What states were there in Greece? Greece, map of Greece. Beauty & Health

Brief information about the country

Independence Date

Official language

Greek

Form of government

Parliamentary republic

Territory

131,957 km² (95th in the world)

Population

10,772,967 people (75th in the world)

Timezone

EET (UTC+2, summer UTC+3)

The largest city

$294.339 billion

Internet domain

Telephone code

– one of the most amazing and uniquely beautiful countries in Europe. Located in the south of the continent, on the Balkan Peninsula, it is small both in terms of territory - the area together with the islands adjacent to the coast of Asia Minor is 131,994 km², and in terms of population, which numbers 10.3 million people. However, not every large state can compare with Greece in terms of historical, cultural, archaeological and linguistic heritage. The capital Athens is the oldest and most beautiful city in the world, a metropolis with a population of 4 million, founded approximately in the 7th millennium BC.

Video: Greece

Basic moments

Hellas - as the Greeks themselves call their homeland - is filled with various attractions, much of which dates back to ancient times. It is not for nothing that they say that in Greece antiquities are found literally at every turn. Wherever you find yourself - in Athens or Delphi, in Thebes or Meteora, on Holy Mount Athos or in rock monasteries - everywhere you will get acquainted with interesting monuments and original folk traditions. Here, in the homeland of Homer and Pythagoras, Sophocles and Democritus, Aristotle, Euripides, Plato and other famous personalities of the past, you will get such vivid impressions that you will definitely want to come here again!

Being recognized as the cradle of Western civilization and the place where the first democratic states in history appeared, Greece became the center of the emergence of the very concept of “democracy”. In Ancient Hellas, every adult citizen took an active part in discussing public affairs and could be elected to any administrative, military or judicial position. The traditions established in antiquity are preserved in Greek society today.

Greece also has a gentle sun, excellent beaches, a warm sea with crystal clear water and picturesque islands, the most popular of which are Corfu, Rhodes, and Crete. It is not for nothing that the country is called a paradise for tourism and recreation. The mild subtropical climate is in amazing harmony with the exquisite beauty of nature. It is unlikely that anywhere else you will see such pretty villages perched on mountain slopes, or houses covered with red tiles immersed in dense greenery. And it doesn’t matter at all for what purpose the traveler sets foot on this blessed land - to deeply study its historical heritage or just lazily lie on the beach. One thing is clear: in Greece everyone will find something to their liking and will never regret the trip.

Cities of Greece

All cities in Greece

Sights of Greece

All sights of Greece

Geographical features

Greece, which is also called the land of the gods, the birthplace of philosophy and the Olympic Games, has a very interesting and very advantageous geographical location. Perhaps no other European state owns so many islands - there are more than two thousand of them (although only 227 of them are inhabited). Some - for example, the famous Lesbos - are located directly off the coast of Turkey. The islands account for almost 20% of the country's territory, which is quite a lot.

Greece is washed by four seas: Mediterranean, Ionian, Libyan (southern coast of Crete) and Aegean. The latter can even be called the “inland sea” of this country, the entire coast of which is picturesquely indented by bays. Just look at the map to be convinced that no other state on the continent has similar outlines.

Mainland Greece is conventionally divided into several regions - Macedonia, Thrace, Epirus, Thessaly and Attica, Phthiotis, Phocis and others belonging to Central Greece. Geographically, the Ionian Islands can be classified as the central part of the country. The largest Greek island is Crete, the second largest is Euboea, which is connected to the mainland by a bridge across the Euripus Strait. The largest peninsula, recognized as the center of the most ancient civilization in Europe, is the Peloponnese. Here is the famous Corinth Canal, dug by a French company back in the 19th century.

Interesting fact: the farthest distance from the sea coast, no matter where you go in Greece, does not exceed 100 kilometers.

Natural landscape

Greek nature is distinguished by its enviable diversity, which was made possible by the confluence of factors such as geographical location, local climate, the presence of large mountain ranges, and a long coastline.

Mountains occupy about 60% of Greece's landscape, making it one of the highest countries in Europe after Norway and Albania. Moreover, unlike the named states, the mountain ranges of Hellas almost all descend to the sea. The highest mountain peak is Olympus (2915 meters), which is also the most famous in ancient Greek myths as the abode of the gods, in particular, the thunderer Zeus. Other large and beautiful mountains in Greece include Ida (Psiloritis) and the White Mountains (Lefka Ori) in Crete, Grammos and Smolikas in Macedonia, Taigetos in the Peloponnese, Pindos and Atamanik Ori in the Epirus region.

The water resources of Greece are represented by a collection of natural and artificial lakes, deltas and river mouths, waterfalls and lagoons. The country's largest body of water is Lake Trichonida, located in the Aetolia region in Western Greece. You cannot ignore Lake Vouliagmeni in Attica (it is famous for its thermal mineral waters), the artificial lake Tavropos in Thessaly, which is surrounded by dense coniferous forests and, of course, the highest mountain lake - Drakolimni, located on the slopes of Tymfi and Zmolikas at an altitude of 2050 meters. Of the rivers, the longest is Aliakmonas (297 km), which is inferior in length to Aheloom, Pinios, Nestos, Efros, Strymonas, Alfios, Arachthos.

The uniqueness of the natural landscape of Greece is given by local caves, many of which have internal lakes, “thickets” of stalactites and stalagmites, attracting not only ordinary tourists, but also professional speleologists. The caves will also be of interest to historians, ethnographers and cultural experts, since they are inextricably linked with the plots of ancient Greek myths. And the caves themselves are archaeological monuments that can reveal many secrets of the Paleolithic era. Not everyone knows, but the famous artifact - the skull of an ancient man, considered a transitional form from Homo erectus to Homo sapiens - was discovered in one of these caves in Greece. It is called Petralona and is located on the Chalkidiki peninsula.

The gorges or canyons with which the local landscape is literally dotted deserve special mention. They cannot help but impress with their menacingly towering steep cliffs, water streams and various species of birds and animals that have preferred to settle here for many centuries. The most famous Greek gorge - Samaria - is located on the island of Crete. It can be easily crossed, and many travelers take advantage of this opportunity. The breathtaking beauty of the Vikos Gorge in the national park in the Pindus Mountains (Pindos) in the north-east of the Epirus district. It is located on the southern slope of Mount Tumfi, reaching a length of 20 kilometers.

