How to choose a resort in Greece. Where and when to relax in Greece - an overview of resorts and tourist attractions by months Where is it better to relax in Greece

Greece is a Mediterranean country that is in great demand among Russian tourists. These are not only resorts where you can sunbathe, but also places with ancient sights, interesting cities with local cuisine and many other offers. If your choice fell on Greece, but you do not know where it is better to go on vacation in September or August, then it is better to take the advice of specialists.

The best places to stay in Greece

The geographical location of cities and proximity to other countries in the course of history left a certain imprint on development and culture. Today, every tourist is advised to visit the most popular tourist cities and resorts to see for themselves.

Athens

Athens is the capital of Greece, which first catches the eye of tourists. In fact, lovers of sights and excursions go here. A wide variety of leisure activities will be available to you, where you can visit local discos, cafes and so on.

It is also worth noting the extensive database of hotels with various conditions for vacationers.

Along the perimeter of the city there are small bays that offer incredibly beautiful landscapes. You can also go to Lake Vouliagmeni, which is fed by geothermal springs. Wellness procedures here are paid, but they are relatively inexpensive. Since the city is located on the coast, the climate here is quite pleasant.

Crete

The largest island in the country and the best place for those who want to fully relax and unwind. Unique sandy beaches, mountain ranges will leave only positive emotions in your memories.

Also along the coastline are some of the best hotels in Greece, which are distinguished by excellent service and maintenance.

Here you can organize excursions to interesting sights, ride water rides, enjoy local cuisine and so on. That is, excellent conditions have been created for all types of tourists. Positive reviews about where it is better to go on vacation in Greece are most often devoted to this resort.

Rhodes

The popularity of Rhodes among Russian tourists is due to the fact that tour operators offer a large selection of different tours. Both budget and expensive holidays are also available here. A wide variety of historical monuments can also be considered an additional plus.

Corfu

A green island located in the western part of the country. Beautiful natural landscapes give way to small bays and quiet ones. If you want to appreciate the classic European service, then this option suits you.

You can go here with your family, as there are amusement parks and other entertainment. Corfu is not so popular with Russian travelers, but still has its own striking features.

Kos

An expensive resort that attracts millionaires from all over the world. This place is located in the South-Eastern part of the Aegean Sea. In most cases, tourists come just to bask on the beach, sunbathe, visit expensive restaurants, and so on.

There are practically no budget conditions and hotels here. Now, knowing where it is better to go on vacation in Greece in August, you can safely buy a ticket.

Santorini

The island of volcanic origin is currently one of the most interesting in terms of outdoor activities. The coastline does not exceed 70 kilometers, but at the same time there are a lot of interesting mountain landscapes that you need to see.

The cozy atmosphere that has formed on the territory of the settlements will also be able to impress you. It is very expensive to rest here, and most often excursion groups from other resorts are formed on the island.

The beaches here are distinguished by different shades of sand from yellow to red, everything is connected with the volcanic origin of the rocks.

Chalkidiki

Quite a popular place in Greece: all because there are green landscapes of incredible beauty, a considerable number of sea bays. Attention is drawn to the sheer cliffs, which are perfectly combined with the clear water of the sea.

There is also a small number of local people living here, but a lot of tourists. Nature is practically untouched, and most of the peninsula is uninhabited.

A small number of attractions here are considered a disadvantage, and most of them are located far from the city. Therefore, it is best to rent a car for the trip. The resort is designed for those who love a secluded beach holiday. It is very easy to find quiet beaches here, where there is practically no one.

Local kitchen

The national cuisine of Greece is quite different by region, as in one resort you will be fed fried meat, and in another seafood. Therefore, it is worth knowing some of the differences.

Souvlaki and moussaka are very popular everywhere - this is a shish kebab cooked according to a special recipe. It is also worth highlighting some important features of the national cuisine:

1. The most popular drink among the Greeks is coffee. It is drunk in any form and even with ice.
2. In Corfu, kumquat liqueur is served for dinner, here you can also try aniseed vodka, the best white wine, and so on.
3. In Santorini, white eggplant dishes with octopuses are very popular. All this is cooked on the grill.
4. Do not refuse escargo snails, which are prepared in Crete: it is very tasty.
5. Sarza is cooked in Zakynthos with beef stewed with tomatoes, garlic and cheese.

Hospitality can be considered a special feature of Greek cuisine. Before you start your meal, you should taste fresh bread with olive oil. Only after that you can start eating the main dishes, which will be served to you in fairly large portions.

He doesn’t know where it’s better to go on vacation with children in Greece - choose quieter places. You have quite a selection. The cuisine is of no small importance for many tourists, so they pay a lot of attention to it.

Climate

The warm Mediterranean climate is characterized by the fact that Greece has rather warm winters with heavy rainfall and dry summers. If you love the sun and beach holidays, then these resorts are perfect for you. Most of the time of the year you will not see a single cloud here, as the sky is clear and sunny.

Two main seasons stand out against this background: from October to March it is quite humid here, and the rest of the time it is very hot. Also, a lot depends on the location of the resort, the sea that washes it, and so on.

