Beach + City = Tour: Discover the Best of Both Worlds on These Greek Islands

Beautiful view of the island of Zakynthos, Greece

Rhodes: The Island of Knights

Overview: Rhodes, the largest of Greece's Dodecanese islands, has a rich tapestry of history that stretches back thousands of years. Known as the Island of Knights, Rhodes has been a pivotal player in Mediterranean history due to its strategic location. The island enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, with warm, sunny summers and mild winters, making it a year-round destination.

Mandraki port with deers statue, where The Colossus was standing and fort of St. Nicholas. Rhodes, Greece

Historical Highlights:

Ancient Era:

• Foundation and Early Inhabitants: Rhodes was inhabited since the Neolithic period, but its significant development began around 1500 BC with the arrival of the Minoans from Crete, followed by the Mycenaeans.
• Dorian Settlement: In the 11th century BC, Dorian Greeks settled on the island, establishing the cities of Kamiros, Ialyssos, and Lindos. These cities would later unite to form the town of Rhodes in 408 BC.

Historical streets of old town Rhodes with flowers in Rhodes, Dodecanese, Greece

• Hellenistic Period: Rhodes flourished during the Hellenistic period, becoming a significant maritime power and cultural center. The island's prosperity was epitomized by the construction of the Colossus of Rhodes, a giant statue of the sun god Helios, which was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Roman and Byzantine Periods:

• Roman Rule: Rhodes fell under Roman control in 164 BC but retained a degree of autonomy. It became an important center of learning and culture, famous for its schools of philosophy, rhetoric, and science.

Temple de Athena

• Byzantine Era: After the division of the Roman Empire, Rhodes became part of the Byzantine Empire. It remained a crucial maritime and commercial hub, though it faced numerous raids and occupations by various forces, including the Persians and Arabs.

The Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes in the medieval city of Rhodes, Greece

Medieval Period and the Knights Hospitaller:

• Knights of St. John: In 1309, the Knights Hospitaller, also known as the Knights of St. John, took control of Rhodes. They fortified the island, building the impressive Palace of the Grand Master and a network of defensive walls that still stand today.

Knight Templar In The Dark

• Ottoman Conquest: Despite fierce resistance, the island was conquered by the Ottoman Turks in 1522 after a lengthy siege. The Knights retreated to Malta, and Rhodes remained under Ottoman rule for nearly four centuries.

Massive medieval walls and towers guard the entrance to the Palace of the Grand Master on the island of Rhodes, Greece.

Modern Era:

• Italian Occupation: Rhodes was captured by Italy in 1912 during the Italo-Turkish War. The Italians restored many of the medieval buildings and left a significant architectural legacy.
• World War II and Aftermath: During World War II, German forces occupied Rhodes. After the war, the island was ceded to Greece in 1947 as part of the Treaty of Paris.

Knights Hospitaller on Rhodes

Cultural Heritage:

• Medieval City of Rhodes: A UNESCO World Heritage site, the medieval city of Rhodes is a well-preserved example of Gothic architecture. The Street of the Knights and the Palace of the Grand Master are significant highlights.

Coat of Arms of a Hospitaller Knight in Rhodes, Greece

• Ancient Kamiros is an archaeological site that showcases the ruins of one of the island's original Dorian cities, offering insights into ancient urban planning and daily life.
• Acropolis of Lindos: Perched on a hill overlooking the sea, the Acropolis of Lindos features ancient temples, Byzantine fortifications, and breathtaking views.

Lindos Acropolis and Beach, Rhodes

• Archaeological Museum of Rhodes: Housed in the Hospital of the Knights, this museum displays artifacts from various periods of Rhodes' history, including statues, vases, and mosaics.

Rhodes' unique blend of ancient, medieval, and modern influences makes it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts. Whether you're wandering through the cobblestone streets of the medieval city or exploring the ancient ruins scattered across the island, Rhodes offers a rich historical tapestry waiting to be discovered.

