Skip to main content

All Articles

What are you looking for?

Travel Tips

Top 6 Wines You Need To Try On Your Next Trip To Greece

It's no secret that wine has long been associated with Greece, with the ancient Greek God Dionysus even credited with its invention. With over 300 indigenous grape varieties, Greece has a lot to offer when it comes to delicious and unique wines that are gaining popularity worldwide. Beyond their distinctive taste, these wines are also rich in antioxidants, making them good for the heart and digestive health. From budget-friendly to high-end options, Greece truly is a wine lover's paradise. Here are the top 6 options to try on your next trip: Agiorgitiko Wine The actual name of the wine is Saint George, and it is grown mainly in the regions of Peloponnese, Central Greece, and some islands in the Aegean Sea. It produces a medium-bodied wine with soft tannins and flavors of red fruit, spices, and vanilla. Agiorgitiko is best combined with meat, pasta dishes with spicy sauces, pizza, sausages, and spicy cheeses. Assyrtiko Wine It is made out of the assyrtiko grape, found mainly in Santorini, and also found in different parts of Greece, such as Crete, some islands of the Aegean Sea, the Peloponnese region, the Attica region, Macedonia, and Thraki. Australia also produces assyrtiko wine. It is a white wine known for its bright acidity, mineral notes, and citrus flavors. Assyrtiko is best combined with shellfish, fish cooked on the grill, salmon, seafood, cheeses, and lamb cooked into lemon sauce. It is also versatile enough to be enjoyed on its own! Xinomavro Wine Xinomavro is a red grape variety that is grown in Northern Greece, specifically in Aminteo, Rapsani, Naousa, and Igoumenitsa. The wine produced is with high acidity and robust tannins, giving the wine a rich, complex flavor profile. Xinomavro and Nebollio, the grape used to make Barolo, are often compared. Xinomavro is best combined with lamb stew, meat, sausages, and mushrooms. Moschofilero Wine A wine that is part of the white grape variety grown in the Peloponnese region and some islands of the Ionian Sea. Moschofilero is a combination of floral aromas and flavors such as peach, grapefruit, lemon, and apricot.  Moschofilero is best combined with green salads, white cheeses, seafood, and chicken. Mavrodaphne Wine A red grape variety that is grown in Kefalonia, Zakynthos, and the Peloponesse region. It produces a sweet dessert wine with flavors of coffee, eucalyptus, and chocolate. Mavrodaphne is best combined with pork cooked with wine, stuffed turkey, pasta bolognese, blue cheeses, and chocolate desserts. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a digestif. Samos Wine Samos is made out of Muscat grape and it is produced on Samos island. Its flavor is sweet, with notes of peach and apricot. Samos wineis best combined with desserts like baklava, fruits, and cheeses. In addition to these grape varieties, Greece is also known for its retsina, a white wine that is flavored with pine resin. While retsina may not be for everyone, it is a unique and traditional Greek wine that is worth trying at least once. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or just looking to try something new, Greece has plenty of options to explore. From crisp, refreshing whites to bold, complex reds, there's a Greek wine for every palate. So the next time you find yourself in Greece, be sure to raise a glass and savor the flavors of this ancient wine culture. Cheers!  

15/07/2024
Top 6 Wines You Need To Try On Your Next Trip To Greece
Travel Tips

Zorba the Greek project – The Trekking

Zorba the Greek, the hero of author Kazantzakis “lives” in Eastern Halkidiki! Trekking, an unlimited source of life to the land of Zorba! Green hillsides surrounding the settlement of Palaiochori. Streams. Trails. Fertile mountains, with fruit-bearing trees and bushes. Nature at its purest and most authentic form. Nightingales singing of their freedom. And a Castle. The Castle of Neposi. Giorgis is walking. The spring hillside in its full glory. The fragrance of wildflowers. The soil damp with the morning dew. Bouquets of mushrooms and forest clearings. The sound of running water soaking the earth high and low. Spots where you cannot see the sky. The trees are intertwined in a green embrace. Giorgis is standing still. Lumberjacks are chopping timber for the coming winter. The mules are close. The beekeepers are a bit further down. They have brought their beehives for the spring ericas. Giorgis is having a small talk. He is lost in the forest. Grassy slopes leading to the water. He is picking up wild chards and poppies. With a little flour you can make the best pie. He stops by every small church, lighting up the oil lamp, making the sign of the cross and being on his way. Turtles are out on their morning stroll. Wild squirrels and butterflies are chasing each other aimlessly. The very picture of a green fairytale. It is this very same, pristine picture that you get to see and feel, should you decide to follow Giorgis’ route inside the forest of Zorbas in Palaiochori. It is hard to believe that people harboured such respect for nature that it has been preserved as a piece of yesterday welcoming trekkers from all over the world and leading them along the same paths that Zorba the Greek used to follow in the course of his life. You can find the route here and become a part of Giorgis’ story!

