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One of the greatest achievements of travelers is to go to Europe. Bordering the Ionian Sea and the Mediterranean Sea is a popular country which is called Greece. This country has eye- popping beaches, rich culture, bustling islands and amazing food.

When we tell about Greece, it is known for Greek Mythology. Like Zeus and Hercules “anybody” knows that in childhood. The fact that this country is the oldest countries in Europe. Greece official name is Hellenic Republic or also known as Hellas. There is a movie called “300” released last year 2014 that talks about a Greek warrior defending its country against invaders. The movie highlighted the great civilization during that time and even today Greece is consider one of the most livable places across many countries.

First example is the historic Santorini Architecture. This is one that signifies the birthplace of democracy. Santorini Island lies in an active volcano which the last eruption was recorded in 1950’s. The towns and villages sit densely on top of the mighty cliffs of the caldera.

We have also the Ancient Greece which no surprise the oldest and longest histories of Art and Philosophy established in 700-480 B.C. Ancient Greece had over 1000 city-states like Athens, Sparta and Corinth which makes this country strong. The capital of Greece is the city of Athens which is Europe’s oldest Capital. This make Greece’s capital one of the oldest cities in the entire world. Athens has also the most theatrical stages in the world. There are a total of 148 theatrical stages in this location. In Greece, 90% of the population is involve in Christian Orthodox which is the third largest branch of Christianity.

As I have said, democracy originated in this country. This country influence western civilization. It means that western culture originated here in this country. In this country, the first Olympic games took place in year 776 B.C. held in Olympia. During that time women is forbidden to join any Olympic games but in our current year women is consider as equal as men.

Odyssey is made by the Greeks. It is a renowned poem all over the world. But the funny part of it is that Greeks are not eating beans because they believed that the grains had the soul of dead people. As of now we are still using the Greek alphabet is the oldest language still use in modern times. The word alphabet actually came from the Greek word. It has a root word of alpha and beta. Greek language had contributed language community basically English vocabulary and 150,000 of the English words derive from Greek. One of these examples are school, paradise, economy, poem and academy.

In terms of geographical aspect, Greece is one of the most mountainous countries in Europe. 80% of the country is covered by mountain ranges. The highest peaks in Europe is Mount Olympus located on the border between Thessaly and Macedonia. This mountain had vertical measure up to 2917 meters above sea level. In Greek Mythology, they believe that Zeus god of lighting live here during ancient times.

Greece also has the longest coastline in southern Europe which has over 60KM surrounding the capital city “Athens”. This City is home to 18 UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Acropolis and Mount Athos. Acropolis is the most popular tourist attraction in Greece. Acropolis of Athens is considered to be the symbol of Athens and western civilization. The country has over six thousand (6,000) island throughout the Aegean Sea. One if its largest is Crete Island which has 8836 square kilometers and has a population of more than six hundred thirty thousand (630,000).

In this country, wine is loved by everyone. Winemaking in this country has been a tradition for 4000 years and they have more than 600 wineries all over the parts of Greece. Mediterranean Diet originated in Crete. This meal includes vegetables, nut fish, olive oil and red meat. Greece

is also known for its huge consumption of olive oil and in fact women here rubbed olive oil into their skin to maintain their flawless soft skin. The fact that is has a large consumption, did you know that Greece is the third largest producer of olives across all the countries in the world. They consider olive trees as a gift from God.

Frequently ask questions: What is Mesimeriano?

This is the important meal of the day. This is necessarily refer to a specific lunch dish but more to experience of an authentic Greek lunch meaning it is a “late lunch”.

What are some interesting facts about Greece?

  • Greece is one of the most mountainous countries in Europe;
  • Greece is home to 18 UNESCO world heritage sites;
  • Greece is the third-largest producer of olives in the world.
  • Athens is Europe’s oldest capital;
  • The ancient Greek alphabet is the oldest written language still in use

Antiparos is a small and unique island in the Cyclades group. Its ancient name was Oliaros. This island is located next to Paros island. Though it is not always as crowded as Paros, it has a developing character. The capital of Antiparos is Chora, which is where you will find most hotels, restaurants, and bars.

Many people visit Paros but only a few know there is another gem of an island in Antiparos. The island is popularly known for its famous cave, tourism, and its wonderful beaches. The cave on this island is the oldest in Greece.

