It is a place endowed with a lot of natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy the superb sea, with the most clear and warm waters in the Mediterranean Sea and the small sandy seashores which are pleasantly decorated with small rocks coming out of the water. The place is of great historical and environmental significance because we find here the ancient millstone quarries, as well as important biotopes where most fish species come to spawn. Here, the visitor can also see the primitive nature of Chalkidiki, where the native pine trees water their roots in the waters of the Toroneos gulf.

However, the most amazing sight of all is the awe-inspiring traditional village of Afitos with its 28 century-long history. Resisting the unorganized tourist housing development and in order to maintain their cultural inheritance pure, the inhabitants of Athitos have been trying to develop their place through their culture by promoting the natural beauty as well as the traditional village and the ancient history of their place. So, the old houses of porous stone have been renovated, the streets have been paved and the place now imposes its dignified beauty on visitors and on the locals making Athitos an amazing place to visit.

Afitos has many taverns, bars and cafes that serve local delicacies and refreshing cocktails from morning to late at night, while accommodation is abundant since Afitos offers plenty of hotels, rooms for rent and apartments.

To read more, please visit chalkidiki.com

It had two ports, one on the eastern side of the isthmus (Lecheon) for trade with European and Northern African merchants from throughout the Mediterranean. The other stood on the western edge (Kenchreai) for trade with Aegean, Persian, and Egyptian traders.

Every second spring witnessed the Isthmian Games in honor of the Earthshaker, Lord Poseidon, Greek god of the sea. In the mythical tales of Caenus, crown prince of ancient Iolkos, as recounted in the novel Caenus and The Quiver of Artemis, Caenus sets out to prove his worth at the fictional Apollo’s Tournament in Corinth, a city that was as famous as it was infamous. While at the tournament, Caenus meets a local peasant girl named Adriande, who takes Caenus on a tour of some of the very sights I mention below.

Following are Seven Things To Do In Ancient Corinth:

1. Visit The Doric Temple Of Apollo: Apollo, one of the twelve Olympians, was the Greek god of light, truth, prophecy and archery. He shared his penchant for archery with his twin sister Artemis, whose poison-tipped arrows could kill immediately. Built on a hill overlooking the agora marketplace, the Temple of Apollo displayed exquisite craftsmanship. It included 38 Doric columns and inspired all who saw it. Strike up the lyre.

2. Stroll Through The Agora: The agora was an ancient marketplace. Surrounded by colonnades and stoas (covered walkways), the agora served as the hub of the city's political and economic life. There were shops, museums, temples, and administrative buildings. Near the agora was the Elephant’s Tusk, a local taverna where Caenus meets a local peasant girl named Adriande, whom he later falls for.

3. Climb To The Top Of The Acrocorinth: The Acrocorinth was a monolithic rock, a veritable castle fortress overlooking the city. With its secure water supply, Acrocorinth was used as the last line of defense in southern Greece, repelling foes from entry into the Peloponnesian peninsula. Legend held that, Pegasus came here to drink from a spring. The climb is definitely worth the effort. The view of both of the city’s ports is simply breathtaking.

4. Walk The Diolkos: The diolkos (Greek for "haul across"), was a stone-paved roadway that connected the Saronic Gulf with the Gulf of Corinth, effectively linking Corinth’s two ports. This overland route was highly valuable in that it allowed merchants, passengers and cargo to avoid the difficult and time-consuming trip around the southern end of the Peloponnesian peninsula. Walk a mile in the sandal prints of these ancient traders.

5. Join The Cult of Aphrodite, Attend Her Festival, Aphrodisia: Ahh, Aphrodite… The Greek goddess of love and beauty was worshipped widely. Women wanted to be her. Men wanted to be with her. The Temple of Aphrodite, at the summit of the Acrocorinth, was the site for the most active festival honoring the goddess: Aphrodisia. During this festival the Cult of Aphrodite was quite active, engaging in ritualized prostitution… all in the name of the goddess, of course. This festival was not for the faint of heart.

6. Drink From The Sacred Spring At The Fountain of Peirene: Near the north-west end of the agora was the large public Fountain of Peirene, a marvel in marble. Within, there were chambers through which the water flowed into an open pool. Seven steps led downward to the sacred spring where priests were said to consult with Apollo.

7. Attend Apollo’s Tournament: Every year the summer solstice launched the Festival of the Sun in Corinth. The prestigious Apollo’s Tournament, was the main attraction. Based upon the Isthmian Games, Apollo's Tourney was a grueling contest of skill and might, pitting princes and noble sons against one another in such competitions as bull riding, endurance running, wrestling, and sword fighting. In Caenus and the Quiver of Artemis, Caenus and his nemesis Makedon are guided by the hands of the gods toward an epic showdown in the final stage of the tournament.