Ruins of Acropolis of Lindos View, Rhodes, Dodecanese Islands, Greece

Best Beach: Tsambika Beach Specifications: Tsambika Beach is famous for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters, making it perfect for families and sunbathers. It's also a popular spot for water sports enthusiasts. Tour Guide Services: Local guides on Rhodes offer tours of the medieval city, the ancient ruins of Kamiros, and the stunning Lindos Acropolis. Average tour costs range from €50 to €100 per person. Top Attraction: The Palace of the Grand Master in Rhodes Town is a must-visit. This medieval castle, with its impressive architecture and historical significance, transports visitors back to the time of the Knights of St. John.

Sandy Tsambika beach on Rhodes with monastery above it, Greece

Crete: The Cradle of Civilization

Overview: Crete, the largest Greek island, is known for its diverse landscapes, from pristine beaches to rugged mountains. The island has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from ancient Minoan civilization to Venetian rule. Cretans are known for their warm hospitality and delicious cuisine, featuring local olive oil, cheeses, and wines.

A paradisiacal view of the Beach and Sea in Balos lagoon, one of the most popular tourist destinations west of Crete, Greece

Historical Sights on Crete Island

Crete, the largest and most populous of the Greek islands, is a treasure trove of historical and archaeological sites. Its rich history spans thousands of years, from the ancient Minoan civilization to Venetian and Ottoman rule. Here's a detailed look at some of the most significant historical sights on Crete:

Knossos palace ruins at Crete island, Greece

1. Knossos Palace

Overview:

• Location: Near Heraklion, the island's capital.
• Historical Significance: The Palace of Knossos is the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on Crete and is considered Europe's oldest city. It was the political and ceremonial center of the Minoan civilization, which flourished from approximately 2000 to 1450 BC.

Knossos is the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on Crete and has been called Europe's oldest city. Settled as early as the Neolithic period, the name Knossos survives from ancient Greek references to the principal city of Crete.

• Highlights: The complex is renowned for its sophisticated architecture, including multi-story buildings, intricate frescoes, and advanced plumbing systems. Notable features include the Throne Room, the Grand Staircase, and the Queen's Megaron with its dolphin fresco.

Palace of Phaistos on Crete, Greece

2. Phaistos Palace

Overview:

• Location: South-central Crete, near the modern town of Faistos.
• Historical Significance: Phaistos was one of the most important centers of Minoan civilization, second only to Knossos. The palace was built around 1900 BC and was destroyed by an earthquake around 1450 BC.

The ancient ruins of Phaistos city, Crete, were found here. The famous Phaistos Disc, a disk of fired clay covered on both sides with a spiral of stamped hieroglyphic symbols, was found here.

• Highlights: The ruins include large courtyards, storage rooms, and living quarters. The site is also famous for the discovery of the Phaistos Disc, a mysterious clay disc inscribed with a unique script that has yet to be fully deciphered.

Greece, Crete Island, ancient amphora in Phaistos aka Festos, a bronze age archaeological site

3. Gortyna (Gortyn)

Overview:

• Location: South of Heraklion, near the village of Agioi Deka.
• Historical Significance: Gortyna was an important city in ancient Crete, flourishing during the Roman period. It became the capital of the Roman province of Creta et Cyrenaica.

Odeon in Gortyn, Gortys or Gortyna - an ancient city on Crete

• Highlights: The site includes the ruins of the Basilica of Saint Titus, a Roman Odeon, and the famous Gortyn Code, one of the oldest and most complete examples of a legal code in Europe, inscribed on stone blocks.

4. Heraklion Archaeological Museum

The Heraklion Historical Museum is located in Heraklion city on Crete island, Greece.

Overview:

• Location: Heraklion, the island's capital.
• Historical Significance: This museum houses one of the most important collections of Minoan artifacts in the world, providing a comprehensive overview of the island's ancient history.