And finally, two water parks in Greece. The first - it is called Alonissos and is located on the islands of the Northern Sporades in the Aegean Sea - in 1992 the authorities declared it a protected area. It is home to the endangered Mediterranean seal, Monachus monachus. The second is a national marine park on Zakynthos, one of the Ionian Islands, which received the status of a protected area seven years later. This is where the Caretta Caretta turtle species is mainly bred.

Cities and islands of Greece

Between historical Attica and the Peloponnese, the Saronic Islands are secluded - an archipelago, a holiday on which is usually chosen by those tourists who would not like to swim into the sea far from Athens. Only during the peak season the beaches here can be crowded, especially on the island of Aegina, which may not be to everyone’s liking. But there is an excellent coastline here, not to mention the fact that getting a bronze tan can be combined with visiting attractions, for example, the Temple of Aphaia, which has been perfectly preserved to this day.

The Peloponnese itself looks like something apart from the rest of Greece. In the sense that its landscapes are most often deserted, which, however, is compensated by the presence of priceless historical monuments. This is the citadel of Agamemnon Mycenae, and the theater in Epidaurus, and the House of Helen and Menelaus in Sparta, and the palace of Nestor in Pylos, and the same Corinth, from where one of the writers of the New Testament, the Apostle Paul, addressed his epistles to the Corinthians. Acquaintance with the sights can be perfectly combined with relaxation on local beaches, which are considered perhaps the best in all of Southern Europe.

If you haven’t forgotten from school history lessons where the homeland of Apollo and his sister Artemis was, then you guessed that our story will be about the Cyclades islands. Situated in the southern part of the Aegean Sea, they exude a kind of serenity and tranquility. But the Cyclades archipelago is associated primarily with the island of Mykonos, whose coastline reaches 89 km. Its hallmark is its ancient narrow streets and a very modern boutique hotel - the most expensive in Greece. An important transport hub in the archipelago is Paros, famous for its beaches and ample opportunities for water sports.

There are places in sunny Greece where the “Turkish coast” is just a stone's throw away - these are the Dodecanese islands, which are part of the Southern Sporades archipelago and stretch in a chain along the western coast of the Asia Minor peninsula, almost adjacent to the territory of the neighboring state. The islands of Rhodes and Kos are the most famous of them. Their popularity came thanks to first-class beaches and hotels and, of course, rich excursion programs - especially around the historical part of the city of Rhodes, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Groups of tourists, among whom there are many representatives of Christian denominations, strive to visit the legendary island of Patmos, which is called the “Jerusalem of the Aegean Sea,” and this interest is understandable. It is here that there is a cave where John the Theologian wrote down the divine “Revelation”, which became the last book of the biblical New Testament. And this place itself is also called the “Cave of the Apocalypse.”

Some of the most picturesque in Greece are, of course, the Ionian Islands. Lush greenery, harmoniously combined with the azure shades of the sea surface, creates the impression of a real Garden of Eden, and at some point it may seem that the Lord has forgiven the sins of mankind and returned them to their original conditions of existence, as in the biblical Eden. The real pearl of the archipelago is the island of Corfu - it is the most popular among tourists and, accordingly, the most expensive in terms of stay and accommodation in Greece. The island of Ithaca is also well known from Homer’s stories about Odysseus, which we were introduced to in history lessons. The island of Kefalonia also leaves vivid impressions: pretty villages, cliffs at the very edge of the sea and excellent beaches cannot be forgotten. As well as excellent local wines.

Now let's move to the second largest city in the country, which rightfully received the nickname “Greek Constantinople”. It is the religious center of Greece, whose population is predominantly Orthodox. Here is the Athos peninsula and the Holy Mountain with the same name. In the system of administrative division it is called the “Autonomous Monastic State of the Holy Mountain”. Over the centuries, nothing has changed here: women are still prohibited from setting foot on Mount Athos.

The Northern Aegean Islands are a kind of “mix” in which the influence of both Western and Eastern cultures is mixed. If you don’t know that this is Greece, it seems that you are in Turkey, which, in general, is not far away, and it owns two islands of the archipelago - Bozcaada and Gokceada (Greek names, respectively, Tenedos and Imvros). The most unusual of the islands is Samos, all covered with trees and famous for its vineyards. Isolated beaches attract tourists on the island of Chios, also famous for its ancient monastery of Nea Moni.

Climate and weather

The climate of Greece, generally speaking, is mild, and this is a huge “merit” of the Mediterranean Sea, which seems to look after and protect this small country. Summer here is hot and dry: the average monthly temperature in July varies between +30...+32 degrees Celsius, humidity reaches 55%. The beach season in Hellas begins in mid-May and lasts until November. Winter in the country is by no means severe. The temperature in January averages 10 degrees plus, and humidity is 75%.

Meanwhile, in Greece there are several climatic zones. In the mainland of the country, weather conditions resemble those of the Balkans, which are characterized by cold winters and hot, humid summers. Attica, Crete, Dodecanese, Cyclades, the center and east of the Peloponnese are typically Mediterranean regions in climate. Warm weather persists for a long time in Crete: on the southern coast of the largest Greek island you can swim and sunbathe from April to November.

Greece also has its own rainy season, which starts in most areas in mid-October and lasts until February. In July and August, the entire eastern coast of the mainland, including the capital, and the islands of the Aegean Sea are subject to strong north winds. On the one hand, it brings coolness that dilutes the heat, on the other, it makes ferries late and causes inconvenience to vacationers by “stealing” their beach umbrellas. As for the summer heat itself, it still influenced the habits of the Greeks, shifting the afternoon rest of the Hellenes to 15:00-18:00. During these hours it is not customary to disturb anyone, let alone make appointments.

History of Greece

The first settlements on the territory of Greece, as evidenced by archaeological excavations, arose during the Paleolithic period, which corresponds to 11000-3000 BC. It is Hellas that is the birthplace of the Minoan, Mycenaean and Cycladic civilizations, which existed in 2600-1100 BC. The classical period in the history of Greece is the so-called “Golden Age”, which covered the 6th-4th centuries BC. e. It is remarkable for the fact that it gave the world a galaxy of the greatest scientists and outstanding artists - historians and philosophers, doctors and architects, architects and sculptors, poets, mathematicians and playwrights. The active development of Greek civilization occurred after the first Olympic Games in 776 BC. The colonial expansion of Ancient Greece began, city-states appeared - in particular, on the Black Sea coast.