Therefore, it is recommended to plan your holiday in advance in order to avoid spending all the time in the hotel. You can find out where it is better to go on vacation in July in Greece by the weather, Crete, Santorini, Halkidiki are great.

Visa

To visit Greece, you must obtain a Schengen visa without fail. In this case, your passport must meet certain criteria, you will also need to undergo fingerprinting and prepare the necessary package of documents.

If you have already applied for this visa, then you only need to collect the necessary papers. List of documents to be submitted:

• tourist profile;
• a copy of a foreign passport, all pages where there is information;
• color photographs;
• certificate from the place of work;
• documents for the child, if he is traveling with you.

Currently, the term for issuing a visa does not exceed 10 days, most often it is possible to get it even earlier. But the embassy has the right to refuse you without explanation. Therefore, you need to apply for a visa only before buying tickets. At the first registration, you get the opportunity to visit Greece only for the duration of your tour. In subsequent times, this period can be extended to six months.

Deciding on the choice of a suitable resort is very difficult. These are not only gorgeous beaches, but also sights that you want to see. A considerable number of articles have been written about when and where it is better to go on vacation to Greece, and Crete is the most popular among the options offered.

It is worth adhering to very important rules when choosing a tourist destination:

1. You need to read the general information about each resort and choose what interests you.
2. We study the prices for tours and for individual rooms in hotels. Sometimes it is better to go on your own, without the participation of an agency.
3. If you are flying to Greece for the first time, then it is better to choose Crete or Rhodes.
4. Apply for a visa to Greece.
5. Book your hotel room in advance.
6. Plan your excursions and vacation time.
7. Buy your ticket at the best prices online.

Greece is a unique holiday destination where you can enjoy the best European conditions. Also, do not forget that it all depends on your financial capabilities, which will allow you to visit a particular resort.

In this article, you will learn about where to go on vacation in Greece in the summer, and you will also find a lot of useful information about tours to this country.

The country of the four seas has to rest from the first minutes of arrival at the airport. Beautiful Hellas seems to be created for a relaxing vacation with the family: white and blue colors in the architecture of cities and bright flowers on the narrow streets of Greece alternate with colorful bars and taverns where you can taste local wine. Even in the conditions of modern civilization, this ancient state managed to preserve the mysterious atmosphere of antiquity.

In Greece, there are not only wide sandy beaches with a length of more than 14,000 kilometers, but also many historical monuments, so it is good to combine a beach holiday with a rich excursion program. Add to this the hospitality of the locals, coupled with incredibly delicious cuisine and amazingly beautiful nature, and you get the perfect vacation by the sea.

Wise Greeks know how not only to work, but also to have fun, so it’s quite easy to get to some kind of holiday here or accidentally become a participant in folk festivals. In addition, this is an Orthodox state, so Russians, Ukrainians and Belarusians are close to local customs and rituals.

It is not surprising that many residents of the post-Soviet space come to this sunny country to get married in a romantic setting to the pleasant sound of the waves instead of the typical Mendelssohn waltz.

All you need to have a cheap holiday in Greece in the summer is to choose a destination and travel dates, and then choose the right tour.

Brief information

Interestingly, Greece is located immediately on 2 thousand islands and is surrounded by four seas - the Mediterranean, Aegean, Libyan and Ionian. It is located in the southeast of the Balkan Peninsula, which the indigenous people sometimes call Emos. Among the closest neighbors of this hospitable country are Turkey, Bulgaria, Macedonia and Albania.

The largest cities in Greece, which you should definitely visit at least for a short time, are Athens, Thessaloniki, Heraklion, Larissa, Halkidiki and Patra.

Despite the fact that the state language of the country is Greek, many residents, especially those working in the tourism sector, speak English quite well, as well as French and German. The vast majority of the local population professes Orthodoxy.

From the history of the country

During its long history, Greece managed to be part of the Roman Empire and to be at the mercy of the Venetian and Turkish rulers. However, in 1831, the land of the Hellenes finally freed itself from the shackles of the conquerors, and years later officially became part of the European Union.

Many cities and monuments of Greece today are a world cultural heritage and are protected by UNESCO. Among them: the remains of the Temple of Zeus, the Acropolis and the Parthenon, the monasteries of Meteora, the ruins of the ancient city of Delphi and much more. According to Greek myths, the powerful gods of Olympus lived here several thousand years ago. Since then, this great country has retained the special mystery of antiquity and harmoniously combined it with the modern state structure.

Tours to Greece

Those who want to get the most out of their vacation, enjoying not only a typical beach and sea holiday, but also a wonderful climate, as well as a rich cultural component, should go to the abode of the ancient Hellenes. Ordering a tour to Greece is not difficult at all: experienced travel agency specialists will help you decide on the date of departure and choose the right flight. They will carry out a competent selection of hotels in various parts of the country, and the process of issuing a ticket will take a few minutes. By the way, early booking of the tour will help you save a lot of money.

