Greek Islands: Choosing a Holiday Destination

Feta cheese and olives are great, of course. But there's also another Greece that Russians can still visit for a holiday and explore the history of a country famous for its views and myths.

Combining pleasure with benefit in Greece, you'll have time to relax on the beach and learn something new about human existence if you go exploring Mykonos, Crete, Rhodes, and other islands. Shall we go?

Crete

Zeus specifically revealed the island of Crete to the world so that you in the 21st century could go there to relax. Besides its rich history and mythology, the island is known among tourists as a popular spot for beach holidays. And no wonder: the turquoise waters of the Cretan, Ionian, and Libyan Seas have surely appeared in beautiful vacation photos from friends at least once.

Let's smoothly move on to the topic of holidays. A large 'influx' of tourists usually occurs in summer, when the thermometer in some areas of the island can rise to +40 degrees Celsius. So, if you do decide to go to Greece during peak season, be sure to swap the scenery of Elafonisi or Falasarna beaches for the shade of these tourist locations on the island:

• Archaeological Museum of Crete. One ticket to Heraklion — and here you are, in one of the most famous island museums. Hardly anyone, even slightly enchanted by myths, would refuse to see artifacts spanning 3000 years of human history. The most famous object in the museum is the Phaistos Disc. The writings on it were applied as early as 1700 BC, but to this day they have not been deciphered.
• Koules Fortress. Unfortunately, the original walls of Koules Fortress, built in the 9th-10th centuries, have not survived. But the version restored in the 16th century is also a cool location to visit in Crete. It's a two-story fort that was used as a prison, a defensive location, and even a warehouse for storing cannons and cannonballs. Nowadays, besides its historical value, tourists love Koules for the picturesque panorama of Heraklion that opens up to those who enter. We immediately recommend having 4 € ready — admission is paid.
• Venetian Harbor. A paradise for strollers. The Venetian Harbor, essentially a promenade in Chania, features cafes and cozy shops. But that's now. In the 14th century, this location was one of the main ports for Venice, which owned Crete since 1204. In short, if you want to enjoy the smell of freshly brewed coffee in an atmosphere of ancient eras, be sure to visit.

Rhodes

Rhodes is an island between the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas, whose cultural heritage has even earned it an honorable place on the UNESCO World Heritage list. The island experiences an average of about 300 sunny days a year, which favorably affects the tourist flow — tourists buy tickets to Rhodes not only for summer but also for winter holidays.

You can come here for the beaches: Faliraki, Tsambika, Stegna will always be open for tourists to visit, but don't overlook other great locations on Rhodes.

• Valley of the Butterflies. A stroll through the reserve in the shade of fragrant styrax trees after sunbathing by the Mediterranean Sea is at least beneficial for your health. It is the scent of tree resin that attracts tiger moths to this park. Even if you are indifferent to lepidopterans, it's best not to touch them — they are a rather rare species. Therefore, it's best to come here simply for contemplation and relaxation in nature.
• Lindos, historical center of Rhodes. Travelers come to this small settlement to enjoy leisurely strolls through its narrow streets and visit the Acropolis, its fortress, and the Temple of Athena Lindia. By the way, for a walk around the Acropolis, we recommend dedicating a separate day to explore the entire area and take great photos.
• Monolithos Castle. Although only ruins remain of the original Monolithos Castle, people strive to visit it not even for its architecture. The views of the Aegean Sea that open up from the hill amaze the imagination of visitors to this place. Descending to the foot, you can cool off and swim in the turquoise waters. But people also come here to visit the white-stone chapel of Saint Panteleimon from the 15th century. We believe that you definitely need to visit here at least once.

Kos

Kos is considered one of the 'wildest' islands in Greece. Lush vegetation blooms everywhere, windsurfers conquer waves in the north of the island, and those wishing to improve their health come to the thermal springs in Bros Therma.

