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Greece in Summer, a Popular Choice
For those looking for a summer adventure, look no further than Greece. This highly sought-after European destination has it all – from island hopping under the hot summer sun, enjoying authentic Greek cuisine, and viewing Greece’s ancient architecture. Surround yourself in the beauty of Greece, indulging in all its diverse offerings. With something to satisfy every traveller, enjoying a Greek summer is an easy decision to make.
Let’s look at the best of what Greece has to offer and discover your perfect summer holiday. Will you relax seaside in Greece’s Ionian seas, or will you take in the Aegean from your private hillside terrace? Relaxation is a guaranteed feature of any visit to Greece in summer, coupled with days of adventure and excitement as you tour archaeological sites dating back thousands of years. If you’re in search of a destination that has it all, you’ve found it.
Tour Historical and Cultural Landmarks
With over 18 UNESCO World Heritage Sites spread across its rich landscape, Greece is ideal for those who are fascinated by the ancient histories of the past. Described as one of the most beautiful countries in the world, Greece holds true to its antiquity, allowing travellers to step back in time and appreciate the preservation of ancient and important cultural sites. Moments of awe and wonder will accompany you wherever you find yourself in Greece – a unique privilege not many places can lay claim to.
Designer Journeys’ network of in-destination Local Designers will use their expert knowledge, local insight and travel planning skills to design your ultimate Greece experience. Begin designing your journey today! When you find yourself in Athens, you will undoubtedly make your way to the city’s most famous landmark: the Acropolis. Named for the Greek word meaning “high city”, the Acropolis was built upon a rock at a staggering 156 metres above sea level. Truly the symbol of Athens, the Acropolis represents Greek intelligence and art, which emerged in the 5th century BC. Our contemporary values of democracy, freedom of expression, and philosophy were all born at this great site and still impact the world today. When you view the Acropolis, you’re standing before the most complete and preserved monument from ancient Greece. The weight of the moment won’t be lost on you, and it’s a feeling that’s been shared for thousands of years. You’ll see the Parthenon during your visit to the Acropolis, as well as the Temple of Athena Nike. For a deeper look and understanding of the Acropolis, be sure to visit the Acropolis Museum. There, you’ll find artefacts found at the site dating back through all the ages of ancient Greece. An extremely popular tourist destination, you can tour the grounds year-round, and crowd levels will depend on the season. The peak season, during summer, will be the busiest, while the shoulder seasons and winter provide a quieter visit. You can explore the Acropolis with or without a guide, and we recommend you set aside two to three hours to ensure you get the full experience of this ancient Athenian landmark. A great way to explore Athens is through our 4-Day Athens City Break trip. Another must-see historical destination is Delos, an island and archaeological site in the Aegean sea said to be the birthplace of the mythical figure Apollo. This uninhabited island, which you can only visit (no overnight stays are permitted), features ancient temples, an amphitheatre, and ruins of markets and homes. The easiest way to visit Delos is by taking a ferry from Mykonos, one of the most popular islands for the summer holidays. Dotted with stunning vistas and beaches, the Greek islands are blissful retreats, but they’re also home to some of Greece’s best archaeological finds. Near Mykonos, on the famous island of Santorini, uncover Akrotiri, a 6500-year-old Bronze Age settlement that was later covered by a volcanic eruption 2000 years ago. More ancient wonders lie in wait on Rhodes, the largest of the Dodecanese islands. Here, you’ll discover the UNESCO World Heritage site, Rhodes Old Town. Medieval architecture and roads still make their home on this exciting island, including the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes. As grand and imposing as its name is long, the palace is a surprising find during a summer holiday celebrating the sand and sea. In central Greece, you’ll find the ancient remains of Delphi. Once considered the centre of the world by the ancient Greeks, this mystical site is rooted in legend. Said to be where Apollo once slews a great dragon, Delphi was home to Pythia, the oracle of Delphi. You’ll spend hours exploring this UNESCO World Heritage site, learning about the myths and history at the museum on the premises. Once the most important religious site in ancient Greece, the allure and beauty of Delphi have not diminished in the thousands of years since its inception. It’s a highlight of our 15-Day Ancient and Classical Greece