Source: C.S. Ledbetter

History

The present Temple of Apollo Epicurius was built sometime between 450 and 400 BC, around the time of the Parthenon in Athens. Its style seems to indicate a date prior to the Parthenon, perhaps designed 450-440 BC with a completion date around 425 BC. (Other sources date it to shortly after the Parthenon.) The ancient writer Pausanius attributed the design to Iktinos, architect of the Parthenon, but so far this has not been independently confirmed.

The temple's isolated location and unusual dedication (epikourios means "helper" or "protector") have kept scholars occupied for over 200 years. One explanation is that the villagers of nearby Figalos prayed to Apollo for protection from a plague and built the temple in gratitude for his assistance. Another theory is that Apollo was considered the protector of the Arcadians, especially mercenaries, who funded the temple.

Whatever the reason for its construction, the Temple of Apollo Epicurius was no modest, back-woods shrine. It is built on a grand scale with great precision and architectural creativity. Its combination of Doric and Ionic orders in a single structure was quite daring, and its Corinthian capital is the oldest known example in the ancient world.

The temple at Bassae remained well-preserved over the centuries, thanks primarily to its isolation. All but forgotten, it was too far up in the mountains for looting of materials to be practical anyway. The ancient ruin was not rediscovered until 1765, when the French architect Joachim Bocher stumbled on it by accident.

In 1811-12, British and German antiquarians poked around the ruins a bit and brought the metope sculptures back to their own countries. The cella friezes were bought by the British Government for £19,000 and placed in the British Museum, where they remain today.

The Greek Archaeological Society restored the temple from 1902 to 1906, re-erecting some fallen columns and restoring the cella walls. Another renovation was carried out in the 1960s, during which some fragments of the frieze were excavated.

A "temporary" protective tent was erected over the temple in 1987 that still remains in place today. It keeps out the extremes of the mountain weather, but obscures much of the architectural beauty of this celebrated Classical temple.

To get there

• Address: Off Rte. 76 and then up a 1-lane road, Bassae, 27061
• Phone: 26260/22254
• Cost: €2
• Hours: Daily 8:30-3

Source: Sacred-destinations.com

The most famous is Koukounariés, which has been declared the third most beautiful beach in the Mediterranean. When you add in its bustling nightlife, it is only natural that the island attracts thousands of young visitors every year!

Whether you want to hide yourself away from the crowds or dance until you drop – and then wake up and do it all over again –, Skiáthos, with its delirious night life, is a real treat for visitors and especially for young people seeking the freedom to ignore conventions and party on to the frenetic beats of their favourite music! The pedestrianised street by the Old Harbour is the ultimate hotspot for entertainment! Buzzing bars and clubs keep youngsters rocking through the night and until the early morning! The party continues in the area of Ammoudiá (on the road to the airport) where entertainment addicts celebrate in big open air clubs! Colourful cultural events, concerts and art exhibitions held throughout summer add a special touch to holidays on the island!

To read more, please visit visitgreece.gr

You may even get to toast the gods on Mount Olympus, visible from the seafront on a clear day.

Checking in
On the edge of the trendy Ladadika district, the city's only boutique hotel, the Capsis Bristol (00 30 2310 506500; capsisbristol.gr) has a range of rooms tastefully decorated in period style, with doubles from around €160. There is a gourmet restaurant and a classy first-floor terrace to boot. Further inland towards the Ano Poli (Upper Town), the Tobacco Hotel (00 30 2310 515002; davitel.gr) has nearly 60 more modern rooms largely in marble and wood; from around €90. The hotel's name reflects the fact that it was converted from one of the area's many tobacco warehouses. Budget options abound on and around the central thoroughfare of Egnatias Street - at the simple Hotel Bill (Syngrou 29; 00 30 2310 537666) , the, er, hotel bill is unlikely to be much more than €30.

Hit the streets

Thessaloniki's prime strolling arena is the central seafront esplanade, bookended by the workaday port and the city's trademark symbol, the White Tower. The tower was originally part of the Byzantine town's defences. Along the front you'll see the city's chic and famously attractive youngsters parading their designer gear and sharp haircuts during the evening volta (stroll). Drink in some of the venerable ancient heritage by admiring imposing structures such as the Arch of Galerius and the Rotunda, both built in the third century AD and situated next to each other just off Egnatias Street. Nearby Ayia Sofia heads an impressive list of Byzantine churches, while the Archaeological Museum (€6; Platia Hanth, just inland from the White Tower) is the place to gaze in awe at the wealth of gold from the Macedon Tombs at Vergina - and that's only part of it. More cutting-edge exhibitions are to be found at two separate portside museums: of Photography and Contemporary Art (entrance free; housed in converted warehouses off Koundouriotou Street).

