Honeymoon in greece mainland or islands. Greek mainland resorts

Greek islands

Cyclades

These Greek islands attract travelers with their special zest, which is not found anywhere else in the world. Picturesque cliffs sticking out of the sea, small neat villages with white-painted roofs, very clean, well-groomed beaches, some of which are suitable for a relaxing, family vacation, and some offer vibrant youth nightlife.

Dodecanese

The Dodecanese island, but in fact it is a whole archipelago in the southeastern part of the Aegean Sea, has an unusual for Greece architectural style- this is explained by formerly islands the doges of Venice ruled, then the Ottoman Empire and the protectorate of Italy. The Dodecanese is home to the world famous tourist resorts such as Rhodes, the famous island of Patmos, known as the "Jerusalem of the Aegean", beautiful Karpathos abounding magnificent beaches, the island of Kos, which is the birthplace of the healer Hippocrates, the ancient stronghold of the warriors of the Hospitallers - the island of Leros on which they built a majestic fortress and the Church of Our Lady, which are perfectly preserved today, as well as the island of Kastellorizo, with famous castle Castello Rosso (Red Castle), which the Johnites, who later became the Knights of Rhodes and Malta, built in the 14th century.

ionian islands

Magnificent olive groves and tall cypresses are what attract tourists to the islands, which got their name from the sea of the same name in which they are located. It has incredibly charming beaches and unforgettable landscapes.

North East Aegean

This is the name of the eleven main islands of the Aegean Sea, known for their pristine beaches and amazing landscapes. Among the most famous islands Lesbos is one of largest islands Greece and the most popular resort.

Saronic Gulf

Located in this largest port Greece Piraeus, and along the banks, in addition to the chic beach holiday, yacht tourism is actively developing. The largest yacht marinas are located here, and the whole bay is full of various sailing ships during the season.

Crete

The largest and, apparently, the most famous Greek island. famous resort with unusually picturesque nature, magnificent views and hospitable locals. Crete is truly unique in its history, mythology, ancient Greek architecture, perfectly preserved to this day.

Northern Sporades

Picturesque islands, scattered along the east coast in the Aegean Sea, are distinguished pine groves, an abundance of greenery and the cleanest beaches with emerald water.

Evia

This is the second largest island in Greece, connected to the mainland by a bridge across the strait near Chalkis. The Strait of Evripos (Evripos) is famous for the fact that every 6 hours with high and low tide the current changes direction, stopping for a short time, due to which the famous “standing” waves form on its surface, and then the water again rushes at a speed of up to 15 kilometers per hour, but in the opposite direction. According to popular belief, it was here that Aristotle drowned, trying to solve the riddle of the strait.

Mainland Greece

Peloponnese

The most interesting region for tourism in Greece. Excellent beaches, but there are rocky ones. The area is extremely rich in interesting sights for lovers of antiquity, such as Olympia - the birthplace of the tradition of holding Olympic Games in ancient times, the ancient theater of Epidaurus, the palace of Agamemnon located in Mycenae, the castles of Nafplio and Methoni, as well as the towns of Mistra and Monemvasia, as if stuck on steep rocks. While in Greece, be sure to visit the Peloponnese, we are sure you will be delighted!

Central Greece: Includes the prefecture of Atiki in Athens and the prefectures of Boeotia, Phokis (Galaxidi, Nafpaktos and the site of the ancient oracle of Delphi), Phthiotis (mainly resorts with sea views), Aitoloakarnania (with the historical center of Messolongji) and Evrytania (with Karpenisi and Mount Parnassus).

Thessaly: This wonderful place with popular mountain monasteries meteora, incredible lake Plastira, the beautiful coast of Larisa in the Tempe valley and the slopes of Mount Olympus (the number of hills (twelve) represent the ancient Greek gods), as well as the prefecture of Magnesia with the Pelion peninsula, famous for its beauty of Alpine-like landscapes and snow-white beaches.

Epirus: This is a place with a very strong national character - mountains and passes, turbulent rivers, fantastic villages (Zagori, Metsovo), places near the coast (Preveza and beautiful Prague), as well as the port of Igoumenitsa.

Macedonia: This is the most major region in Greece with Thessaloniki as its capital. Beautiful, like fabulous beaches of the Halkidiki peninsula, the lake town of Kastoria, Florina, where it snows very often, the city of Kavala, from where you can get to the island of Thassos by ferry, Edessa from famous waterfalls, lakes of Prespa. Drama and Serres prefectures with a unique mountain system, ancient monuments, the tomb of Philip 2 (father of Alexander the Great). I have no doubt you will find it very interesting here.

