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A journey through Greece can lead you on a path to some truly divine places. We’re talking about otherworldly landscapes crowned with ancient temples. Ethereal seas that serve as gateways to sacred sites. And even Monasteries that rise above the skies, taking you to unprecedented heights.

Yet none of those paths offer a more compelling and stirring picture of Greece than the journey of Apostle Paul. Join us on a route to experience Greece at its most historic, spiritual, and extraordinary.

• 3 Nights in Thessaloniki
• 3 Nights in Athens
• 3 Nights in Patmos
• 1 Night in Athens

3 Nights — Thessaloniki | Gateway to Sacred Macedonia

Cradled by the Aegean and crowned with Byzantine walls, Thessaloniki is more than a vibrant northern city, it’s a living monument to Greece’s spiritual and cultural past. It is here that you shall begin walking in Apostle Paul’s footsteps, as you head to uncover the storied treasures of Northern Greece.

Journey to Meteora, one of Greece’s most timeless UNESCO wonders, where monasteries soar impossibly atop colossal rock pillars. There, step inside soul-stirring sanctuaries adorned with frescoes and icons to learn about how these impressive monasteries were built atop these unique rock formations in Byzantine times.

Continue with a pilgrimage through Philippi, Amphipolis, and Kavala. See the very cell where Paul was imprisoned and walk the ruins of a city founded by King Philip II. In Amphipolis, marvel at the majestic Lion monument and capture a glimpse of Alexander the Great’s dynasty. All before reaching Kavala, where, amid Byzantine fortresses and graceful aqueducts, Paul first set foot on European soil.

3 Athens | Where Myth, Faith & History Unite

Athens, the eternal city of wisdom and philosophy, is where the next chapter of this sacred journey leads. Here, every stone and column carries monolithic remnants of both classical grandeur and the dawn of Christianity.

Begin at the ancient Agora, once the beating civic heart of the city, where Paul spoke to Athenians about the “Unknown God.” Then, ascend the Areopagus, the rocky outcrop beneath the Acropolis, where the Apostle delivered his renowned sermon on the Resurrection to the city’s philosophers. Continue to Filopappou Hill and the Prison of Socrates, before lifting your gaze to the Parthenon, whose enduring splendor remains an everlasting symbol of Athens’ timeless heritage.

Beyond the mythical streets of Athens, trace this holy route to Ancient Corinth, where the Apostle lived for 18 months. Stand at the Bema where he preached in 52 AD, and wander through the ruins of temples and forums.

3 Nights – Patmos | Island of Revelation

Remote and radiant, the sacred island of Patmos holds a very special place in the world of spirituality. It was here, in exile, that the Apostle John received the Revelation that would become the final book of the New Testament. And today, its boundless landscapes and timeless monasteries continue to echo with that divine vision.

When not entranced by the beauty of its coastline, visit the Convent of Evangelismos, where the quiet beauty of gardens and hand-painted frescoes invite contemplation. Admire the imposing yet comforting Monastery of St. John the Theologian, a fortified beacon of faith where priceless icons, manuscripts, and relics tell tales dating back to the 11^th century. Then, descend into the Cave of the Apocalypse, the hallowed grotto, where John wrote his immortal words.

Balance these sacred moments with time at leisure or take to the sea on a boat tour that frames the island from the perspective of the endless, azure waters that carried apostles and pilgrims throughout history.

Final Night in Athens & Departure

Conclude your pilgrimage with one last evening in Athens, where the city’s timeless charm invites quiet reflection. Stroll through Plaka’s winding streets, savor a final dinner at a traditional taverna, or raise a glass as the sun sets over the Acropolis. The next morning, after a restful night, head to the airport for your departure. As you leave having traced the footsteps of divinity, let them be a revelation that Greece is not only history and beauty, but also a living testament of spirit.

The post Have Faith, Will Travel: Across Greece in the Footsteps of St. Paul appeared first on Blog | Travelive.

Sip your way through the Mediterranean.

Some people follow maps. Others follow wine.

If you fall into the second category, and you believe the best stories begin with a cork popping, this journey offers something truly unforgettable. It blends bold reds, rolling vineyards, ancient legends, and meals you’ll talk about long after the last bite. Welcome to Wine Lovers Unite: Greece & Croatia. Dionysus would raise a glass. Bacchus would ask for seconds. And the wine lists shall come filled with stories.