Comfort lovers

Many tourists traveling with children choose all-inclusive tours, which are most often offered by five-star hotels in Greece. The advantages of this system include the ability to eat on the territory of the hotel almost around the clock. Also, the standard package "Ultra All Inclusive" usually includes unlimited alcohol in the bars and restaurants of the hotel and additional services (access to the spa, fitness room and sauna).

The land of Hellas offers many UAI tours to various destinations. Russian tourists especially like to relax on the islands of Crete and Rhodes. Relaxing in Greece inexpensively on an all-inclusive basis is a normal desire. A tour operator will help organize a trip there, you won’t even need to think about how to book a hotel and buy plane tickets, they will do everything for you, just choose the appropriate type of vacation using the tour search form located just above.

Minimum package

If you are not going to stay in your hotel room for a long time and do not mind saving a little on comfort, the best option for a tour to Greece may be a minimal package with half board or breakfast alone. In addition, by purchasing such a tour, you will be able to try many local dishes, since you are unlikely to dine at the hotel.

Choosing such a package, you get hotel accommodation, air tickets to the desired city, as well as medical insurance and transfer. Russian travel agencies also have special offers, by purchasing which you can fly to Athens or any other city in Greece on a budget.

Prices for holidays in Greece by the sea next year may change due to constant fluctuations in foreign exchange rates, so we recommend checking the current cost of the tour with tour operators before the trip. And if you want to relax cheaper, you can choose a last-minute tour, only for this you need to be ready to leave at any time.

The best places to stay

Numerous Greek beaches attract tourists with their soft golden sand, and ancient temples and sights keep many secrets and mysteries. This small country is a whole open-air museum, with which only Italy, Spain and several other Western European states can be compared in terms of the number of monuments and values.

The best beauties of Greece are concentrated in the capital and on the islands, each of which has its own characteristics and rich historical heritage. Holidays in Greece in the summer will be truly unforgettable if you visit one of our recommended places in this warm southern country.

Athens

Traveling to Greece is often associated with the majestic capital of this country - Athens. This city with an ancient history spreads on the plains of Attica and is surrounded by the beautiful mountains of Parnitha, Imittos and Egaleo.

This monumental place is the cultural, historical and political and economic center of Greece, where one third of the population of the entire country is concentrated. From ancient times to the present day, Athens bears the name of a sea power, because dozens of ships pass through the famous port of Piraeus every day, and from the Greek capital you can get by sea to the islands.

Athens is shrouded in ancient legends on all sides. In the homeland of democracy, there are hundreds of places that deserve the attention of tourists.

It would be nice to start with the grandiose Acropolis - a real treasure of ancient history. Councils of Elders have long been organized here, which were the judicial body of Ancient Greece and served as the beginning of the development of world democracy. Climbing the Acropolis, take a look at the sacred temple of the Parthenon, dedicated to the Olympian goddess Pallas Athena. Despite numerous restorations, this majestic building has retained its almost original appearance to this day.

Another mandatory point of the program is the National Archaeological Museum, which presents more than 20,000 different exhibits from all over Greece. The highlight of the museum is a unique collection of Greek vases.

Finally, in Athens, you should definitely visit the Olympic Stadium, the size of which will amaze your imagination. It can accommodate up to 75,000 people, but it is best to come here on days free from concerts and matches, because then you can get a good look and photograph this architectural masterpiece, which came out from under the hand of Santiago Calatrava.

In addition, the following equally popular attractions deserve the attention of travelers:

• Museum of Numismatics
• Field of Mars
• national park
• Parliament building
• Syntagma Square
• Cape Sounion

If you have the desire to continue your journey, after visiting this pearl of the ancient world, you can look at the Greek islands.

Crete

The largest island of Greek lands is also the fifth largest in the entire Mediterranean. Crete is surrounded by the waters of three seas - Cretan, Ionian and Libyan. In addition to luxurious beaches and cozy sea coves, travelers will find here many Byzantine temples and ancient sights, including the labyrinth of the Minotaur, known throughout the world according to Greek legends.

This place combines ancient civilization with modern infrastructure. The resort towns and cities of Crete have everything you need for a carefree vacation: from shops and markets to hotels and water parks. There are already 2 airports with international terminals, so you can fly here directly from many cities in the world. Crete is considered one of the most popular seaside holiday destinations in Greece in Europe.

Rhodes

This colorful "pearl of the Mediterranean" is the fourth largest Greek island, which is also washed by the Aegean Sea. The city of Rhodes belongs to the world cultural heritage of UNESCO due to its rich history. Here are the most valuable monuments of various times: medieval knights' fortresses and ancient monasteries, in particular, the temple of the goddess Athena.

Fragrant orange orchards and fragrant rose flower gardens interspersed with narrow Greek streets and cobbled embankments. Beach holidays in Greece can be combined with active spending time on the island of Rhodes in the form of diving, surfing and rock climbing.

Corfu

If you are looking for privacy and luxury, this Greek island is a good choice. The island of Corfu with the emerald water of the Ionian Sea is considered one of the elite resorts in Greece. Luxurious deluxe hotels have their own beaches and vast areas with green spaces.