Ancient Hellas experienced several interventions - first by the armies of neighboring Persia, which invaded several times in a row, and then, in 146 BC, by Roman legionaries. But the Romans not only did not persecute Greek culture, but also became its conscious successors. This can be judged by the monuments of the Roman era, the prototypes for which were similar Hellenic works of architecture. Moreover, Roman artifacts have survived to this day in the best possible condition, and we, contemporaries, can judge from them the great heritage of the ancient Greeks. And after the division of the huge Roman Empire into the western and eastern parts, the latter, that is, Byzantium with its capital in Constantinople, became the bearer of the Greek language and culture and existed for eleven centuries, until on May 29, 1453 it fell under the onslaught of the Turks.

Greece itself was under Ottoman rule for almost 400 years. The national liberation struggle of the Greek people ended in 1821 with the proclamation of an independent Greek state, which a decade later became monarchical. Throughout the second half of the 20th century, Greece made great efforts to return its ancestral lands that still remained under the occupation of the Ottoman Porte. Participation in the Balkan Wars of that time and the First World War helped partially realize these goals.

The country also took part in the Second World War. First it was attacked by fascist Italy, but the Greeks were able to give a worthy rebuff. When the Germans and their allies intervened, Greece fell and was under their occupation from 1941 to 1945. However, the victory over the Third Reich did not bring the long-awaited peace: a civil war broke out in the country, ending only in 1949.

After this, a period of calm development in Greece began, disrupted by the 1967 coup d'etat, as a result of which King Constantine II was overthrown and a military dictatorship was established in the country. This period went down in history as the regime of the “black colonels” led by Georgios Papadopoulos (1967-1973) and Dimitrios Ioannidis (1973-1974). The military junta made many mistakes, including strategic ones in the international arena. This provoked the invasion of Cyprus by the Turkish army in 1974 and the occupation of part of its territory with the formation of the unrecognized “Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus”. Failures in the so-called “Cyprus Question” led to the overthrow of the dictatorship of the “black colonels” in 1974.

On December 8, 1974, a national referendum was held in Greece, as a result of which a democratic political regime with a parliamentary form of government was again established in the country. On June 11, 1975, a new Constitution was adopted, which is in force to this day. In 1986 and 2001, some changes were made to it, which, however, did not affect the democratic foundations of the state. Greece has been a member of NATO since 1952. True, in 1973 she left the organization and returned to it only in 1981. In the same year, Greece joined the European Union, and on January 1, 2002, it joined the euro zone.

Sights of Greece

Greece is a country of ancient monuments, Orthodox shrines and very open, sincere and incredibly charming people. Having been here at least once, you will forever fall in love with its architecture, unique nature, original culture and, of course, national cuisine, which we will return to later.

Let’s begin our general acquaintance with some of the country’s attractions from the capital of Ancient Hellas. In Athens, which carefully preserves its historical, cultural and architectural heritage, you should definitely visit the famous Acropolis, whose temples have been partially restored. Of constant interest to travelers is the temple of one of the three Olympian gods, Poseidon, located right on the coast of the Aegean Sea, the ancient quarter of Plaka, city squares living their own special, rich life, the impressive stone theater - the Odeon of Herodotus of Athens and numerous Athenian museums.

Separately, I would like to mention the breathtaking Panathinaikos Stadium. It was created from fragments of an ancient predecessor, using only white marble in construction. And in Athens you can see with your own eyes the ancient temples of Zeus, Agora and Hephaestus, mentioned in the myths and legends of ancient Greece.

Quite a few ancient artifacts are concentrated in Crete, one of the country's most popular tourist destinations. Here you can see the archaeological sites of the Minoan era, the luxurious Venetian-style castle in Rethymno, and enjoy views of the largest natural palm forest on the continent on Vai beach. The ancient temple of Apollo, preserved in the small town of Gortyna, will take you back to the Dorian era, and in Phaistos you should definitely see one of the most outlandish architectural structures in shape - the palace of King Minos.

One of the most famous Greek islands is Rhodes, which has the reputation of being the largest center of knightly culture and a wonderful resort. Its calling card is the Castle of the Knights, built in the 14th century and restored in the first half of the last century. It houses a large collection of antiques, not to mention the accurately recreated atmosphere of the home of a knightly order, giving a unique sense of realism.

One of the most iconic sights - Mount Olympus - will allow you to feel like a contemporary of the legendary deities of ancient Greece. Once upon a time, judging by the myths, the thunderer Zeus, the god of the seas Poseidon and the ruler of the kingdom of the dead Hades lived here. Nowadays, this “house of the gods” has been turned into a unique biosphere reserve, rich in various species of plants and animals, and offering stunning views of the surrounding area. Olympus, although a high mountain, is quite accessible for hiking. Traveling along numerous trails, you won’t even notice how time flies.

Another famous mountain is, of course, Athos, included in the UNESCO list of world cultural heritage. This unique place, revered by all Orthodox believers, is inhabited and can only be visited by men. It is dedicated to prayer, reflection and spirituality. The Holy Mountain has de facto autonomy, but under the sovereignty of the Greek state. To get here, you need to get a special permit, and only 110 people (100 of them must be Orthodox believers) can visit it - if desired, of course - every day. Such bureaucracy may turn many away from the intention of visiting Mount Athos, but if such inconveniences do not frighten you, then an excursion here with a visit to two dozen local monasteries will become an unforgettable episode in your life.

National cuisine

The national cuisine of Greece coexists perfectly with the culinary traditions of the Balkan peoples, the Apennines, France and even the Middle East. In general, this is typically Mediterranean cuisine with a touch of love, with which each dish is prepared, and the original Greek temperament. For the Greeks, as, for example, for the Japanese, eating is a whole ritual. At the table here they don’t just eat, but communicate and relax. A shared meal is a great way to build friendships between strangers and even business relationships. Greeks discuss whatever they want at dinner, but most of all, in addition to purely family topics, they like to talk about football and politics.

Many have already guessed that fish and seafood occupy a royal position in the local menu. The Greeks cook squid very tasty: they roll them in flour and then fry them in olive oil. Be sure to try freshly caught mussels cooked in tomato sauce and such exotic things as octopus meat - it is baked over coals with the addition of herbs. The taste and aroma of the dish are such that words cannot describe it - it’s better to try it!