• 3 Nights in Thessaloniki
• 3 Nights in Athens
• 3 Nights in Istria
• 1 Night in Venice (Optional)

Start in Northern Greece – Where Xinomavro Meets the Macedonian Kings

Begin in Thessaloniki, a city that knows how to mix Byzantine ruins with café culture and northern Greek flavor. Walk the sea walls, sip strong coffee, and follow the trail to Naoussa, where Xinomavro thrives in vineyards older than some countries. Stop in Vergina, the resting place of Philip II of Macedon  (yes, Alexander the Great’s dad), and visit Edessa, where waterfalls crash through the landscape with the kind of flair Zeus would approve of. Every view tells a story, and every sip feels like a toast to the past.

Athens and Nemea – The Gods Would Approve

Then it’s off to Athens, where you’ll wander the Acropolis, gaze out over the city from Cape Sounio, and then head west to Nemea, one of Greece’s most legendary wine regions. This is Agiorgitiko country, full-bodied and velvety, with roots that go back to Hercules, who supposedly stopped here to rehydrate after slaying the local lion. (Hydration is essential.)

You’ll visit two excellent wineries, taste your way through vintages worth packing, and we might even talk you into staying at one of them for lunch. It would be a shame not to sit down, relax, and let the view do its work.

Then On to Istria – Where Romans Planted the First Vines

A quick flight to Zagreb and a scenic transfer brings you to Istria, Croatia’s answer to Tuscany; only with fewer crowds and more truffles. Base yourself in Rovinj, where pastel buildings lean into the sea, or choose Meneghetti Wine Hotel, where the vines stretch out in every direction and the breakfast is dangerously good.

In Istria, Malvazija and Teran take center stage. You’ll taste both during a visit to Rossi Winery, and then set out for one of the region’s most iconic experiences: truffle hunting under the oak forests of Motovun. The grand finale? A hands-on truffle cooking session that turns everything you find into the kind of meal that would silence a table.

Want to End on a High Note?

Add a night in Venice before heading home. Find a quiet canal, raise a final glass of prosecco, and soak in the feeling of a journey that carried you through myths, mountains, vines, and villages.

Departure

Departing home you will realise that this was not simply a wine trail. It was a celebration of flavor, culture, and everything worth uncorking.

The post The Grape Escape: From Greece to Croatia appeared first on Blog | Travelive.

Open a portal through time as you uncover Greece’s most coveted UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Draw a direct line through the country’s esteemed history by tracing the mythological origins of Athens at the Acropolis, revealing Greece’s spiritual essence at the soaring Monasteries of Meteora, basking in the Byzantine glory of Thessaloniki, and discovering the medieval wonders of Rhodes. From ancient temples and cathedrals to medieval fortresses and royal tombs, this immersive trip defines the very soul of Western civilization.

• 3 Nights in Athens
• 2 Nights in Meteora
• 3 Night in Thessaloniki
• 3 Nights in Rhodes

3 Nights in Athens — The Cradle of Western Civilization

Welcome to Greece, where the sands of time don’t just glisten in the Mediterranean sun but take you on journey through millennia of human history. Upon arrival at Athens International Airport, your private driver will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel of choice in Athens, the country’s iconic capital. Once checked in, begin your adventure by embracing the timeless streets of a city that still echo with the mythical tales of its renowned past. From the vibrant corners of Plaka and Monastiraki, to the almighty Acropolis hill, this is where legends come to life.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites:

The Acropolis of Athens

Whether you’re entranced by its architectural grandeur, the mythological essence surrounding its marble wonders, or its status as a symbol of democracy, the Acropolis is a quintessential landmark for cultural connoisseurs and discerning travelers.

Monastery of Daphni

Venture off the beaten path and uncover the serene, glowing allure of the Monastery of Daphni, one of Athens’ best-kept-secrets. An evocative masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, the Monastery of Daphne is a gorgeous glimpse into Greece’s esoteric past and an enduring reminder of its cultural diversity.