Old Town Hall or Venetian Loggia in Heraklion city center on Crete island in Greece

• Highlights: Key exhibits include the Snake Goddess figurines, the Bull-Leaping Fresco, and the Phaistos Disc. The museum's extensive collection covers Neolithic to Roman times, with a particular emphasis on Minoan art and culture.

5. Spinalonga Island

Spinalonga (Crete) is an island where isolated lepers and humans with Hansen's disease lived. This is where the story of Victoria's Hislop novel The Island took place.

Overview:

• Location: Off the northeastern coast of Crete, near Elounda.
• Historical Significance: Spinalonga has a long and varied history, including its use as a Venetian fortress, an Ottoman settlement, and a leper colony in the early 20th century.

Spinalonga, Crete

• Highlights: Visitors can explore the well-preserved Venetian fortifications, the remains of the leper colony, and the picturesque village that once housed the island's inhabitants.

6. Rethymnon Old Town

Rethymnon Lighthouse in Rethymnon Town in Crete, Greece

Overview:

• Location: Rethymnon, a city on the northern coast of Crete.
• Historical Significance: Rethymnon's old town is a charming blend of Venetian, Ottoman, and Greek architecture, reflecting its diverse historical influences.

Rethymnon, situated on Crete's northeast coast, is rich in ancient history

• Highlights: Key sights include the Fortezza, a massive Venetian fortress, the Neratze Mosque (originally a Venetian church), and the Rimondi Fountain, a Venetian-era marble fountain in the town center.

7. Arkadi Monastery

Moni Arkadiou is a 16th-century monastery near Rethymno in Crete, Greece. An arch frames the facade of its Venetian baroque church, which has a triple bell tower.

Overview:

• Location: Southeast of Rethymnon, in central Crete.
• Historical Significance: This historic monastery played a significant role in the Cretan resistance against Ottoman rule. During the Cretan Revolt of 1866, hundreds of resistance fighters and civilians chose to blow up the gunpowder store rather than surrender to the Ottomans, symbolizing Cretan freedom.

Arkadi monastery

• Highlights: The monastery complex includes a church, monks' quarters, and a museum. The architecture is a mix of Venetian and Cretan styles, and the site offers a poignant look at Crete's struggle for independence.

8. Lato

The ruins at the archeological site of the Ancient City of Lato in Krista Crete, Greece

Overview:

• Location: Near the town of Kritsa, east of Heraklion.
• Historical Significance: Lato was one of the most powerful city-states in ancient Crete, flourishing during the Classical and Hellenistic periods.

The ruins at the archeological site of the Ancient City of Lato on Crete, Greece

• Highlights: The site includes the remains of fortifications, a council house (prytaneion), a temple, and a theater. The city was strategically located on a hill, offering spectacular views of the surrounding area.

9. Malia Palace

Phitos in minoan Palace of Malia - Crete

Overview:

• Location: Near the town of Malia, on the northern coast of Crete.
• Historical Significance: Malia is another significant Minoan palace complex, dating back to around 1900 BC. It is smaller than Knossos but provides valuable insights into Minoan architecture and society.

Aerial view of the ruins of the Minoan palace in Malia, Crete, Greece

• Highlights: The site features a large central courtyard, storage areas, and workshops. Artifacts found here include the famous gold bee pendant, now housed in the Heraklion Archaeological Museum.

10.  Aptera

Aptera on Crete Cistern

Overview:

• Location: Near the city of Chania, on the western side of Crete.
• Historical Significance: Aptera was a powerful city-state from the Minoan through the Roman periods. It declined after a major earthquake in the 7th century AD.

A stone structure in the ruins of the ancient city of Aptera on the Greek island of Crete

• Highlights: The archaeological site includes a well-preserved Roman cistern, a theater, and various public buildings. The location offers stunning views of Souda Bay and the White Mountains.