Thrace: The city is located in the eastern part of Greece, away from the crowds of tourists. It is a place with very fertile land, rivers and valleys, lush mountains and a unique landscape.

Tatyana Solomatina

Which resort to choose in Greece?

Hello again, dear readers! It's December and summer is still far away, but already now many people are thinking about vacation. I want to draw your attention to sunny Greece.

Kos

Kos is a chic and expensive resort for the elite, not without reason, Hollywood stars choose it for relaxation. The island is small, located in the southeastern part of the Aegean Sea. There is a lot of greenery here, the nature is very beautiful.

The prices are high, so it’s most likely that you won’t be able to relax on a budget.

Zakynthos

Zakynthos is an amazingly beautiful island that you want to return to. Two rows of mountain ranges close the valley from bad weather. Lush vegetation, sheer cliffs, picturesque bays closed from the sea with golden sand - the most real paradise for tourists.

Unfortunately, people rarely land on the island, you can only get here local airlines or by ferry.

Santorini

Santorini - small island, of volcanic origin, with a coastline of 70 km. white houses local residents succinctly inscribed in the mountain landscape. Here is its own, some kind of aristocratic, cozy atmosphere. Life flows slowly, time seems to stop.

If we deviate a little from hiking trails, you can find wild places and enjoy solitude. The beaches of the island are very diverse, even the sand in each place has its own shade, from pale yellow to bright red.

Holidays on the island are expensive. As a rule, tourists come here for one day as part of excursion groups.

conclusions

There are many resorts in Greece and it is really difficult to choose. beautiful nature and gorgeous beaches is in almost every corner of this sunny country. So where is the best place to relax in Greece? How many people, so many opinions. Where one likes it, it will not necessarily be good for another.

If you, dear readers, are interested in my opinion, then now I would act in the following sequence:

Reading general information about the country and about the main resorts
We look at prices for tours or accommodation and air tickets (maybe you will come across cheap tickets and it will be more profitable to go on your own)
Based on the second point, we decide how to relax, through a tour operator or on our own. How to make the right decision I wrote
Most likely, for the first acquaintance with the country, I would choose one of the islands, focusing on price-nature-quality-easy transfer (in that order). You may have other priorities
Having decided on the island, read detailed information about the resorts of this place, based on fresh reviews on the network
Then choose accommodation, hotel or house (if not a tour)
Now redeem the tour or tickets (if you are traveling on your own)

This plan is not suitable only for those who purposefully travel to see certain attractions. It is easier for such tourists, you just need to choose a resort closer to the desired places to visit.

That's all I wanted to talk about, I hope you have a general picture of the resorts of Greece.

My personal impressions will soon be available from the stories under the heading "My travels". In the meantime, I suggest you read the article. It seems to me that this is a relevant question.

In the near future I will write about the island of Rhodes. Subscribe to my newsletter and be the first to receive new publications.

Recently, in some minor magazine, I came across a note that this country, too, will soon be closed to Russians. Allegedly, they will make a couple of provocations for this purpose. Didn't hear anything? It will be a pity. Write in the comments what you think about this. Very interesting to read.

And I'll say goodbye to you for a while. Share the article on in social networks, convenient buttons are below.

Tatyana Solomatina

Greece - unusual country for a holiday at sea. In its bins there are places where you can relax in winter, and in spring, and in summer, and in autumn. And most of these opportunities are connected precisely with beach holidays - huge insular territories, quite impressive mainland countries can offer a lot of resorts of various levels of comfort and prices.

The beach season in Greece is quite long - from April to November, on the mainland - somewhat shorter, from May to October, but at the beginning and at the end of the season, hotels offer very significant discounts - up to 30% - 40%!

Greece has another important advantage - a lot of excellent beaches awarded the Blue Flag, and such an award is given only for environmental friendliness and cleanliness, which, you see, is very important today. Well, besides the beaches, Greece is interesting as a country of ancient sights, the hostess of rich Mediterranean cuisine and cheerful, incendiary nightlife.