with Mykonos & Santorini trip, coupled with relaxing island time. These tremendous historic sites are only a taste of what Greece has to offer. You don’t need to be an art or history buff to enjoy exploring the remains of ancient Greece, and you’ll never tire of their splendour against the gorgeous backdrop of Greece’s nature. The Peloponnese region has a plethora of important sites, including Ancient Olympia and Ancient Corinth. If you’re keen to explore Greece’s archaeological wonders of the Peloponnese region, check out our 7-Day Mythical Peloponnese trip. If you’re visiting Greece during summer, island hopping is an absolute must. Home to 6000islands across the Mediterranean, only 227 of the Greek Islands are inhabited. Each island offers something unique to discover, but the bright blue water and stunning vistas are features they all share. While still a daunting number of possible holiday destinations, we’ll make it easy for you to navigate and decide which Greek islands to discover first. The Greek islands are grouped together in chains which are geographically based. Among the most popular of these groupings are the Ionian islands, Cyclades islands and Dodecanese islands. Our 13-Day Ultimate Greek Island-Hopping Tour is a great way to explore the various island groups, including the standalone island, Crete. If white-washed buildings with blue doors and roofs spring to mind when you picture the Greek islands, you’re likely thinking of the Cyclades island chain. This is where you’ll find the world-famous islands Santorini and Mykonos, perhaps the two most popular of all the Greek islands. Santorini and Mykonos come fully to life during the summer months, with Santorini known for its sunsets, impeccable accommodations, and fine dining. Mykonos attracts a slightly different crowd than its neighbour, boasting a party atmosphere and vibrant nightlife. Designer Journeys’ network of in-destination Local Designers will use their expert knowledge, local insight and travel planning skills to design your ultimate Greece experience. Begin designing your journey today! No less holiday-worthy are fellow Cyclades islands Naxos, Paros and Antiparos, and Milos – a few of which are enjoyed during our 7-Day Cyclades – The Authentic Way trip. For a quieter stay in the Cyclades, check out the islands of Amorgos and Koufonisia. Any and all of the Cyclades islands will provide you with the ultimate Greek summer holiday, each offering its own unique energies for a well-rounded and fulfilling retreat. Nearer to Turkey is where you’ll discover the Dodecanese island chain. The two most popular of these twelve islands are Rhodes and Kos. An exciting draw to these islands is the blend of history and influence from various cultures that they experienced over a few thousand years. The Ancient Greeks settled there, of course, but perhaps more surprising is their occupation by Romans, Venetians, medieval knights, and later on, the Ottoman Empire. This mix of formidable cultures has left the Dodecanese islands with unique architectural elements, many of which are medieval in design. To capture all that Rhodes has to offer, try our 7-Day Majestic Rhodes Luxury and Discovery trip. Once you’ve explored their ancient sites and relics, be sure to indulge in all of the natural amenities of the islands. Sandy white beaches, blue Aegean waters, and paths perfect for hiking and cycling all await you when you make your way to the Dodecanese island chain. Home to 12 habitable islands, you’ll also find quieter and more remote-style holidays on less visited islands like Karpathos, Astypalea, and Patmos. To the west of mainland Greece, you’ll find the wonderfully lush Ionian islands. The closest island chain to Italy, you’ll see the Venetian influence left over from when they occupied this set of islands. What was once the battlefield for ancient wars between the Romans and the Greeks, the Ionian Sea and its islands are now popular holiday destinations filled with serenity and incredible nature. It’s here you’ll discover Corfu. From seaside villages to luxurious resorts, Corfu is an eclectic mix that exists in perfect harmony. This island offers an abundance of activities, including exploring ancient Corfu Town. You’ll stroll through cobblestone streets and take in sights like noble mansions, museums, old town squares, palaces, and the famous 17th-century Vlacherna Monastery. Once you’ve had your fill of sightseeing, make your way to any of Corfu’s surrounding beaches. Many are surrounded by mountains and forests, providing a striking contrast to the bright blue of the Ionian Sea. On our 11-Day Ionian and Aegean Highlights trip, you’ll enjoy days spent seeing all that Corfu has to offer. If beaches are what you’re truly after, visiting Zakynthos and Kefalonia is an absolute must. Often described as exotic, Zakynthos is famed for its turquoise waters and white cliffs. When travelling in summer, you may even be lucky enough to witness the island’s endangered turtles laying their eggs or watching the