Delicious food, stunning beaches, entrancing history and unique culture – Greece has a bit of everything, making it a sure-fire success for practically every type of traveller.
Here’s what to look forward to, how to island hop like a pro, and which islands to add to your itinerary whether you’re visiting with the entire family in tow, on a romantic retreat or travelling solo in search of a party.
Reasons to visit Greece
Fall in love again
Honeymoon traveller couple hugging on a wooden bench and enjoys their tropical holiday. Wedding travel. Young happy couple sitting back on beach. Rear view of a couple in love on vacation. Travelers
Last year, Greece snagged fourth place on the World’s Trending Honeymoon Destinations list, just behind the Maldives, Italy and Bali. Greece and its islands boast countless luxurious resorts offering incredible specials on stays for couples, with some of the most lavish honeymoon suites in the world.
‘Just a few activities that should be on every couple’s radar include a hand-in-hand stroll through the romantic coastal city of Nafplio, known for its waterfront that glows a lustrous peach-pink at sunset, and its charming narrow streets and alleyways,’ says Antoinette Turner, General Manager of Flight Centre South Africa.
‘Another option is to splurge on a private yacht tour or to take to the ancient city of Athens at night when iconic monuments, such as Acropolis and the Parthenon, are illuminated and the crowds have dispersed,’ she adds.
Of course, no holiday in Greece would be complete without traditional Greek meals and wine tasting – did you know the country has a history of wine producing dating back 6,500 years? Greek wine is known for its bold, complex flavours and aromas, heavily influenced by the country’s unique terroir, climate and winemaking techniques.
Great for Families
Is there anyone out there who doesn’t love the idea of spending the day on the beach? The Greek coastline promises approximately 16,000 kilometres of silky beach sand where the kids can run free, and parents and grandparents can relax. The country and its islands also see over 3,000 hours of sunshine annually. In short, it’s easy to see why Greece is such a popular choice for family and multi-generational getaways.
Along with soaking up some rays, families can enjoy exploring the ancient ruins and learning about the country’s fascinating history. Family cooking classes are also available, allowing everyone to get stuck in the process of whipping up some of Greece’s best-loved dishes like moussaka and souvlaki.
Is your tribe more into fancy footwork than food? Then a must for your itinerary is a family dance class, where you’ll learn how to perform various traditional dances, such as the syrtos and kalamatianos, and have loads of fun doing it!
Do it solo
Visiting solo? Consider a cruise! Mediterranean and Greek Isles cruises are exceptionally sought-after amongst the solo traveller market.
‘Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is preparing for the summer cruise season in the Greek Isles, and we’re catering for every type of traveller, including our solo voyagers. We’ve earned Porthole Magazine’s title of ‘Best Cruise Line for Solo Travellers’ for six years in a row, and we were the first cruise line to build staterooms and common areas specifically for the single cruiser,’ says Kevin Bubolz, Vice President & Managing Director Continental Europe, Israel, Middle East and Africa (CEMEA).
‘Greece and the Greek Isles are definitely a top choice for solo cruisers in 2023 and beyond. Greece is a safe and welcoming country, with friendly locals and a lively social scene that makes it easy to meet new people. Further, Greek cruises typically stop at multiple destinations and islands, allowing travellers to explore many different places, from stunning beaches to vibrant villages,’ Bubolz adds.Greece and the Greek Isles are definitely a top choice for solo cruisers in 2023 and beyond. Greece is a safe and welcoming destination for solo travellers, offering a blend of adventure and relaxation.
While you’re exploring Greece, don’t forget to take a look at the top Greek restaurants in Cape Town to savour the authentic flavours of this beautiful country.
Pictures: Getty Images and Supplied.
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