However, in the island villages, you can still feel the delights of traditional village life by tasting real homemade wine and dishes cooked in extra virgin olive oil. Arriving in Corfu, it is worth taking a walk in the private sector among cypress and oak groves, as well as admiring the natural beauty of tangerine orchards and vineyards. By the way, Old City - the Old Town in Corfu - is included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Already in the first hours of your stay on this wonderful island, you will feel the touch of the sun's rays and the light aroma of coniferous trees in the air. One of the seven islands of the Dodecanese archipelago, it is famous for its pleasant climate without hot heat and cool waters of the Aegean Sea. A beach holiday in Greece on the island of Kos would be incomplete without surfing and other sports. Moreover, the cozy sea bays that adorn the golden beaches of the island seem to be created for this.

On Kos there are a number of monuments of ancient culture, including the plane tree of Hippocrates, the temple of Asklepion and many others. In addition, the convenient geographical position of this green corner of nature makes it possible to make an excursion to other islands of the Dodecanese archipelago.

Local kitchen

Are you looking for information about the best places to relax in Greece? We tell everything about the resorts of the country: where to go to Greece for a beach holiday, where excursions are better, where it is inexpensive.

In the first part of the article - a selection of the best Greek resorts by type of recreation (beach, sightseeing, youth, with children, etc.). In the second part of the article - a detailed description of popular resorts with the pros and cons of the rest.

Holidays on the islands of Greece

According to the reviews of many travelers, recovering in Greece, they prefer to relax not in the mainland resorts of the country, but on the islands. This way you feel the local flavor better, and the beaches in the island part are usually better and cleaner than on the mainland.

Islands of Greece for holidays - a list of the best destinations:

1. Rhodes
2. Corfu
3. Zakynthos
4. Santorini
5. Kefalonia

Previously, the island of Kos was also popular, but recently many have complained about the large number of migrants on it.

Photo: © Militaru Alin Cristian / flickr.com

beach holiday

Most tourists choose islands in the south of Greece or Halkidiki in the north of the country for a beach holiday.

The best resorts in Greece with sandy beaches, according to tourists:

• Crete and Rhodes are the most popular destinations.
• The islands of Mykonos, Thassos, Corfu - in addition to relaxing on the beach, you can enjoy magnificent landscapes.
• Halkidiki peninsula is a good option to combine sightseeing and beach holidays.

Tours and attractions

If you are going to Greece for a long time, it is convenient to stay in Athens: there are many attractions in the capital and its environs, and it is also easy to travel to other interesting places from there.

Another option for a sightseeing holiday is the Peloponnese peninsula, with ancient Greek cities (Olympia, Sparta, Mycenae with the preserved Lion Gate, Corinth and Epidaurus).

Excursions north of Athens are popular - to Delphi and Meteora.

Advice: Many sights are easy to explore on your own if you rent a car. Conditions and tips - in our article Rent a car in Greece.

Vacation with a child

For a comfortable stay with children, it is better to choose a hotel with good infrastructure and a sandy beach. There are many suitable hotels on the islands of Crete and Rhodes.

Other Greek resorts with good sandy beaches and family hotels:

• Peninsula Halkidiki
• Peloponnese Peninsula
• Corfu island

Resorts for youth

Where to relax in Greece for young travelers? For youth recreation, it is better to go to the resorts of Hersonissos (Crete) and the island of Mykonos: there are many active entertainments, parties and discos.

Mykonos is considered an elite resort, vacations there are expensive; in Hersonissos you can relax much cheaper.

In addition to these resorts, young people often choose other places: the Halkidiki peninsula, the islands of Zakynthos and Rhodes.

Best Resorts for Seniors

For a quiet and measured holiday, it is best to go to the resorts of Crete (especially Rethymnon), Thessaloniki, the island of Thassos.

There are good hotels on the Halkidiki peninsula - from there, easy excursions to the historical parts of Greece are carried out. In the resort of Loutraki near Athens, you can undergo treatment with mineral waters.
Photo: Fira at night © Nikola Totuhov / flickr.com

The island of Crete

One of the most popular resorts in Greece is the island of Crete. There are good sandy beaches, beautiful nature, hotels of any category, many restaurants and entertainment. An excellent destination for those who choose where to go to Greece for the first time.

The main resorts of Crete are Rethymno, Elounda, Chania, Hersonissos and Gouves.

Rethymnon

Rethymno is a resort for a quiet and relaxing holiday. Many streets for romantic walks, sandy beaches, delicious food in cafes and restaurants. There are no parties and noise, entertainment for children - too. Vacationers are mostly elderly tourists from Europe.

Most excursions are from Heraklion or Chania, so you will have to get to these cities first (about an hour's journey).

There are other resorts not far from Rethymnon - for example, Bali (good beaches) or Plakias (suitable for diving).

Elounda

The small resort is located in a bay, thanks to which the sea is always calm, without big waves. Elounda has good sandy beaches. There are hotels that operate on an all-inclusive basis. Suitable for families with children.

