Colour and character
Live Your Myth in the Land of Gods and Heroes
Welcome to Greece, a country painted in the most vivid shades of blue and white, where ancient myths feel breathtakingly real and the sun seems to shine a little brighter. This is the cradle of Western civilisation, the birthplace of democracy, philosophy, and theatre. But it’s also a place of simple, profound pleasures: the taste of salty feta on a sun-ripened tomato, the joy of diving into a turquoise sea, and the warmth of a welcome as genuine as the sunshine.
I’ve stood in awe before the Acropolis in Athens, sailed between islands that look like jewels scattered on velvet, and danced the night away in a tiny village taverna. Greece gets into your heart. It’s a place where every stunning landscape, from dramatic volcanic cliffs to serene olive groves, seems to tell a story. So, grab your sunglasses and your sense of wonder; we’re heading to the land of the gods.
Why Greece?
A History That Shaped the World
In Greece, you don't just see history, you walk through it. This is where legends were born. You can climb the same hill as Pericles to the Parthenon, explore the labyrinth where the Minotaur was said to roam, and stand in the stadium of the very first Olympic Games. The echoes of this epic past are everywhere, adding a layer of wonder to every single moment.
An Island for Every Dream
With thousands of islands, choosing one is the hardest part. Do you want the iconic, postcard-perfect views of Santorini? The glamorous, party-loving beaches of Mykonos? The lush, emerald green landscapes of the Ionian islands like Corfu? Or the wild, rugged terrain and ancient culture of Crete? Greek island-hopping is a rite of passage for any traveller, a glorious adventure of discovery on the Aegean Sea.
A Feast of Sun-Kissed Flavours
Greek food is a celebration of life itself. It’s fresh, vibrant, and made for sharing. Picture yourself in a seaside taverna, the sound of the waves in your ears, feasting on grilled octopus, creamy tzatziki, succulent souvlaki, and a classic Greek salad that tastes of pure sunshine. It's a cuisine that is honest, healthy, and utterly delicious.
Dreaming of your next holiday? Let Top Travels, a trusted Travel Agency in London, guide you.
Unforgettable Greek Experiences
Climb to the Crown of Civilisation in Athens
Even if you’ve seen it a thousand times in pictures, nothing prepares you for the moment you see the Acropolis. Perched high above the sprawling city of Athens, the Parthenon is more than just a ruin; it’s an enduring symbol of human genius. To stand before it is to feel the weight and wonder of 2,500 years of history.
Where to do it: The Acropolis Hill in central Athens. Go early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the scorching midday sun and the biggest crowds. The view of the city at sunset is pure magic.
Witness the World's Most Famous Sunset in Santorini
Yes, it's famous for a reason. Watching the sun dip below the horizon from the cliffside village of Oia in Santorini is a bucket-list moment. The sky explodes in shades of orange, pink, and purple, illuminating the iconic white-washed buildings and blue-domed churches clinging to the edge of the volcanic caldera.
Where to do it: Find a spot in Oia early, as it gets incredibly busy. For a less crowded but just as beautiful view, try the villages of Imerovigli or Firostefani.
Discover a Real-Life Shipwreck Beach
Tucked away in a secluded cove and accessible only by sea, Navagio Beach is a fantasy brought to life. Surrounded by towering white limestone cliffs, its white sands are home to the rusting hulk of a shipwreck, all washed by water of the most electric, unbelievable turquoise you will ever see.
Where to do it: On the coast of Zakynthos in the Ionian Islands. Numerous boat tours run daily from all over the island, often including a stop at the equally stunning Blue Caves.
Live the Dream and Go Island-Hopping
This is the classic Greek adventure! Catching a ferry from one idyllic island to the next is the ultimate expression of freedom. Each island in the Cyclades has its own unique vibe, from the bustling port of Paros and the sandy beaches of Naxos to the untamed beauty of Amorgos. It's the best way to find your own personal paradise.
Where to do it: Start from the port of Piraeus in Athens and grab a ferry schedule. The Cycladic island chain is the most popular route for a reason, offering frequent and easy connections.
Greece Offers
Luxury Holidays
Last Minute Holidays
Essentials
Visa Requirements
Visa Needed? Nope, You're All Set! As a UK citizen, you can travel to Greece for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without needing a visa for tourism.