01/07/2024
Zorba the Greek project – The Trekking
Visit Greece

Guidelines for a safe hike

As you prepare to hike in the beautiful landscapes of Greece during the hot summer months, here are some essential tips to ensure your safety and enjoyment.  Ideally, you should avoid hiking during a heatwave. However, if you really want to take a hike, please keep in mind: The night before the hike, make sure you sleep well, eat lightly and do not consume any alcohol. Start the hike well-hydrated. Inform your hotel and/or family of your destination, route, and estimated return time. If possible, avoid going on your own. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing that covers the entire surface of the body, as well as appropriate shoes. Always wear a hat and sunglasses. In your backpack, always have at least 1.5 liters of water, electrolytes, honey sticks, sunscreen with a high protection factor, a whistle, a flashlight, a power bank for your phone, and a lighter. DRINK BEFORE YOU'RE THIRSTY... do not forget to drink small amounts of water at regular intervals, every 20 minutes. And... after the hike, good gradual rehydration. Useful numbers: 112: EU number for emergency situations 100: Police 166: Ambulance 108: Coast Guard 199: Fire Department 2107793777: Food Poisonings Stay safe while you enjoy your holidays in Greece!

20/06/2024
Guidelines for a safe hike
Travel Tips

The Athenian Odyssey: History, Culture, and Cuisine

Hey there, fellow wanderers! If you’re ready to dive into the vibrant tapestry of Athens, where ancient history meets contemporary charm, then stay tuned for my full run down and complete guide to the capital city of Greece.  Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply in search of unforgettable experiences, Athens has something for everyone. Getting Around: First things first, let's talk logistics. Navigating Athens is a breeze thanks to its efficient public transportation system. From the airport, hop on the metro for €10 per person or grab a taxi for a standard rate of €30-40 to reach the city center. Once there, you can rely on buses, trams, and the metro to whisk you away to your local desired destinations. Consider getting an Athens Transport Ticket for unlimited rides on public transit, saving you both time and money for your stay.  Budget Breakdown:  Now, let's address the elephant in the room- budget. The good news is that Athens can be surprisingly affordable for savvy travelers. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels, catering to every budget. As for dining, indulge in mouthwatering Greek cuisine without breaking the bank by opting for local tavernas and street food vendors. On average, you can expect to spend around €50-€70 per day, including accommodation, meals, transportation, and sightseeing. Unraveling Athens mythical origins: Nestled amidst the rugged landscapes of Attica, Athens stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of ancient Greece. But, before it became a beacon of democracy and philosophy, Athens was shrouded in the myths and legends of Greek mythology. According to ancient lore, Athens owes its name to Athena, the goddess of wisdom, courage, and civilization. Legend has it that Athena and Poseidon, the god of the sea, competed for the patronage of the city. As the myth goes, Poseidon struck the ground with his trident, unleashing a powerful spring, while Athena planted an olive tree, symbolizing peace and prosperity.  Impressed by Athena's gift, the citizens of Athens chose her as their patron deity, and the city was named in her honor. Echoes of modern Athens: As the myths faded into history, Athens emerged as a thriving center of culture, politics, and intellectual inquiry. Athens experienced a golden age of unprecedented prosperity and cultural achievement. At the heart of Athenian society was democracy, a revolutionary form of government that empowered citizens to participate in decision-making and governance. The Athenian Assembly, comprised of all eligible male citizens, debated and voted on laws and policies, shaping the destiny of the city-state. Today, Athens stands as a living testament to its storied past, where ancient ruins mingle with modern marvels. Visitors can wander through the Agora, where Socrates once walked and debated, or marvel at the towering columns of the Temple of Olympian Zeus. With each step, they are reminded of Athens' enduring legacy as the cradle of Western civilization and the birthplace of democracy. Five-Day Itinerary: Day 1: Kick off your Athens adventure with a visit to the iconic Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the Parthenon, explore the ancient Theater of Dionysus, and soak in panoramic views of the city below. In the evening, wander through the charming streets of Plaka, where cozy cafes and traditional tavernas await. Day 2: Lace up your sneakers and head to the Olympic Stadium, the site of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. Immerse yourself in sporting history as you stroll through the stadium grounds; imagine the thrill of victory that once filled the air. Afterwards, explore the National Archaeological Museum, home to a vast collection of ancient artifacts spanning thousands of years. Day 3: Journey back in time with a visit to the Agora, the ancient heart of Athens where democracy was born. Wander among the ruins of temples, stoas, and civic buildings, imagining life in ancient Greece. Don't miss the Temple of Hephaestus, one of the best-preserved temples in the city. Day 4: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city with a day trip to Cape Sounion, home to the breathtaking Temple of Poseidon. Perched atop a cliff overlooking the Aegean Sea, this ancient temple offers unparalleled views of the sunset, making it the perfect spot for a romantic evening. Day 5: Spend your final day exploring the vibrant neighborhoods of Athens, from trendy Psiri to artsy Exarchia. Discover local artisans, browse quirky boutiques, and sample delicious treats at bustling markets. End your day with a leisurely stroll along the Athenian Riviera, where sun-drenched beaches and seaside cafes beckon. Otherwise, take a short journey to the stroll around the boating hub of Piraeus marina (best in season between May- September) for delicious food and views of the spectacular yachts.  What to eat: Souvlaki: No visit to Athens is complete without savoring the iconic flavors of souvlaki. These succulent skewers of grilled meat, usually pork or chicken, are served with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Moussaka: A hearty and comforting dish that is sure to satisfy even the most picky palates, moussaka is a Greek favorite. Layers of eggplant, minced meat, and creamy béchamel sauce come together like a Greek lasagne to create a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more. Spanakopita: For a taste of Greece's beloved spinach and feta pie, look no further than spanakopita. This savory pastry, made with layers of flaky phyllo dough filled with a mixture of spinach, feta cheese, onions, and herbs, is a popular snack or appetizer enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. Gyros: A staple of Greek street food, gyros are a delicious and satisfying meal-on-the-go. Thinly sliced meat, typically pork or chicken, is roasted on a vertical rotisserie and served wrapped in warm pita bread with tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki sauce. Loukoumades: Indulge your sweet tooth with a plate of loukoumades, Greece's answer to doughnut holes. These bite-sized balls of fried dough are drizzled with honey and sprinkled with cinnamon, creating a heavenly combination of sweetness and warmth. So there you have it! A complete guide to experiencing the best of Athens, from its ancient wonders to its modern delights. I can guarantee you, Athens will captivate both your heart and soul. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for the journey of a lifetime in the cradle of Western civilization. 

