Highlights of Greece

Athens sits on the southeast side of the Greek mainland, near the Saronic Gulf and surrounded by the Attica mountains. The ancient city is considered the birthplace of democracy and the cradle of western civilization. The Acropolis is its most iconic landmark. Perched atop a rocky hill, take in panoramic views of the city from here. The historic center is a maze of neoclassical buildings, Byzantine churches and winding cobblestone streets. Plaka, Athens’ oldest and most charming neighborhood, is filled with craft shops, boutiques and tavernas serving authentic Greek food. As you wander, see residents enjoying long coffee breaks at cafes, going on evening strolls and having late dinners that often extend past midnight. Be sure to visit the National Archaeological Museum, which showcases a remarkable collection of artifacts. The changing of the guard ceremony at the Hellenic Parliament in Syntagma Square is quite a sight to behold. For a quick escape, head to Lake Vouliagmeni, a natural thermal lake just outside the city. It is a popular spot for a relaxing swim or lunch by the water.

Milos is a delightful volcanic island of the Cyclades located within the Aegean Sea in Greece. Although famous for the discovery of the Venus de Milo statue, the island has plenty to offer in its picture-postcard painted white villages set around a central caldera. Dozens of exotic beaches in various shades line its shores, including the otherworldly Sarakiniko Beach with its greyish-white, wind-shaped rock features and stories of pirates. These sparkling waters are ideal for a myriad of watersports and reef explorations, while the large network of dirt roads encourage off-roading adventures. Apart from churches and museums, there are thermal springs and old sulfur mines for outdoor enthusiasts. The Christian catacombs of Trypiti, the colorful syrmata or fishing houses of Klima village, and the sea caves of Kleftiko offer unique excursions. Scheduled throughout summer, the annual Festival of Milos showcases the rich culture and traditions of this island. Nearby, the protected islet of Antimilos is home to rare flora and fauna, especially a species of wild goat!

Santorini is a stunning crescent-shaped island with a volcanic history, cradled within the Cyclades and known for picturesque getaways in Greece’s Aegean Sea. Here, scenic cliffside towns of Fira, Oia, and other settlements along the caldera invite you on romantic sojourns. Steep footpaths frequented by donkey taxis and quad bikes lead to blue-domed churches, painted white buildings, fascinating museums, and small squares framed by bougainvillea. Beautiful, black sand beaches and secluded coves dot the outer edge of Santorini, with swimming and scuba diving opportunities aplenty, out in the azure waters. Thanks to Santorini’s excellent volcanic conditions, myriad homegrown wineries produce delicious wines, best enjoyed at tavern terraces or infinity pools offering incredible sunset views. Dozens of coastal trails weave through villages and on sheer lava terrain that overlooks superb seascapes. Daytrips include unwinding in hot springs that fringe the caldera islets, and exploring the prehistoric, former Minoan settlement of Akrotiri.