Spring In The Aegean

Istanbul

The splendid city of Istanbul has many unique and fascinating
features. It is the only city in the world reaching across two
continents, with its old city in Europe and modern Istanbul
situated in Asia, separated by the Bosphorus Strait. It is also
unique in having had capital status during two successive empires,
Christian Byzantine and Islamic Ottoman, and the legacy from both
is visible in the modern city today.

Istanbul's location on the water made it a much coveted site as
a commercial shipping port and military lookout, and as capital of
the Roman Empire, Constantinople, as it was known, became extremely
desirable as a centre of world trade, until Mehmet the Conqueror
claimed it for the Ottoman Empire in 1453 and it became the
imperial seat of the sultans. After the War of Independence the
capital was moved to Ankara, but Istanbul still remains the
commercial, historical, and cultural heart of Turkey today.

The charm and character of Istanbul lies in its endless variety
and jumble of contradictions. Its fascinating history has
bequeathed the city a vivid inheritance of Byzantine ruins,
splendid palaces, ancient mosques and churches, hamams
(bath-houses), and exotic bazaars. Modern Istanbul exudes trendy
bars and nightclubs, western boutiques, office blocks, and elegant
suburbs.

Cruising the Aegean Sea

Kavala

Kavala, situated in the northern part of Greece, is a picturesque coastal city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Known as the "Azure City" due to its stunning blue sea, Kavala is a hidden gem that deserves a spot on every traveler's itinerary.

One of the highlights of Kavala is its rich history, which can be traced back to ancient times. The city was founded in the 7th century BC by settlers from the island of Thassos, and over the centuries, it has been influenced by various civilizations, including the Ancient Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. This diverse history is reflected in the city's architecture, with its mix of ancient ruins, medieval castles, and Ottoman-era buildings.

One of the must-visit attractions in Kavala is the impressive Kavala Castle, also known as the Castle of Kavala or Panagia. Perched on a hilltop, this imposing fortress offers panoramic views of the city and the Aegean Sea. The castle dates back to the Byzantine era and was later expanded by the Ottomans. Visitors can explore its well-preserved walls, towers, and Byzantine churches while learning about its fascinating history.

Another historical site worth visiting is the Ancient Theater of Philippi, located just outside of Kavala. Built in the 4th century BC, this well-preserved theater once hosted performances and events during the Hellenistic and Roman periods. Today, visitors can walk through the ancient ruins, marvel at the intricate design of the theater, and imagine what it must have been like to witness a play in this ancient setting.

Aside from its historical sites, Kavala is also known for its charming Old Town, called Panagia. This picturesque neighborhood is characterized by its narrow, winding streets, colorful houses, and traditional tavernas. Stroll through the cobblestone alleys, soak in the relaxed atmosphere, and savor traditional Greek cuisine at one of the local restaurants. Don't miss a visit to the Imaret, an Ottoman-era building that has been converted into a luxury boutique hotel and restaurant, offering a unique blend of history, architecture, and gastronomy.

For those seeking natural beauty, Kavala has plenty to offer. The city boasts numerous beautiful beaches, such as Batis, Tosca, and Kalamitsa, where visitors can relax on the golden sands and swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea. Additionally, Kavala is surrounded by stunning mountainous landscapes, making it an excellent destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the nearby Mount Paggaio, where hiking trails lead to breathtaking viewpoints and hidden waterfalls.

Kavala is well-connected with the rest of Greece and beyond. The city has its own international airport, offering direct flights to several European destinations. Alternatively, travelers can reach Kavala by ferry from the nearby Thassos Island or by bus from the capital city, Athens.

In summary, Kavala is a hidden gem that should not be overlooked by travelers exploring Greece. Its rich history, picturesque Old Town, stunning beaches, and natural landscapes make it a diverse and captivating destination. Whether you're interested in exploring ancient ruins, relaxing on the beach, or immersing yourself in Greek culture, Kavala has something for everyone.

Thessaloníki

Thessaloniki is the capital of Macedonia and one of the oldest
cities in Europe. General Kassandros named it after his wife, who
happened to be Alexander the Great's half-sister. With its wide
avenues, parks and squares, some travellers consider it far more
attractive than Athens.

The city's past under Ottoman rule shows in numerous Byzantine
churches, and museums housing Byzantine artefacts. Its rich Jewish
tradition reflects in its synagogues and the Jewish Museum, while
renowned monasteries display the influence of early Christian
communities.

Authorities have imposed regulations against skyscrapers going
up as the area is prone to earthquakes. This means that residents
and visitors can enjoy seaside views from the city's streets.

Visitors can try the Turkish Baths, wander the central market,
or relax at Aristotelous Square's cafes and restaurants.
Thessaloniki also has a vibrant nightlife, with a number of lively
bars and clubs.

Vólos

Located on the eastern coast of Greece, Volos is a bustling and vibrant city that offers a perfect blend of tradition and modernity. Situated at the foothills of Mount Pelion, this coastal city is known for its stunning beaches, rich history, and warm hospitality. Whether you are seeking a relaxing beach vacation or an exploration of historical landmarks, Volos has something to offer for everyone.

One of the main highlights of Volos is its beautiful coastline, with numerous sandy beaches stretching along the Aegean Sea. The most popular beach is Alikos, which boasts crystal clear waters and a well-organized beachfront. Just a short drive away from the city, visitors can find tranquil and picturesque beaches like Agios Ioannis and Mylopotamos, where they can unwind and soak up the sun.