What are the most popular dishes in modern Greece? To name a few: squid stuffed with cheese and baked on coals (“kalamarya yemista me tiri”), steamed mussels (“midya akhnista”), grilled shrimp (“garides sharas”). One of the signature dishes of the national cuisine is spaghetti with lobster (“macoranada me astaco”). Among the traditional fish dishes familiar to Russians, in local taverns you can taste fish in all its culinary “manifestations” - fried and stewed, stuffed and pickled, dried, smoked and simply salted - with delicious local beer!

Lovers of meat food in Greece are offered a rich selection of dishes from pork, beef, poultry, and lamb. “Brizoles” and “paidakia”, grilled meat with bones and lamb ribs, respectively, always turn out very tasty and juicy. Local kebabs come in two types: small pieces of meat (“souvlaki”) and large pieces (“kondosuvli”).

It’s worth trying “kokoretsi” - this is the name of a dish that is somewhat reminiscent of our homemade sausage: the intestines are filled with lamb offal and baked on a wire rack. True gourmets will love the rooster stewed in white wine (kokoras krasatos) and the rabbit stew (kuneli). And perhaps the most famous Greek meat dish is moussaka - minced meat, potatoes and eggplant laid in layers and baked with bechamel sauce.

It is impossible to imagine Greek cuisine without cheese and one of its most famous varieties - feta. It is made only from sheep's milk and stored in wooden barrels. Popular in the country and, accordingly, among tourists are such varieties of cheese as “kefalotyri” (hard, made from goat’s milk), “tulumotiri” (the oldest of all local varieties) and the exquisite “manuri” (white, with a very piquant taste ).

In conclusion, let’s mention the famous “Greek salad,” which in its homeland is simply called “village salad,” which Russian housewives also love to prepare. “Original” differs in taste from what is served in our cafes and restaurants or prepared at home. What exactly the difference is is also difficult to convey in words: you need to feel it by trying both options. What is needed for this? That's right: come on vacation to Greece!

Language

Modern Greek (Dimotika), derived from the vernacular language used in the late antique period, became the official language of the country only in 1976. Before this, it was kafarevusa (“purified tongue”). Fortunately for tourists, many Greeks speak at least one foreign language: most often English, but also German, French or Italian.

Still, a few words in Greek would be appreciated. If you have some time, try to learn a couple of basic phrases and the alphabet. Although signs and indexes are often presented in Latin transcription, this does not always happen; In addition, knowledge of the alphabet will allow you to navigate banks, restaurants and other establishments.

Holidays in Greece

• January 1 – New Year.
• January 6 – Epiphany.
• March 25 is Independence Day.
• May 1 – Labor Day.
• August 15 – Assumption of the Virgin Mary.
• October 28 is Okha Day, in memory of the Greek resistance to the Italian occupation of 1940.
• December 25 – Nativity of Christ.
• December 26 – Cathedral of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Holidays that do not have an exact date are the First Day of Lent (Clean Monday), Holy Friday, Easter Monday, Ascension, Spiritual Day.

Money

The national currency of Greece is the euro, divided into 100 eurocents. Basically, all payments are made in cash, which naturally leads to a strengthening of the shadow economy. An increasing number of hotels and restaurants in tourist areas, however, accept credit cards, but some charge an additional 3% to 5%, sometimes without even notifying you. If you have a Visa or MasterCard card, then you can easily withdraw money from an ATM. Traveler's checks can be cashed at a bank or hotel, just don't forget your passport.

Opening hours

Despite some general trends, such as a long break from work during the siesta, the opening hours of organizations in Greece are quite flexible. Shops are usually open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays from approximately 8.30-10.00 to 15.00, on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays until 14.00 and then from 17.00 to 20.00-21.00. This rule does not affect local shops, especially grocery stores, which are sometimes open even on Sunday.

Museums and archaeological sites that can be visited are closed on Mondays, sometimes on Wednesdays, and the smallest ones are closed from November to March. Opening hours are from 8.00-8.30 to 15.00 out of season, and until 17.00 and even 19.00 in July and August. Remember that the last visitors are allowed in half an hour before closing.

Banks are usually open from 8.00-8.30 to 14.00 from Monday to Thursday and until 13.30 on Friday; some make exchange transactions on Saturday.

Shopping in Greece

People go to sunny Greece not only for a beach holiday on the islands or to explore the world-famous sights of ancient times, but also for shopping. For those who don't already know: Greece, along with Italy, is one of the best places in Europe for shopping. Despite the difference in exchange rates, finding here, for example, a relatively inexpensive fur coat or a beautiful vase that will decorate the interior of your home, will not be difficult.

A long-tested way to save money is, of course, to shop during the sales season. Winter sales in Greece begin in mid-January and continue through February, while summer sales cover the second half of July and all of August. Moreover, in many stores they do not begin to reduce the price small - say, from 20-30%, but immediately indicate on the price tags: 80% discount, so queues are not uncommon at such outlets. Prepare in advance to lose some time waiting, but to leave with a good purchase.

Discounts apply not only to clothing and shoes, but also to household appliances, modern electronics, decorative items, and even good, solid furniture. True, the discount on such goods does not exceed 40% of the cost, but this is not bad. In outlets and stocks, which you should also not forget about, price tags pleasing to the eye are present all year round. In large shopping centers, off-season sales are common; discounts can reach 50%.

But let's get back to buying fur coats. Especially for this purpose, shopping tours are organized to Greece, which come with or without obligations. If you choose the first (that is, a tour with obligations), then the flight to the country and hotel accommodation, usually not exceeding 3-4 days, is paid by the fur factory. To make your choice easier, it is recommended to familiarize yourself with the range of different manufacturers in advance and save photos of the models you like. Otherwise, if you start trying on all the models in a row, you will not only waste time and get tired, but you may also end up buying something that you didn’t want, and you will regret it.

Kastoria, a city in the north-west of the country, in western Macedonia, is traditionally considered the birthplace of Greek fur products. There are a lot of fur factories here, the most famous among which are Ego Group, Rizos Furs, Estel Furs, Avanti Furs. Do not look for prices on the official websites of these and other manufacturers - it is not customary to indicate them, which gives you the opportunity to bargain on the spot. There are usually no language barriers, since almost all sellers speak Russian.

