Greece Travel Tips and Guide

The Greek Islands consist of more than 6000 islets and islands belonging to Greece out of which only 227 have been inhabited. The most populous and largest Greek island is Crete and the second largest one is the Euboea. The islands have been traditionally grouped in the following the following clusters: Cyclades, Argo-Saronic islands, North-Aegean islands, Dodecanese, Sporades and Ionian islands.

In accordance to the tourist attractions, things to do and facilities available the top 10 Greek islands are Santorini, Crete, Corfu, Rhodes, Mykonos, Paros, Skiathos, Los, Naxos and Sifnos. Greece has a lot to offer to all those who travel to its shores. Many holiday makers come to the Greek Islands and stay in holiday rentals. There are many holiday villas and self catering holiday apartments that can be rented as holiday homes. Self catering holiday accommodation is a great and cheap way to experience the Greek Islands to the full. By renting holiday homes in Greece you are able to use them as a base to explore the local culture.

There are several ruins and museums in almost all cities of Greece and the Greek islands are incredible with their golden beaches and deep blue waters. The first thing you can do on the Greek islands is to step on a dream cruise which will take you from the Aegean Sea to the distant shores out of which the above mentioned islands are the most favorites. The second best thing to do that most travelers look forward to is shopping in the Greek islands. There are many booth and sidewalk stores that are laden with items that you can buy and present them to your family members back home.

Almost all types of goods are included in these shops including clothing, pottery, post cards, jewelry and local soaps. Although the variety of goods is huge, they are available at such a low cost that you will find it hard not to buy something. The third attraction for which a large number of people visit the Greek islands is its cuisines. Gyros is one of the most favorite Greek cuisines which consists of a slice of meat from a huge roast which can be chicken, lamb or beef.

There are several restaurants that serve this popular dish and also several take out stands which serve this dish in pita bread as sandwich. Calamari is also one of the Greek seafood specialties which is found in the menus of almost every restaurant. It is a fresh squid deep fried and cut into rings. Whether you are looking for an unspoilt deserted beach or an action-packed resort lined with several lively bars and tavernas, then you can explore the Greek islands here and enjoy whatever you are looking for on its beaches. Some of the beaches are even awarded for their excellence and cleanliness.

The fourth thing you should not forget to do on the Greek islands is to relax on their beaches and have a luxurious walk on their stunning coastlines. With this, you will be able to explore the past meadows and rural villages of the Greek islands that are full of spring flowers for the delight of the visitors. The fifth thing to do on Greek islands include its sports activities including banana boating, jet ski riding, wind surfing, fishing, water skiing, kayaking, surfing and parasailing. Other than water activities, you can also enjoy mountain biking, tennis, golf and horse riding on the Greek islands.

Greece is an easy place to visit and enjoy, as no immunizations are needed and credit cards work great. There are ample ATM machines with instructions in English. Almost everyone in Greece speaks at least some English. The recommendation is to pack lightly as shopping is part of the fun in Greece with extensive variety and styles available. If you are from a small list of countries, you will need a VISA. This list can be found at the Greek consulate or embassy. In planning your trip, it is good to work with a knowledgeable Greek at a travel agency.

If you plan to see the Greek islands, ferry boats are the best way to do this. They are inexpensive, relaxing scenic. If you plan to go to some of the farther islands, the ferries usually leave in the evening. You will want to book a cabin ahead of time as it is nice to go to sleep in your cabin and wake up in the morning on your Island of destination. During the week of Easter, around August 15th and Fridays in July and August, these ferries are quite full. It is best to plan you trips in advance to be sure to get a space.

Also plan to stay in Athens a couple days before your flight leaves as the ferries can sometimes have mechanical problems and you could miss your flight if you were relying on the ferry to get you there directly at flight time. There is not always direct access between every island. Sometimes a trip to another island may require a trip to the mainland first. Two, Three, Four and Five island combination packages are available. Each Greek Island offers unique enjoyments and beauty. Here is a summary of the main islands and their appeal.

Sifnos - This is Great island for children as the beach at Karmari is shallow. There are many cafes and restaurants near. Located here is one the the most beautiful beach towns in Greece, Platyialos.

Lesvos - A country in itself, it is the third largest island and contains mountains, two inland seas, pine forests, and olive groves. The seas provide a wide variety of marine and wildlife. It is a great place for birdwatching. It also contains medieval castles, ancient ruins and a Turkish bazaar-like city market.

Santorini - This is the number one destination in Greece. It has a giant volcanic caldera whose drama rivals that of the Grand Canyon and is known for its beautiful romantic sunsets. It is great for honeymooners.

Ios - This island is great for people under 25. It is known as a perpetual party place for the young.

Mykonos - Visited by almost every famous person, it has many white cube houses and amazing beaches. The famous clothing-optional Paradise Beach is there.

Rhodes - The southern part of this island is a mecca for windsurfers. Rhodes also contains the walled fortress of the castle of the knights of Saint John and has great beaches, nightlife and some of the most beautiful scenery in Greece.

Paros - This island is famous for watersports and is the windsurfing capital of the Greek Islands.

Mainland Greece is best explored by taxi or a share limos which can be less costly then large tours.

Some great places to see on the mainland are the region of Peloponessos which is known as the true Greece. It is known for its great beaches, seas, mountains, and rich archeological sights. It has interesting towns such as Githeon and the Byzantine city of Mystras overlooking Sparta. Other attractions are the Diros Caves and the volcano at Saritorini. The Mount Pelion Peninsula is known as the Colorado Rockies of the Aegean.

Athens is a place you must see if visiting Greece. Transportation is easy with access to buses, taxis and ferries. The metro station will get you to the island ferries. You might want to stay in the number of towns bordering the Acropolis. The Monastiriki Flea Market, Atticka Zoological Park and Museums such as the Benaki Museum and National museums are places to see.. The downtown area is a shoppers paradise with access to inexpensive gold jewelry. Greece offers a world of entertainment in itself. About everything you would want to see or do on a vacation can be found there.