This island is an ideal destination where you can relax for your holidays. This composition will guide you on how you can explore and enjoy your trip to one of the Greek islands.

Ferry schedules

Antiparos is just a short ferry ride away from Paros island. Antiparos is just a small island, so it doesn’t warrant an airport, the nearest airport that can connect Athens to the island is on Paros island.

The only way you can get to Antiparos is through Paros island. Ferries are departing from Paros to Antiparos from the ports of Parikia and Pounta.

Parikia port to Antiparos

This port transports only passengers. If you wish to go along with your car or ATV, this ferry is not for you. It operates only during the summer period, from June to October. The journey takes around 30 minutes.

The ferry on this port departs on an hourly basis starting from 10 am till 6 pm. The price for a single ticket on this port cost €5 and it is paid on board.

Pounta port to Antiparos

This is the fastest way to reach Antiparos. Pounta port transports both passengers and vehicles. The ferry at this port departs at a regular 30-minute interval and the journey takes around 10 minutes.

This port runs throughout the year. It starts operating from 6:30 am till 1:30 am. The operation time is always extended during the summer months for those who want to have the island nightlife experience.

Note that the ferry tickets are only purchased on board, only cash is allowed, and the only accepted currency is Euro.

Price for Ferry tickets

  • Passengers – €1.3
  • Vehicles. – €7.3
  • Children – Free

It is recommended you check the schedule at the port as the time varies throughout the year.

How to plan your trip

Antiparos attracts visitors with its cool atmosphere, wonderful beaches, and charming valleys. It is a perfect place for day trips or extended vacations. There is everything you need for your holidays on this island. You will find most bars, restaurants, cafes, and hotels in the capital of the island ( Chora ).

The best time you can visit the island is in April, June, September, and October. The weather is mild during this period and there are fewer crowds. If you are planning to stay on the island overnight instead of on a day trip. There are many affordable hotels around the town. Some of the hotels are:

  • Castro house
  • Kouros village
  • Begleri hotel
  • Lagadia village
  • The rooster

There are so many fun things you can do while on the island, from relaxing on the Beach, hiking, boat tour, camping, and visiting caves. You should get yourself prepared with the necessary wear and other materials needed for the activities.

Here are the lists of the best activities and places of attraction you can visit while in Antiparos:

  • Explore some of the most popular Antiparos beaches
  • Visit the Antiparos cave. This cave is just 8 km away from the capital of Antiparos

    (Chora). Tickets cost 6 euros.

  • Visit Despotiko island
  • Go shopping on the island
  • Go on a boat tour/excursion
  • Visit the Venetian castle
  • Antiparos nightlife

Alternative ways to explore the island

Moving around Antiparos island is easy, the island is small and there are public buses that connect most attraction centers, beaches, and small villages on the island. You can bring along your vehicle through Pounta port or you can rent on the island.

You can also decide not to make use of the ferry during your trip. Another available means of touring Antiparos is the use of a private boat or a catamaran. These options are quite expensive than making use of a Ferry. Using a private boat or a catamaran comes with a lot of benefits. Some of these benefits are:

  • It is more suitable for groups, families, and friends
  • You can customize your trip to your satisfaction
  • You will visit exclusive destinations and enjoy luxurious services.
  • You will get more attention from the boat captain and crew
  • You will have access to different types of menus when it comes to food and drinks
  • It is strictly private.

You can hire a private boat or catamaran with the following agencies in Paros:

  • Anemomylos Travel
    Location: Parikia 844 00, Greece. Contact: +30 2284 028090
  • Brama catamarans sailing cruises
    Location: leof, poseidonos 4, Alimos 174 55, Greece. Contact: +30 32 0988 8202
  • Yacht hop
    Location: leaf, poseidonos 1, Athina 174 55, Greece.
  • The sailors ride
    Location: Aliki 844 00, Greece Contact: +30 697 922 9844

Conclusion

Antiparos is a traditional Greek island with a lot of character. It is a place where you can relax and enjoy yourself. Whether you plan to visit for a day or a longer period, the island has a wide range of activities you can engage in.

There are many beautiful islands on the Cyclades that you might decide to visit, make sure you add Antiparos to your list.
You can read more on Antiparos from other reliable sources before planning your trip.

