The legendary birthplace of the goddess Aphrodite, Cyprus has been coveted and fought over by a succession of admirers: Mycenaeans, Egyptians, Assyrians and Persians, to name a few. The former British colony was most recently fought over by the Turks and the Greeks. A result of this turbulent past is an impressive range of cultural treasures, from Crusader castles to the tomb of Mohammed's aunt. The island's geography - plentiful coastline with a mountainous center - ensures plenty of year-round activity.
One of the three principal islands of the Maltese archipelago, the island of Malta is the largest of the chain. Its capital Valletta, a lively, bustling city with many buildings dating back to the 16th century, teems with cathedrals, palaces and forts. The impressive Grand Harbour offers a dramatic arrival. The top archaeological attraction is the UNESCO-designated Hypogeum temple ruins, a macabre, 5400-square-foot underground necropolis and the world's only underground prehistoric temple.
With more than 7,000 years of history and countless megaliths, medieval dungeons and vibrant towns and villages, Malta is one of the most alluring and diverse spots in the Mediterranean. Find beaches with changing colors and explore hidden coves. Visit ancient temples or head to the trendiest nightclubs. Valletta’s sunny streets, rich heritage and breath-taking architecture have earned it the accolade of European Capital of Culture 2018. Malta embraces its past and moves effortlessly with the times.
Discover the best All-inclusives in Northeast Aegean Islands including Hotel Belvedere, Socrates Plaza Hotel, Viva Mare Hotel and Spa, Rachoni Bay Hotel, Samaina Inn Hotel, Kampos Village Resort, Alea Hotel & Suites, Princess Golden Beach, Hydrele Beach Hotel & Village.
Discover the best All-inclusives in Kassandra, Halkidiki Region, Central Macedonia including Grecotel Margo Bay & Club Turquoise, Hotel Atrium, Kriopigi Hotel, Elinotel Apolamare Hotel, Xenios Dolphin Beach Hotel, Xenios Possidi Paradise Hotel, Olympic Kosma Hotel.
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Corfu is studded with whitewashed houses, Byzantine churches, and the remains of Venetian fortresses and Greek temples. Wander the ancient streets of the Roman village of Kassiopi or explore the central Esplanade of the eponymous Corfu Town. For a DIY spa experience, lather yourself in mineral mud on the shore of the Canal D’Amour. Legend has it that the waterfalls of Nymphes used to attract the mythological beauties of the same name, who would flock to the village to bathe in the pristine waters.
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The sapphire waters of Cephalonia are steeped with history. The large Greek island was home to Odysseus, the legendary king hailed in Homer’s The Odyssey. Fortunately, it won’t take you ten years to get there. Explore the enchanting caverns of the Drogarati caves, sail to Ithaca on a glass-bottomed boat or marvel at the ancient artifacts inside the Archaeological Museum of Argostoli, Cephalonia’s main town. Or just hide from it all at one of the island’s many private beach coves.
The largest of the twelve Dodecanese islands on the Aegean's eastern edge, Rhodes is also its most popular. The well-preserved medieval city of Rhodes sits at the north of the island of the same name. High rise hotels line the northern and eastern coastlines. Small villages and resorts dot the island's other shores. Whether your interests are beaches, bars or ancient sites, Rhodes offers an abundance of all three. Authentic Greece can be found in the hilly interior of the 50-mile-long island.
Relics ranging from ancient shrines to Venetian-style castles overlook swaths of golden sand beaches on Kos, a fertile island in Greece’s Dodecanese chain. Mega-resorts dominate the developed southern coast, while visitors looking for tranquility head to the quieter northern shores.
On the Aegean's eastern, edge the Dodecanese present perfect Greek vistas of whitewashed walls, turquoise blue skies and seas. Island-hopping by ferry, hydrofoil or catamaran is a splendid way to get into the leisurely pace. Once docked, you'll find many of these twelve idyllic islands are easily explored on foot. Don't miss Rhodes' Acropolis, the ruins of ancient Kamiros and Valley of the Butterflies or Kos' Askepion ruins. Tiny Patmos is known for the cave of St. John of the Apocalypse.
Rethymnon is one of the most well-preserved Venetian old towns on the island of Crete. Its 16th-century buildings are stunning examples of ancient architecture, and the monolithic Fortezza reflects both European and Moorish influences. Explore the magical waterfalls, rock formations, and ‘"cave church" of Saint Anthony Gorge before taking a pleasant evening stroll along the colorful Venetian Harbor. Relax in a taverna over a plate of Cretan meze, like fresh feta drizzled with local olive oil.
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Surrounded by water on three sides, Agios Nikolaos combines the sleepy feel of a seaside resort with all the amenities of a cosmopolitan port. Villas and tavernas spill over the town’s three hills to meet a harbor dotted with both mega-yachts and fishing boats.
The birthplace of both the king of the Olympian gods and of modern European civilization, Crete is a Mediterranean jewel. It’s rich with archaeological and mythological history that’s reflected in its ancient ruins and cultural attractions. Soak up the charming atmosphere of Chania Town’s Old Venetian Harbor or the fortresses and monasteries of Rethymonon. The awesome Minoan ruins of Malia date to 1900 BC, and majestic Mt. Ida is said to be home to the cave where Zeus was born.
Greece is one of those rare places where ancient history is still very much a part of modern life. Visitors are as much drawn to the country’s epic intellectual history as its beauty and charm. Make time for the iconic features of the Acropolis of Athens, which include the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike. Mythology buffs will appreciate Crete, Olympia, Samos, and Naxos for their mythological significance. For a peaceful beach vacation, the island of Santorini is perfect.
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