Summer in Greece

Where is the best place to relax in Greece in the summer - in June, July and August? Summer in this country comes already in May - with the beginning of May it opens bathing season in the Mediterranean Sea, warm and dry weather is established. The air temperature in the resorts of the Mediterranean Sea (the southern part of Rhodes, Santorini, Crete) is kept within + 28 ° С, the water temperature is + 24 ° + 25 ° С, in the mainland resorts (Thessaloniki, Pieria, Volos, Athens, Halkidiki and Peloponnese) and the islands of the Aegean Sea (Kos, the northern part of Rhodes) - both air and water in May are somewhat cooler - + 25 ° + 26 ° С, temperature water +22°С.

June, July and August are quite hot months in Greece. The air heats up to +33°+36°С, sometimes hotter, and water - up to 25°+28°С. If you don’t like sweltering heat, but your vacation falls just at this time, you should choose one of the beach resorts of island Greece - green Corfu and Zakynthos, resorts of mainland Northern Greece, are best suited.

Beaches in summer in Greece are best visited either early in the morning or in the evening - on a hot afternoon it is better to stay in a hotel or walk in the park.

Autumn in Greece

The time when it is best to relax in Greece is in September and October, in the fall. At the beginning of autumn, the weather is almost always ideal, the beaches are very comfortable, there is no longer the sweltering heat and it is easy to breathe. It is this season that should be chosen for a beach holiday in Greece by couples with children, people of age and those who suffer from hypertension.

Weather in Greece in September and October: air and water are warmed up to comfortable temperatures (air +30°+33°С, water +24°+26°С), and then, closer to November, both the sea and the air slowly begin to cool down to + 22°+23°С. There is no rain yet at this time.

From the end of August to mid-September, you can have a good and comfortable rest in Greece in any part of the country, and then, in early October, it is better to go to rest on the southern islands - Rhodes, Crete, Santorini - there at this time is excellent, warm and dry weather - until mid-late October. In November, the rains begin and the beach season is slowly waning.

Winter in Greece

Winter in Greece is a time of long cool rains, almost no one swims in the sea, but you can enjoy the sea breeze, walk, breathe and heal, and swim in heated indoor pools (there are such in almost every decent hotel). Many for the winter beach hotels close, stopping work, this phenomenon is especially noticeable on the islands. In the spring, with the establishment warm weather they reopen and start a new season.

The air temperature in Greece in winter is within + 8 ° + 13 ° С, the sea is warmed up to + 14 ° + 17 ° С.

Spring in Greece

Spring in Greece brings the opening of the beach season - already in April you can swim on many beaches of the country's islands, most of these places are located in the south - in Crete, in the southern part of Rhodes, bordering Turkey, and others southern islands. In April, during the day, the air warms up to + 25 ° С, and sea water up to + 19 ° С, you can already swim, the sea is very refreshing! Later, in May, the conditions for recreation become more comfortable - in the daytime +24...+28°С, water temperature -+22°+23°С. There comes a full-fledged beach season, which lasts until mid-late October.

Where to relax in Greece? Resorts, islands and sea

Mainland Greece

Athens

Athens is a city that acts as the capital of the country and, in combination, functions as a beach resort and a city of historical sights. In Athens, which is located on the very shores of the Aegean Sea, you can sunbathe both on city beaches (and live in city hotels), and pick up something more secluded in a suburban area - it will be less crowded and cheaper here.

Athens is a good place for a fun-filled youth holiday, with visits to nightclubs and discos, Greek taverns and numerous attractions. The city is not suitable for a quiet relaxation - you need to look for more secluded resorts. As an option, Athens can be chosen in order to combine the beach with mineral water treatment - there is a thermal resort of Loutraki nearby.

When is the best time to rest? In Athens, it is better to relax in May or in September - early October. At this time, it is not as hot here as in summer, but there are quite a lot of tourists and vacationers - after all, the capital!

Of course, the ancient Acropolis in Athens deserves attention, but not everyone can withstand this acquaintance: the ancient temple is located high on a mountain, it is rather difficult to climb there, especially in the summer heat. In addition, the temple is very popular - crowds of tourists await you on the approaches to the Acropolis. Another highlight is the old town of Plaka, where you can visit with a guide. From Athens it is worth going on an excursion: to Delphi, Mycenae and Meteora - to look at the ancient monasteries under the clouds; to the islands of Poros and Aegina; or for fur coats - shopping tours to Kastoria are very popular.

If the main goal is to see the sights of Athens - the best time to relax (and the cheapest tours) is January and March, if the beach is August, September, early October.

What is the price? Vacationing in Athens is not cheap - week tour for two from Moscow with a flight and accommodation in a 4 * hotel will cost from 60 thousand rubles.

