Greece has long been a holiday favourite among British holidaymakers thanks to its reliably warm and sunny climate, beautiful natural landscapes, and affordable prices. It’s also the birthplace of democracy, with an ancient history dating back millennia.
To learn why Greece will make an excellent holiday destination this summer, check out our case for the Mediterranean country below.
*Disclosure – This is a collaborative post
Breathtaking Islands and Beaches
Greece has roughly 6,000 islands and islets to explore, with 227 inhabited. Mykonos is among the most famous, with beaches like Super Paradise, Elia, Ornos, and Platis Gialos, which are celebrated for their beautiful scenery, windsurfing, and sailing opportunities. In the town, you can explore the shops, cafes, and boutiques of the maze-like streets.
For a quieter experience, Kythnos is 104 kilometres from Piraeus. It has a traditional atmosphere that doesn’t rely on tourist income, with locals working in agriculture and fishing. The island boasts over 100 kilometres of coastline, with dozens of sandy beaches, including Kolonos, which connects the mainland with the Agios Loukas islet.
Rich History and Culture
No trip to Greece is complete without exploring its ancient history. The Acropolis of Athens, the country’s most iconic landmark, is a must-see. It’s home to the Parthenon, a pentelic marble temple built over 2,000 years ago and dedicated to the goddess Athena.
Sports enthusiasts should visit Olympia. The small town in Western Greece was the birthplace of the Olympic Games, with ruins of temples, stadiums, and workshops that housed the event every four years during classical antiquity.
Delicious Greek Cuisine
The social aspect of Greek dining, with shared plates enjoyed over friendly conversation, will impress you almost as much as the food itself. Greece has one of the best Mediterranean cuisines, with healthy foods prioritising olive oil, fresh seafood, fruits, and vegetables.
When ordering at a Greek restaurant, try moussaka, a dish featuring layers of aubergine, seasoned ground meat, and a creamy béchamel sauce. Souvlaki is another classic: grilled pork or chicken skewered and served in pita bread with salad and tzatziki. You can’t go wrong with loukoumades, small, honey-dipped fried dough balls for a sweet treat.
Shopping, Fashion, and Local Markets
Greek markets offer breathable, locally made women’s dresses that keep you cool in the summer heat but warm enough for evenings out. You can also find stalls selling handmade jewellery, like necklaces, that draw inspiration from ancient Greece and combine it with classic, minimalist designs.
On Sundays, you can browse the full Monastiraki Flea Market near Athens’ Monastiraki Square. There, you’ll find handmade sandals, replicas of ancient Greek clothing, and ice cream parlours to sit in and people-watch.
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