Crete's historical sights offer a fascinating journey through time, from the dawn of European civilization in the Minoan era to the struggles and triumphs of its more recent past. Whether you're exploring ancient palaces or Venetian fortresses, Crete's rich heritage provides a captivating backdrop to any visit.

Minoan floral theme mural painting fresco

Best Beach: Elafonissi Beach Specifications: Elafonissi Beach is renowned for its pink sand and shallow turquoise waters, which are ideal for families and nature lovers. It's also a protected area due to its unique ecosystem. Tour Guide Services: On Crete, guides offer tours of the ancient Palace of Knossos, the Samaria Gorge, and the charming old town of Chania. Tour prices range from €60 to €120 per person. Top Attraction: The Palace of Knossos is an archaeological wonder. This ancient Minoan palace, believed to be the labyrinth of King Minos, offers a glimpse into one of Europe's oldest civilizations.

Red Sand at Elafonisi Beach

Corfu: The Emerald Isle

Corfu, located in the Ionian Sea, is a Greek island with a rich and diverse history that spans thousands of years. Its strategic position made it a desirable location for many civilizations, resulting in a tapestry of historical and cultural landmarks. Here's an in-depth look at some of the most significant historical sights on Corfu Island:

Summer view over the lonian Sea, Paleokastritsa resort, Corfu Island, Greece, Europe

1. Old Fortress (Palaio Frourio)

• Overview:
  • Location: Corfu Town (Kerkyra).
  • Historical Significance: The Old Fortress is a Venetian fortress built on the site of a Byzantine castle. It was constructed in the 15th century to protect Corfu from Ottoman invasions.

Aerial View of the Bay of Paleokastritsa in Corfu

Highlights: The fortress features impressive fortifications, a moat, and stunning views of Corfu Town and the sea. Key sites within the fortress include the Church of St. George, built by the British in the style of a Doric temple, and the lighthouse at the summit.

2. New Fortress (Neo Frourio)

• Overview:
  • Location: Corfu Town.

New Fortress at Night, Kerkyra, Corfu Island, Greece

• Historical Significance: The New Fortress was built by the Venetians between 1576 and 1588 to bolster the island's defenses against the Ottomans. It complements the Old Fortress, forming a formidable defensive system.
• Highlights: The fortress is a maze of tunnels, bastions, and underground passages. Visitors can explore the ramparts and enjoy panoramic views of Corfu Town and the harbor.

Old Fortress in Kerkyra, Corfu

3. Achilleion Palace

• Overview:
  • Location: Gastouri, about 10 km south of Corfu Town.
  • Historical Significance: Achilleion Palace was built in 1890 by Empress Elisabeth of Austria (Sisi) as a summer retreat. The palace is dedicated to the Greek hero Achilles, reflecting Sisi's fascination with Greek mythology.

Achilleion Palace at Corfu

• Highlights: The palace features neoclassical architecture, beautifully landscaped gardens, and numerous statues of Achilles and other mythological figures. The interior is lavishly decorated, showcasing the empress's tastes and interests.

4. Mon Repos Palace

Mon Repos Park, Corfu Town, Greece

• Overview:
  • Location: Kanoni, near Corfu Town.
  • Historical Significance: Mon Repos Palace was built in 1828 by the British High Commissioner Sir Frederick Adam. It later served as the summer residence of the Greek royal family and was the birthplace of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.

Sunset scene of Vlacherna monastery, Kanoni, Corfu, Greece

• Highlights: The palace is set in a beautiful park and houses a museum with exhibits on the history of Corfu. The grounds include archaeological remains of ancient temples dedicated to Hera and Apollo.

5. Angelokastro

Ruins of Angelokastro fortress - Corfu Island, Greece

• Overview:
  • Location: Near the village of Krini, on the northwest coast of Corfu.
  • Historical Significance: Angelokastro is a Byzantine castle built on a steep hilltop, offering strategic views over the Ionian Sea. It played a crucial role in defending Corfu from invaders.