Coffee break

Greeks love lingering over their coffee and countless cafes line the seafront, the adjoining central square, Platia Aristotelous, and just about every other street corner in the city. For a fine frappé or freddo in the whimsical company of psychedelically lit mini garden gnomes and other figurines, head for Pasta Flora Darling (Zefxidou 6). You should also try the creamy sweet kazan dipi, an eastern version of crème brûlée and a legacy of the Ottoman occupation, available at any zacharoplastio (patisserie).



Nick Edwards is the author of the Rough Guide to Greece (see roughguides.com)

To read more, please visit theguardian.com

If you find yourself on the Athens-Thessaloniki Highway, keep an eye out for the larger-than-life statue of the Spartan king Leonidas, about halfway through the 6.4km-long. Pass of Thermopylae that snakes between the mountains and the sea.

The pass is the only easy route from the north into Central and Southern Greece, and if the Persians made it through the pass, Greece could be theirs. The statue of Leonidas, the man who did most to stop the Persian advance, marks the battlefield.

When Xerxes invaded Greece in 480 b.c. with about 100,000 men, soldiers from almost every city-state in south and Central Greece rushed to Thermopylae to try to stop the advancing Persian army. The 6,000 or so Greek soldiers might have succeeded in holding the narrow pass of Thermopylae had not a traitor told the Persians of a secret mountain path that allowed a party of Persians to infiltrate the pass and outflank the Greeks.

Ordering the main Greek force to retreat south, Leonidas and his 300 Spartans, along with several hundred other Greek soldiers with the certain knowledge of immanent death, stood and fought a critical delaying action at Thermopylae. This gave the main Greek force time to retreat south to regroup, reinforce, and fight another day. When the fighting at Thermopylae was over, Leonidas and his men lay dead, but the Spartan king had earned immortal fame for his heroism.

In 2007 the story was retold in the Hollywood hit 300. The name Thermopylae (Hot Gates) refers to the warm springs that bubbled here in antiquity, when the pass was considerably narrower than it currently is, now that centuries of silt have built up the seashore. Many of Thermopylae's springs have been partly diverted to spas, such as Kamena Vourla. Unfortunately, overdevelopment has seriously undercut the former charm of the nearby seaside towns. If you want a quick look at some of the springs, look for plumes of smoke after you park near the statue of Leonidas. If you don't see plumes, follow your nose: The smell of sulfur is strong.

Source: Frommer’s Greece

The city is accessible by land, sea and air. The Greek government plans to facelift the area within the next few years. This includes development of major highways that will connect Preveza with other major Greek cities and northern Europe, development of athletic centers and creation of the biggest archeological park in Europe.

Climate. This city is blessed with over 300 days of brilliant sunshine a year. The winters are mild and the summers are warm cooled by a system of seasonal winds. From May to October it rarely rains.

Natural beauties. Turquoise waters, extended coast line, breathtaking scenery. Only pictures can show the magnitude of this beautiful place.
Eco-tourism. Almost 35 klm away from Preveza you will find the Rodia Wetland Center which promotes eco-tourism and activities to promote the protection of the environment, within the wetlands of the Ambracian gulf.

Live there all year round. Many islands and major tourist destinations in Greece are empty during the winter months. This is not the case with Preveza. The city is full of life that offers a variety of services to locals and visitors. Preveza hosts thousands of students in its newly developed University.
Safety. Where else in the world can you see your children or grandchildren playing at 11 o'clock at night with their friends, without worrying that something bad might happen to them? Nowhere else. Preveza is considered one of the safest places on earth.

Airport. Preveza's airport is the only airport in Greece except the international airport in Athens that offers two separate lanes for landing and departure for extra security. Daily flights connect Preveza with major Greek and European destinations. Most European flights are direct and you do not have to connect to the city through Athens as occurs with other major Greek cities and islands.


To read more, please visit ionianbreeze.gr

Myrtos

It is the trademark of Kefalonia with numerous international awards as one of the best beaches in the Mediterranean and it is certainly worth it. Moreover, every year Myrtos is being awarded from the Greek National Tourism Organisation (GNTO) with the blue flag. The scenery from above is unique and the view is certainly breathtaking. Green rocks that result in quite a long beach with white pebbles and the Ionian Sea at its best. The turquoise waters, with or without waves, will make your swimming experience unforgettable. And when you finally descend and encounter the infinite blue, you will be enchanted. Do not leave until watching the sunset; it’s a unique experience.

Antisamos

The island of Kefalonia attained special glamour and publicity because of the Hollywood production “Captain Corelli’s Mandolin”, which was filmed in the year 2000 on the island. The beach that fascinated most viewers was no other than the beach of Antisamos. Awarded with the blue flag, it is located a few kilometers away from the port of Sami. The landscape combines all shades of blue and green, where the vegetation grows almost into the sea.

