As the birthplace of Western civilisation, thoughts of Greece will always warm the cockles of the hearts of history lovers. However if the country’s glorious past isn’t for you, with one of the longest coastlines on the planet and perpetually sunny islands, cheap Greece holidays can offer you plenty of leisure over legend. The Greek islands are incredible sun spots with rich heritage, all boasting a unique culture and miles upon miles of beaches. Kos, Zante, Rhodes and Crete also contain some of Europe’s hottest 18-30 resorts, so whether you’re ‘party on’ or Parthenon, Greece holidays have something for everyone.
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Towering above the city of Athens, the peerless Acropolis of Athens is one of the most important and iconic monuments on Earth. Containing a cluster of ancient ruins, a visit to the Acropolis is an absolute must if you find yourself in Greece’s capital city. The most notable building on the monolith is The Parthenon. Completed in 432 BC and dedicated to the goddess Athena, the image of The Parthenon’s majestic white columns and inexplicably perfect proportions is synonymous with Greece and is considered one of, if not the planet’s most culturally significant structures.
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The Katerina Three Island Cruise
Setting sail from Kos Town, the Katerina Three Island Cruise is a top Kos attraction appeal to every tourist on cheap Greece holidays. You’re welcomed by Captain George and his crew with a shot of local Ouzo, before setting sail across the Aegean to the secluded bay of Pserimos, where – after having a splash in the crystal clear water - you’ll be served a lunch of barbequed pork, salad and homemade bread. From there you’ll move onto Kalymnos, an island famed for its sponges, and Platti where you’ll get another chance to have a dip in the warm sea water. The journey back to Kos Town has a few surprises that you’ll have to find out for yourself on this unmissable voyage.
Thessaloniki is the cultural capital of Greece. Along with Constantinople (now Istanbul), Thessaloniki was once the hub of the Byzantine Empire, and though you’re reminded of this bygone era throughout the city – most notably at The White Tower – it’s a buzzing, modern metropolis offering fine dining, hot weather, swanky shopping and a vibrant nightlife.
Greece holidays aren’t all geared towards history buffs, sun-seekers and ravers, they’re also for family holidays in Greece, and if you’re a parent then you can’t go too wrong visiting Aquaworld Aquarium in Hersonissos, Crete. The Aquarium – one of only three in Greece - specialises in local sea life and reptiles and gives visitors a real ‘hands-on’ experience. The staff are friendly, well-informed and willing to give you time, as are the snakes, lizards and tortoises, who’re ready to pose for all your photographs.
Officially named Thira, Santorini is an island group that’s a relic of what was probably one of a large volcanic eruption. With its towns set atop the islands cliffs, Santorini offers the visitor beautiful sunsets; the most popular of which occurs at Oia, a town that claims to be the oldest continually used fishing dock in the world. From the ocean, the views of the island itself are truly breathtaking; with white-washed buildings standing precariously above the sea on jagged rocks. Your trip wouldn’t be complete without sunshine and in Santorini you get it in abundance. In fact, the island is one of only two European locations categorised as having a hot desert climate.
Essential info
Currency: Euro
Language: Greek
Visa: N/A
Vaccinations: N/A
Dress code: N/A
Important numbers: Embassy: 020 7313 5609, Tourist Office: 020 7495 9300
Other info: N/A