A Journey through Stunning
Coastal Treasures & Delicious
Cultural Treats

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.

Ermoupoli, Syra

Ermoupoli is the capital and largest town of the Greek island of Syros, located in the Cyclades archipelago. Steeped in history, culture, and stunning architecture, Ermoupoli offers visitors a unique travel experience steeped in Greek tradition and charm.

With its picturesque waterfront, cobblestone streets, and neoclassical buildings, Ermoupoli is often referred to as the "Queen of the Aegean." The town was named after Hermes, the messenger of the Greek gods. This charming destination sits on two hills overlooking the beautiful Aegean Sea, creating spectacular panoramic views that will take your breath away.

One of the first things you’ll notice in Ermoupoli is the mesmerizing architecture. The town is known for its well-preserved neoclassical buildings, many of which were constructed during the 19th century when Ermoupoli was a flourishing trade and industrial center. Walk along the narrow streets, lined with colorful houses and elegant mansions adorned with intricate sculptures and exquisite details. The most iconic structure in the town is the Town Hall, a magnificent building that dominates the central square, Miaoulis Square.

Miaoulis Square is the heart of Ermoupoli and a vibrant gathering place for locals and visitors alike. Around the square, you’ll find a number of cafes, taverns, and shops, making it the perfect spot to relax, people-watch, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere. Don’t forget to visit the Apollo Theater, a miniature replica of La Scala in Milan. This impressive theater hosts a variety of cultural events and performances, including concerts, plays, and ballets.

For those interested in history and culture, Ermoupoli has several fascinating museums to explore. The Archaeological Museum houses a rich collection of artifacts from around the island, including pieces from ancient tombs and temples. The Industrial Museum showcases the town's industrial past, highlighting its once-thriving shipbuilding and textile industries. And for art enthusiasts, the Markos Vamvakaris Museum pays tribute to the famous Greek composer and bouzouki player who grew up in Ermoupoli.

When it comes to leisure, Ermoupoli does not disappoint. The town offers several beautiful beaches where visitors can relax and unwind. Close to the center, you'll find the sandy beach of Agios Nikolaos, with crystal clear waters and the iconic church of Agios Nikolaos perched on a hilltop overlooking the bay. Other popular nearby beaches include Galissas and Azolimnos, both easily accessible by bus.

In addition to its cultural and architectural gems, Ermoupoli also boasts a vibrant food scene. From traditional taverns serving delicious Greek cuisine to trendy cafes and bars, the town has something for every taste and budget. Be sure to try local specialties such as loukoumades (honey-soaked dough balls) and the local cheese, San Michali.

Overall, Ermoupoli is a charming destination that combines history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're strolling through the picturesque streets, exploring its museums, or simply enjoying the panoramic views, this Greek gem is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

Bodrum

The popular holiday resort of Bodrum, called
Halicarnassus in ancient times, is the South Aegean's most
attractive resort, described by Homer as the 'Land of Eternal
Blue'. The hillside is covered in painted villas adorned with
bougainvillea, narrow streets wind their way down to the sea, and
the peaceful setting of its twin harbours offer shelter for
yachts.

Bodrum is a mustering point for local boats offering
tailor-made daytrips to nearby islands or the pristine beaches and
seaside restaurants along the magnificent coastline. From its
position between the two harbours, the 15th century crusader Castle
of St Peter dominates every part of the town, now home to the
fascinating Museum of Underwater Archaeology. The other Bodrum
holiday attraction is the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, the crumbling
remains of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

As Turkey's leading seaside holiday destination,
Bodrum is packed with foreign visitors in summer. Yet it remains
unspoilt and retains its charming Turkish character, perfecting the
balance between authenticity and tourist comforts. Here, exotic
bazaars, the wailing cry of the muezzin, and ancient history
seamlessly blend with popular water sports, sunbathing, and a
nightlife that is notorious throughout Turkey.

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.

Heraklion (Iraklion), Crete

Situated in the eastern Mediterranean, Crete is by far the
largest of the many Greek Islands and offers something for every
kinds of traveller.

The island has experienced thousands of years of conquest and
habitation and has a complicated and diverse heritage. Sightseers
can investigate the remains of the ancient Minoan culture that
flourished here thousands of years before Christ. Years of Roman,
Venetian and Turkish rule have also left their mark and there are
fascinating sights scattered throughout the island.