Petani

“Epietanoi” is a word of Homer, meaning an area with abundant water throughout the year. The Petani Beach consists of fine white pebbles and crystal clear turquoise waters. The path to the beach is just as unique as the beauty of the whole of the landscape which literally leaves the visitor speechless. The beach is fully organized with a food and drinks station, sun beds and many restaurants on the seafront. Enjoy your coffee or drink, while admiring the breathtaking sunset.

To read more, go to visitgreece.gr

Meyáli Ámmos, on the road to Koukounaries and Ahladiés, is a popular beach with crystal clear waters and picture-perfect tavernas by the sea.
Banana (or Krassa bay) is a wonderful beach surrounded by pine trees that attracts young people thanks to its water sports facilities and the frenetic parties that take place in its cafes and bars all day and all night! Banana’s sister beach, Small Banana, next to it, is ideal if you want to avoid the crowds or if you are looking for some peace and seclusion. It is famous for its clear blue waters and its pine trees. Those who want to get away from the crowds should also check out the western part of the island: Mandráki, Eliá, Agkistros and Small and Big Asélinos are all ideal choices to escape the crowds. Lalária, on the northeastern part of the island, is the kind of beach you find once in a lifetime. Impressive white rock formations; small round pebbles (which is what lalaria means in Greek), beautifully clean waters and the “hollow rock” standing imposingly on the beach provide a beautiful natural backdrop that will take your breath away. Note: you can only reach the beach by boat departing, weather permitting, from the port of Skiáthos.

Following walking routes

Nature lovers will be thrilled by the 25 197-km long, well signposted walking routes and trails which pass through some of the most beautiful and unspoilt parts of the island. Depending on your stamina, you can go on walks which last from one to six hours. Follow the routes and discover the pristine interior of the island or fabulous secluded spots with amazing views of the Aegean! A suggested route to explore the beauties of the island starts from Asélinos and goes past Kounistra Monastery, Small Asélinos Beach and Alygariés Beach ending at Kehriá Beach. The routes Ayia Eleni to Krifi Ammos and Madraki-Elia-Agkistro for discovering excellent beaches of unique beauty!

Getting there:

• By ferry or high speed ship from the port of Volos or Ayios Konstantinos.
• By ferry from the port of Thessaloniki (only during summertime)
• By air from Athens or Thessaloniki

Source: Visitgreece.gr

The program ‘A Day at the Acropolis Museum’ invites visitors to spend a day at the Museum enjoying a range of activities.

Stroll through the Galleries
Take a stroll through the exhibition and speak to a museum archaeologist host available to answer any questions or queries you have. From the second floor balcony see a special and unexpected view of the Archaic Gallery. Visit the Parthenon Gallery on the third floor with its unique views of the Acropolis.

Conserving the Caryatids
The Acropolis Museum has commenced the conservation and restoration of the Caryatids, the Kore from the south porch of the Erechtheion temple. Visitors have the opportunity to watch conservators do the delicate work of cleaning the Caryatids with advanced laser technology.

Family Backpacks
The Museum invites families to search for the 12 different representations of the Goddess Athena amongst the exhibits of the permanent collection. Families can borrow a family backpack from the Museum’s Information Desk by leaving an identification card. Backpacks are available on a first-come first-serve basis.

Gallery Talks
Brief presentations by Museum Archaeologists-Hosts are held in Greek and English every Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Film
Visitors can learn more about the Parthenon sculpted decoration from a video projected on the third floor at the entrance to the Parthenon Gallery.

Eats and Treats
The Museum invites visitors to have a meal or refreshment at the second floor restaurant with panoramic views of the Acropolis (children’s menu available). On a fine day visitors can sit outside on the restaurant balcony. A small café is also available on the ground floor offering views to the archaeological excavation below the Museum.

Reading Area and Wi-Fi
The Museum offers the reading area with free wi-fi internet access on the second floor outside the restaurant. Visitors can browse through books relating to the Parthenon, relax or use their laptop.

Museum Gifts
Treat yourself to a small memento of your visit or one for friends and family. Select a gift from the wide range of goods available from the Museum shops. Find books in the second floor shop and gifts and stationary on the ground floor.

Friday Nights at the Museum
Every Friday the Museum is open until 10 p.m. every Friday and the restaurant is open between 8 p.m. and 12 midnight serving a special menu, beautiful night views of the Acropolis and great value for money. For reservations, please contact the restaurant during Museum opening hours on +30 210 9000915.

Museum Contact Info:

15 Dionysiou Areopagitou,
Acropolis, Athens
Tel: 210-9000900

Website: www.theacropolismuseum.gr

Source: Breathtaking Athens and Acropolis Museum