Discover Greece's stunning beaches
Discover Your Odyssey: An Unforgettable Greece Holiday
Explore Ancient Wonders, Island-Hop Idyllic Archipelagos, Relax on Stunning Coasts, and Experience Legendary Hospitality.
Imagine standing atop the Acropolis overlooking Athens, the birthplace of democracy; sailing into a caldera harbour as white-washed villages cling to volcanic cliffs; feeling the sun warm your skin on a pristine beach lapped by turquoise waters; and savouring fresh, delicious food in a lively seaside taverna. This is the timeless magic of a Greece Holiday. From the staggering history of the mainland to the breathtaking beauty of its thousands of islands, Greece offers an unparalleled blend of ancient wonders, stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm, welcoming people. It's a destination that captivates discerning travellers with its luxurious resorts, romantic vistas, and rich heritage, while families adore its beautiful beaches, engaging myths, and endless opportunities for fun and discovery. We understand the deep allure of Greece and specialise in crafting bespoke journeys that reveal its heart and soul. This guide illuminates the diverse splendours of Greece and explains how Liyana Travels makes your Hellenic adventure seamless and extraordinary.
Greece Offers
Overview
Travel Guide
Discover Greece: Ancient Wonders, Island Dreams, and More
Greece, the sun-kissed cradle of Western civilization, is a country renowned worldwide for its profound ancient history, thousands of breathtaking islands, delectable Mediterranean cuisine, and legendary hospitality. Situated in Southern Europe, this Hellenic republic offers UK travellers an unforgettable blend of cultural exploration and blissful relaxation. Planning your Greek odyssey and wondering what the country is truly famous for? Let Liyana Travels, your dedicated UK travel expert, introduce you to the essential Greek experience.
Cradle of Western Civilization: Ancient History & Ruins
Greece is globally famous as the birthplace of democracy, philosophy, theatre, and the Olympic Games. Its mainland and islands are treasure troves of archaeological wonders. Stand in awe before the magnificent Parthenon atop the Acropolis in Athens, seek wisdom at the ancient oracle site of Delphi, walk the grounds of the first Olympia, or explore the Minoan Palace of Knossos on Crete. Visiting these iconic ruins offers a powerful connection to the past.
Sun-Drenched Islands & Stunning Beaches
Greece is renowned for its stunning archipelago, featuring thousands of islands shimmering in the Aegean and Ionian seas. Each island group offers unique beauty, from the dramatic caldera cliffs and iconic sunsets of Santorini and the vibrant nightlife and windmills of Mykonos in the Cyclades, to the lush landscapes of Corfu in the Ionian and the historical richness of Crete and Rhodes. These islands boast countless beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters, making Greece a premier beach destination.
Fresh Mediterranean Cuisine & Flavours
Greek cuisine is celebrated for its fresh, healthy ingredients and vibrant Mediterranean flavours. It's famous for dishes like moussaka, grilled souvlaki, authentic Greek salads brimming with feta and olives, fresh seafood, and delicious dips like tzatziki. Sharing simple, flavourful meals at a traditional taverna, perhaps paired with local wine or ouzo, is a cornerstone of Greek culture and a delight that Liyana Travels can help you experience.
Mythology, Culture & Warm Hospitality
The rich tapestry of Greek mythology, featuring gods, goddesses, and epic heroes, echoes throughout the country's sites and culture. Beyond the myths, Greece is known for its living traditions, Orthodox faith, distinctive music, and thousands of regional dances. Perhaps most famously, Greece embodies genuine warmth and hospitality (filoxenia), where visitors are welcomed like family, ensuring a deeply enriching and memorable journey.
Location
Island Hopping & Exploring Greece
Navigating between the Greek mainland and its enchanting islands is part of the unique travel experience:
- Ferries: The quintessential way to island hop. Options range from large, slower car ferries (offering cabins for overnight journeys and open decks) to faster high-speed catamarans. Services connect Athens' ports (Piraeus and Rafina) to numerous islands and run between island groups. Booking in advance, especially during peak season, is highly recommended.
- Domestic Flights: Ideal for covering longer distances quickly, such as flying from Athens to Crete, Rhodes, Santorini, Mykonos, or Thessaloniki. Airlines like Aegean/Olympic Air and Sky Express operate extensive networks.
- Island Transport: On larger islands like Crete or Rhodes, car hire offers the most flexibility for exploration. On smaller islands, scooters or All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) are popular rental options. Local buses (KTEL) connect main towns and some villages/beaches, varying in frequency. Taxis are also available. Liyana Travels expertly plans your inter-island and local transport for a smooth and stress-free journey.
Top Experiences in Greece
Greece offers a wealth of historical sites, natural beauty, and cultural experiences. Here are some iconic Things to do in Greece that capture its diverse appeal:
Discover the Beauty of the Cycladic Islands
Experience the quintessential Greek island aesthetic in the Cyclades. Witness the unforgettable sunsets over the volcanic caldera in Santorini, exploring its stunning white-washed villages like Oia and Fira perched on cliffsides. Alternatively, embrace the cosmopolitan vibe of Mykonos, with its iconic windmills, charming Little Venice waterfront, beautiful beaches, and lively (often luxurious) nightlife and beach club scene. Many Luxury Greece Resorts are found here.