babies hatch. It’s a nature lover’s paradise, and the same can be said for nearby Kefalonia. Less visited than Zakynthos but equally worthwhile, the island of Kefalonia offers the same turquoise seas and wild nature. On either island, you’ll enjoy spending time in traditional villages and indulging in authentic Greek cuisine under the blazing summer sun. Participate in watersports like diving or snorkelling, or find adventure on the winding nature paths across the islands. Both islands are exciting features of our 14-Day Ionian Dream trip. No matter where your travels take you during your summer trip to Greece, you’ll find delicious and authentic Greek food to more than satisfy your appetite. Celebrated as one of the finest cuisines in the world, you can’t fully experience Greek culture without indulging in the many delicacies across the region. From family-run, generational tavernas found in alleyways and town plazas to Michelin-starred restaurants and fine dining, Greek gastronomy is for everyone. Utilising local and high-quality ingredients in every dish, Greek cuisine is the taste of summer. Eating becomes an experience in itself when in Greece and gives you the opportunity to connect with the people, the land, and the history of this ancient destination. From fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, rosemary, and mint, to full-bodied wines and olive oils used to coat freshly caught shrimp, fish, and octopus, Greek cuisine embodies a meal that is infused with rustic flavours and time-honoured tradition. 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You’ll try Greek staples like dolmades (herbed rice stuffed in cabbage or grape leaves), moussaka (eggplant dish similar to Italian lasagna), and spanakopita (phyllo pastry stuffed with spinach and cheese). And, of course, you’d be remiss not to enjoy classic Greek lamb or seafood, accompanied by refreshing salads of feta, tomatoes and olives. Each meal you’ll enjoy will be crafted with great care and attention to authenticity, all while paying homage to the rich culture and history that came before. Greek cuisine isn’t just about the taste, it’s about the feeling of community and connection as you savour meals shared with the ones you love over a good bottle of wine. Great food is a feature of any trip to Greece, and our 11-Day Athens, Naxos & Santorini Foodie Delights highlights Greek cuisine to the fullest. The archaeology and history of Greece are unmissable, and the same goes for the countless beaches dotting the islands and mainland coasts. When you travel to Greece in summer, you’ll spend many a day exploring and relaxing upon the gorgeous Greek shores. Allow yourself to unwind, with the warm Mediterranean sea and gentle breezes providing the ultimate refreshment. From pebbled beaches to sandy shores, hidden coves or bustling promenades, beaches appeal to all tastes. Will you relax at a seaside taverna enjoying a glass of wine while listening to the waves lapping against the shore? Or will you set sail for the day to snorkel, swim, and view majestic cliffs from afar? The options are endless, and no day needs to be the same when you’re exploring Greece’s beaches. Designer Journeys’ network of in-destination Local Designers will use their expert knowledge, local insight and travel planning skills to design your ultimate Greece experience. Begin designing your journey today! You’ll find some of the world’s most stunning beaches in Greece. This small country alone ranks second in the world, featuring an astounding 545 beaches listed as Blue Flag Beaches. This means they’re awarded and recognised as having the highest standards when it comes to factors including the environment and safety. You’ll be enjoying some of the cleanest and most unspoiled beaches, from the water to the surrounding nature. Travelling to Greece in the summer will ensure you have the holiday of a lifetime. You’ll be gifting yourself incredibly varied experiences, rich in ancient history and myth, culture, and natural beauty. You can wake up and choose your individualised adventure every single day.Planning to Visit Greece?
The Acropolis of Athens
Discover the Archaeology of the Islands
Delve into Myth at Delphi
Spend the Summer Island Hopping
Cyclades Islands
Planning to Visit Greece?
Dodecanese Islands
Ionian Islands
Indulge in Authentic Greek Cuisine
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Swim at Some of the World’s Best Beaches
Planning to Visit Greece?
Design Your Summer Trip to Greece
From days spent relaxing at lavish accommodations and enjoying the finest of Greek gastronomy to immersing yourself in authentic Greek culture as you stroll through small towns and villages, stopping at tavernas along the way to dine like a local, your dream trip is yours to decide. You’ll be enjoying a carefree trip filled with the Mediterranean summer sun and sea, followed by excursions to explore the wonders of Ancient Greece. Connect with a Local Designer today to build and create your ultimate summer trip to Greece.