Chania

The resort of Greece has many clean sandy beaches, but hotels are quite expensive. The city itself is beautiful (according to some tourists, it is the best on the island of Crete), it has many old buildings and attractions. There is an airport nearby, so the resort is easy to get to.

Hersonissos

One of the most youthful resorts in Crete is Hersonissos. There are many bars, restaurants, discos in the city - it is always noisy and fun there. The beaches are sandy, the prices for accommodation and meals are low. Hersonissos - a suitable option to relax in Greece inexpensively, but well.

If desired, you can easily get to Heraklion or the resort of Agios Nikolaos.

Photo: cafe in the village of Kalives, Crete © VV Nincic / flickr.com

Chalkidiki

The Halkidiki peninsula is located in the northern part of Greece, where it is better to relax in the height of summer (July-August) - at this time the weather is more comfortable there than in other resort regions of the country.

Nearby is the airport of Thessaloniki, from where it is easy to get to most of the resorts of Halkidiki - Kallikratia, Kassandra and others.

Callicracy

Quiet resort, except for the center, where fur shops are located. The city beach is well suited for children: it is sandy, the entry into the water is gentle, there are umbrellas and sun loungers, the sea is without strong waves. There are few attractions.

Cassandra

This Greek resort has a favorable environment for a family holiday. Beaches with fine light sand, clean water in the sea, fresh air. Among the hotels dominated by private hotels with a small area and hospitable hosts.

Photo: views of Halkidiki © AHT PHOTOGRAPH & PHOTOGRAPHER AGENCY / flickr.com

Rhodes

Where to go to rest in Greece, if you want to go to the island, but have you already visited Crete?

The second most popular island resort in Greece after Crete is Rhodes. It is easy to get to it - there is an airport and a seaport.

The island of Rhodes can be conditionally divided into 2 parts - eastern and western.

The eastern part is crowded, with hotels of all categories, restaurants, entertainment. The sea is a little warmer and calmer there, but Vacation prices tend to be higher.. The most popular beaches in the eastern part of Rhodes are: Afandou, Faliraki, Kolymbia, Lindos.

The western part is quiet, with rocky shores and crystal clear sea. This side of Rhodes is washed by the Aegean Sea, which is considered to be windier and cooler than the Mediterranean. In the western part of the island, it is better to relax in the high season (July and August) - the summer heat is easier to bear there. Prices in the west are lower, it is easier to find cheap hotels or private accommodation.

Photo: Rhodes fortress © Luc Coekaerts / flickr.com

Corfu

Corfu is located in the northern part of the country. This is a resort in Greece, where it is better to go on vacation in July and August - at this time it is too hot on the southern Greek islands. Corfu is especially beautiful during the flowering of orange and olive trees.

Despite its small size, there are many resort towns on Kofru. Holidays on the island are considered expensive compared to other places in Greece.

Photo: Agios Georgios village © Kevin Talec / flickr.com

Which part of the island is better to go to rest:

The best seaside resorts in Greece. When to go swimming and where is it inexpensive? Places preferred by parents with children, older tourists, young people and lovers of excursions.

Map of resorts in Greece

Crete

The largest Greek island and one of the largest islands in the Mediterranean Sea is located south of other resorts in this country. There are mountain landscapes, sandy beaches and cozy villages.

Who suits. Crete is known all over the world and is very popular for holidays in Greece by the sea. Resorts on the island are good for parents with children, youth companies and romantic getaways for two.

The best places. For sea holidays in Greece on Crete, tourists choose Elounda, Rethymno, Chania, Agios Nikolaos, Hersonissos.

Prices. In the high season, a tour from Moscow for two costs from 46 thousand rubles.

Pros and cons. Crete guarantees an excellent beach holiday at sea, ancient sights, medieval monuments, developed infrastructure and modern entertainment centers. In July and August, the real heat comes here.

Shaitan Limagna (Devil's Harbor) beach in Crete (Photo © anastosKol / flickr.com / Licensed CC BY-NC 2.0)

Corfu

The northernmost of the Greek islands is famous for its lush vegetation, rocky mountains and rolling coastline.

Who suits. Everyone who loves a comfortable holiday in Greece by the sea likes Corfu. This island is not as hot as in the south of the country. Wealthy tourists, elderly travelers and parents with children are happy to travel to Corfu.

The best places. Tourists love Barbati, Kalami, Paleokastritsa, Dassia, Agios Gordios. The youth chooses Kavos and Sidari.

Prices. A tour from Moscow for two costs from 60 thousand rubles.

Pros and cons. Corfu is known for its mild climate, excellent beaches and luxurious hotels. Minus - there are mosquitoes on the coast.

Porto Timoni beach, Corfu (Photo © unsplash.com / @chriskaridis)

Kos

The island is part of the Dodecanese archipelago.

Who suits. Kos is one of the best islands where you can relax in Greece by the sea. Newlyweds, pensioners and families with children come to the picturesque coast.

The best places. Tourists prefer Kamari, Kardamena, Psalidi, Tigaki, Marmari, Mastichari.