Pieria and Paralia Katerinis

Pieria is a large region of Greece, located in the east, between the cities of Thessaloniki and Athens. Pieria has both mountains and the sea, here is the large sandy coast of Paralia Katerinis, famous the best beaches awarded with the Blue Flag.

What to see and where to visit? People come here to visit the divine Olympus, live in modern comfortable hotels, enjoy excellent cuisine and nature, water activities, indulge in shopping and fun nightly entertainment in clubs.

The resorts of Pieria are exactly the place where it is best to relax in Greece with children.

When is the best time to go on vacation? To conquer Olympus, it is best to go to Pieria in the fall - it is not hot, you can easily climb to the top, and to sunbathe and swim in the sea - you should book a ticket in May-June, or in late August - September - early October.

What is the price? Prices for a beach holiday on the coast of Pieria - Paralia Katerinis (departure from Moscow) - from 43 thousand rubles. for two, for 7 days.

Thessaloniki

The season is similar to the season in Athens, prices are 15-20% lower than for holidays in the capital.

Hair

Volos is an unfamiliar resort in the region of Magnesia and Thessaly for tourists, not very famous, but comfortable and beautiful. Getting here is easy sea port, a city at the same distance from Athens and Thessaloniki. It has a well-developed tourist infrastructure, excellent opportunities for traveling around the central part of Greece.

And where else to relax in Greece, settling in one of the hotels of modern development, if not in Volos?! There are many new hotels, hotel complexes in Volos, there are plenty to choose from if you decide to stay in apartments or villas. The beaches of Volos stretch for more than 6 km along the coastline, peace and quiet reign around resort villages mesmerizing clean sea bays, calm and peaceful atmosphere.

What to see and where to visit? Volos are secret lanes in the Old City, journeys into the world of myths and ancient history Greece: the Sea of Argonauts and the Mount of Centaurs, Jason's journey on the Argo, the de Chirico train, Pelion mansions, Theophili paintings and mosaics in the Archaeological Museum, as well as ferry cruises to the Northern Sporades, Crete, Cyclades and Lesbos, the Peloponnese peninsula and along the coast mainland Greece.

When is the best time to go on vacation? Since the resort is set for a calm and peaceful family holiday, for holidays with children, the best time for sunbathing on the beaches of Volos is the end of August - September, the beginning of October, or the end of May - the beginning of June. Morning coffee to the sound of the sea surf, midday peaceful conversations over a glass of tsipuro, delicious seafood for dinner to the accompaniment of Mediterranean wine and Greek music are waiting for you.

What is the price? Prices for holidays in Volos vary widely: on the outskirts it is quite cheap, but the closer to the city center and the higher the star rating of the hotel, the more expensive the vacation will be. A seven-day trip for two from Moscow with accommodation in a 3 * - 4 * hotel in the suburbs - from 45 thousand rubles, in the city - from 60 thousand rubles.

The peninsulas of Greece, where you can have a great rest

Chalkidiki

Chalkidiki is a garden of paradise with a coast, the total length of the beaches of which is more than 500 km! The beaches are covered with sand and the purest pebbles, the Aegean Sea splashes around, almost the entire coast has been awarded blue flags EU for cleanliness and environmental friendliness. The peninsula of Halkidiki is easily recognizable on the map - its other name is "Poseidon's trident". The constituent parts of Chalkidiki are smaller peninsulas - "fingers" of the trident: Kassandra, Sithonia and the divine Athos.

Halkidiki is one of the best places to relax in Greece. There are few vacationers on the peninsula, the resorts are quiet and not crowded, they have a not very developed tourist infrastructure, but around - untouched natural landscapes, great beaches and delicious food! Students go to Halkidiki to see real Greece for the weekend, families with children, those who love alternative recreation - diving, surfing, exploring local trails, independent travel.

(Photo © Jack Cousin / flickr.com / Licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)

What to see and where to visit? For nightlife in Halkidiki, you need to go to the resorts of Kallithea and Hanioti (Kassandra peninsula), Sarti (Sitonia), for impressions - to St. Athos, a huge Byzantine museum under open sky, and to get to know Aristotle better - to the ancient city of Stagira. And do not forget to visit Zeus-Ammon, who inspired the great Alexander the Great to go to Egypt - his temple is located near Kallithea (Kassandra peninsula).

When is the best time to rest? The best time for a beach holiday in Halkidiki is the end of May-June, the end of August - September - the beginning of October. The sea is warm, but the air is still (or already) not hot ...