11/06/2024
The Athenian Odyssey: History, Culture, and Cuisine
Travel Tips

Elafonisos Eco Week 2024

Elafonisos, May 30th 2024: Be part of the change! Elafonisos Eco Week is an ecological symposium taking place for the 7th year in Elafonisos, between the 10th and 16th of June, set up by ecological association Elafonisos Eco. The event aims to highlight the importance of ecological strategies, while bringing together people from diverse backgrounds to discuss and introduce opportunities to promote environmental stewardship. The main objective is fostering sustainability for our planet. This symposium is an encounter for locals, authorities, academics, artists, entrepreneurs, and environmental enthusiasts, sharing proposals to enhance environmental solutions for endangered ecosystems such as islands. Throughout the week, the event will be focusing on the implementation of ecological solutions and sustainability, while showcasing gastronomy, art and local culture, through an environmental and sustainable lens. There will be talks with over 30 expert speakers, various workshops and over 100 guests from 12 countries, all focused on the same sustainability goal. A summit of local mayors will also take place, where they will commit to supporting environmental conservation efforts and projects in the area. Eco Week has the support of Albert II, Prince of Monaco, who attended in 2023. In attendance this year will be Dimitris Papastergiou, Minister of Digital Governance of Greece. There are six key topics we will cover: ⁃ Waste and water management: Utilising recycling, proper disposal and other conservation methods, to reduce waste and ensure the efficient use of water. Sustainable tourism: Responsible travel practices and conservation of local economies and cultures, to have minimal impact on the local environment and communities. Lionfish: a significant threat to the Mediterranean and its ecosystem, lionfish is highly invasive and jeopardises the otherwise thriving local fishing economy. Blue opportunities: Through the sustainable use and conservation of marine and coastal resources, targeting various opportunities for the island's economy. Health and wellness: Promoting and supporting our local community's physical and mental health with exercise, nutrition, mindfulness and stress management, workshops. Plastic-free future: By aiming to eliminate single-use plastics from all parts of the life cycle, reducing environmental pollution and safeguarding our ecosystems. It’s a plastic-free event, open to all, taking place at the Elafonisos Resort. Take a look at the agenda here.

