A mythical destination with a thousand facets, Greece captivates as much with its rich history as with the beauty of its landscapes. Whether you are a lover of relaxation, an archaeology enthusiast, or in search of authenticity, every corner of the country holds its own surprises. Here’s a quick look at the places that have made our hearts race (and where we highly recommend you go).
Athens
How can we talk about Greece without mentioning its capital? Athens, the historic city of Europe, the birthplace of democracy, the arts, sciences, and philosophy of Western civilization… Walked by Plato, Socrates, and Sophocles… It is one of the oldest cities, where history is woven into every street. Visiting Athens means you’re bound to fall in love with it. Its half-ancient, half-modern atmosphere sweeps you into a vibrant lifestyle, with of course, a ton of archaeological sites to explore, a majestic Parthenon that reigns supreme, and a local life that draws you in.
drunk, from terrace to terrace, from shop to shop, with a modern and vibrant cultural, artistic, and gastronomic scene just waiting to be discovered.
© David Ionut
Santorini
It's one of the most famous Greek islands in the world, and it's easy to see why. At the heart of the Cyclades, Santorini promises beautiful sunny afternoons by its famous caldera, where you can enjoy local dishes, cocktails, and coffee while gazing at the stunning natural beauty of the still-active volcano. It's like a postcard landscape, easily recognized by the lovely white buildings with blue domes, and of course, it attracts crowds. Still, it remains a must-visit in Greece, particularly for its archaeological site of Akrotiri, its beaches with a variety of color shades, and its wine with volcanic notes.
© Matt_travel
Chania
In Chania, Cretan charm meets natural brilliance, in a city where different civilizations have crossed paths over the centuries. A must-see during your stop on the island of Crete, with a showcase of historical monuments to discover. You can visit the ancient theater of Aptera and its archaeological site, 17th-century monasteries, and above all, get lost in the city center with its labyrinthine alleys and beautiful Venetian houses. A friendly tip? Take a little exploration around Lake Kournás and its turquoise waters, as well as the world-renowned Balos Beach, where you'll find an abundance of crushed pink shells and fine, white sand, with shallow turquoise waters (perfect for kids and families) and finally, Elafonisi Beach with its pure waters, a real gem!natural reserve for threatened species.
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© Farawayfarers - visitgree.gr
Heraklion
Among all the treasures that Crete has to offer, the city of Heraklion – the largest city on the island – promises to be the most beautiful destination for all history-loving travelers. Here, architectures with various influences, whether Byzantine, Venetian, or Ottoman, blend together to create a stunning array of UNESCO World Heritage monuments. From the archaeological museum to Cretan wines, and including the site of Phaistos and the old fortress, the city takes you on an adventure to discover true treasures.
© Paopano
Rhodes
Capital of the Dodecanese Islands and the fourth largest island in Greece (after Crete, Evia, and Lesvos), Rhodes remains one of the top destinations in the country. And for good reason: this Mediterranean gem preserves its medieval heritage and blends it with its traditional Greek architecture as well as its stunning natural landscapes. From its beautiful beaches lined with pines and mountains to the high-perched villages offering a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean, not to mention the archaeological sites that continue to attract island hoppers... Rhodes truly deserves its fame. You can especially visit its medieval city – one of the best-preserved in Europe, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site – where the Knights of Saint John once reigned, or even the...charming archaeological site of Lindos, known for its acropolis that offers a breathtaking panoramic view, as well as beautiful vineyards that preserve their old traditions from ancient times, all while tasting the local cuisine with its many influences.
© Perikos Merakos - visitgreece.gr
How to get to Greece from Lyon ?
Good news! You can easily fly to Greece from Lyon. The low-cost airline Transavia offers direct flights from Lyon-Saint-Exupéry airport. In just a few hours, leave behind the gray skies of Lyon to enjoy a unique getaway filled with Mediterranean beaches and historical visits.
