DK Travel - DK Eyewitness Travel Guide Greek Islands

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t The colourful ssos village, Kefaloni

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t Visitors exploring cliffside paths at Fir.

From the breathtaking beaches to the pretty ports, the Greek Islands are irresistible. Whatever your dream trip to the islands includes, this DK Eyewitness Travel Guide is the perfect companion.

With hundreds of diverse islands to choose from, one is bound to offer the perfect escape. There are spectacular beaches, from pebble coves on Corfu to stretches of black sand on Santorni, all lapped by crystal-clear seas. These are within reach of characterful villages, like colourful dra town or artistic Folegndros.

Culture, both ancient and modern, imbues the air, too. Ancient sites and venerable monasteries are everywhere: walk in the steps of legendary heroes at the Minoan palace at Phaistos or more modern saints at the fortress-like Monastery of St John on Ptmos. The islands culinary scene invites pilgrims of its own, with aromatic seafood served at tavernas accompanied by wine made by cult vintners from around Greece.

Besides the attractions of the well-known islands, there are numerous small islands with your new favourite beach taverna just waiting to be discovered. Often the best way to find them is by throwing your schedule to the Greek islands famous stiff breeze, and island hopping where the wind takes you.

With so many islands begging to be explored, weve broken the region down into easily navigable chapters with detailed itineraries, expert knowledge and colourful, comprehensive maps to help you plan the perfect visit. Whether youre visiting one island, or island hopping indefinitely, this Eyewitness guide will ensure that you see and experience the very best the Greek islands have to offer. Enjoy the book, and enjoy the islands.

Overlooking a cove on Kefaloni.

Kalamta olives at a taverna.

Hiking across Crete.

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Azure water, seaside tavernas frequented by friendly locals and an ancient history of mythological civilizations. There are countless reasons why people fall in love with the Greek Islands. Here, we pick some of our favourites.

t A golden arc of sand protected by towering cliffs, with the remains of an old cargo ship rusting onshore and temptingly turquoise waters swimming in bay is what dreams are made of.

Discover Reasons to Love the Greek Islands

t The wind defines life on the islands: when its coming, when its going, whos going to blow in with the breeze. Try your hand at windsurfing in on Lefkda.

Discover Reasons to Love the Greek Islands

Ancient Civilizations

t The cradle of Western civilization, everyone from the Minoans to Ottomans has left their mark on the Greek Islands. Step into the past at sites such as the sun-drenched Roman ruins on .

Discover Reasons to Love the Greek Islands

The Mastic Villages of Hos

t The plain stone fortress walls around these villages belie the black-and-white geometric patterns that adorn many of their houses. Check out for some of the best.

Discover Reasons to Love the Greek Islands

Seafood Restaurants

t Whether its fresh tender octopus cooked over coals or delicious steamed razor clams, the Greek Islands revitalized culinary scene is worthy of .

Discover Reasons to Love the Greek Islands

Religious Festivals

t Melding tradition and riotous colour, the Orthodox Christian calendar is marked by festivals. On dra, Easter Sunday reaches its climax when locals light an effigy of .