10 Night Greek Isles,
Croatia & Italy

Piraeus

Athens exudes a unique charm through its mix of street markets,
vine-covered tavernas, souvenir stalls, ancient monuments and
high-rise buildings. For tourists, a plus is that most of the
capital's attractions are accessible by foot.

Athens was named after Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom.
According to mythology, she won the city after duelling against
Poseidon, god of the sea. Indeed, Athens can chart its history back
thousands of years and is regarded as the cradle of Western
civilisation. More specifically, it's democracy's birthplace, and
where philosophy, art and architecture were refined.

The city declined after the Classical Age, dwindling to nothing
but a town in the colourful area now known as the Plaka. It emerged
as independent Greece's capital in 1834.

Today, the city is bustling. And though the pollution, frantic
gridlock and dingy buildings are a striking contrast to the open
beauty of Greece's coast and islands, Athens is truly the country's
beating heart. Ancient wonders like the Acropolis, the Parthenon,
and the Temples of Zeus and Hephaestus ensure that the city will
always lure travellers.

Katakolon

Located on the western coast of the Peloponnese Peninsula in Greece, Katakolon is a charming and picturesque port town that attracts numerous visitors from around the world. Known primarily as the gateway to the ancient ruins of Olympia, Katakolon offers much more than just its historical significance. Boasting a laid-back atmosphere, stunning natural beauty, and a range of recreational activities, this small town has something to offer for every type of traveler.

One of the main highlights of Katakolon is its proximity to Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games. Just a short drive away, visitors can explore the archaeological site of Olympia, which includes the Temple of Zeus, the Temple of Hera, and the ancient stadium where the original Olympic Games were held. Walking through the historical ruins is like stepping back in time, and it is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and lovers of ancient Greek culture.

Beyond the historical attractions, Katakolon itself offers a picturesque waterfront adorned with colorful buildings and charming seaside cafes. Strolling along the promenade, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the crystal-clear waters and might even catch a glimpse of docking cruise ships. The town square, known as Plateia, is a perfect spot to relax and soak up the local atmosphere, while enjoying a cup of coffee or a delicious meal at one of the traditional tavernas.

Nature lovers will be delighted by the natural beauty surrounding Katakolon. The town is nestled amidst olive groves and vineyards, offering a serene and peaceful setting. Tourists can embark on scenic hikes through the countryside, exploring the rolling hills and taking in the fragrant aroma of wildflowers and Mediterranean herbs. Numerous trails are available, catering to all levels of fitness and providing opportunities to discover hidden gems of nature.

For those seeking a unique experience, Katakolon offers wine tasting tours at local vineyards, where visitors can sample traditional Greek wines and learn about the winemaking process. The region is renowned for producing high-quality wines due to its favorable climate and fertile soil, making it a paradise for wine enthusiasts.

If relaxation is what you seek, take a short trip to the nearby sandy beaches, where you can bask in the sun, swim in the crystal-clear waters, or enjoy water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding. The beaches in Katakolon are not as crowded as some of the more popular tourist destinations in Greece, providing a peaceful and tranquil environment.

Katakolon also offers a variety of shopping opportunities, with numerous souvenir shops and local artisans selling traditional Greek handicrafts. Visitors can browse for unique items such as olive oil products, handcrafted jewelry, ceramics, and local artworks to take home as mementos of their visit.

In terms of cuisine, Katakolon boasts a wide range of tavernas and restaurants serving traditional Greek dishes. Fresh seafood is a highlight, with a variety of fish, calamari, and prawns on offer. Local delicacies such as moussaka, souvlaki, and spanakopita are also widely available, ensuring a culinary feast for food lovers.

Overall, Katakolon provides a delightful blend of history, natural beauty, and authentic Greek culture. Whether you are a history buff, an outdoor adventurer, or someone seeking relaxation, this charming port town has something to offer for everyone. With its warmth and beauty, Katakolon is sure to leave a lasting impression on every traveler.

Corfu

The island of Corfu, best known of the seven Ionian islands that
lie off the northwest coast of Greece, differs markedly from the
other popular Greek islands because not only is it green and lush,
but also very developed with tourist resorts and hotels. Summertime
is busy, with charter flights arriving daily from European cities,
ferries disgorging travellers from Italy, and cruise ships
docking.