Prices. A tour for two from Moscow costs from 45 thousand rubles. This is one of the most inexpensive holiday options on the Aegean Sea in Greece.

Pros and cons. Paradise is famous for its beaches with clean sand, good ecology and beautiful natural landscapes. True, there are few attractions.

Beach on Kos (Photo © samchills / flickr.com)

Zakynthos

The summer resort island is the southernmost of the islands of the Ionian archipelago.

Who suits. Zakynthos smelled of rosemary and pine. Young people and connoisseurs of ecological tourism rest here. The purest sea water and rugged coastline have turned the island into a mecca for fans of scuba diving, snorkeling and water sports.

The best places. For a seaside holiday in Greece, tourists choose the resorts of Laganas, Tsivili, Alykes, Kalamaki, Vasilikos, Argasi.

Prices. A tour from Moscow for two costs from 49 thousand rubles.

Pros and cons. People go to Zakynthos for a relaxing holiday, picturesque bays and the azure sea. There are historical and architectural sights, but they are much less than in Crete or Rhodes.

Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach), Zakynthos (Photo © unsplash.com / @lloydaleveque)

On the trident peninsula, which lies in the north of the country, there are several popular resorts and the world-famous Christian center of Agios Athos.

Who suits. Halkidiki resorts are universal. They are popular with lovers of beaches, sightseeing tourism, parents with children and young people.

The best places. Developed infrastructure in Sithonia and Kassandra. The beaches of Agios Ioannis, Agios Nicholas, Kriaritsi, Lagomandra, Porto Karras and others are good.

Prices. A tour from Moscow for two costs from 62 thousand rubles.

Pros and cons. Halkidiki in Greece guarantees a pleasant seaside vacation, excellent hotels and interesting excursions. Among the main disadvantages are a long transfer from Thessaloniki and little entertainment for young people.

Beach in Nea Moudania, Halkidiki (Photo © booking.com / Ikos Oceania)

Loutraki

The most famous tourist center of the south of the country lies on the coast of the Corinthian Gulf of the Ionian Sea.

Who suits. If you have not decided where it is better to relax in Greece, choose Loutraki! The spa resort caters to every need. It is popular with families with children, elderly tourists and those who want to combine holidays by the sea in Greece with treatment.

Prices. A tour from Moscow for two costs from 69 thousand rubles.

Pros and cons. Loutraki is loved for its proximity to Athens, healing radon water, clear sea and good pebble beaches. The main drawback of the resort is that you have to travel to Corinth and Thessaloniki for children's entertainment.

City view (Photo © wikimedia.ru / Natalia Semenova)

Rhodes

The largest island of the Dodecanese archipelago lies 25 miles off the coast of Turkey.

Who suits. Rhodes is a great option for a seaside holiday in Greece. The island is liked by parents with children, elderly tourists and connoisseurs of excursions. On the west coast, there are excellent conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing.

The best places. Sandy beaches in Faliraki and Kallithea, pebble or sand and pebble beaches in Ixia, Ialyssos and Lindos.

Prices. A tour for two from Moscow costs from 40 thousand rubles. In 2020, this is the most budget option for a holiday in Greece by the sea!

Pros and cons. Coastal breezes constantly blow on the island, so the summer heat is easier to bear. Rhodes attracts with a beautiful sea and a relaxing holiday. Cons - few sandy beaches and forests.

Tsambika beach in Rhodes (Photo © Amaniero / flickr.com)

Where you can have a cheap vacation in Greece in 2020

The most expensive holidays are in Mykonos and Corfu. Lower prices for seaside holidays in Greece - in coastal cities and towns that are close to airports. In 2020, there are inexpensive tours to Kos, Zakynthos, Rhodes and Crete.

Cultural and sightseeing holidays in Greece

Look for author's interesting excursions on the Sputnik and. Individual and group, without crowds of tourists and in Russian.

Greece is not only a cool seaside vacation, but also a bunch of interesting ancient places. Fans of pilgrimage tours like it. Here is the Holy Athos and ancient temples. From Halkidiki it is convenient to go to the famous monastery of Meteora.

Rest on the sea Crete will allow you to see a lot of historical and natural places in Greece: Knossos and Phaistos palaces, the Labyrinth of the Minotaur, picturesque caves and the largest Samaria Gorge in Europe. The ancient city of Gortyna, medieval fortresses and monasteries have been preserved on the island.

If you chose Corfu, you can see the ancient cathedrals, the fortress of Angelokastro, the graceful Achillion Palace and the sheer cliffs of Peroulades. Visit the capital of the island and get acquainted with the architectural sights of Corfu.

Rhodes fortress (Photo © PublicDomainPictures / pixabay.com)

On the Rhodes there are many ancient and medieval buildings - the Acropolis, the Old Town, the Rhodes fortress, one of the oldest cities in the country - Kamiros, the Mandraki harbor, the palace of the Grand Masters and the Tsambika monastery. Excursions to the Butterfly Valley, the Rodini Landscape Park and the Seven Springs Valley are popular with holidaymakers.