Animals have different roles and functions in ancient Greece. There are numerous mythological traditions where animals often act as gods. Animals can also serve a symbolic purpose, for example, owls symbolize wisdom and are synonymous with Athena, and dolphins are always used to indicate the presence of Poseidon.

The gods of Greece are known to dwell in the natural world alongside humans. These gods have some animals that are considered sacred to them because the animal’s characteristics resemble the god’s power. This article will present and discuss the animals that are considered the most sacred to the Greek gods.

Sacred animals of the gods

Symbolism is a vital instrument in most religions. Symbols in religion are used to pass values associated with religious principles. With symbols, different animals are associated with different gods for various reasons. Let’s take a look at the animals each Greek god has:

  • Zeus’ sacred animals: Eagle, Bull

    The famous Olympian king Zeus was the father of gods, the god of sky and lightning. He is also known for his ability to transform into various animals. always transform into various animals whenever he is chasing women in desire.
    Zeus kidnaps the attractive young man Ganymede in the form of an eagle while he transforms into a bull when abducting the young Europa. In many historical pieces, Zeus is always represented with a golden feathered eagle known as Aetos Dios, this eagle serves as his messenger and companion beside his throne.

  • Hera sacred animals: Peacock, cuckoo, and cow

    Hera is the wife of Zeus and also the Queen of all gods. She is particularly worshiped by women. She is in control over marriage and childbirth and is represented by cows, peacocks, and cuckoos.
    The cow is the major animal considered most sacred to Hera because it represented nurturing and protection for her young. The Cuckoo symbolizes her beauty while the peacock symbolizes her love for her husband.

  • Poseidon’s sacred animals: horse, dolphin, the Cretan bull

    Poseidon was known as the god of the sea, and earthquakes. He has three animals associated with and sacred to him.
    The most sacred animal to Poseidon was a horse which symbolizes beauty, valor, and prowess. He fathered many horses including the famous winged horse, Pegasus. other animals associated with Poseidon are the dolphin and Cretan bull.

  • Apollo sacred animals: cow, hawk, snake, crow, Cicada, and Swan.

    Apollo, the god of music and art is associated with different animals.Cicada was considered sacred to Apollo because of its connection with music during the summer.Just like Zeus, Apollo uses hawks ravens, and crows as his messengers.
    Another animal that was considered sacred to Apollo is the cow. He possesses the famous cattle that the god of the sun (Helios) was looking over and which Hermes stole when he was born

  • Athena’s sacred animals: owl, and goose

    Athena is widely known as the goddess of wisdom and righteous war. Her major sacred animal is the owl because the owl is considered very cunning, deadly, and wise.
    The owl symbolizes the goddess’s ability to see through the eyes of wisdom.Another animal that is more rarely considered sacred to Athena is the goose, an intelligent bird.

  • Hermes sacred animals: Tortoise and Ram

    Hermes was the god of traders, the messenger of the gods, and the protector of athletes. He was associated with Tortoise and Ram.
    He is widely known for constructing the first lyre from a tortoise shell. He later gifted the lyre to Apollo as gratitude for stealing his cattle.It was believed that he turn away the pestilence that was threatening the people of Tangara. He did this by carrying a ram on his shoulder and cycling the town’s wall.

  • Artemis’ sacred animals: Deer and Wild boar

    Artemis is the goddess of hunting and wilderness. Her major sacred animal is the deer. According to myth, she fell in love with some deer with shining golden horns.
    She captured and harnessed them into her chariot. She names them the Elaphoi Khrysokeroi.It was also known that the wild bear was sacred to the goddess since it is one of the favorite animals of hunters.

  • Ares sacred animals: Dog, Vulture, and Boar

    Ares the god of war despises cowards and those who hesitated in battle. His most sacred animal is the dog. An animal that is very faithful but can sometimes be dangerous.
    Another animal that is associated with Ares is the Boar because they are a fierce opponent that only heroes can deal with them.
    He was also symbolized by vultures because they were considered to be birds of bad omen that would litter around the battlefield waiting to feast on dead bodies.

  • Demeter sacred animals: serpent, pig, and gecko

    Demeter was the goddess of agriculture, rain, and harvest. Her most sacred animal is the serpent because it symbolizes fertility and regeneration.
    She also keeps the pig as her sacred animal because pigs are farm animals. The pig is always used as a sacrifice to the goddess to ensure the fertility of the land.