Suggested Experiences:

• Acropolis Tour – Unveil this ancient marvel in all its glory by following a licensed archaeologist on Guided VIP Private Tour of its iconic monuments and the treasures of its eponymous museum. For the ultimate dive into its mythos, opt for exclusive, on-demand access to its revered grounds.

• Monastery of Daphni – Visit this 11^th-century gem to revel in the golden radiance of its renowned mosaics and embrace a stunning piece of its Byzantine history.

Recommended Accommodation:

For a stylish yet relaxing stay in the dynamic capital, the NYX Esperia Palace offers a perfect blend of chic and hospitality.

2 Nights in Meteora — The Land of Monastic Heights & Mystical Stones

Bid farewell to the timeless charms of Athens as a private driver whisks you off north into the heart of Thessaly, where the world of ancient Greece rises up from the ground — quite literally — through the skyscraping rock spires of Meteora. Carved by eons of elemental force and crowned by centuries-old monasteries, these towering pillars of stone invite you into a realm of Greece’s spiritual history that borders on the supernatural. Once checked into your hotel of choice, relax, and prepare to uncover a truly otherworldly side of Greece.

UNESCO World Heritage Site(s):

The Meteora Monasteries

Built in the 14th century by hermit monks seeking isolation and spiritual enlightenment, the soaring Meteora Monasteries are among the most breathtaking examples of Orthodox monasticism in the world. Perched atop sandstone peaks, these celestial sanctuaries blend spiritual stillness with natural drama — a place where faith was etched into stone as both refuge and monument.

Suggested Experiences:

• Panoramic Meteora Sunset Tour – Watch the vivid hues of a setting sun spill over monolithic cliff faces and pensive domes, as you experience the sublime stillness and divine atmosphere of Meteora’s monasteries at their most magical.

• Spiritual Walk along the Ancient Hermit Paths – Connect with the region’s spiritual history by following in the footsteps of early ascetics on a contemplative hike along hidden forest trails, uncovering forgotten caves once used as solitary dwellings along the way.

Recommended Accommodation:

Savor Meteora’s awe-inspiring landscapes from the comforts of your accommodation by staying at the quaint Divani Meteora Hotel.

Royal Legacy of Macedonia — Transfer from Meteora to Thessaloniki with Stop at Vergina

With your private driver at the wheel, leave the towering peaks of Meteora in the rearview as you head toward the vibrant city of Thessaloniki. En route, bear witness to the dawn of Hellenistic power with a stop in the fields of Vergina, where the royal legacy of Macedonia arises in a stately display of Greek ancestry.

UNESCO World Heritage Site:

Archaeological Site of Aigai

Sense the resonance of former power as you step into the heart of ancient Macedonia at Aigai, where the past reveals itself in gold and stone. It is here that you will find the royal tomb of Philip II — father of Alexander the Great — and the remnants of a city that once resounded with the ambitions of an empire. This sacred site not only holds some of Greece’s most important burial treasures, but also offers a rare look into the ceremonial grandeur of a kingdom that helped shape the Western world.

Suggested Experiences:

• Bask in the imperial splendor of this iconic site with a Private Tour of Royal Tombs and Museum, a walk through the restored Palace of Aigai — where Alexander the Great was declared king — and a visit to the eerily atmospheric Ancient Theater, the site of Philip II’s assassination.

3 Nights in Thessaloniki — Byzantium’s Beating Heart

Following your royal visit to Vergina, continue you journey to Thessaloniki, Greece’s cultural capital of the north and once a glittering jewel of the Byzantine Empire. Here, Roman arches rise beside early Christian basilicas, Ottoman facades brush against neoclassical mansions, and the city’s very air pulses with a thousand years of uninterrupted history. Upon checking into your hotel of choice, embrace the cosmopolitan atmosphere of Greece’s second-largest city, and let time circle back through its historical marvels

UNESCO World Heritage Site(s):

Paleochristian and Byzantine Monuments of Thessaloniki

A living, breathing display of history, Thessaloniki is the embodiment of the term ‘open air museum’. Home to a mosaic of ecclesiastical wonders — from domed basilicas to mosaic-filled chapels — the city is a storied tapestry that reflects the deep spiritual and artistic evolution of Byzantium. These sacred spaces once marked Thessaloniki as a bastion of Orthodox faith, and today they remain a stunning testament to the enduring beauty of devotion.

