In the land of the Greek gods

Made of stone, light, and sea salt, these places of prophecy have captivated men since the earliest antiquity.

Rising from the blue waters of the Aegean Sea, the numerous islands found there are known to tourists from all corners of the world as well as from Jet Set international. Everyone who has visited them agrees that they are true little holiday paradises.

Louise Bourbonnais

Just one look at a picture of this exceptional landscape, its picturesque charm distinguished by whitewashed houses contrasting with the azure sea, is enough to evoke, in most of us, an irresistible longing for this place where everything suggests perfection… an emotion that is easily justified. As proof, more than 33 million tourists visit each year, making Greece one of the most popular destinations in the world.

But in my opinion, the true beauty of Greece isn't just the magnificent beaches lined with whitewashed cottages and gardens bathed in dazzling light, but rather the people who inhabit it, bearers of a particular philosophy of life. Bringing life to the narrow village streets and country lanes leading to small chapels, they blend seamlessly into the scenery of the windmills, thus forming the very essence of these islands' charm.

Athens

Athens is often described as polluted and congested. It's true. But a trip to Greece wouldn't be complete without a visit to the city, even if only for a day or two, despite the ever-present pull of the open sea. Athens is neither a starting point nor even an end point. In fact, everything revolves around Athens. It's the city of the Olympic ideal, the meeting point of East and West, a haven for artists, and boasts no less than 3,000 years of history. Head to the Acropolis , home to the famous Parthenon , and discover the era when visitors came to worship their gods. From there, look at Athens, and you'll see a city of myriad contrasts: ancient, Byzantine, neoclassical, and modern all at once.

To truly know Athens, people say you must visit the sanctuary of Delphi, revel in Plaka, Athens' oldest neighborhood, prized for its pedestrian streets, or mingle with the crowds in Sindagma. You must also visit the National Archaeological Museum for its collection of Greek art and explore the historical galleries of the new Acropolis Museum. This is also true. But beyond all that, you must learn to savor Athens. To do so, simply wander aimlessly through neighborhoods off the beaten track, step into an ancient theater, contemplate a historic temple, attend a concert, rent a boat, watch international celebrities on a yacht, get lost in the alleyways of a suburban neighborhood at night, eat local food on a terrace, or spend an hour or two in a taverna in Piraeus.

Islands to visit

Greece has approximately 6,000 islands, of which 200 are inhabited, so it goes without saying that it is impossible to discover them all in a single trip.

The most popular way to travel in Greece is to dedicate most of your trip to exploring the islands by choosing a cruise that suits your tastes and preferences. With a multitude of cruise lines available, you'll be spoiled for choice when it comes to finding one that offers island stops according to your preferences. Some itineraries allow you to visit more than one island per day. This is a pleasant way to discover several islands in a single trip. Unfortunately, you'll have limited time on each island. Cruise bookings can easily be made online.

For travelers who enjoy creating their own itineraries, tailor-made travel offers a wealth of opportunities. You can choose to take a regional flight from one island to another for part of the trip (saving considerable time), opt for high-speed ferries, travel by hydrofoil, or embark on a short cruise, all while reserving time to stay on your favorite islands. Ideally, you should aim for a stay of two weeks or more, and no less than ten days. It is highly recommended to book your cruise in advance, especially during peak season.

You can also add a visit to Turkey to your itinerary. This will be an opportunity to visit Kousadasi, home to the archaeological site of Ephesus, one of the most important in the world.

Santorini

The most famous of the Greek islands is undoubtedly Santorini , located in the Cyclades archipelago in the heart of the Aegean Sea. Its most striking feature is its dramatic landscape. The cliffs that line the coast offer a particularly impressive sight upon arrival at the port. Its main village, Fira , perched on the cliffside at an altitude of 200 meters, can be reached in three ways. The most economical option, though certainly not the easiest, is to climb the several hundred steps required to reach Fira. You can also choose the island's typical mode of transport: riding to the top on a mule, or opt for the more modern option and take the cable car. Once at the summit, a spectacular view of the surrounding islands unfolds before you. With its winding alleyways, arcades, and shops, Fira is an extremely picturesque village.

Mykonos

The island is equally popular and certainly the most cosmopolitan in the archipelago. It's known for its nightlife and the wealthy and famous people who frequent it. The coastline consists of sandy and pebble beaches.

The whitewashed, cube-shaped houses, huddled together, are literally suspended above the sea. Take some time to stroll through the small shops and visit the nautical museum, which houses historical navigation charts.

Among the fifty or so islands of the Cyclades, several others are very popular with tourists, notably Paros, Naxos, Syros, Andos, Delos, and Milos. People go there for the magnificent beaches, windmills, and breathtaking landscapes.

Rhodes

Definitely a must-see. Rhodes is the largest of the Dodecanese islands. It's a cosmopolitan seaside resort renowned for international tourism.

In the old town, you'll find the citadel in a medieval setting, which impresses and charms visitors with its numerous shops, terraces, and imposing 15th-century buildings. Don't miss the Acropolis of Lindos, an impressive site and one of the most remarkable in Greece, perched atop a steep cliff overlooking the village of Lindos. Also worth a visit is Lindos Castle, dedicated to the goddess Athena, a truly exquisite place with its seaside resort, luxury hotels, and inviting restaurants.

Patmos

Small and charming, Patmos is renowned for its religious character. It was on this serene island that the Apostle Saint John is said to have received revelations and written the Book of Revelation. A visit to the monastery perched atop the island and a stop at the Caves of Saint John are highly recommended. Don't waste your time looking for a taxi; they are practically nonexistent. The best way to explore is by scooter.

 Corfu

West of Athens, Corfu in the Ionian Sea is a must-see. The verdant and rugged island offers breathtaking views. Beaches are hidden in small coves while long sandy beaches encircle the island.

Ridges

The largest of all the Greek islands and the southernmost in the archipelago, Crete marks the border between Europe and Africa. A visit to Greece's most important archaeological museum is a must, showcasing the stages of Greek civilization up to the Roman period. The island boasts over 3,000 caves, pristine rocky coastlines, and vast beaches.

The best time to go there

Expect large crowds in July and August. Reservations are essential during this period. Temperatures in Athens can reach 45°C (113°F) during the summer. Prices are significantly higher during the summer season. Given its Mediterranean climate, spring and autumn are the ideal seasons. It's best to avoid visiting in winter, as many tourist facilities are undergoing renovations; the islands gradually lose some of their charm, and the sea breezes can be quite chilly.