  • Aphrodite sacred animals: swan, dove, and hare

    The goddess of beauty and love had the dove as its most sacred animal. In many art representations, numerous doves are always shown pulling her chariot. Doves were frequently sacrificed to the goddess, especially during the aphrodisia festival. During this festival, priests will sacrifice a dove and use the blood to purify the goddess’s altar.Another animal considered to be sacred to Aphrodite is the swan which is a symbol of beauty. The goddess is always shown in pictures riding on the back of a swan.

Mythical creatures in Greek myth

Greek mythology is well known for its many mythical creatures. Creatures are supernatural beings with various powers and they come in various forms.

Here are some of the most popular mythical creatures in Greek myth:

  • Pegasus

    Pegasus, a beautiful white horse with large wings, is one of the most popular Greek mythological creatures. He was the horse of the famous Olympian king Zeus.
    Pegasus is an intelligent horse that does not allow anyone without a good heart to ride him. He can perceive people’s intentions.

  • Cerberus

    Cerberus is a Greek mythical creature in the form of a dog with three heads and a snake with a tail. He is the dog of the god Hades. Its job is to guard the gate of the underworld and ensure that the dead did not leave and the living could not enter.

  • Griffin

    This mythical creature has a hybrid form of an eagle and a lion, combining their wildness and courage into a single being.They are difficult to tame as they always roam in packs. Demigods were capable of taming them and they became loyal to him.

  • Cyclops

    Cyclops was a one-eyed giant and among the first beings to inhabit the universe. They are creatures dedicated to herding and hunting. The cyclops has two generations. The first generation consists of sons of Uranus and Gaea, who were dedicated to craft and construction. The second generation is a small tribe that lives on a remote island.

  • Gorgon

    The Gorgons were wicked female monsters who were daughters of the sea god. The gorgons are Medusa, steno, and Euryale. They were beautiful creatures but had snakes on their heads instead of hair. Medusa was later beheaded by Perseus who used her head as a weapon and gifted it to Athena for her shield.

  • Hydra of Lerna

    The Hydra of Lerna was known to be a ruthless aquatic monster. It has claws like a reptile and many heads. She was raised by Zeus’ wife, Hera. Hydra was a creature that lived alone until Hercules killed her.

  • Centaur

    Centaur is a mythical creature that is half man and half horse. He had the head, arms, and torso of a man and the body and legs of a horse.

Conclusion

The mythology of ancient Greek is filled with different stories that involve weird creatures. These creatures are supernatural and they appear in different and weird forms. They are represented in sculpture, pottery, and literary tradition.

The Greek also has a lot of gods they worship and different animals are associated with each god. When animal characteristics resemble a particular god’s power, the animal will be considered sacred to the gods. You can read more extraordinary stories on Greek mythology from other reliable sources for extensive understanding.

It’s the summer holidays, you’ve checked out from work and have a few weeks to spare for some down time for yourself, before the 9-5 starts again. You want to go somewhere more exotic and refreshing to the eye, warmer than the usual regulations stressed upon you in your regular location. Well I have one answer for you my dear readers… Greece!.

Greece, the land of mythical giants like Zeus & delectable lamb meat for your taste buds, to savour.  A country so exhilarating and diverse in monumental sights, visitors make it a necessity to take in the scenery on their travels, increasing their knowledge and appreciation of the country in the process. A beautiful country full of wonders and spectacular sights, that catch the eye in many more ways than one, I can only ask you my readers… what more can you ask for in a holiday destination?

The goal is to enjoy and explore the fine sights the country can provide during your stay, something which Greece displays with abundance, a pleasing trait that enables the tourist friendly nation to accommodate its visitors, with the best facilities and housing locations, for people to stay at.

From the capital city Athens alone, you can catch a glimpse at the mythical Acropolis Museum, home to the some of the historically intuitive art pieces made by man, many centuries ago. Other sites located in Greece, include Meteora, Panathetic Stadium, Parthenon, the infamous temple of Zeus and so much more, it’s no wonder people attempt to cram it all in during their travels to the country.