But not everyone goes to Greece to buy clothes or household items - many would like to buy local products. In this case, welcome to Greek supermarkets: in Athens - Sklavenitis, in Crete - Ariadni, in Thessaloniki - Masoutis. Premium supermarkets AB Vasilopoulos and the German supermarket chain Lidi are also popular among tourists.

You can also shop well at markets and bazaars, of which there are a lot in the country, including flea markets. The freshest and most inexpensive goods from the food basket can be bought here: olive oil, feta cheese, local wine. The main thing is to be there before 15:00, as then the markets and bazaars close until the next day.

Note to tourists: citizens of the Russian Federation, since they are not residents of the European Union, can exercise the right to a VAT refund (Tax Free), but provided that the purchase amount is not less than 120 € and it was made at a retail outlet that participates in the system. To determine this, you just have to look closely: the designation “tax-free for tourists”, which literally translates from English as “for tourists without tax”, in this case is applied to the windows, the cash register or directly at the entrance to the store. On the mainland, the value added tax refund will be 23%, on the island territories - 16%.

Public transport

It is convenient to travel around Greece by bus, and the trip is inexpensive. However, there are very, very few drivers who understand English, not to mention Russian. City public transport runs from 5:30 am until midnight, and there are also special night flights. The most developed in terms of transport is, of course, the capital. Car traffic in it, as well as in other cities, is chaotic, and parking problems may arise. In cities, the speed limit is 50 km/h.

An alternative to buses is electric transport (trams and trolleybuses). Athens, as befits a metropolitan metropolis, has its own metro; the pass is valid for 1.5 hours. There are no subways in other cities.

Greece also has a network of railways, but experienced tourists do not recommend traveling on second-class trains, since they cannot boast of cleanliness and comfort, unlike first-class trains. But regardless of the category, the train was and remains a popular option specifically for night trips: you fell asleep in one city, and woke up in the morning - you are already rested and fresh at your destination!

Since Greece is partly an island state, not all parts of the country can be reached by bus or train. For sea travel you will have to choose one of the types of water transport: ferry or speedboat. When parking your own or rented car on the ferry, you should be careful, as the cars are usually located very close to each other.

Car driving

A driver's license valid in Russia will be enough to rent a car in Greece. Prices from numerous local companies are reasonable, but check the condition of the car and whether you have insurance in case of an accident. The minimum driver age is 21 years, sometimes 25 years. Driving experience must be at least one year.

The major highways are very good for motorists, and in addition, thanks to funds allocated by the EU, Greece's road network has been significantly improved in recent years. There are also dirt roads leading mainly to beaches and secluded monasteries. The speed limit is 50 km/h in the city (sometimes less), 80 km/h on highways, 120 km/h on motorways, although sometimes, looking at the driving style of the Greeks, it’s hard to believe... If you happen to drive at night, beware of unlit areas and herds of animals crossing the road. Driving in the city can be difficult, especially in Athens, due to numerous traffic jams and one-way roads.

Communications and Internet

Mobile communications in Greece are very well developed; the network covers almost the entire territory of the country, with the exception of some small remote islands. It catches especially well in cities, and in Athens even in the metro. If you are going to call Greek numbers, then it makes sense to buy a SIM card from one of the local mobile operators. If there is no such need, and you plan to call only home in the Russian Federation, then you can use the roaming service that all Russian operators provide to their subscribers.

The leaders of the Greek mobile communications market are companies such as Cosmote, Wind and Vodafone. The first one is state-owned and its main advantage in the eyes of competitors can be considered a good level of customer service. Wind was once a monopolist in the local market and has long established itself with high quality communications. Well, Vodafone, as a transnational operator, does not need any additional introduction. The quality of coverage is not inferior to competitors, but it has a little more “dead zones” where communication is unavailable.

Moral standards

Even though summer is very hot, if you are away from the beach, be sure to dress appropriately. To visit the monastery, women should wear a skirt or dress below the knee and a headscarf, and men should wear trousers.

If you are offered a drink or invited to dinner, do not refuse, as this may offend the Greeks. Also remember that everything related to relations with Turkey is a rather sensitive issue, avoid joking on this topic.

Controversial issues

Check your restaurant bill: in the most touristy places it may increase by one additional dish or drink... Also pay attention to the prices on the windows: these sometimes refer to takeaway sales and can double if you eat on site. Finally, if you choose to pay with a credit card, make sure that the tip (3-5%) is not taken without your consent. As a rule, any misunderstanding can be easily resolved if you just stay alert and remember to call the tourist police, who specialize in resolving this type of problem.

Safety

Greece, even if one wants to, cannot be classified, like, for example, Iceland or Sweden, among the safest countries on the continent for tourists. Unfortunately, petty thefts are common here, especially in crowded places: near hotels, airports, train stations, and near attractions. Pickpockets also operate in public transport. Athens, like any large city, has its own dangerous areas, these are Kolokotroni and Vathi squares and the red light district in the vicinity of Omonia Square.

Women especially should beware of... obsessive suitors or “kamaki” (from the Greek “kamakis” - “harpooner”). These are, as a rule, good-looking men, radiating charm and temperament, who very persistently seek the favor of lonely foreign tourists. Their ultimate goal is to “hook” a rich companion for a while, and if they’re lucky, for the whole season. Nice ladies are also not recommended to get into cars with unfamiliar men or walk at night, as there is a risk of becoming victims of rape.

The Greeks spend their hot southern temperament not only searching for love affairs, but also participating in all kinds of protests and strikes. And although the “righteous anger” of demonstrators is usually not directed at people, it is better not to go out into the street during a rally. To disperse protesters, the police usually use tear gas, which acts not only for its intended purpose, that is, on the eyes. It can cause serious complications in patients with bronchitis and asthma. And also, even if the law enforcement officers with their means of restraint are far from you, there is a risk of falling under someone’s hot hand or getting injured in a crush.

In addition to the human factor, natural factors also pose a certain danger. Both mainland Greece and its islands fall under the definition of seismic zones, which means there is a high probability of earthquakes. Tremors with high amplitude, fortunately, do not happen so often, but small vibrations of the earth’s crust are a common occurrence. Don't forget about the risk of forest fires caused by hot climates. In these cases, you should call directly the fire department at 199 or the rescue service at 112.

Hotels and accommodation in Greece

Both on the mainland and on the islands, hotels for every taste and budget are available to tourists. In Greece, in addition to the traditional classification by the number of stars, a letter system is also used to designate the class of the hotel. So, the letter L means that you are in a luxury hotel, which corresponds to five stars; C – three stars; and E corresponds to the level of 1-2 stars. But a kind of “anomaly” often occurs: in E-class hotels the level of service is higher than in hotels designated C.