Suggested Experiences:

• Guided Exploration of Thessaloniki’s Most Celebrated Churches – Venture on an immersive pilgrimage through the city’s most notable and hidden of faith. From Hagia Sophia, inspired by its namesake in Constantinople and Panagia Chalkeon, Acheiropoietos to the Basilica of Saint Demetrios — built over the site of the saint’s martyrdom and filled with shimmering mosaics — each chapel each tells a unique story of piety.

• Visit to Saint Nicholas Orphanos – A humble treasure tucked away within the city’s old quarter, this chapel stuns with 14th-century frescoes of haunting expression and spiritual depth — some of the finest in all of Greece.

• Walk Along the Ancient City Walls – Ascend to Thessaloniki’s upper town (the Ano Poli) to scale the remnants of its mighty Byzantine fortifications; where the city’s timeline unfolds beneath your feet, shedding light on its Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman, modern eras.

Recommended Accommodation:

Overlooking Aristotelous Square and the Thermaic Gulf, the Electra Palace Thessaloniki is a neoclassical gem that is perfectly placed for exploring the city’s layered elegance. 

3 Nights in Rhodes — A Living Medieval City

With the North of Greece conquered, it’s time to plant a flag in one of its illustrious islands. On you final morning in Thessaloniki, your private driver will carry you off to Thessaloniki Airport for your brisk flight to Rhodes, The Island of the Knights.  Home to the Colossus and a vital outpost of the Crusader knights, is a living medieval tale where Gothic grandeur meets Mediterranean mystique. From the moment you check into your hotel of choice, the past will begin feeling startlingly present — and every moment purely unforgettable.

UNESCO World Heritage Site:

The Medieval City of Rhodes

A unique fusion of cultural styles, the Old Town of Rhodes is one of the best-preserved fortified cities in all of Europe — a place where every step ignites the imagination and makes you want to embark on a crusade of your own. Built by the Knights of St. John in the 14th century, its winding alleys, towering bastions, and hidden courtyards tell tales of sieges, saints, and shifting empires.

Suggested Experiences:

• Private Guided Walk through the Medieval City – Hear faint clanks or swords against armor while wandering through stone arches and cobbled lanes as you trace the knights’ path along the Street of the Knights (one of Europe’s oldest continually inhabited medieval streets) and past the Hospital of the Knights, now a beautifully curated archaeological museum.

• Palace of the Grand Master – Storm a bonafide medieval stronghold (part palace, part fortress) where sweeping halls, mosaic floors, and battlement views bring the grandeur of Crusader rule to life

• Excursion to the Acropolis of Lindos – Venture along the coast to Lindos, where whitewashed homes spill down to turquoise waters and an ancient citadel crowns the cliffs above. Walk the sacred way to the Temple of Athena Lindia, where centuries of worship still whisper in the wind.

Recommended Accommodation:

Compliment Rhodes’ medieval wonders with the elegant luxury of Atrium Palace Thalasso Spa Resort & Villas, a seaside retreat that seamlessly blends contemporary comforts with echoes of Grecian refinement.

1 Night in Athens — A Historic Farewell

Having discovered the perks of knighthood in Rhodes, a private driver will take you to Rhodes Airport for your flight to Athens, where you will spend the final night of your timeless journey relaxing and reflecting upon Greece’s legacy.

Recommended Accommodation:

Discover the perfectfusion of comfort and convenience at the Sofitel Airport Hotel, whose understated splendor can only be matched by its ideal proximity to the Athens International Airport.

Departure

With a wealth of Greek history uncovered through its timeless UNESCO World Heritage Sites, it’s time to return to the present. After breakfast, you will head to Athens International Airport, where you will catch your departure flight home, carrying centuries of stories with you.

The post Timeless Wonders: A Journey Through Greece’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites appeared first on Blog | Travelive.

Thessaloniki, Metsovo, Ioannina

Who said that Athens is the must-visit destination in Greece? No one. Thessaloniki is. Embark on a cultural exploration, breathtaking nature, and authentic experiences in the northern Greek regions of Thessaloniki, Metsovo, and Ioannina. Discover timeless mountain villages, serene lakes, and local traditions along the way, with an itinerary crafted by our Travelive experts.