There is plenty to draw visitors to this magical island, also
known as Kerkyra. Modern Corfu Town is upbeat and cosmopolitan,
offering an exciting conglomeration of Greek, Italian, French and
British influences. The old town was laid out by the Venetians in
the 14th century and features narrow alleys lined with
multi-storied, pastel-coloured buildings with red tiled roofs,
creating a scene reminiscent of Italy. The hub of activity in the
town centre is the Liston, an arcaded row of touristy cafes and
restaurants, copied from the Rue de Rivoli in Paris.

Most tourists stay in one of the popular beach resorts like
Sidari and Roda in the north, or the party capital, Kavos, on the
southern tip of the island. Quieter resorts include Gouvia and San
Stefanos. Those wishing to escape from the melee can head for the
interior to enjoy some spectacular scenery and greenery. Corfu has
43 different kinds of orchids growing wild in the countryside, and
there are countless olive groves. There are dozens unspoilt coves
with beaches washed by the sparkling, warm Ionian Sea. It is still
possible to search out a secluded bay even in the busy season when
the package holiday resorts are awash with tourists.

Dubrovnik

This unique Adriatic port has been luring
travellers for centuries, known for its luxury accommodation,
excellent cuisine and beautiful surroundings. From a turbulent
history during which it was occupied and conquered by a succession
of neighbouring European powers, Dubrovnik has emerged as a city at
peace, allowing visitors to make the most of its historic
architecture, white pebble beaches and crystal-clear ocean
waters.

The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage
Site, dating from the 7th century. Its 13-century walls enclose
well-preserved buildings representing a cross-section of Baroque,
Gothic and Renaissance architecture, while Onofrio's Fountain is
one of Dubrovnik's most famous landmarks, found just inside the
main entrance to the old city at Pile Gate.

The centre of the Old Town is its main
street called the Stradun, which was originally a channel
separating an island from the mainland. It was filled in to join
two towns into the merged city of Dubrovnik.

There are many churches, monasteries and
museums to explore, while the Old Town boasts plenty of
restaurants, bars and shops. The coastal belt is awash with pretty
marinas, coves and promenades, while most hotels and the best
beaches are located northwest of the Old Town, at Lapad, or in
Ploce to the northeast.

Dubrovnik is a favourite on European cruise
itineraries and many tourists arrive by sea, ferrying in to the
charming old port. Although Dubrovnik will delight cruise
passengers with only a few hours to kill, it's incredibly rich in
history and culture and can easily occupy travellers for days. The
city is also well situated as a travel hub for exploring the
villages and islands dotted along the dramatic Dalmatian Coast of
Croatia.

Bari

Bari, located in the southern part of Italy, is the capital city of the Apulia region and is surrounded by the sparkling turquoise waters of the Adriatic Sea. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and picturesque landscapes, Bari is a hidden gem that offers visitors an authentic Italian experience.

One of the highlights of Bari is its historic old town, known as Bari Vecchia. This medieval heart of the city is a maze of winding narrow streets and alleys, lined with charming whitewashed buildings adorned with colorful shutters and balconies. Here, visitors can explore the Basilica di San Nicola, a grand Romanesque church that houses the remains of Saint Nicholas, the inspiration behind the modern-day Santa Claus. The nearby Cathedral of San Sabino is also worth a visit, with its stunning architecture and beautiful crypt.

Another must-visit attraction in Bari is the Castello Svevo, a medieval fortress that overlooks the city's harbor. Originally built by the Normans in the 12th century, the castle has since been modified by various rulers over the centuries. Inside, visitors can explore the museum, which showcases archaeological artifacts and provides insights into the history of the castle and the city.

Bari is also known for its beautiful beaches, making it a popular destination during the summer months. The city boasts several beaches, both public and private, where visitors can relax and soak up the sun. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, and water sports enthusiasts can enjoy activities like snorkeling, windsurfing, and sailing.

Food lovers will delight in the culinary delights that Bari has to offer. The region of Apulia is known for its fresh and flavorsome cuisine, and Bari is no exception. Visitors can indulge in delicious local dishes such as orecchiette pasta with broccoli rabe, burrata cheese, and oven-baked focaccia. Seafood is also a popular choice, with the city's proximity to the sea ensuring an abundance of fresh fish and shellfish.