Volos is also steeped in history, with archaeological sites that showcase its rich past. The Archaeological Museum of Volos is a must-visit attraction, housing an impressive collection of artifacts from various periods, including the Neolithic, Mycenaean, and Roman eras. The nearby ancient city of Dimini offers a glimpse into the Bronze Age, with its well-preserved ruins and the impressive tomb of Sesklo. History enthusiasts can also explore the ruins of the ancient city of Iolkos, which played a significant role in Greek mythology as the homeland of the legendary hero Jason and his crew, the Argonauts.

For a taste of local culture and tradition, a visit to the Tsipouradika is highly recommended. These small taverns, scattered throughout the city, are known for serving tsipouro, a traditional Greek spirit. Visitors can enjoy a variety of meze (appetizers) while sipping on this strong and flavorful spirit. The lively atmosphere, combined with the authentic Greek cuisine, creates a memorable dining experience.

Volos is also an excellent base for exploring the enchanting region of Mount Pelion. With its lush forests, picturesque villages, and stunning landscapes, Mount Pelion offers a perfect escape from the city. Visitors can hike through the trails, which lead to hidden waterfalls, charming monasteries, and breathtaking viewpoints. The traditional mountain villages, such as Makrinitsa and Portaria, are worth a visit, with their cobblestone streets, stone houses, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and sea.

If you are a fan of outdoor activities, Volos has plenty to offer. Apart from swimming and sunbathing at the beaches, visitors can also indulge in various water sports such as windsurfing or kayaking. The clear waters of the Pagasitic Gulf are ideal for sailing, and boat trips can be arranged to explore the nearby uninhabited islands, such as Trikeri or Alatas.

Volos is also well-known for its vibrant nightlife scene. The city comes alive in the evenings, with numerous bars, clubs, and music venues offering entertainment for all tastes. From trendy cocktail bars with stunning views of the sea to traditional taverns featuring live Greek music, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

With its beautiful beaches, rich history, and vibrant atmosphere, Volos is a hidden gem in Greece that offers a unique and authentic travel experience. Whether you are a history enthusiast, nature lover, or simply looking to relax and unwind, Volos has it all.

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.

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.

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.

Marmaris

One of the larger holiday resorts, Marmaris is probably the most
European of the Turkish resort towns on the Mediterranean coast and
is a bustling cosmopolitan tourist centre in the summer months.
Marmaris also marks the start of the Turquoise Coast along the
Mediterranean Sea. Built around an extensive natural bay at the
foot of forested mountain slopes, the town is the best base for
some of the finest sailing in the Mediterranean. Its modern marina
caters for private yachts and holiday cruise business. According to
legend, the town got its name when, not finding the castle he had
commissioned on the hill to his liking, Suleyman the Magnificent
muttered

('hang the architect').

Cruising the Aegean Sea

Izmir

Turkey's third largest city, Izmir is a busy port,
commercial centre, and gateway to the Aegean Coast. Despite its
size and importance, it still retains enough holiday atmosphere to
cause visitors to stay amongst the population of around three
million.

Lively and cosmopolitan, Izmir is also scenic thanks
to its palm-lined promenades lining the bay, backed by graceful
avenues with attractive horizontal terraces rising up the slopes of
the surrounding mountains.

Visitors come to see the sights, haggle in the
colourful bazaar, and dine on delicious meals at the many
waterfront restaurants. Formerly known as Smyrna, Izmir is ancient
and dates back to around 3,000 BC. But today it is thoroughly
modern having been almost obliterated by a fire in 1922 and
subsequently rebuilt.

There is some worthy sightseeing to be done in the
city, like the 19th century clock tower, the 18th century Konak
Cami Mosque, and an archaeology museum. A must-see is the city's
landmark public elevator, linking Mithatpasa Street with the summit
of the hill at Halil Rifat Pasa, from where there is a stunning
view across the city and the bay. The best way to enjoy Izmir is a
balmy evening stroll or horse-drawn carriage trip along its
promenade between Konak Meydan and Alsancak.

Istanbul

The splendid city of Istanbul has many unique and fascinating
features. It is the only city in the world reaching across two
continents, with its old city in Europe and modern Istanbul
situated in Asia, separated by the Bosphorus Strait. It is also
unique in having had capital status during two successive empires,
Christian Byzantine and Islamic Ottoman, and the legacy from both
is visible in the modern city today.

Istanbul's location on the water made it a much coveted site as
a commercial shipping port and military lookout, and as capital of
the Roman Empire, Constantinople, as it was known, became extremely
desirable as a centre of world trade, until Mehmet the Conqueror
claimed it for the Ottoman Empire in 1453 and it became the
imperial seat of the sultans. After the War of Independence the
capital was moved to Ankara, but Istanbul still remains the
commercial, historical, and cultural heart of Turkey today.

The charm and character of Istanbul lies in its endless variety
and jumble of contradictions. Its fascinating history has
bequeathed the city a vivid inheritance of Byzantine ruins,
splendid palaces, ancient mosques and churches, hamams
(bath-houses), and exotic bazaars. Modern Istanbul exudes trendy
bars and nightclubs, western boutiques, office blocks, and elegant
suburbs.