Be prepared to run into room shortages, especially on the most popular Greek islands. The excitement here is a common occurrence, especially on weekends and holidays, when local residents join foreigners on vacation. To avoid tourist crowds, book your apartment in advance. So, using the Booking.com service, you can find excellent accommodation options in Greece with discounts of up to 60%.

Most local hotels are locally owned, but major international chains such as Best Western and Hilton are also present in Greece. You can also rent a top-class room in local chain hotels, such as Luxury Collection of Starwood Hotels and Resorts, Louis and Chandris. The cost of living in them is from 150-200 euros.

Many tourists prefer to stay in private hotels (pensions), which most fully convey the spirit of the local way of life and the hospitality inherent in the Greeks. In cities you can rent a separate apartment for two or three people, in the suburbs - small houses designed for four guests. Prices range from 40-60 to 90-120 euros per night.

Hostels in Greece are not as popular as in other European countries, but you can stay in one of the five Athens youth hostels that are members of the International Hostel Association. There are similar ones in Thessaloniki, Paros, Corfu and Ios, and they are also included in the named association. An overnight stay in a hostel will cost you about 10 €, the cost depends on its location.

In the birthplace of democracy, you can also stay in monasteries, but the rules for staying in them may not seem so democratic. For example, if you are looking for an overnight stay with a companion of the opposite sex, you will be refused. In addition, you need to dress in accordance with generally accepted standards of decency, otherwise they won’t accept you either. And if you are moved in, you will have to observe a “curfew”: returning to the monastery - for example, after an excursion - is not allowed later than the due date.

), and charter.

During the peak tourist season, that is, in the summer, flights to Greece are carried out, among other things, from Russian cities such as Krasnodar, Kazan and Perm.

To stay in the country, Russians need a foreign passport with a Schengen visa.

Calendar of low prices for air tickets

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The heart of Greece in every sense is the capital, the city of Athens. The city's name comes from the Greek goddess of wisdom, Athena. A city whose title as the cradle of Western civilization is undeniable.

👁 Before we start...where to book a hotel? In the world, not only Booking exists (🙈 for a high percentage from hotels - we pay!). I've been using Rumguru for a long time
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👁 And finally, the main thing. How to go on a trip without any hassle? The answer is in the search form below! Buy now. This is the kind of thing that includes flights, accommodation, meals and a bunch of other goodies for good money 💰💰 Form - below!.

Sights of Greece. The most interesting and main attractions of cities and regions of Greece: photos and descriptions, location and useful information for tourists. What you can see in Greece on the mainland and islands.

Heart, and main attraction of Greece in every sense - the capital, the city Athens. The city's name comes from the Greek goddess of wisdom, Athena. A city whose title as the cradle of Western civilization is undeniable. During a visit to Athens is the main point of the inspection program main attractions of Greece. The structure of the city is unique in that all the main attractions are concentrated in one place - the area of ​​the Athens Acropolis. Great Greeks such as Socrates, Aristotle, Plato, Euripides, Sophocles and Aeschylus are associated with this historical place.

The Acropolis is located at an altitude of 156 meters on a rocky hill. In its immediate vicinity are the Theater of Dionysus, the National Archaeological Museum, the Temple of Zeus and many others.

Much north of the Greek capital is the ancient city of Delphi, which houses the magnificent Temple of Apollo, famous as the site of the Pythian Games. The temple is located on the slopes of Mount Parnassus and was a place of pilgrimage for many Greeks. Also located here are the Temple of Athena, the Stone of Sibyl and the “Navel of the Earth”.

The second largest city in Greece is also the capital of northern Macedonia. Thessaloniki is the oldest city in Europe. The city has a lot of greenery, squares and wonderful cozy streets. The city center is Platia Aristotelous and Platia Eleftherias squares, which are always filled with crowds of people. Also take a walk along the embankment, where there are many restaurants and cafes.

A peninsula whose name is heard every time interesting places in Greece are mentioned. The most famous place on the peninsula is the ruins of Olympia, where the Olympic Games were held. Here are the remains of the world's oldest stadium, where the world's first sporting competition was held in 776 BC. In the area adjacent to the stadium is the Olympic Village, which includes the Temple of Hera, a gymnasium and baths. In the northeastern part of the peninsula is the city of Epidaurus, famous for its ancient theater, the construction of which dates back to the 3rd century BC. The theater has been perfectly preserved and even today has excellent acoustics.

Mycenae

At a distance of 90 km in the direction of the southwest, Mycenae is located - one of the most important centers of ancient Greek culture. According to legend, the builder of the city was Perseus. This city was sung by the great Homer as “a kingdom drowning in gold and wealth.” The main attractions of Mycenae: the tomb of Agamemnon, the royal palace and the Lion Gate.

The main attractions of Greece - video

Olympus

Olympus, the highest mountain in Greece, is located 100 kilometers from Thessaloniki. From mythology we know that for the Greeks this mountain was the “House of the Gods,” namely the dozens of main gods whom they worshiped. Geologically, Olympus is a mountain range consisting of 52 peaks, the highest of which is Mount Olympus (2,917 meters).

On the slopes of the mountain there is a magnificent National Park with beautiful plants.

Crete

The largest island located in Greek territorial waters. Known largely due to ancient myths. It was the center of the Minoan civilization, the oldest in Europe. One of the most important mythological moments in the history of the island is the myth of the Minotaur (man-bull) and the brave Theseus, who defeated him. The myth of Daedalus and Icarus is also directly related to the island of Crete.

Interesting places to visit in Greece are the island Santorini, famous for the eruption of the volcano of the same name and the beautiful lagoon formed on the site of the crater, and the island Rhodes, according to legend, turned by knights into a fortress in order to protect Christians from the aggression of pagans advancing from the east.

This was a short story about top tourist attractions in Greece. If you want to know more, go and see everything with your own eyes.

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👁 And for tickets, go to air sales, as an option. It has been known about him for a long time 🐷. But there is a better search engine - Skyscanner - there are more flights, lower prices! 🔥🔥.
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The first place to look for ancient sights of Greece known from history textbooks is Athens, the capital of the country, which in ancient times had the status of a city-state.