What is the price? Prices for holidays on the Halkidiki peninsula (departure from Moscow, tour for two, accommodation for 7 days and nights, 3 * -4 * hotels) start at 45 thousand rubles, at the end of the season it will be cheaper - many hotels offer discounts up to 30%!

Peloponnese

The Peloponnese is a sycamore-shaped peninsula bordering the Ionian Sea. Who would like to better understand where this place is, should remember the ancient Sparta, she was right here. For tourists, Peloponnese offers a wide choice: on the coast of Messini, Achaia and Ilias, a huge range of resort spa hotels and modern hotel complexes; traditional Greek hotels - xenoses are worth booking in Monemvasia, Arcadia and Mani, and luxurious mountain chalets and villas await in Taygetos, Parnonas and Kalavryta.

On beach resorts Peloponnese rest those who like leisure and natural element - water sports sports, hiking in the mountains, sightseeing tours of historical sites.

You can get to the peninsula from the airports of Athens or Thessaloniki, the easiest way is a transfer or car rental in Greece.

What is the best time to go? Because the average temperature air in the Peloponnese in summer stays within + 24 ° + 26 ° С, in the coastal zone mild mediterranean climate, you can relax here almost all summer - from June to November, but the best time is June, September, October. The water in the Ionian Sea off the coast of the Peloponnese warms up slowly in spring - it is still cool here in May, but at the end of autumn - in November the sea is still quite warm and you can swim. In addition, the coast of the Peloponnese is a great place for learning to swim, especially for children - the sea water in the Ionian Sea is much more salty than in the Aegean or Mediterranean, the sea "holds", swimming is easy and simple.

Things to do? In addition to the beaches, the Peloponnese is interesting thermal springs Loutra Kaifa near the prefecture of Ilia, they are useful for chronic rheumatism, skin diseases, muscle inflammation.

Of the entertainment on the peninsula, water sports and recreation are popular: kite surfing, water skiing, walks in the mountains and in the ancient cities. Of the sights, it will be interesting to get acquainted with ancient Corinth and Nemea - the birthplace of the Nemean Games, ancient Olympia, where the first Olympic Games started.

What is the price? Prices for a beach holiday on the Peloponnese peninsula (departure from Moscow, for 7 days and nights, for two, accommodation in a 3 * -4 * hotel) start at 44 thousand rubles, more luxurious 5 * hotel options will cost 60-70 thousand rubles.

Where to relax in Greece: islands where you should go on vacation

Crete

When is the best time to rest? Best months for holidays on the island of Crete - the second and third decade of May, July (northern winds help to cope with the summer heat), September, October and early November. By the way, in November, rest can be even better than in summer - the sea is very well warmed up, and the air no longer breathes the midday heat, but warm southerly winds from Africa walk around the island.

Things to do? The best thing to do in Crete is the beach and the sea, but if that’s not enough for you, you can go diving, have fun in one of the local water parks, try delicious Cretan cuisine and write down recipes for food in Crete, book a fan of excursions and visit all of them: visit the ancient city of Knossos, meet the Minotaur, look into the cave of Zeus and listen to the mills singing from the wind on the Lassithi plateau. World-class attractions in Crete ...

Prices. Crete is an expensive island, and all thanks to the fact that rich tourists from Europe like Germans and British like to relax here. A seven-day tour from Moscow, together, with accommodation in a 3 * -4 * hotel will cost from 40 thousand rubles, for south coast Crete is a bit more expensive.

Rhodes

When is the best time to go on vacation? If you are going to rest in Rhodes, keep in mind one important detail: the coast of the island is washed by two different seas: in the west - the Aegean, in the east - the Mediterranean. Accordingly, both the conditions and the time for rest will be completely different: East Coast- very sunny, hot, a calm sea splashes here, without big waves and storms, the best time to relax is May, June, end of August, September, October. On west coast Rhodes is dominated by the stormy and exciting Aegean Sea - it is always a little windy here, so the summer heat is practically not felt, you can come at any time, from May to October-early November.

What to see and where to visit? The "highlights" of Rhodes - artifacts created by the ancient Romans and the Knights Hospitaller - the magnificent palace of the Grand Masters, the fortress of Rhodes, ancient Lindos and its no less ancient Acropolis, the temple of Athena. For believers, it will certainly be interesting to visit the ancient active monastery of Tsambika, or to pray in one of the local Orthodox churches. It is worth having fun and having fun in Faliraki - there are many discos, night bars and restaurants, and a beautiful beach nearby.