• 4 Nights Luxury Accommodation in Thessaloniki
• 3 Nights Luxury Accommodation in Metsovo
• 4 Nights Luxury Accommodation in Ioannina
• Thessaloniki Highlights
• Lakes of Northern Greece
• Ioannina and Surroundings
• Full Day Excursions to Tzoumerka and Zagori
• Ionian Coastal Delights
• Wine tasting Experience
• Transfers
• Breakfast Daily

Itinerary

Day 1 This is Thessaloniki

Welcome to Thessaloniki, a city known for its rich history and vibrant atmosphere. After a smooth transfer to your luxury hotel, take time to relax and settle in. Today, enjoy the city at your own pace with a peaceful evening stroll through the historic center, where you can admire the iconic White Tower, a symbol of the city, and the bustling Aristotelous Square. Thessaloniki is famous for its Byzantine monuments, diverse architecture, and thriving food scene. As night falls, ask Travelive’s experts to suggest the best places for local Macedonian specialties, for a perfect introduction to the city’s flavors.

Day 2 Greece’s Second Capital

Start your day immersed in the cultural depth of Thessaloniki, a city rich with multicultural influences and stunning architecture. Wander through its vibrant districts, from Ladadika’s lively energy to the bustling markets of Kapani and the elegance of Diagonios. Discover iconic landmarks, including the White Tower, the ancient Byzantine church of Agios Dimitrios, the Arch of Galerius, and the Rotunda. Dive deeper into history at the Museum of Byzantine Culture, where Thessaloniki’s unique legacy comes alive. Explore archaeological gems scattered throughout the city, including its hilltop acropolis with sweeping views. Thessaloniki’s intricate blend of past and present makes this private tour a fascinating journey through time, offering an unforgettable experience of Greece’s cultural capital.

Day 3 Pause at Kastoria

Begin your journey from Thessaloniki to the charming mountain town of Metsovo, with a scenic stop in Kastoria, a lovely lakeside town celebrated for its centuries-old Byzantine churches and historic fur trade. Stroll along the peaceful shores of Lake Orestiada, enjoying serene views and fresh air, before a delightful lunch overlooking the lake. Afterward, continue to Metsovo, nestled in the Pindus Mountains and known for its traditional architecture and artisanal crafts. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and unwind. End the day with a delicious dinner at a local tavern, sampling Metsovo’s renowned cheeses and rustic dishes that capture the region’s unique flavors.

Day 4 Discover the beauty of Aoos

Today’s adventure invites you to explore Metsovo, its charming traditional stone-built houses and rich heritage. Begin with a stroll through its cobbled streets, visiting the Folklore Museum and local shops filled with artisanal cheeses, wines, and crafts unique to the region. Head to Lake Aoos, where serene trails await, offering scenic mountain views and lush forests—a perfect spot for a peaceful walk or lakeside picnic. As evening falls, immerse yourself in Metsovo’s cozy ambiance, maybe pausing at a traditional taverna, enjoying regional dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients. This enchanting destination offers a peaceful yet culturally rich experience, blending natural beauty with the authentic flavors of northern Greece.

Day 5 Tzoumerka for the Win

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the scenic Tzoumerka region, where nature and tradition blend beautifully. Begin with a visit to the impressive Plaka Bridge, a striking stone-built landmark spanning the Arachthos River. Continue to the mountain villages of Kallarites and Syrrako, where cobbled streets and authentic stone houses preserve a timeless charm. Wander these villages to experience a slice of Greek mountain life, steeped in rich traditions. Take a break to enjoy a hearty lunch, sampling regional specialties that showcase the local culinary heritage. After a day of exploration, return to Metsovo to relax and reflect on the day’s discoveries. Tzoumerka’s breathtaking landscapes and enduring culture make this a truly memorable experience.

Day 6 Ioannina, the Place to Be

Today’s change of scenery will lead you to the nearby city of Ioannina, Nestled by Lake Pamvotis at 500 meters above sea level, Ioannina is Epirus’s largest city, captivating visitors with its charm and warmth. With a vibrant population of around 100,000, this historic city offers a blend of everything: scenic spots for romantic strolls, exceptional traditional cuisine, fascinating museums, and remarkable sights. Enjoy the day at your leisure, relaxing at your hotel or strolling down the promenade. If you find yourself craving the local flavors, make sure to try some sker bourek, or sugar pie, a small, rose-flavoured, almond delicacy which was traditionally served in weddings.