The Acropolis of Athens is one of the most famous Greek landmarks and a recognizable symbol of the capital, a monument included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Just 500 meters from the Acropolis with the famous Parthenon stands the largest ancient Greek temple - Olympion (Temple of Olympian Zeus), the construction of which lasted about 650 years and was completed in the 2nd century AD.

On the southern slope of the Acropolis is the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, an ancient stone amphitheater that hosts the Athens Theater Festival every summer.

The capital also houses the country's main archaeological museum, dedicated to the cultures of antiquity. It houses a huge collection of artifacts - more than 20 thousand items, from the Neolithic to the post-Byzantine era.

Beautiful ancient Greek monuments and panoramic natural views can be found on the islands of Crete and Rhodes.

Sights of the islands of Greece

A beach holiday on the island of Crete can be combined with a very rich excursion program. Crete is home to several ancient Greek sites. The most impressive architectural monument is the Palace of Knossos, in the vicinity of which, according to myths, there was a labyrinth with the Minotaur imprisoned in it. With excursions or on your own, you can visit the Phaistos Palace, the Venetian fortress of Frangokastello, the ancient city of Risenia and other historically significant places. In addition, there are many interesting museums on the island, most of whose exhibitions are related to archaeology.

The most famous sights of the island of Rhodes in Greece are the ancient city of Lindos with a huge ancient acropolis, second in size and importance after the Athenian one. From a historical point of view, the acropolis in the city of Rhodes is also noteworthy, and along with it, the tourist route includes the Palace of the Grand Masters, the medieval street of the Knights of John, museums and the port. In search of natural beauties, you should go to the famous ones, who are credited with miraculous properties.

On the island of Corfu, architectural monuments and natural places are equally interesting. The highest peak of the island is

This amazing country has a huge number of historical, cultural, architectural and natural attractions. Tourists from all over the world come to Greece not just to relax on the beaches. Here you can expand your knowledge of how modern Europe was born and formed, a huge part of which belongs to the classical era of Hellenism and pre-Hellenic history and culture.

TOP 20 attractions in Greece

The sights of Greece will also tell you about the birth of the European democratic tradition, the golden era in mythology, literature, sculpture, architecture, theater, sports, etc. Hospitable people who love Russia live in this beautiful country; they are always friendly to Russian tourists. Don’t forget the well-known phrase from Russian cinema: “Greece has everything!”

1. The ancient Greek city of Delphi

This city in ancient times was a religious center for the worship of the god Apollo. According to legend, it is named after his son Delphi. In addition, the city is known for hosting the famous Pythian Games for many centuries. Delphi is included in the UNESCO list. This is a world-class historical and cultural attraction.

Delphi arose approximately 1.6 thousand years BC. and at first Mother Earth was worshiped there. And later the myths of classical Ancient Greece arose, associated with Zeus and the pantheon of gods. During excavations in the second half of the 20th century, here, on the slope of Mount Parnassus, a temple of Apollo, an ancient theater, a stadium, treasuries, etc. were discovered.

2. Medieval city of Rhodes

And this famous Greek landmark dates back to the era of Antiquity and the Middle Ages with its crusading knights. It is also a famous beach resort. The most interesting thing you can see here is the Rhodes Fortress, which was built by the Knights Hospitaller in the 13th century on the site of an ancient acropolis.

Behind the powerful walls of this fortress is the Palace of the Grand Masters, built on the site of the ancient Temple of Helios. In the old town of Rhodes, you can wander along the Street of Knights and plunge into the Middle Ages. There are ancient forts and ports that played a significant role in the history of Rhodes, and much more.

3. Palace of the Grand Masters

It is worth talking separately about such a historical and cultural landmark of the Rhodes Fortress as this Palace. It is also on the UNESCO list, as part of the Rhodes Fortress. This is a very impressive structure, built according to all the rules of medieval fortification.

For many centuries, the Palace of the Grand Masters served as the residence of the leader of the Hospitaller Order, which once controlled the entire Mediterranean. Today, the Palace of the Grand Masters has turned into a huge museum, the exhibits of which tell visitors about the history of the island and the city of Rhodes from Antiquity to the present day.

4. Paleokastritsa Beach

This is a world famous beach and a Greek landmark. It is located on the island of Corfu in the north of the Ionian Sea at the resort of the same name. Tourists can fully enjoy the clearest turquoise water, bright but not burning sun, as well as beautiful olive, lemon and orange groves around.

On Paleokastritsa beach you can have a great rest, it is one of the ten best European beaches, and at the same time get acquainted with cultural and historical beaches, of which there are extremely many here since ancient times.

The Acropolis is the calling card of the modern Greek capital. The first thing you should see in this city is the Acropolis of Athens. From here begins an acquaintance with classical Ancient Greece, with its myths and legends, gods and heroes, scientists and philosophers.

It should be noted that on the hill where today you can see the Acropolis of Athens, there was a royal palace back in the Mycenaean era. In the 7th century BC. e. The construction of the most famous temple, the Parthenon, began in the acropolis, and a century later the temple of Athena was erected, of which only the foundation remains today.

During the time when Greece was under the Ottoman yoke, the Acropolis of Athens was a mosque. Later it became an arsenal. At one time, the pasha’s harem was located in one of its temples. The Acropolis of Athens was repeatedly attacked by barbarians and vandals. Today it is a magnificent open-air museum.

Many tourists strive to visit Cape Sounion to see this ancient temple with their own eyes. Once upon a time, the ancient Greek Poseidon, the god of the sea, patronized fishermen and sea travelers who lived in Attica and all of Hellas. They brought gifts and sacrifices to their god, and he gave them good luck.

The Temple of Poseidon was built in 400 BC. Among scientists there is a version that it was erected by the Atlanteans - the inhabitants of the legendary Atlantis. Today, only the ruins of the temple and 12 columns remain. Archaeologists near the temple discovered a huge statue of a man, possibly Poseidon, and several smaller statues.

Olympus is the highest mountain in the country, located on the Aegean coast. But this is not what made her famous. As you know, it was this mountain that the gods of Ancient Greece chose as their place of residence, which is why Olympus acquired a sacred status. The area around the mountain range is today a national reserve.

What mere mortal does not dream of visiting the home of the gods? That is why this mythological landmark of Greece is a favorite among travelers from all over the world. Fortunately, there is also an excellent tourist infrastructure there, incl. ski resort.