In the homeland of Hippocrates, the island Kos, see the archaeological site of the 4th century BC e. - Asklepeion, the ancient Agora, the fortress of St. John and the Venetian fortress of Antimachia.

While on holiday on the island Zakynthos visit the Blue Caves, the temples of Dionysius and St. Nicholas Mol, the monastery of the Virgin Anafonitria, the Transfiguration Monastery and the stone park of Askos.

From Loutraki take a trip to the monastery of St. Potapius, to Lake Vouliagmeni and to the sanctuary of Hera in Perachora.

Blue caves in Zakynthos (Photo © unsplash.com / @maxvdo)

Where in Greece it is better to relax with children

There are places where it is better to relax with children in Greece both on the islands and on the mainland. Parents with babies stay in Corfu, Peloponnese, the resorts of Sithonia and Kassandra in Halkidiki. There are excellent gently sloping beaches and hotels with children's infrastructure.

For an interesting seaside holiday in Greece with a school-age child, we recommend resorts in Crete and Rhodes. Take your children on excursions, in water parks and entertainment centers.

Balos beach in Crete (Photo © stefanlanghp1 / pixabay.com)

The best resorts in Greece for young people

Where is it better to relax in Greece for lovers of noisy discos and parties? Youth companies like the Cretan resorts of Malia, Hersonissos, Chania, Agia Marina and Platanias.

There are entertainment centers and bars in Mykonos. Young people are attracted by the resorts of Vouliagmeni and Glyfada, which are located near Athens, and the town of Kallithea in Halkidiki.

Diving and snorkeling enthusiasts know the best places to relax in Greece at sea. They willingly come to the resorts of Rhodes, the western coast of Crete, the islands of Thassos, Samos and Lesbos. Windsurfers and kitesurfers choose Crete, Rhodes, Karpathos, Kos, Mykonos, Paros, Lefkada, Naxos and Ios.

Windsurfers on the beach in Kos (Photo © samchills / flickr.com)

Resorts in Greece for the elderly

Where is it better to relax in Greece for the elderly? Travelers of age love small resort villages by the sea, which have convenient beaches, restaurants, cafes and parks.

Resorts where you can have a good rest in Greece in 2020 are located on the mainland and islands. These are Thessaloniki, Peloponnese and the Cretan town of Rethymno. Elderly tourists like the spa resort of Loutraki. It is located 80 km from Athens and is famous for its healing radon springs. These places will appeal to those who value silence, beautiful nature and a relaxing holiday.

For a leisurely holiday by the sea in Greece, Corfu is good. Previously, only wealthy tourists came here, but now there are enough budget hotels and apartments on the island.

Not sure where to go to Greece for the first time? We have selected for you the 4 most popular and favorite destinations among travelers from all over the world, talked about their features and shared tips on how to spend time, where to stay and what to see. Read and make your choice!

For the first time in Greece - where to go?

In Greece, you can get acquainted with ancient culture and mythology, enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the Aegean Sea, soak up the Greek sun on the white sandy beaches of Greece, walk in the mountains with the cleanest air, admire the white buildings and taste delicious Greek cuisine.

Where to go and what to see

• Church of Panagia Paraportiani (Panagia Paraportiani);
• "Little Venice";
• an area with buildings of the 18th century, where the mansions of the great captains stand everywhere with colorful balconies and stylish windows;
• strange windmills, impressively located on the slope;
• white sandy beaches stretching along the perimeter of the island.

Where to stay

Mykonos is a tourist island, so you won't have any problems finding accommodation. - from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses and hostels, you can also search for hotels through the form on the left. For the very economical, there is Couchsurfing.

Things to do

• In Mykonos, many holidays and festivals are held in the summer, all this is accompanied by rivers of delicious wine and mountains of delicious food.
• Also, this "Isle of the Winds" is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, surfers and sailors come here from all over the world. Mykonos has a wide range of windsurfing beaches. The most isolated beaches are considered the best: Kórfos, Fteliá, Meyáli Ámmos and Kalafátis. Almost all beaches teach surfing.
• In Mykonos you can play tennis or minigolf at Ayios Stéfanos, beach volleyball at Ayia Ánna, skydiving or jet skiing at Eliá or Kalafátis. Even diving enthusiasts will not be left behind and will be able to explore the beauty of the underwater life of the Aegean Sea.

Mykonos is a standard choice where you can hang out, go on interesting excursions, and enjoy a beach holiday to your heart's content. Therefore, if you are going to visit Greece for the first time, and your budget allows, visit Mykonos, you will not be disappointed.

First time to Greece: Paros

Paros is one of the most popular holiday destinations for young people. Unlike Mykonos, this island is a more budget option. Unparalleled natural beauty, developed tourist infrastructure, beaches with clear waters, Byzantine footpaths connecting traditional Greek villages, breathtaking landscapes and pulsating nightlife - all this awaits you in Paros.

Parikia, the capital of the island, is also home to famous whitewashed rectangular buildings and impressive neoclassical mansions.