The Ionian Sea and Corfu Island, Greece

• Highlights: The castle ruins include a chapel, a cistern, and fortifications. The site offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the sea, making the challenging hike to the top well worth the effort.

6.  Palaiopolis

The islands near Corfu

• Overview:
  • Location: Near Mon Repos, Kanoni.
  • Historical Significance: Palaiopolis is the site of the ancient city of Corcyra, one of the earliest Greek colonies, founded in the 8th century BC.

Seaside of Corfu

• Highlights: Key archaeological remains include the Temple of Artemis, the ruins of the Doric Temple, and the Kardaki Temple. The area also features Roman baths and early Christian basilicas.

7. Liston Promenade

Liston, main promenade, at night, Corfu city, Greece

• Overview:
  • Location: Corfu Town.
  • Historical Significance: The Liston Promenade was built during the French occupation of Corfu (1807-1814). The Rue de Rivoli inspired its design in Paris.

Aerial panoramic drone view of Old Venetian Fortress of Corfu, Palaio Frourio, Kerkyra old town, Greece, Ionian sea islands, with the lighthouse, church and scenery beyond the city on a summer sunny day

• Highlights: Liston's elegant arcades house cafes and restaurants, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. It's a perfect place to relax and soak up the atmosphere of Corfu Town.

8. Church of Saint Spyridon

Bell tower of the Saint Spyridon Church in Corfu-City (Greece)

• Overview:
  • Location: Corfu Town.
  • Historical Significance: This church is dedicated to Saint Spyridon, the patron saint of Corfu. It was built in 1589 and houses the saints' relics, which are believed to have miraculous powers.

Courtyard in Corfu, Greece

• Highlights: The church features a distinctive red-domed bell tower, the tallest in Corfu Town. Inside, the ornate interior includes frescoes, icons, and the silver sarcophagus of Saint Spyridon.

9. Museum of Asian Art

Statue of Sir Frederick Adam in front of the Palace of Corfu City on the island of Corfu, Greece

• Overview:
  • Location: Palace of St. Michael and St. George, Corfu Town.
  • Historical Significance: The Museum of Asian Art is housed in a neoclassical palace built by the British in 1819. It is the only museum in Greece dedicated exclusively to Asian art.

Sculptured figure. Achilion Palace, Benitses - Corfu, Greece

• Highlights: The museum's collection spans 11,000 items, including Chinese, Japanese, and Indian artworks. The palace itself is an architectural gem, with grand halls and ornate decorations.

10. Kassiopi Castle

Kassiopi Port after sunset

• Overview:
  • Location: Kassiopi, on the northeast coast of Corfu.
  • Historical Significance: Kassiopi Castle is a Byzantine fortress built in the 6th century to protect the island from pirate raids and invasions. The Venetians later fortified it.

Turquoise-colored sea with beautiful sandy beach in Kassiopi on Corfu island

• Highlights: The castle ruins include walls, towers, and gates, and they offer stunning views of the Albanian coast. The nearby village of Kassiopi is charming and provides a glimpse into traditional island life.

Corfu's historical sights offer a fascinating journey through time, from ancient Greek temples to medieval fortresses and neoclassical palaces. The island's rich cultural heritage, combined with its natural beauty, makes it a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.

View from a small Beach in Kassiopi, Greece.

Best Beach: Paleokastritsa Beach Specifications: Paleokastritsa Beach is famous for its clear blue waters and picturesque surroundings, making it a favorite for snorkeling and diving. Tour Guide Services: Guides in Corfu provide tours of the UNESCO-listed old town, the Achilleion Palace, and the stunning monasteries. Tours usually cost between €50 and €110 per person. Top Attraction: The Achilleion Palace, built by Empress Elisabeth of Austria, is a testament to neoclassical architecture and offers stunning views and rich history.