Relax by the Azure Sea & Savour Authentic Greek Flavours
Greece boasts thousands of kilometres of coastline and countless beautiful beaches, from the black volcanic sands of Santorini to the golden stretches of Crete and the pebble coves of the Ionian islands. Find your perfect spot to relax by the sparkling Aegean or Ionian Sea. Afterwards, indulge in delicious, fresh Greek cuisine at a traditional seaside taverna – think grilled fish, calamari, Greek salad, local cheeses, and perhaps a glass of ouzo or local wine, all served with warm Greek hospitality.
Stand in Awe of the Acropolis in Athens
No trip to Greece is complete without visiting its most famous landmark. Ascend the sacred rock of the Acropolis to marvel at the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Propylaea – enduring symbols of Classical Greece and Western civilisation. Combine your visit with the superb Acropolis Museum nearby and wander through the charming, historic Plaka district nestled at its base.
Top Tips for New Travellers
Plan Your Island Hopping Adventure
If visiting multiple islands, book ferry tickets or domestic flights well in advance, especially during summer. High-speed ferries are faster but more expensive and potentially bumpier; conventional ferries are slower but more stable and offer outdoor deck space. Check schedules carefully as they can change. Pack reasonably light if you'll be moving between islands frequently. Allow buffer time for potential delays.
Embrace Greek Hospitality & Local Customs
Greeks are known for their warmth (philoxenia). Learning basic greetings is appreciated. Dress respectfully when visiting monasteries and churches (shoulders and knees covered; women may need skirts/shawls, sometimes provided). Embrace the more relaxed pace of life, often referred to as "siga-siga" (slowly, slowly). While less common in main tourist hubs now, some smaller shops might observe afternoon closing hours.
Carry Cash for Convenience
The currency is the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, shops in tourist areas, and for ferry/flight bookings. However, it's essential to carry some cash for smaller tavernas (especially in villages), local shops, markets, taxis, and tips where appropriate (tipping is appreciated for good service but not obligatory or percentage-based like the US). ATMs are readily available.
Pack for Sun, Sightseeing, and Comfort
The Greek sun is strong, even in spring and autumn. Pack high-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and quality sunglasses. Comfortable walking shoes are crucial for exploring archaeological sites (which often have uneven, rocky surfaces) and wandering through charming village lanes. Pack light layers, swimwear, and casual, breathable clothing. Include something slightly smarter for evenings if desired.
Best Time to Visit Greece
Greece enjoys a predominantly Mediterranean climate, making it attractive for much of the year, though the Best time to visit Greece depends on your preferences:
- Spring (April - early June): Often considered ideal. Weather is pleasantly warm and sunny, perfect for sightseeing on the mainland and exploring islands. Wildflowers are in bloom, and the sea is starting to warm up for swimming (especially by late May/June). Crowds are fewer than in summer.
- Autumn (September - October): Another excellent season. Temperatures remain warm, the sea is at its warmest after the summer heat, and the intense summer crowds have dispersed. Ideal for both island relaxation and comfortable sightseeing.
- Summer (late June - August): Peak tourist season brings hot, sunny, and dry weather, especially on the islands and in the south (average highs often 30°C+). Perfect for beach holidays and enjoying the vibrant island life, but expect higher prices and significant crowds at popular spots.
Communicating with Ease
The official language of Greece is Greek. However, English is widely spoken and understood, particularly in areas frequented by tourists – this includes Athens, popular islands (like Santorini, Mykonos, Crete, Rhodes, Corfu), hotels, restaurants, shops, and major archaeological sites. While staff in tourist areas usually have good English skills, learning a few basic Greek phrases like "Yassas" (Hello - formal/plural), "Efcharisto" (Thank you), and "Parakalo" (Please/You're welcome) is always appreciated and warmly received.
Why Greece with Liyana Travels?
Greece offers a timeless journey filled with ancient history, mythical landscapes, sun-drenched islands, azure seas, delicious cuisine, and genuine warmth. It’s a destination that caters beautifully to discerning travellers seeking cultural enrichment, romantic escapes, luxurious relaxation, and unforgettable adventures, while also providing wonderful beach holidays and engaging experiences for families. A Greece Holiday connects you to the roots of Western culture while dazzling you with natural beauty.
Choosing us ensures your Greek odyssey is perfectly orchestrated and deeply rewarding. Our expertise allows us to navigate the complexities of island hopping and mainland exploration, crafting bespoke itineraries that match your dreams. We select the finest Luxury Greece Resorts, charming boutique hotels, and private villas, arrange seamless ferry and flight connections, provide knowledgeable local guides for historical sites, and secure exclusive experiences. Let Liyana Travels handle every detail, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the magic and beauty of Greece.
