Gear Up For An Ultimate Grecian Experience

Being one of the few places where civilization stemmed out from, Greece never fails to amaze people in every part of the world. It is so popular that people—especially those who love to travel—never forget to put a vacation to Greece in their lists.

For people who have had the opportunity to visit Greece, its main city Athens and nearby Greek Islands, they can assure you that these places are nothing but wonderful and truly great places to visit.

Topographically speaking, Greece is situated in southern Europe. Aside from the main cities of Greece, the Greek islands are one of the most favorite destinations of people because of its peninsular beauty and mountainous surroundings that never fail to charm everyone who visits.

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Included in most people's top European and holiday destinations, the Greek Islands are definitely a must-see place because it features 1400 scattered islands in the crystal blue waters of the Greek Aegean and Ionians Seas.

Today, there are about 169 Greek Islands that are inhabited and are separated in many groups. Most people are into "Greek Island hopping" because each island has distinct landscapes.

The Greek Islands are perfect for a vacation or a getaway because it offers more than any tourist would want: beautiful landscapes, historical ruins of one of Europe’s greatest civilizations, various charming villages, seemingly endless golden sandy beaches, an active night life, various water sports and other romantic activities.

The most romantic thing that you can do in the Greek Islands is cruising. Greek Island hopping is possible through cruise ships that sail the Greek Isles and the Aegean Sea. Almost all types of cruise ships such as luxury, mainstream, and sailing ships are available to cruise with. If you opt to cruise using large mainstream cruise lines, you can choose from Carnival, Celebrity, Costa, Norwegian, and Royal Caribbean. If you prefer mid-sized cruise lines, opt for Crystal, Holland America, Oceania, and Regent Seven Seas. And if you prefer more intimate small-ship cruise lines, you can land on Silversea, Seabourn, SeaDream Yacht Club, Hebridean International, and Wind Star.

The following are just some of the places and sights one can visit and enjoy in the Greek Islands:

1. Santorini, the active volcano. The island of Santorini is very popular among the Greek Islands because of the history of its shape. Experts believe that the shape of island in the Ancient Times was circular but the eruption of the volcano was so strong that the center of the island sank deep in the waters. They also say that the volcano might be responsible for the destruction of one of the greatest civilizations of the Mediterranean—Minoan civilization in Crete Island. Records say that the volcano's last eruption was in 1956, although it can still erupt anytime because it is an active volcano.

2. Mykonos, the little Venice. This is considered one of the most famous areas in Greece and attracts thousands of tourists yearly. Mykonos' trademark is the "Little Venice," a unique area in Greece, which is a small bay in the capital of Mykonos. Here, houses were built by the Venetians over the sea. The waves breaking under the houses made of wooden and colored balconies, porches and windows, makes it quite famous for visitors. The Little Venice is also a favorite spot because of the many trendy cafés and bars.

3. Antiparos, an alternative to Paros. Antiparos is a small island that is opposite to Paros Island. It is well known because it has been able to keep its traditional beauty and charm. It is an overwhelming alternative to Paros because it showcases a lot of golden sandy beaches and the main village called "Kastro," a traditional Greek settlement that features white painted houses.

4. Corfu, the town. This is probably the most famous place in the Greek Islands. Corfu or Kerkyra is one of the most impressive Greek towns and has unique atmosphere and beauty. The architecture of the town also a great sight because it features Venetian, French and English influences.

5. Naxos, the temple of Apollo. This is the most authentic of the Cyclades Group. It houses the islet of Portara located at the end of a long strip of paved walkway where the magnificent marble gate of a temple dedicated to Apollo is erected.

6. Zakynthos, the turtles. Greek turtles called Caretta-Caretta are the best feature the island of Zakynthos offers. Abundant with one of the most endangered marine species on Earth, people come here to witness the existence of turtle species that can be extinct in the coming years.

7. Lefkada, the beaches. This is one of the Greek islands that has the most impressive white sandy beaches. It is quite spectacular because it complements the color of the sea.

8. Ios, where spring break never stops.  If you are looking to party, this is the island to visit.  This is where you will find many young people who are on vacation and want to spend it at clubs, bars, and at the beach.

The Greek Islands have it all.  If you are looking for a romantic vacation with many sites to see, or a trip where you can relax during the day and party at night, the Greek Islands can be the perfect trip.