Its northern coastline is home to busy holiday resorts and a
wealth of powdery white beaches where couples and families come to
soak up the Mediterranean sunshine. The gateway to the island is
the large, modern city of Heraklion, which is not so much an island
idyll as a vital commercial centre. Other major holiday resorts in
Greece include nearby Malia, lively Agios Nikolaos, Rethymnon with
its lovely old town, and Chania, to the west, which known for its
14th-century Venetian harbour and waterfront restaurants.

The wild interior of Crete offers some spectacular mountain
scenery drives and many opportunities for hikers and serious
cyclists. The White Mountains in the west soar to over 2000m, while
the more gentle mountains in the east hide the extraordinary
Lasithi plateau in their midst, which is dotted with white
windmills. The south coast of Crete is much more remote and rugged
than the north. It is crisscrossed with gorges and dotted with
unspoilt villages, pretty coves, and secluded beaches.

Kotor

Tourists to Montenegro will most likely spend the bulk of their
time exploring the small Balkan country's natural landscape. From
snowy peaks to tall pine forests, from the coastlines to the
fjords, Montenegro is an outdoor lover's dream come true.

However, for those looking to get to grips with the culture of
Montenegro, the medieval city of Kotor is certainly the place to
visit, especially in recent years as Montenegro has swiftly
established itself as one of Europe's top tourist destinations.

It's not hard to see why this is. The surrounding Mediterranean
coastline, with its limestone cliffs and thick vegetation, is
punctuated by the port of Kotor, which in turn is surrounded by
city walls that were built by the Republic of Venice. These
ramparted and bastioned city walls, together with the
Venetian-inspired old city, are a designated UNESCO World Heritage
Site, and lauded for their role in the diffusion of Mediterranean
culture in the Balkan region.

A small city, with a population of just under 14,000 permanent
inhabitants, Kotor is a wonderful place to navigate on foot,
soaking up the scenery and admiring the medieval buildings. In
terms of tourist sights, the Maritime Museum is a must-visit
attraction, as is the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon (built in 1166)
and the Church of Our Lady of Health, which is located on a small
promontory overlooking Kotor and provides unbeatable views of the
bright blue Adriatic Sea beneath.

Gallipoli

Gallipoli is a charming coastal town located in the Puglia region of southern Italy. Situated on a small island connected to the mainland by a bridge, the town offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its picturesque beaches, ancient architecture, and delicious cuisine, Gallipoli is a must-visit destination for travelers exploring Italy.

The town is renowned for its stunning beaches, attracting sun seekers from all over the world. Along the coastline, there are both public and private beaches offering crystal-clear waters and soft golden sands. Whether you prefer lounging on a sunbed, taking a refreshing swim, or participating in water sports, there is something for everyone in Gallipoli. One of the most popular beaches is Baia Verde, known for its vibrant nightlife scene and beach clubs serving delicious cocktails.

Gallipoli's rich history is evident in its architecture and landmarks. The town's historic center, in particular, is a treasure trove of ancient buildings and narrow winding streets. The most iconic feature of Gallipoli is its impressive castle, dating back to the 13th century. The castle is perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the sea and offers breathtaking panoramic views. Visitors can explore its well-preserved interior, which houses a small museum detailing the area's history.

Another noteworthy site in Gallipoli is the Cathedral of St. Agatha, an architectural masterpiece blending elements of Romanesque and Byzantine styles. Inside, the cathedral boasts a stunning marble altar and intricate frescoes, making it a must-see for art enthusiasts. Additionally, the Church of St. Mary of the Purification is a small but beautifully adorned church that showcases the town's religious heritage.

Food lovers will delight in Gallipoli's culinary offerings. The town is renowned for its fresh seafood, with many restaurants serving mouthwatering dishes such as octopus carpaccio, grilled sea bass, and spaghetti alle vongole. The local cuisine also includes delicious pastries and desserts, such as pasticciotto, a sweet pastry filled with custard, and cartellate, fried dough strips drizzled with honey or chocolate.

Gallipoli is not just a town of history and beaches; it also offers a vibrant atmosphere and lively nightlife. In the evenings, the town comes alive with bars and clubs, especially during the summer months. Visitors can enjoy a cocktail at one of the stylish rooftop bars or dance the night away at one of the beach clubs along the coast.

For nature enthusiasts, Gallipoli is surrounded by natural beauty just waiting to be explored. The nearby Natural Reserve of Punta Pizzo is a protected nature reserve featuring white sandy beaches, sand dunes, and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can go for a leisurely hike, rent a bike, or simply relax and enjoy the pristine surroundings. The reserve is also home to various species of migratory birds, making it a haven for birdwatchers.