Corfu, Paleokastritsa beach

Delos: The Sacred Island

Overview: Delos is a small, uninhabited island with immense historical and archaeological significance. Once a significant religious center, it is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. The island has a dry climate, with hot summers and mild winters.

Ionian column capital, architectural detail on Delos island

Delos is one of the most significant archaeological sites in Greece, known for its rich mythological, historical, and cultural heritage. This small island, located in the center of the Cyclades archipelago, holds a central place in ancient Greek history and mythology.

Mythological Significance

Agios Stefanos is a small tourist resort on the northeast coast of the island of Corfu.

Birthplace of Apollo and Artemis:

According to Greek mythology, Delos is the birthplace of the twin gods Apollo and Artemis. Leto, the mother of Apollo and Artemis, sought refuge in Delos to give birth to her children, as it was the only place that would allow her sanctuary from the wrath of Hera, Zeus's wife. Apollo, the god of light, music, and prophecy, and Artemis, the goddess of the hunt and wilderness, were said to have been born under a palm tree on the island.

Greek stamp shows the gods Poseidon, Apollo and Artemis, Parthenon (2006)

Historical Highlights

Early Inhabitants:

Archaeological evidence suggests that Delos was inhabited as early as the 3rd millennium BC. By the early Iron Age (around 1000 BC), the island became an important religious center dedicated to the worship of Apollo.

Greek statue of the Ancient God Apollo

Archaic and Classical Periods:

During the Archaic period (8th–5th centuries BC), Delos developed into a significant religious and commercial hub. The island was home to the Delian League, an alliance of Greek city-states led by Athens, which used Delos as its treasury.

Nineteenth-century neoclassical statues of Socrates (Greek ancient philosopher) and Apollo (god of the sun, medicine and the arts) in front of the Academy of Athens, Greece

The island's sanctuary attracted pilgrims from across the Greek world, and the Delia festival, held every four years, featured athletic contests, musical competitions, and sacrifices to Apollo.

Hellenistic Period:

In the Hellenistic period (323–31 BC), Delos reached its zenith as a commercial and religious center. The island's strategic location in the Aegean Sea made it a thriving marketplace and a major slave-trading center.

Marble ionic column at the ruins of a Greek temple in Delos, Greece

During this time, many of the island's grand structures were built, including temples, statues, and public buildings. Wealthy merchants and patrons from across the Mediterranean erected elaborate houses and dedicated offerings to the gods.

Mosaic in Archeological Museum on Delos Island, Greece

Roman Period:

Under Roman rule, Delos continued to flourish as a commercial hub. The Romans recognized the island's significance and allowed it to retain its religious importance.

However, the island's prosperity declined after it was attacked and sacked by pirates in 88 BC and again in 69 BC. These attacks, along with shifting trade routes, led to Delos' gradual abandonment.

Marble plate that was taken from the house where Cleopatra lived, Archaeological Museum of Delos

Key Archaeological Sites

• Sanctuary of Apollo:
  • The heart of Delos is the Sanctuary of Apollo, which includes several temples dedicated to the god. The most important is the Temple of the Delians, a sizeable Doric temple that housed the cult statue of Apollo.
  • The sanctuary also includes the Altar of Horns, the oldest known altar on the island, made from the horns of sacrificial animals.

Sculptures of Cleopatra and Dioscourides were at the entrance of the House of Cleopatra on the island of Delos in Greece. Dioscourides's Height is 165 cm, and Cleopatra's Height is 185 cm. They were discovered in 1907. Cleopatra with a himation (mantle), which is visible below the folding of her chiton

• Terrace of the Lions:
  • One of Delos's most iconic features, the Terrace of the Lions, dates back to the 7th century BC. It originally featured at least nine marble lions dedicated by the people of Naxos to Apollo, of which several remain. The lions are positioned to guard the sacred lake, the mythical birthplace of Apollo and Artemis.

Discover the beauty of Tiny Delos Island, an open-air archaeological museum nestled within the stunning Ionian Sea.