Of course, the best time for a holiday is still summer, when you can buy tickets to Kos, and upon arrival, rent a bicycle, ride through local villages, and swim in the waters of the Aegean Sea. But we also recommend visiting these locations on Kos:

• Castle of the Knights of St. John. Travelers gladly explore the ruins of this castle, immersing themselves in the world of grandeur and glory of the knightly era. Lavish halls and walls, steeped in history, transport guests to the past, where chivalric romances and mystical legends resonate. Every corner of the castle holds secrets of bygone times, making visitors imbued with the spirit of old days and learn about the life of the Knights of St. John.
• Kefalos. Delving into the depths of Kefalos, you can explore the 'concentrated' local flavor, find solitude, and enjoy picturesque landscapes. The refined combination of history and nature makes this corner ideal for those who seek to explore the past and harmonize with the surrounding world.
• Asklepion — this is an ancient site associated with the cult of Asclepius, the god of medicine. An ancient temple was located here, where people came for healing and treatment. Asklepion is considered the birthplace of Hippocratic medicine, and here you can see the ruins of temples, columns, and ancient stelae, adorned with images of snakes and worship of the god of medicine. But the aesthetics of the place will appeal not only to those who have taken the Hippocratic Oath but also to ordinary guests of Kos.

Santorini, or Thira

Santorini, or Thira, is a volcanic island that also belongs to Greece. A wave of tourism has swept over it thanks to the picturesque romantic sunsets, so cherished by couples in love. They buy tickets to Santorini to propose to their loved ones with a magnificent view of the Aegean Sea.

Even if you plan to come here alone or with friends, there's definitely something to see:

• Fira. The main town of the island, equally distant from the northern and southern edges of the islands. It is loved for leisurely strolls through narrow streets, traditional architecture in white and blue hues, and Kamari beach, covered with black volcanic sand. A special note for those over 18 — Fira has great wineries!
• Oia. Oia is considered one of the most beautiful towns on the island. It's easy to agree with this judgment: its architecture features small white houses with rounded roofs, and cafes with the best local cuisine nestle between the narrow streets. Be sure to visit any viewpoint here — the panoramic view will seem incredible.
• Akrotiri. The Minoan civilization left its memory in the form of the frescoes of Akrotiri, an ancient city that was buried under volcanic ash for about 3000 years. Over time, archaeologists decided to do an excellent job here, and today you can come to Santorini to see the legacy of a great culture.

Corfu, or Kerkyra

Corfu is a location belonging to the Ionian Islands group. For a holiday here, you'll certainly have to splurge — a vacation here is considered one of the most expensive among the Greek islands.

And it's no wonder: the island is known for its rich history and a less dry climate than other islands in the archipelago. Since you've bought tickets to Kerkyra and found yourself on Corfu, here's a list of must-see locations on this island:

• Paleokastritsa. When coming to Paleokastritsa, be prepared for long walks. You'll need to explore six picturesque bays and fill your smartphone's memory with photos against the backdrop of hills covered with pine and olive trees. All in all, you should come here for a peaceful nature retreat.
• Old Fortress of Corfu. The island's legacy, inherited by the Greeks from the Venetian era of rule. The fortress was built on an artificial island; you can enter it via a bridge. On its territory, there is a small museum, a cafe, and a branch of the Ionian Academy's music department.
• Canal d'Amour. This is an amazing heart-shaped bay surrounded by picturesque cliffs. Caves, narrow channels, and grottoes, formed as a result of natural erosion, have given the place a unique selling proposition — people come here to declare their love once again and propose marriage. So, couples in love, take note!

Zakynthos

Hooray, you've bought tickets to Zakynthos and found yourself on the southernmost island of the Ionian Islands! This is one of the favorite places for yachtsmen, sailing through azure waters and breathing in fresh air to the fullest. Zakynthos resembles a spa resort paradise for those who would like to stroll along blooming rosemary trees, vineyards, and artesian springs.

Here are a few locations you definitely need to check out if you find yourself on the island:

• Navagio Bay. In any Zakynthos brochure, you will definitely see the beach located in Navagio Bay. White sand, canonically azure water, framed by two majestic cliffs. You can only get here by boat, which can be rented at Agios Nikolaos harbor. Be prepared for a large number of visitors wanting to see the bay in summer.
• Blue Caves. Travelers often gather in the area of Cape Skinari: they come here to see the Blue Grotto, in whose waters you can even see pebbles from the bottom. For an additional fee of 10 €, tourists can be taken by boat to the grotto to get a closer look at this natural splendor.
• Church of Saint Nicholas. Even if you have a tangential relationship with religion, you'll hardly be able to pass by the only building constructed during the Venetian rule that survived earthquakes. It is believed that Saint Dionysius, an important patron for Zakynthos, served here for some time. Right next to the church is the cultural center of Zakynthos, where people come to see local art, photo exhibitions, frescoes, and sculptures.

All in all, we wish you a great trip across the islands!