Where to go and what to see

• the village of Naousa, here the ruins of a Venetian fortress stand at the entrance to its small port;
• Lefkes is also a village, it is built into a mountain and surrounded by greenery on all sides, located at the highest point of the island of Paros, from here a breathtaking view of the island opens;
• Márpissa is a traditional village with a strong medieval character dating back to the 15th century;
• marble quarries in Marathi, where the famous Parian marble was mined.

Where to stay

It all depends on how much you plan to spend. There are options for every taste and budget.

Things to do

• Attending a religious festival is a great opportunity to taste the sweet wines produced in the Monemvassiá and Mantilariá vineyards. On August 15, one of these events is traditionally organized near the Panayia Ekatontapyliani church.
• Explore the island on horseback. There are two "horse rentals" here, one near the sea in Ambelás and the other in Ystérni. Such a walk around the island is a great way to see the most beautiful places in Paros with your own eyes.
• The sun-drenched beaches of Chrissí Aktí, Santa Maria, Poúnda and the crystal clear waters of the sea will captivate all beach lovers. You can also go surfing here.
• Surrounded by red and green clay cliffs, Kalóyeros Beach provides you with an effective and natural spa for free. Cover your body with clay and let it dry in the sun, after a while wash the clay into the sea - your skin will be soft and velvety.

Price statistics for tours to Greece

If you are not yet ready to travel on your own, then price statistics for tours to Greece will help you. Here you can find the lowest prices for holidays in Greece from leading tour operators.

First time to Greece: Skiathos

Skiathos is the most popular resort island in the Northern Sporades. Despite the rapid growth of the tourism sector, the countryside is still picturesque and unspoilt. The island is adorned with more than 60 beaches with crystal clear waters, the most famous of which is Koukounariés beach, which is considered to be the third most beautiful beach in the Mediterranean. Add to all this a vibrant nightlife, and you will understand why thousands of travelers travel to this island every year.

Where to go and what to see

• the capital of the island - the city of Skiathos with its cobbled stone, cozy streets and white buildings;
• a picturesque harbor surrounded by 4 islets;
• the small island of Boúrtzi, where the ruins of a Venetian fortress nestled among dense vegetation;
• home, and now a museum of the famous author Alexandros Papadiamantis (Alexandros Papadiamantis);
• Church of the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary, which houses 4 museums.

Where to stay

Skiathos has a variety of hotels, hostels and rooms at affordable prices. You can also stay at Camping Koukounariés.

Things to do

• Every summer the island hosts colorful cultural events, concerts and art exhibitions.
• Take a breathtaking trail that starts from Asélinos, past Kounistra monastery, small Asélinos beach and Alygariés beach, and ends at Kehriá beach.
• The entire nightlife of the island is concentrated on the street near the Old Harbor. Bars and nightclubs are open here all night until morning and are always full of fun young people. The Ammoudiá area often hosts open-air parties (it's easy to find them, you just need to follow the road leading to the airport).

First time to Greece: Chios

The island of Ios is practically in no way inferior to the famous and sometimes overrated Mykonos and Santorini. Walk the picturesque streets, enjoy the elegance of the buildings, swim in the warm clear waters of the world-famous beaches of Mylopótamos and Maganári, taste the obscenely delicious Greek delicacies.

Where to go and what to see

• Be sure to visit Hóra, perched on the famous hill with its snow-white cubic buildings and covered lanes.
• See 12 windmills.
• Panayia Gremiótissa (Madonna of the Rocks) is located at the highest point of Hòra, with amazing views of the bay and the neighboring island of Sikinos.
• The Byzantine castle of Paleókastro, built on the very top of a hill.
• The summer theater "Odysseas Elytis", built in one of the favorite places of the poet Odysseas Elytis and well preserved from 2800 BC.

Where to stay

There are many wonderful hotels and hostels, there are cozy family pensions near the beaches. There are also several camping areas on the island. Keep in mind that Chios does not have the same luxury as Mykonos and Santorini, but there are many beautiful places to walk.

Things to do

• I think you already understood that August 15 is a special day for the Greeks, Ios is proof of this. On this day, one of the most impressive Panagia Gremiotissa celebrations takes place here, when the procession carries the famous icon of the Virgin Mary around the Hóra, all this is accompanied by a banquet, playing national instruments and dancing.
• Walk along the ancient paths Ayia Theodóti-Hóra, Ayia Iríni-Valmá beach, Hóra-Pýrgos-Psáthi, Hóra-Áyios Spyridonas-Perivolia-Áyios Prókopas-Pelekaniá, which are still used by local shepherds, so you will see the most beautiful locations of the island.
• The mountains of Ios are ideal for climbing, mountaineering or cycling. On the peaks, you will have an unforgettable view of the island and the endless expanse of the Aegean Sea.
• On the beaches of Mylopótamos and Manganári, you can rent equipment for water sports, all the same surfing, water skiing, diving. Here you can learn how to surf and canoe.
• There are plenty of clubs, bars and restaurants on this island as well. Every day, crowds of young people enjoy colorful cocktails, dancing until dawn and night swimming here.

That's all, if you are going to Greece for the first time and still don't know where to go, listen to our advice. AT