• Sacred Lake:
  • The Sacred Lake, now dry, was a vital feature of the island's landscape and mythology. According to legend, it is here that Leto gave birth to Apollo and Artemis. A palm tree nearby marked the spot of the divine birth.

The Stoibadeion, with 2 phallic monuments, is a temple to Dionysus located on the Greek island of Delos.

• House of Dionysus:
  • This opulent private house from the Hellenistic period is famous for its stunning mosaic floors. The most notable mosaic depicts Dionysus riding a panther, showcasing the island's wealth and artistic achievements.

The ruins of the Dionysus House at the archaeological site in Delos, Greece

• Agora of the Italians:
  • The Agora of the Italians was a large marketplace built by Italian merchants in the 2nd century BC. It served as a hub for trade and commerce and included a complex of shops and warehouses.

The Terrace of the Lions, Delos, Cyclades, Greece

• Stoa of Antigonus:
  • The Stoa of Antigonus was a long portico built in the 3rd century BC by Antigonus II Gonatas, the king of Macedonia. It provided shelter for pilgrims and merchants visiting the sanctuary.

The remains of the Dionysus Temple at the archaeological site in Delos, Greece

• Theatre Quarter:
  • This residential area features the remains of luxurious homes, public baths, and the impressive Theatre of Delos, which could seat up to 5,500 spectators and host dramatic performances and other public events.

Ancient paved road on the Delos Island in Greece

• Temple of Isis:
  • The Temple of Isis, built on the slopes of Mount Cynthus during the Hellenistic period, reflects the influence of Egyptian religion on Delos. Isis was a widely worshipped goddess in the Hellenistic world.

The floor mosaic in the Dionysus Temple at the archaeological site in Delos, Greece

Delos, despite its small size, played a monumental role in ancient Greek history as a religious, cultural, and commercial center. The island's extensive ruins offer a glimpse into its glorious past and the diverse influences that shaped its development. Today, Delos stands as a testament to the island's enduring legacy and its importance in the ancient world.

The House of Cleopatra on Delos Island in Greece

Best Beach: Agios Stefanos Beach Specifications: Agios Stefanos Beach is a serene spot known for its tranquility and crystal-clear waters, perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat. Tour Guide Services: Tours on Delos focus on its extensive ruins, including the Terrace of the Lions, the House of Dionysus, and the Sacred Lake. The average tour costs around €70 per person. Top Attraction: The Terrace of the Lions, with its iconic marble lion statues, is one of Delos' most famous sights, offering a glimpse into the island's ancient past.

Agios Stefanos Beach

Despotiko: The Hidden Gem

Overview: Despotiko is a small, uninhabited island near Antiparos, known for its pristine beaches and archaeological sites. The island has a typical Cycladic climate, with hot, dry summers and mild winters.

The Temple of Apollo in Despotiko island

Best Beach: Livadi Beach Specifications: Livadi Beach is known for its clear waters and serene environment, making it ideal for a quiet getaway. It's also an excellent spot for snorkeling. Tour Guide Services: Guides offer excursions to the archaeological site of Mandra, where ongoing excavations reveal the island's ancient past. Tour prices range from €60 to €100 per person. Top Attraction: The Sanctuary of Apollo on Despotiko is a significant archaeological site offering insights into the island's religious history and ancient civilizations.

The first excavations in Despotiko took place in the 19th century

Greek Island Escapades: Sun, Sand, and History

Greek islands offer a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure with their beautiful beaches and rich historical sites. Whether you're lounging on the sandy shores of Elafonissi or exploring the ancient ruins of Delos, there's something for everyone. With the help of expert local tour guides from PRIVATE GUIDE WORLD, you can enhance your experience by discovering hidden gems and learning about the islands' fascinating histories. Book your next adventure today and dive into the best of both worlds on these captivating Greek islands!

Pink sand with the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea, seen at Elafonissi Beach, Crete, Greece

 

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