Day 7 The City, the charm, the Surroundings

Explore Ioannina’s highlights, starting with Pamvotis Lake island and the historical Castle, featuring the Aslan Mosque, Fethiye Mosque, and the Byzantine Museum. Your adventure will take you to Perama Cave, a 1.5-million-year-old natural wonder that offers intriguing stalagmites like the “Cross,” crafted by nature in a unique landscape. Enjoy the serenity of the lakeside area and immerse yourself in the rich history surrounding the ancient Dodoni archaeological site. Dodoni, one of Greece’s oldest oracles dedicated to Zeus, also has a remarkably preserved ancient theater, making it a fascinating stop. Museum-wise, you will have the opportunity, during the day, to visit the Archaeological Museum and the Pavlos Vrellis Wax Museum, which showcases 150 wax figures in 37 themes, vividly capturing moments in Greek history.

Day 8 Zagori, the Highlight of your Stay

In the Pindus mountains of Epirus in northwestern Greece, Zagori is a year-round haven of towering mountains, dense forests, and dramatic gorges. Its stone villages feature ancient arched bridges and monasteries carved into the landscape. While exploring, cross these iconic stone bridges that connected villages for centuries. Marvel at the crystal-clear Voidomatis River, one of Europe’s coldest, and admire the stone forest near Monodendri, where limestone formations mingle with oak and maple trees. In Monodendri, visit the 15th-century Agia Paraskevi Monastery, enjoy views of the vast Vikos Gorge, and pause mid-day for a leisurely lunch immersed in the region’s natural and historic beauty.

Day 9 Sunny Weather? Go West!

If you happen upon mild weather, it will be a delight to cap off up your visit with a trip to the coastal sites in the west, by the Ionian Sea Begin with Glyki’s enchanting Acheron River, where mythology meets nature in crystal-clear waters and scenic landscapes. Next, discover the charm of Parga, a coastal village with colorful houses and a hilltop Venetian castle overlooking emerald seas. In Nikopolis, step back in time at the expansive ruins of the ancient Roman city founded by Augustus after the Battle of Actium. Conclude in the seaside town of Preveza, where lively streets and historic architecture offer a perfect blend of culture and relaxation. This tour reveals the unique beauty and history of Greece’s Ionian coast, inviting travelers to experience everything from mythological rivers to vibrant towns and ancient ruins.

Day 10 Back to Thessaloniki

Travel from Ioannina to Thessaloniki with a leisurely stop for lunch in one of the charming villages along the way. Ask for recommendations from the experienced Travelive agents in advance or choose spontaneously from local options. Upon arrival in Thessaloniki, check in and unwind, enjoying the evening at your own pace.

Day 11 Last Day is Wine Day

Relax as you enjoy your last day in Greece with a journey along the flavors and aromas of Greek wine production. Travel to the vineyards of PGI Epanomi, offering stunning views of Thermaikos Bay and Mount Olympus. First, visit a boutique winery, known for its eco-friendly practices and quality-focused winemaking, where you will enjoy a tasting on a scenic balcony. Next, at a renowned estate, explore a Wine Museum filled with wine-related art and collectibles. Concludes today’s experience with a seaside lunch at a local taverna, featuring fresh fish, regional dishes, and wines from your tastings.

Day 12 Departure Day

As your adventure concludes, it’s time to say goodbye. This unique journey revealed the heritage of magical destination and enriched your experience with cherished memories that will last for a lifetime.

*Important Note: all services are subject to change depending on seasonal availability.

The post The North is Calling: 12 Days Through Greece’s Stunning Routes appeared first on Blog | Travelive.

What is the first thing you think of when someone mentions Greece? Usually, this brings up images of whitewashed houses, blue domes, and sparkling turquoise waters under sun-drenched skies. But some of this country’s best features are offered outside the often too-crowded summer season. Off-season Greece is a land of glorious walks with open vistas, uncluttered ancient sites, scrumptious food and wine destinations, fascinating wellness and holistic retreats, and bustling city life. To help you bust those only-good-for-summer stereotypes, here are the top destinations in Greece that cater to your every passion all year round.