No visit to Bari would be complete without experiencing the city's lively street markets. The Mercato Coperto, located in the heart of the old town, is a bustling market where locals gather to purchase fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other local specialties. This is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, sample some of the region's culinary delights, and pick up some unique souvenirs.

For those interested in exploring the surrounding area, Bari serves as an excellent base for day trips. The nearby town of Alberobello is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique trulli houses, while the charming town of Polignano a Mare offers breathtaking sea views and a picturesque old town. The famous Grotte di Castellana, a network of stunning underground caves, is also within reach.

In terms of transportation, Bari is well connected both nationally and internationally. Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport serves as a gateway to the region, with flights to major European cities and other Italian destinations. The city also has a well-developed train network, making it easy to explore other parts of Italy, such as Naples and Rome.

In conclusion, Bari offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From its historic old town to its stunning beaches, visitors will find themselves captivated by the charm and warmth of this southern Italian city. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or a beach lover, Bari is sure to leave a lasting impression on you.

Santorini

Besides being one of the most beautiful islands in the world,
Santorini is also one of the most geologically and archaeologically
dramatic. Often called Thira, the island is shaped like an enormous
pair of jaws encircling a lake filled with pure blue water. This is
the core of an ancient volcano, which according to legend,
destroyed the lost continent of Atlantis.

Santorini's capital, Fira, perches on a cliff top. Ferries
arrive and depart in the harbour below, while visitors walk or ride
donkeys up the steep winding path to the town. Fira has hotels,
good restaurants, bars and plenty of nightlife to keep tourists
happy.

History buffs should visit Ancient Thira's archaeological
remains. They date back to the 9th century BC, and they're on the
island's east side. Other attractions include the excavations at a
Minoan Bronze Age settlement called Akrotiri, an archaeological
museum, and an 18th-century monastery. Santorini has two swimming
beaches, Perissa and Kamari, both characterised by their volcanic
black sand.

Rhodes

Knights once used Rhodes to protect the Christian west from the
east. Today, the island remains subject to invasion, though from
tourists rather than intruders.

Said to be Greece's sunniest island, Rhodes has a well-preserved
and picturesque old city. The legendary Colossus of Rhodes, one of
the Seven Wonders of the World, guarded its harbour in antiquity.
Present-day visitors will find statues of deer. Nevertheless, the
old city has plenty of wonders to offer.

The rest of the relatively large island offers miles of beaches,
interesting archaeological sites and natural beauty spots. The best
beaches are on the east coast. Lindos is especially attractive.
Faliraki, on the other hand, is a developed resort area, bustling
with young visitors.

Mykonos

Mykonos is upmarket, fashionable and a favourite among gay
travellers. It's quite possibly Greece's most expensive island.
Designer shops, perfect beaches, colourful tavernas and throbbing
dance clubs are all on offer. That said, trendy crowds and nude
beaches have not erased the destination's enchanting traditional
flavour.

Sightseers can visit the island's archaeological museum, which
displays finds from the necropolis (cemetery) on nearby Rhenia. Day
trips to the uninhabited island of Delos are also highly
recommended. The UNESCO World Heritage archaeological site was the
Aegean's religious centre during ancient times, and features in
some captivating myths. Its history is almost as interesting.
Visitors can explore the temples and the Avenue of the Lions, and
see stunning archaic sculptures in the museum.

Piraeus

Athens exudes a unique charm through its mix of street markets,
vine-covered tavernas, souvenir stalls, ancient monuments and
high-rise buildings. For tourists, a plus is that most of the
capital's attractions are accessible by foot.

Athens was named after Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom.
According to mythology, she won the city after duelling against
Poseidon, god of the sea. Indeed, Athens can chart its history back
thousands of years and is regarded as the cradle of Western
civilisation. More specifically, it's democracy's birthplace, and
where philosophy, art and architecture were refined.

The city declined after the Classical Age, dwindling to nothing
but a town in the colourful area now known as the Plaka. It emerged
as independent Greece's capital in 1834.

Today, the city is bustling. And though the pollution, frantic
gridlock and dingy buildings are a striking contrast to the open
beauty of Greece's coast and islands, Athens is truly the country's
beating heart. Ancient wonders like the Acropolis, the Parthenon,
and the Temples of Zeus and Hephaestus ensure that the city will
always lure travellers.