Average travel time
It’s an easy hop. Flights from the UK to western Greece (like Corfu) take around 3.5 hours. To Athens and the Cyclades, it's a bit longer, around 4 hours, and can be up to 4.5 hours for islands further east, like Crete or Rhodes.
Languages
Nai! (Yes!). The Greeks' proficiency with English is excellent, especially in tourist areas and among the younger population. You'll have no problem at all, but learning a few words like Yassas (Hello) and Efcharistó (Thank you) is always appreciated.
Currency
Greece uses the Euro (€). While card payments are common in resorts and cities, it's essential to carry some cash, especially for smaller tavernas, taxis, or shops on the islands. For tipping, rounding up the bill or leaving a 5-10% tip for good service at a restaurant is customary.
Weather and Climate
Blissful. Greece is blessed with a Mediterranean climate. Summers are long, hot, and dry, with endless sunshine – perfect for island life. For sightseeing, the shoulder seasons of spring (May-June) and autumn (September-October) are ideal, with lovely warm weather and fewer crowds.
Top Greek Destinations
Athens: The Ancient, Edgy Capital
Athens is a thrilling collision of ancient and modern. The majestic Acropolis presides over a city that buzzes with life. Get lost in the charming, village-like lanes of the Plaka district, hunt for bargains at the Monastiraki flea market, and discover a world-class food scene and edgy street art.
The Cyclades: The Superstars of the Aegean
This is the Greece of your imagination. The stark, volcanic beauty of Santorini offers breathtaking views and romance in spades. Nearby, Mykonos delivers golden beaches, designer boutiques, and a legendary party scene. They are popular for a reason and are an essential first taste of the Greek islands.
Crete: An Island of Myths and Mountains
Crete is so large and diverse it could be its own country. It's the home of the ancient Minoan civilisation at the Palace of Knossos, rugged mountains with epic hiking (like the Samaria Gorge), and some of the most beautiful and remote beaches in all of Greece, such as Elafonisi with its pink sands.
Corfu: The Emerald Gem of the Ionian
A world away from the dry, rocky Cyclades, Corfu is lush, green, and incredibly beautiful. Its capital, Corfu Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage site with elegant Venetian architecture. The island is dotted with sleepy fishing villages, grand resorts, and stunning coves with crystal-clear water, like the famous Paleokastritsa.
Top Tips for Travelling Like a Pro
Get on "Island Time" Immediately
In Greece, especially on the islands, life moves at a more relaxed pace. Service in a taverna might be leisurely, and buses may not be perfectly on schedule. The local motto is siga-siga (slowly, slowly). Don't fight it, embrace it! You’re on holiday, after all.
Fuel Your Day with a Frappé
On a hot afternoon, there is nothing more Greek than sitting at a café and slowly sipping a frappé. This frothy, iced instant coffee is a cultural institution and the perfect caffeine-fuelled refreshment to help you cool down and watch the world go by.
Ferry Travel is Part of the Fun
Don't just see the ferries as a way to get from A to B. They are an essential part of the Greek travel experience. Grab a seat on the open deck, feel the sea breeze in your hair, and watch the islands appear and disappear on the horizon. It’s cheap, cheerful, and utterly magical.
Venture Beyond the Famous Names
Santorini and Mykonos are incredible, but they can be expensive and crowded. For a more authentic (and affordable) experience, consider some of their lesser-known neighbours. Islands like Naxos (fantastic beaches), Paros (balanced charm), and the ruggedly beautiful Amorgos offer a wonderful taste of island life away from the crowds.
Ready when you are
Greece: It’s Not Just a Place, It’s a Feeling
Greece has a way of capturing your heart. It’s in the incredible light that seems to make the sea bluer and the buildings whiter than anywhere else on earth. It’s in the taste of food cooked with love and the sound of laughter shared with new friends in a taverna. It's the profound sense of connection to a past that has shaped the world we live in today.
It’s a destination that satisfies on every level, whether you come seeking epic history, blissful relaxation, or non-stop adventure. It’s a country that invites you to live passionately, eat well, and embrace the simple joy of a perfect moment. Your own Greek myth is waiting to be written.