Cosmopolitan Thessaloniki

We are big fans of the second-city travel trend. Ditch the most talked-about destinations and find ones more unknown. Thessaloniki is one such destination. Often overlooked in favor of Athens or of course, Santorini and Mykonos, this vibrant city is the perfect mixture of history, beauty, chaos, culture, remarkable cuisine, and wonderful panoramic sea views. Old and new cohabit seamlessly in this Greek gem, the White Tower, arguably the most famous site in the city, anchors a waterfront packed with cocktail bars while the Arch of Galerius, an intricate 4th-century monument, towers over the busy shopping drag of Egnatia. The fully revamped waterfront is perfect for walking and cycling during the day. By night, it turns into a bustling river of music and nightlife. Thessaloniki is an ideal base from which you can explore many cultural and historic sites and some natural wonders.

Suggested day trip from Thessaloniki: Majestic Meteora

A visit to the Meteora Monasteries is surely going to be one of the highlights of your Greek adventure. Meteora is a geological wonder, that one must see to believe. Nowadays, only six monasteries are well preserved and four of them are still inhabited.

Lush Peloponnese for true foodies and history buffs

We can talk about the Peloponnese for days. This entire region is a smorgasbord of historical sites, unparalleled foodie experiences, and wellness options that will leave you recharged and refreshed.

Food
Famous for its farm-to-table culinary philosophy, the Peloponnese will capture your hearts and senses with award-winning olive oils, mouthwatering meat and veggie dishes, crisp wines, and great tsipouro. Yammas!

History
If there is one region where the spirit of Ancient Greece, its myths and legends is still very much alive, it’s the Peloponnese. The richest Greek region when it comes to history, the number of castles, аnсient sites, temples, sanctuaries, and even medieval towns is astonishing. Ancient Corinth, Mystras, Ancient Mycenae, the ancient theater of Epidaurus, Ancient Olympia – the birthplace of Olympic games, Monemvasia….The list goes on and on. If there is one region where the spirit of Ancient Greece, its myths and legends is still very much alive, it’s the Peloponnese. The richest Greek region when it comes to history, the number of castles, аnсient sites, temples, sanctuaries, and even medieval towns is astonishing. Ancient Corinth, Mystras, Ancient Mycenae, the ancient theater of Epidaurus, Ancient Olympia – the birthplace of Olympic games, Monemvasia….The list goes on and on.

Truly Om-azing destinations in Greece

We all need to unwind, relax, and simply go off the grid occasionally and conscious attempts to create harmony between mental and physical health go back to the period of Ancient Greece where they even had a word for the “healthy mind – healthy body” philosophy – kalokagathia. Today, Greece is filled with unique holistic retreats and well-being experiences. You can join a yoga retreat on a private island, live on a fully sustainable farm like no other – Eumelia, cleanse your soul at the Emelisse resort in Kefalonia, have a complete spiritual experience at the first fully holistic resort in Greece – Euphoria or simply give in to some of the best wellness treatments at Amanzoe or Romanos Luxury Collection in Costa Navarino.

The Culinary Awakening of Athens

Finally, the capital. Once you have visited the historic sites and descended from the Acropolis, it is time to discover why Athens is now considered one of the most exciting city-break destinations in Europe with a rising gastronomy scene. Mingle with the locals and experience the vibrant cafes, bars, and eateries opening in every neighborhood, and feel the fresh appreciation for the food heritage and amazing natural produce available. Young Greek chefs have transformed the dining scene with innovative international cuisine fusions and modern twists on traditional favorites. Elevate your Athens stay with cooking classes, food market tours, and visits to distilleries to try the best ouzo, mastic liquor, and Metaxa perfectly paired with sweet and sour meze (finger food) to elevate the notes of each of the spirits. Embark on a Dionysian tour to Nemea past the Corinth canal to discover why wine was once called the nectar of the Gods and have a perfect family adventure on a farm near Cape Sounio complete with a family cookoff and an unforgettable seaside dining experience at sunset.

The post Greece for all seasons and all passions appeared first on Blog | Travelive.