Lonely Planet - Lonely Planet Best of Greece & the Greek Islands

Hedonists rejoice! Greece is ancient sun-bleached ruins piercing blue skies, the balmy seas lapping an endless coastline and scatterings of idyllic islands, as well as a culture alive with passionate music, wonderful cuisine and thrill-seeking activities.

Western cultures roots are in Greece. Step into the ring where Olympians first competed. Climb ancient stone steps to Meteoras monasteries, perched atop towering rocks. Contemplate the oracles insights from the grandeur of Delphi, take in a starlit drama at an ancient outdoor theatre and be stunned by massive marble sculptures dredged up from the Aegean. But then youll encounter bold modern art, the melancholic throb of rembetika (blues songs) and artisans creating new work from traditional techniques.

Greece has endless cultural pursuits and a calendar bursting with festivals, holidays and exhibits.
Unique regional produce and cooking styles make travelling here a culinary adventure. Socialising in cafes and restaurants is a way of life.

Days melt from one to the next under wide open skies and a sea speckled with islands fringed with the white-sand, pine-tree shade beaches of your dreams. Wander along cobbled Byzantine foot-paths, hike up volcanoes, watch for dolphins and sea turtles, and cycle through lush forests. Meander through olive groves, idyllic villages and petrified forests. Thrill seekers will discover world-class kite-surfing, wreck diving, and rock-climbing locations with dizzying views. Or simply hop on a boat and set sail into the glittering blue beyond.

The quintessential landmark of Western civilisation

Explore the regal, elegant Acropolis early in the morning or soak up the view from a restaurant terrace; no matter how you experience it, you will be mesmerised by this ancient sites beauty, history and sheer size. The Parthenon is the star attraction, but dont overlook the exquisite Temple of Athena Nike and the Theatre of Dionysos. Nearby, the state-of-the-art Acropolis Museum provides a close-up look at the surviving treasures of the site.

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Crete

In the land of the mighty Minoans

Crete packs the best of Greece into a manageable island scale. Youll find the magnificent Bronze Age ruins of Knossos where the Minoans ruled over 4000 years ago. There are lovely beaches and the dramatic Samaria Gorge, home to soaring birds of prey and a dazzling array of wildflowers in spring. And theres incredible food and wine, including some of the worlds best virgin olive oil.

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Meteora

Spectacular stone forest crowned with monasteries

Soaring pillars of rock jut heavenward, a handful complete with monasteries perched on their summits. Built as early as the 14th century, these were home to hermit monks fleeing persecution. The rope ladders that once enabled the monks to reach the top have long been replaced by steps carved into the rock, and six of the 24 monasteries remain open to resident monks, religious pilgrims, rock climbers and tourists alike.

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Rhodes

Rhodes Old Town is a living museum

Wander along the top of the citys walls, meander down twisting, cobbled alleyways with soaring archways and lively squares. In these hidden corners your imagination will take off with flights of medieval fancy. Explore the ancient Knights Quarter, the old Jewish Quarter or the Hora (Turkish Quarter). Hear traditional live music in tiny tavernas or dine on fresh seafood at atmospheric outdoor restaurants.