Greece
Kalimera and welcome to Greece! Like most classic Greek adventures, begin in the astounding capital of Athens. This city has a truly epic history, starting in the Neolithic age, through the astonishing Ancient Greek Empire and, later, the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman periods. Today, hip restaurants and boutiques thrive adjacent to the ancient Acropolis, Parthenon, Ancient Agora, Plaka, Temple of Zeus, and more.
Expert guides reveal the best of the many sights and museums devoted to millennia-old art including the New Acropolis Museum and the Museum of Cycladic Art. The very central Dolli Hotel is located just steps from the vibrant Plaka district. A mere half-hour drive from the Parthenon, the beachside One & Only Aethesis and Four Seasons delight. Top tables in Athens include the new hip Makis and classic Delta in Piraeus.
From Athens, the options for active exploration are myriad. Fly north to Iouanina located the Epirus region in the northwest, near the Albanian border. Nestled within the Pindus Mountains lie James Bond’s Meteora monasteries (For Your Eyes Only) as well as 46 traditional stone villages and emerald-green rivers crisscrossed by vaulted stone bridges. From Aristi Mountain Lodge, hike, horse ride and truffle hunt in the pristine countryside. The mainland Peloponnese peninsula includes the chic town of Porto Heli, where the Amanzoe resort is the most perfect beach basecamp. Spend a day on a private yacht cruising the Argosaronic Gulf and visit the nearby car-free islands of Spetses and Hydra—perfect for biking. And then, Mamma Mia, there are the six island groups! The most popular are the Cycladic islands, which include Santorini, Mykonos, and Paros. Lesser-known Cycladic gems include Folegandros, Sifnos and Naxos. Fabulous hotels and beach clubs abound, including Canaves Oia Suites, in Santorini Bill and Coo Suites and Lounge, on Mykonos and the new Gundari on Folegandros
No matter where you choose to visit in Greece, you can always count on plenty of fresh fish, feta, honey, olives, ouzo and smiles to go around. Opa!