Prices. Where is it better to relax in Greece on a budget, if not in Rhodes?! A tour for two from Moscow, with accommodation in a 4 * -5 * hotel for 7 days and nights, will cost from 40 thousand rubles, there are plenty to choose from!

Corfu

Corfu (Kerkyra) - located in the west of Greece, it is washed by the Ionian Sea. Corfu is a relaxing island, the British are very fond of relaxing here, missing the southern sun all year round, celebrities from all over Europe, movie and pop stars, aristocrats and the rich. Corfu is not exactly Greece, it is rather Italy - such an idyllic Italian landscape paradise, which is part of Greece. north coast The islands received the apt name - "Monaco of Greece" due to the fact that the richest tourists of famous families rest here: the Rothschilds, Abramovichi, Anelli, etc.

You can sunbathe and bask in the sea on Corfu already in May (air temperature + 23 ° С), in summer it is hot, but not sultry - + 30 ° + 32 ° С, and in autumn it is again very warm and comfortable - + 23 ° + 28 ° С.

Thanks to the efforts of the British, the island has an excellent tourist infrastructure: the most expensive holiday villas are built on the northeast coast, almost the entire coast is built up with hotels and hotel complexes. The resort of Kavos is especially popular among young people; wealthy travelers prefer the resorts of Paleokastritsa and Perama.

When is the best time to rest? The best time to visit is from May to October. The hottest period on the island is the second half of July - the beginning of August, the air temperature reaches + 35 ° C and above, the rest of the time it is warm on the island, but not hot, the climate is very comfortable, conducive to relaxation.

In October, the rains begin, which go inclusive until March. It is because of the abundant rainfall that Corfu is full of greenery all year round.

Things to do? Swimming, sunbathing, breathing sea air, playing cricket (a very popular game in Corfu, thanks to the same British), drinking traditional ginger beer served in Greek taverns, admiring the Italian architecture that flooded the island, wandering through the narrow streets of the Old Town of Corfu, having fun at parties and dinner parties of world celebrities.

Prices. Vacation for two, 7 days (including flight), departure from Moscow, a budget option 2*-3* - from 40 thousand rubles, hotel accommodation 4*-5* - from 55 thousand rubles.

Kos

Kos Island is a representative of Greece, where tourists prefer a luxurious and expensive holiday. Here you can meet Hollywood celebrities, since getting to the island is quite simple - there are international Airport. A beach holiday on the island is suitable not only for wealthy couples (look at the surroundings of Kefalos, the resort of Psalidi), but also for restless youth: their favorite place is the resort of Kardamena. Windsurfers are drawn to stop at northern resorts- in Marmari and Mastichari.

When is the best time to rest? The best time for a beach holiday on the island of Kos is from May to October, but in the summer months - in July and August it can be hot, up to + 35 ° С. However, the northern winds that often visit the island do not allow the heat to stagnate and create favorable conditions for comfortable relaxation on the beach.

What to see and where to visit? First of all, go to temple complex Asklepion, to visit the gods, then - to the plane tree of Hippocrates, a native of the island of Kos, and also worth a look at the Castle of the Knights of St. John and the ancient Agora - the main market ancient world islands. Free from wandering historical places time you can have fun in the local water park, try yourself as a diver, dance at one of the many discos, or ride a yacht along the coastline of the island.

Prices. For holidays on the island of Kos summer time you have to pay a lot - the prices here are quite high. A seven-day tour with a departure from Moscow for two, with accommodation in a 3 * hotel will cost from 35 thousand rubles, in luxury spa hotels 4 * and 5 * the price rises sharply - 80-120 thousand rubles. on same conditions. However, there is a way out of how to reduce the price of the tour: you need to book a hotel in advance, 3-4 months before the expected vacation, choose the time of rest at the beginning or end of the beach season - either in May or early June, or at the end of September - October. So you get a significant discount - up to 35%!

And one more hint: in connection with big amount refugees seeking to get to Europe through the island of Kos, many hotels on the island often offer last-minute tours - due to the wary attitude of foreign tourists to the current situation on the island, they are often not filled. Therefore, even on the eve of the start of the vacation, it is worth looking for very comfortable housing, but at a low price.

Zakynthos

The island of Zakynthos (Zakynthos) is one of the Ionian Islands, which got its name from being in the Ionian Sea. He is a close neighbor of Corfu, located a little to the left of the Peloponnese peninsula. Zakynthos - beautiful place island Greece, rich in mountain landscapes (two mountain ranges hide a beautiful valley inside the island), greenery and clean beaches with white sand.