8. Santorini Island

This island is considered by many to be the best tourist destination on earth. It is ideal for a family holiday. There are beautiful clean sandy beaches from white to black, houses that look like something out of a fairy tale. Santorini often hosts wedding ceremonies between couples who dream of a family life like in a fairy tale.

There are a huge number of attractions on such a tiny island. First of all, these are Catholic and Orthodox churches, there are about three hundred of them. There are also many ancient ruins of the Minoan era of Greek civilization. Stay in local hotels, sunbathe on the beaches - you will have unforgettable memories.

9. Samaria Gorge

This is a famous natural attraction of the island of Crete. The Samaria Gorge is the largest in Europe, it is named after the ancient village located nearby. This is an incredibly beautiful place, visiting which you can take many unique, beautiful photographs.

It’s worth going on a tourist excursion to this gorge to once again appreciate the great Greek past, see the ancient Cretan civilization, marvel at the beauty of the nature of Crete, its flora and fauna, and get acquainted with the ancient way of life, way of life, customs and traditions of the islanders.

Greece is a country where there is everything! Luxurious beaches, clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea, many amazing architectural monuments, excellent cuisine and cozy hotels... “The Cradle of Civilization,” as Greece is also called, is located in the south of Europe - on part of the Balkan Peninsula and on more than 1,400 islands.

Visa

To travel to Greece you will need. The requirements for a foreign passport are standard - it must be valid for 3 months from the date of completion of the trip, and the document itself must have 2 pages free of marks.

Currency

The currency in Greece is the euro. Until 2000, the Greek drachma was in use. There are many exchange offices and ATMs in the country; at large resorts you can easily pay with a bank card. However, if you are going on holiday to the remote islands of Greece, it is better to stock up on cash.

Weather

Navajo Beach. Zakynthos, Greece

It is best to go to Greece in the warm season - from May to September. The sea swimming season on the island opens at the end of April and ends in October. At other resorts the sea warms up a little later - towards the end of May. In Greece it is almost always warm and sunny; you can come on excursions at any time of the year.

Resorts

Chania, Crete island, Greece

The most popular resorts in Greece are the islands and. Here you can easily choose a suitable tour option - a wide variety of beaches and hotels, fairly inexpensive prices, and there are good hotels for families with children. If you are going to Greece for the first time, then it is better to choose these resorts. Crete is associated with ancient Greek myths and the homeland of the minotaur. Rhodes is famous for the fact that it was here that one of the wonders of the world was located - the Colossus of Rhodes.

Round-trip flights to Greece

Prices for tickets per person departing from Berlin are shown.

Attractions

Parthenon. Athens, Greece

In terms of the number of attractions, Greece confidently holds its place in the top ten countries in the world. Ancient ruins, picturesque islands, magnificent beaches, amazing excursions, hospitable taverns... There are perhaps even more attractions in Greece than residents and tourists combined!

Many famous attractions are located on the Greek mainland. Athens is a museum capital where you literally cannot take a step without discovering traces of history. In central Greece are the ruins of the ancient city of Delphi. Tourists also go to Greece on pilgrimage tours to monasteries.

On the islands, vacationers are interested in ancient ruins, architectural monuments and stunning landscapes. The most famous attractions of island Greece are located on and.

Kitchen

In the national cuisine of Greece, kebabs souvlaki and moussaka take pride of place - they will be on the menu of any restaurant. In Greece, the famous Greek salad is called “horiatiki”, that is, “country”. For a quick snack, pita is a good option - a flatbread stuffed with meat and vegetables.

Portions in Greece are very generous, so take this into account when ordering. Before serving the main courses, the café offers free freshly baked bread and olive oil.

You should definitely try snails (escargot), sartsa (beef with tomatoes, garlic and special sheep cheese ladotiri), pastitsia (lasagna with a Greek accent) or swordfish kebab (xifias souvlaki), white eggplant with grilled octopus.

Greeks love to drink coffee - both hot and cold, with ice. For a large dinner or lunch, people often order retsina (white wine), ouzo (aniseed vodka) or Greek Mythos beer. If you're there, be sure to try kumquat liqueurs, and wine from the Assyrtiko variety.

What to bring

The main Greek souvenir is olives. Butter, soap, pate - what only the Greeks do not make from the fruits of the nurse olive. Olive oil costs about 10 euros per liter.

Sweets take second place in the ranking of Greek souvenirs. Nougat and Turkish delight (2-5 euros per box) here are not at all the same as in. Local honey is especially interesting - a small jar will cost 8-10 euros. Many people bring alcohol from Greece - ouzo, metaxa, rakia, kumquat liqueur.

The famous handmade Greek leather sandals will cost 30-60 euros per pair. You can take measurements and have shoes made exactly to fit your feet for 120-200 euros. In addition to them, you can look for linen clothes with a national pattern - a meander.

Another souvenir from Orthodox Greece is an icon. The faces of saints, made on a cypress board and consecrated in one of the country’s monasteries, will be a wonderful gift for yourself or your believing loved ones.

Prices for souvenirs in Greece depend on the resort and the distance of the retail outlet from the center - the further from the beaten tourist path, the cheaper.

Good to know

• The flight from Moscow to Athens takes 3.5-4 hours. Flight time to Crete or Rhodes is 3-3.5 hours.
• In winter, time in Greece lags behind Moscow by one hour; in summer there is no time difference.
• Restaurants and taverns in Greece are open from 12:00 to 16:00 and from 20:00 to midnight, and some of them serve guests until 2:00 am.
• Greek hotels are not assigned “stars”, but categories: deluxe (5*), A (4*), B (3*) and C (2*).
• In Greece, it is customary to leave a tip of 10-20% of the bill. In places popular with tourists, the surcharge is already included in the bill.
• Museums throughout Greece are free to visit on all Sundays between November 1st and March 31st. On major holidays (both secular and religious), admission to museums is also free.
• Greece has an excellent bus service. Tickets are sold at newsstands or small shops near stops. On the islands you can negotiate and buy a ticket from the driver - but it will cost more. “Vote” - otherwise the bus will not stop.
• Taxis in Greece are not very expensive. The color of the cars is different: in Athens they are yellow, in Thessaloniki they are blue or white, and in Rhodes they are black.
• Only men are allowed to enter Athos. There are no exceptions, even female animals are not allowed on Athos - for more than a thousand years. To get there, men need to apply for a special visa and written permission - diamontirion.