04/06/2024
Elafonisos Eco Week 2024
Visit Greece

Enter Thrilling Sailing Competitions in the Greek Seas

Greece is a country known for its hundreds of big and small islands, dotting the blue canvas of the Aegean and Ionian Seas. Their waters come in all the shades of blue, turquoise and green, and wash the impressively long coastline of the mainland and the islands.   Summertime is the right season for you to explore the Greek seas and enjoy your favourite water sports and related events. For those of you seeking an adrenaline rush, here’s a variety of sailing races you can watch or participate in Greece, in the coming months. The Spetses Classic Yacht Regatta will take place from 27 to 30 June 2024 in the Argolic Gulf, off Spetses Island. You will see yachts of various types, classic boats, Aegean schooners, as well as traditional work boats, open boats and dinghies, with crews from all over the world. The 61st Aegean Rally will be held on 20 – 29 July 2024. This is the oldest sailing competition event in Greece. This year, the start area for competing vessels will be at Faliro Bay, Attica, the course of the race will take you to Serifos Island, and then to Foinikas on Syros Island, where there will be a local sailing race, various other sports and social events, as well as a sailing festival. Your return trip will start on the 27th, from Foinikas, Syros to Sifnos, Agios Georgios and end at Cape Sounio, Attica. The 2024 AEGEAN 600 Race will run this year from 7 to 13 July 2024. This 600nm offshore sailing race will start at Cape Sounio, Attica and contestants will sail by the Aegean islands of Milos, Santorini, Kassos, Karpathos, Rhodes, Kantelousa, Kos, Kalolimnos, Farmakonisi, Agathonisi, Patmos, Mykonos, Delos, Kea, and finish the race back at Cape Sounio. The 27th Rodos Cup 2024 offshore race will take place in the Dodecanese Islands, and the dates are 21-26 July. Participants will enjoy the lovely land and seascapes, the sights and the colourful local traditions. The start area is Kos Island and the route to be followed will include the islands of Kalymnos, Tilos, Symi, and Rhodes. The Aegean Regatta 2024 will start on 19 August from Kalymnos Island. Entrants will next reach the islands Nisyros, Tilos, Chalki, and Rhodes, where the closing ceremony will take place on the 24th. The last event to take place this year is the 14th Catamarans Cup International Regatta which will start on 26 October from Alimos Marina, Attica, and participants will sail to Poros, Porto Heli, Paralio Astros, and Nafplion. The event ends on 2 November 2024. Your next memorable voyage awaits you in Greece!