It is not easy to get to Zakynthos - you must either sail by ferry from the ports of Greece, or fly by charter of travel companies.

When is the best time to rest? On Zakynthos, the holiday season is similar to the conditions on Corfu, the mild Mediterranean climate and the absence of atmospheric pressure drops in these places allow you to start your holiday in May and end it deep in October. The island has unique natural conditions for wellness and health. Take advantage of it! Among the most popular resorts islands - Levante Flower and Southern Venice.

Where to visit and what to see? Of course, the Blue Caves of Zakynthos, which are included in the list of the most exotic beaches in Greece, are also one of the most photogenic beaches in the world - Navagio, the most famous Greek beach. Of the historical "highlights" - numerous Orthodox monasteries, ancient Venetian mansions preserved on the island, the Venetian castle of Bokhali in the capital of the island, the city of Zakynthos.

Prices. A seven-day trip with a departure from Moscow, for two, with accommodation in a 3 * - 4 * hotel will cost from 40 thousand rubles, a budget option 2 * - from 35 thousand rubles.

Santorini

Santorini (Thira) is one of the representatives of the group of islands of the Cyclades archipelago. This is a small island created by the volcanic activity of the planet, its beaches are covered with colorful volcanic sands- black, red, white, and the architecture is made in dazzling white and blue-blue tones. Surely you have seen pictures of Santorini more than once, they are fascinating!

People go to Santorini for a leisurely, cozy, comfortable and decent worthwhile rest- prices here are designed for wealthy tourists who can stay for 10-14 days, no less, without any damage to the wallet ... Budget tourists come to Santorini with a one-two-day excursion, usually from Crete or Rhodes, from Turkey, from the ports of Greece - Piraeus, Volos, Thessaloniki, to see the unique sea sunsets and sunrises on the island.

When is the best time to rest? The beach season in Santorini lasts for eight months, starting at the end of March and ending at the end of November. But the best time, of course, is the end of September-beginning of October, the Velvet season: the sea is like fresh milk, the air is like soft swan fluff...

Where to visit, what to see? There are more than enough sights on Santorini! But the main feature is sunrises and sunsets, donkey rides through the labyrinth of narrow island streets, tanning on colorful beaches and in open pools with beautiful view on the sea, photo shoots against the backdrop of the unusual architecture of the island.

What is the price? Prices for Santorini bite a little - everyone wants to get here! A seven-day tour from Moscow, for two, with accommodation in a 3 * -4 * hotel will cost from 78 thousand rubles, and then - how much you can pay, the price ceiling - within 190 thousand rubles. for all the same 7 days of rest.

Helpful hints:

Greece is located in the southeastern part of Europe and occupies a vast territory, including part of Balkan Peninsula and many islands in the Aegean, Ionian and mediterranean seas. Greece in its various parts borders on Albania, Turkey, Bulgaria and Macedonia. The total length of its territories is almost 132 thousand kilometers, of which one fifth belongs to the islands. Among the largest are Crete, Lemnos, Ikaria, Rhodes, Corfu, the islands of the Cyclades.

The landscape of Greece is a bizarre mix mountain peaks and endless sea surface. The most high point The country is located on Mount Olympus in the Central mountainous region, at an altitude of almost 3 thousand meters. sunny valleys, densely overgrown with greenery, and the mountainous heights of Thessaly and Macedonia, a bizarrely indented coastline and an abundance the most beautiful islands- all this makes Greece attractive for many tourists.

Diversity flora directly dependent on the area. The coastal area abounds with orange and olive trees, date palms, grenades and figs. A little higher above sea level there is a forest - black spruce, oak, beech and walnut. And finally, on the most high peaks settled coniferous forest and wild flowers. Greece, a country with no less rich fauna, here are just some of its representatives - lynx and jackal, fox and marten, wild boar and bear, deer and chamois, hawk, pheasant and pelican.

In Greece, several major cities: Athens - the capital of the country with a population of about 3.7 million people, Thessaloniki, Piraeus, Heraklion, Larissa and the Peloponnese. Form state government- Republican. The executive power is represented by the president and the government, headed by the prime minister. National currency- drachma.