In terms of accommodation, Gallipoli offers a range of options to suit all budgets and preferences. From luxury hotels overlooking the sea to cozy bed and breakfasts in the historic center, visitors are sure to find a comfortable place to stay.

Gallipoli is easily accessible by both car and public transportation. The town has a train station with connections to major cities in Italy, as well as a bus station serving various destinations. If traveling by car, there are ample parking spaces available, making it convenient for those who prefer to explore the surrounding areas at their own pace.

In conclusion, Gallipoli is a hidden gem in southern Italy that offers a perfect combination of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its stunning beaches, ancient architecture, delicious cuisine, and vibrant atmosphere, it is a destination that will captivate and enchant travelers of all ages.

Hvar Island

Hvar is one of the most spectacular Croatian islands in the Adriatic Sea. Its stunning landscape draws tourists from around the globe. Every year, thousands of visitors come to explore the island's beautiful beaches, blue waters, and diverse culture.

The first thing that comes to mind when you visit Hvar is its stunning scenery. The island is full of stunning cliffs, bays, and coves. From its highest peak, Sveti Nikola, you can see breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea and nearby islands. It's no wonder why this little slice of paradise is a favorite destination for tourists.

The beaches of Hvar are also some of the best in the Adriatic. There are dozens of white sand beaches and rocky coves to explore. Some of the most popular beaches include Stipanska, which has crystal clear turquoise waters, and Hvar Town Beach which has several restaurants and beach bars. If you're looking for an adventurous experience, try diving or snorkeling off of the island's coast.

Hvar also offers some unique cultural experiences. You can explore the narrow medieval streets of the main town and visit old churches and monuments. The town also hosts several music and art festivals throughout the year. Be sure to check out the lively nightlife scene on the island for some live music and dancing.

If you're looking for a more laid-back experience, there are plenty of options for relaxation. Take a walk along the waterfront and enjoy the spectacular views of the island from up close. Swimming, sunbathing, and taking boat trips around the island are all popular activities here. And if you're feeling adventurous, you can try paragliding or sailing around Hvar.

No matter what your interests are, Hvar has something for everyone. From its gorgeous beaches to its vibrant culture, there's no shortage of things to do on this beautiful Croatian island. Whether it's an adventure-filled vacation or a laid-back holiday, Hvar is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Rijeka

Water is the essence of Kvarner, and the region's largest city expresses this simply. Whether in Croatian or Italian (Fiume) the translation of the name to English is the same: river. Although the history of Croatia's third city goes back to the days of Imperial Rome, modern Rijeka evolved under the rule of Austria-Hungary. The historic core retains vestiges of the old Habsburg monarchy from the time when Rijeka served as the empire's outlet to the Adriatic. During the 1960s, under Yugoslavia, the suburbs expanded rapidly. Rijeka is the country's largest port, with a huge shipyard, massive dry-dock facilities, refineries, and other heavy industries offering large-scale employment. Since the breakup of Yugoslavia, however, Rijeka's role as a shipping town has declined significantly. Much business shifted north to the smaller Slovene ports during the crippling wars of the 1990s, and although some has returned, the volume remains less than half that seen in 1980.

Fusina

Venice is unique, its elegant buildings and
palaces peering over an ancient maze of narrow streets and
labyrinth of canals. Tourists here wake up to the morning calls of
gondoliers before venturing out to lose themselves among the twists
and turns of this famously romantic haven.

The city rests on one of 117 islands
distributed throughout the Venetian lagoon. The aptly named Grand
Canal splits the city, running from the Santa Lucia railway station
past the famous Rialto Bridge to Piazza San Marco, home to the
cathedral of Basilica di San Marco which is adorned with endless
mosaics that sparkle at sunset.

The historic centre is divided into six
quarters: San Marco, Dorsoduro, San Polo, Santa Croce, Cannaregio
and Castello. Countless waterways wind their way through the city.
While some choose to pick their way over the more than 400 bridges,
by far the most popular way to get around is to cruise the
waterways onboard vaporetto boats or iconic gondola.

Known for its inventive cuisine, lavish
spreads of cicheti (Venetian tapas) can be found in bars around the
city while canalside bistros offer spectacular fine dining
experiences. Venice's penchant for outlandish fashion gave the
world eyeglasses, dresses without corsets and platform shoes, and
the annual carnival is renowned for the elaborate masks on
display.

Venice extends beyond its six sestieri to
the islands of Murano, Burano and Torcello. These are known for
glass and lace-making respectively, and Torcello is noted for the
magnificent Byzantine Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta resting on
its soil. Trips by boat to the islands provide a pleasant escape
from the busier historic quarters.