04/06/2024
Enter Thrilling Sailing Competitions in the Greek Seas
Travel Tips

Greece: Navigating Towards a Bright Future in Global Cruising

In an era when the global cruise industry is again developing, Greece stands at the helm, ready to steer towards a future filled with growth, innovation, and unparalleled cruising experiences. The resilience and dynamism of the cruise sector are evident, with the industry set to welcome more than 36 million passengers by 2026, making it one of the healthiest travel sectors. With its 49 unique destinations, Greece is poised to become a cornerstone of this vibrant future. The Greek National Tourism Organisation (GNTO) is at the forefront of this transformative journey, with a visionary mission to establish Greece as a premier, forward-looking, and continuously evolving cruise destination. The GNTO primarily aims to leverage Greece's extensive array of islands, endless coastlines, and rich terrestrial diversity to foster human-centric tourism narratives. This strategy is designed to create deep, sustainable connections between visitors and the country's unique cultural, historical, and natural tapestry, ensuring that every journey is memorable and immersed in local authenticity. The Greek cruise industry epitomises the rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that Greece is renowned for, offering many experiences that cater to the desire for exploration and relaxation. Every destination, from the iconic whitewashed houses of the Aegean islands to the majestic historical sites and superb gastronomy, shares a unique narrative, inviting travellers to embark on extraordinary journeys beyond the ordinary. The industry's commitment to growth and sustainability is evidenced by the significant expansion of its fleet, with the introduction of 11 new cruise ships in 2024, another 16 in 2025, and more in the following years. This expansion reflects a substantial investment in the future of cruising and underscores the industry's dedication to environmental stewardship and innovation on a global scale. Although these ships will serve destinations worldwide, Greece's prominence as a premier cruising destination is reinforced by its proactive adaptation to these developments. Sustainability and social responsibility are pivotal to the global cruise industry, which is collectively aiming for carbon neutrality by 2050 to reduce environmental impact and foster sustainable travel practices worldwide. This commitment reflects a broad-based effort to promote responsible and sustainable travel, ensuring that the cruise industry at large contributes positively to the ecological and cultural preservation of destinations it touches. This global framework encourages all participating countries and operators to invest in renewable energy sources and develop sustainable port infrastructure, contributing to a comprehensive approach that enriches passengers' experiences and upholds the integrity of natural and cultural environments around the world. The diversity of the Greek cruise sector stands out as one of its key strengths, offering an array of itineraries that traverse the nation's islands and coastlines. This versatility caters to all types of cruisers, from families exploring the Aegean's gems in Crete, Rhodes, or Mykonos to luxury travellers indulging in the splendour of the smaller destinations like Paros, Syros, Lesvos, and Agios Nikolaos. The upcoming expansion of the global cruise fleet will open new opportunities for exploration and enjoyment within Greece's captivating landscapes and seas, enhancing the array of experiences available to visitors. The provision of year-round cruising options further boosts Greece's allure, ensuring a continuous influx of visitors and a significant contribution to both local and national economies.    A Vision for the Future 2023 was a landmark year for Greek cruising, with 5,230 cruise calls and over 7 million passengers welcomed, surpassing previous records and signalling robust development. The increase in passengers, up 14.4% from the record year 2011, showcases the country's capacity and the homeport capabilities from Piraeus, Corfu, Thessaloniki, Lavrion, Heraklion, and Rhodes. This achievement underscores Greece's appeal and its strategic significance in the Mediterranean cruising circuit.  The Path Forward As Greece charts its course towards a pioneering future in cruise tourism, it stands as a testament to the possibilities of sustainable growth, diversity of experience, and the deep, immersive engagement of travellers with the destinations they visit. By prioritising environmental conservation, embracing new opportunities in cruising, and focusing on the holistic well-being of each visitor, Greece is not just a destination but a journey towards a future where tourism and environmental stewardship exist in harmony. The essence of this vision is a call to immerse oneself in the destination, allowing Greece to craft unforgettable, sustainable narratives for all who venture its way. By fostering collaborations between ports, government bodies, local communities, and cruise lines, Greece aims to take this tourism sector to the next level of development. Overall, the journey ahead for Greece in the cruise industry is filled with promise and lots of philoxenia.

03/06/2024
Greece: Navigating Towards a Bright Future in Global Cruising
Travel Tips

Zorba the Greek project – The Gastronomy

Zorba the Greek, the hero of author Kazantzakis “lives” in Eastern Halkidiki! KOUZINA, a gastronomic attraction on the land of Zorba! Small traditional taverns and coffeehouses in the market of Palaiochori found in plain spaces. Wooden chairs and tables, clean tablecloths, vases adorned with seasonal wildflowers, modest dinnerware, Greek meze made of all available ingredients. Gastronomic influence stemming from the diversity of the place. Places where the metal miners inevitably meet, spots of political confrontations (as always), places of joy as well as relaxation, rest, and liberation, all enchant primarily the male population, but also the aristocratic women, as they are all sat together on the daily or Sunday table. In the crowded kitchens, there is another world: mothers, mothers-in-law and aunts peeling mountains of potatoes, hovering over the heat of pans filled with frizzling pork bits, while the younger ones are meddling in the roasting, moving around, joking, nagging, and carrying the meze. The cuisine of Palaiochori has a special history: it uses sausages made of locally grown pork, grated orange peels, whole mashed lemons. Smashed roasted potatoes, a local recipe to make squashed velvety potatoes. Yaprakia - cured pork wrapped in cabbage leaves grown in the local fields – wild cabbage – full of the earthy aromas of the wet soil. Tsiyaridia - frizzling pork bits sautéed in olive oil and a blend of a thousand mountain herbs! It is the fascinating ferocity of traditional Greek cuisine that shines on the fresh ingredients in a defining manner, without smoothing them down or clouding them, but rather letting them speak for themselves. The tavern is a concept born out of poverty. And that is exactly what equips it with an iron backbone. This is why it has survived up to this day, while remaining a timeless symbol of our popular culture. The gastronomic truth of Palaiochori is presented in its entirety in a wonderful event organized by KOUZINA 2024. You can read more about it here and make a reservation!         

03/06/2024
Zorba the Greek project – The Gastronomy
Total 98 items<1...456...13>

“It takes a lifetime to discover Greece,

but it only takes an instant to fall in love with her.

—Henry Miller

Let Greece inspire you!

Subscribe to our newsletter and discover unique ideas and hidden treasures for your next trip.