The history of Greece is one of the most ancient. Already in the 3rd century BC, a very highly developed civilization appeared on the territory of the present country with three separate cultures: Cretan, Mycenaean and Peloponnesian. Over the centuries, these three states have changed several forms of government, from the monarchy to the republic. For several centuries in a row, Greece was ruled by various empires - Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman. In 1821, the Greek people began to fight for their independence, and in 1829 won the victory and the status of the Kingdom of Greece. After the country waged several more local wars for the right to possess the territories of Macedonia, Crete and part of the Balkan Peninsula. The result of these wars was the increase in the lands of Greece. The republican form of government was finally adopted in the 70s of the XIX century.

Today Greece is a member of the UN, IMF, ILO, Council of Europe, NATO and other major organizations. According to data at the end of the 90s of the XIX century, the total population of the strange is about 10.7 million people, among them 98 percent are Greeks, the remaining 2 percent are Turks, Albanians, Armenians and Vlachs. The official state language is Greek, within it there is a division into colloquial and formal. In addition, in the course of English and French. The vast majority of the population (98 percent) are adherents Orthodox Church, the rest profess Catholicism, Judaism, Islam and Protestantism.

The main source of income to the state treasury of Greece, no doubt, is tourism. It brings in more than 3 billion dollars a year. Athens, Crete, Kos and Rhodes are the most visited by tourists who want to immerse themselves in the history and culture of the country. Many islands have a range of attractions. Rhodes is the owner of the palace of the Grand Masters, the Knights of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem and the statue of the Colossus of Rhodes, which is recognized as one of the wonders of the world. Heraklion is famous for its Greek and Armenian churches. Crete - ruins ancient city Knossos, where, according to legend, the Labyrinth of the Minotaur was located. Architectural monuments dating back to the Byzantine era of the development of Greece can be observed in Thessaloniki. This is the Basilica of St. Helena, and White Tower, and the church of St. George with its mosaic icons.

Greece is famous for its museums, with their wonderful antique collections. The most famous of them are the National Archaeological Museum, Byzantine Museum, Old Archaeological Museum, Acropolis Museum. The world's largest collection of ancient Greek artifacts is kept in the Old Archaeological Museum. The Archaeological Museum in Candia contains many works of art belonging to Minoan civilization. The custodians of monuments of a later period can be called the national art gallery, the Alexander Soutzos Museum and the Benaki Museum. The world-famous Acropolis in Athens deserves special attention, with its amazingly beautiful ancient temples.

The mainland of the mythological country should be chosen by lovers of excursions. It is here that the main Greece is located: Delphi, Meteora, the Acropolis of Athens, the Parthenon, Mount St. Athos, etc. You can visit them both in a rented car and with the help of tourist excursions or local transport.

Greece has a well-developed network of buses running between cities. Many of them "climb" to the most distant villages, where you can get acquainted with the life of the indigenous people and purchase fresh products.

If you are a multi-entry Schengen visa holder, it is from mainland Greece that you can travel to nearby countries. Italy is usually the main destination for tourists. Also lovers of "distant" excursions go to Albania, Turkey, Macedonia.

A distinctive feature of the mainland - great opportunities for shopping. This is especially true for vacationers in July / January. It is at this time that big sales begin in stores. Discounts on accessories, shoes and clothes of world brands reach 70%.

The island part of the country is the best choice for a beach holiday

The Greek islands are true peace and tranquility. Here you are guaranteed a luxurious vacation. The local greets tourists sincerely, always comes to the rescue, and in the restaurant they listen carefully and clearly fulfill the order.

The territory of Greece has approximately 6,000 islands. However, in tourism world Crete, Rhodes, Corfu, Santorini, Zakynthos won the greatest popularity. These places are often chosen for relaxation by world stars.

The Greek islands really have everything you need for quality relaxation. Beaches, food and souvenir shops, restaurants with chic cuisine. However, be careful: nightlife lovers in the island part of Greece can be a little bored. The most adapted to such a pastime are the resorts of the island of Crete.

There is sea communication between the Greek islands. If you wish, you can visit not one, but several places and be surprised at their dissimilarity. A colossal contrast is, for example, volcanic, "black" Santorini, fashionable Mykonos and green Corfu.

Inhabitants Greek islands- a special kind of people. They are very welcoming, calm and kind to tourists. Even if you do not speak their language, in case of difficulties, they will always come to your aid.

When choosing between the islands and the mainland, some tourists recommend starting from the time of year. For example, if you are planning a trip in the fall and winter, choose. Exactly this right time for sightseeing and shopping. For summer holiday by the sea, it is better to prefer islands, where, due to the presence of winds, the heat is not so strongly felt.