Why wouldn’t you want to spend your holidaying vacation, in a soothingly comfortable country that provides its habitants with sunny islands like Santorini, Crete, Mykonos and Corfu, for them to vacate and enjoy some downtime on their own. The islands in question, contain a subtle mix of beaches that varied from white to red and even black versions, all of which play host to notable events and seminal days, that Greeks enjoy to their own advantage throughout the year.

On average, the country has at the very least 300 or so days of sunniness which makes trips to beautiful islands like Santorini or Crete, all the more appealing for you to check out, once you touch down in Greece. All the merrier for those wanting to spend the majority outside, as it’s likely to be at a sustainable level of heat for travellers, to relax and explore the beautiful surroundings around them.

Travel wise, it would be best for you to book your flights to the country, on reputable websites like TUI or Aegean Airlines in cash saving deals. Along with the necessary travel documents needed for the trip (preferably Visa or passport ID), it would be ideal for people travelling to be vaccinated just in case, any issues flare up on that matter, along with the necessary insurance documents needed.

Those particular deals will give you extra leverage, in cash that can be stored and used for other endeavours on your trip to Greece, like subsequent outings to clubs that appeal to you in a nightlife aspect or guided tours which suit travellers, more inclined to sightseeing adventures.

To get in and around Greece, you would be able to utilise car rentals or your vehicle (at an affordable price of course) on the road, Ktel buses which transport you to specific areas or islands of your choice, let alone the boats that enable you to get across by sea. That’s not withstanding the ferries, also on hand to be used by travellers wanting to get around Greece.

As it currently stands, Greece is placed 97th in the world standings in terms of country size, with the East Mediterranean nation home to over 3,000 islands and close to 600 mountains, on their territory. In other words… Greece is big and you should know by the emphasis we’ve placed on it by this point of the blog now, but that’s not the only reason why we’re recommending the country as a holiday destination.

No, Greece is a place where visitors and citizens are able to further their cultural palette, taking into account the sort of activities that can be conducted individually or in a group, through a carefully budgeted plan. Ahh yes, budgeting my readers is very important for this trip to go without a hitch, as is any trip to any given location on Earth.

But in regards to the Greek trip, travellers will need to bring cultural customs that can help them endear and acclimatise to the culture in the country, a necessity that would allow them to participate in annual events like Carnival (if they wish to of course), Easter and Independence Day Festivals (depending on when they go), alongside other festivities like Saracosti (picnics on the first day of Lent), Ohi Day and more. Coupled that with general courtesy and normal mannerisms that respect the culture set in the country, you’re more likely to enjoy your stay in the country with an easier ride than most.

Which now brings us to our conclusion… as you can see we’ve done the propaganda needed for your persuasion and inclination to visit the delightful Greece. It may not be enough but then I asked you once more, why wouldn’t you want to visit this spectacular country on your travels?.

The country has the sights, the historical buildings, the delectable beaches, the friendly and hospitable people who help make the country tick. Did I mention the popular islands that play host to the bouncing, vibrant nightlife that could make your trip worthwhile? Come on now, do it.

Visit Greece, it will be worth your while and you’ll learn so much more about the country in the process, of enjoying yourselves with family or individually in the country. It’s only right you try it, Greece is the place to be and I’m sure you’re enticed enough to come down and spend time over in the Greek scenery…. You know you want to!

Although there are thousands of islands in Greece, and we adore many of them, Amorgos has permanently captured our hearts. But why did we focus on this island in today’s blog post when there were so many others? Find out by reading on!
The Cyclades’ Amorgos island is its crown jewel. The names Yperia, Platagy, Pagali, Psichia, and Karkisia were also used to refer to Amorgos. There are several remains of past civilizations on Amorgos. Three separate city-states were there during the Archaic era in Greece. They are thought to have shared a common currency but independent constitutions.

The size and quality of the walls that enclose the city of Arkesini, the old towers that have left remnants all over the island, the ancient graves, the stone tools, the inscriptions, the vases, and other artifacts are what set Amorgos apart from other antiquity-rich islands. Popular for its laid-back ambiance and stunning natural surroundings, this legendary Greek island is a favorite destination. On the island of Amorgos, you may enjoy the unending Aegean Sea’s blue hue alongside a vibrant nightlife and a variety of outdoor pursuits.

Amorgos, unlike the other Cyclades Islands, has miraculously avoided the lure of mass tourism despite its exceptional beauty. Amorgos is one of those places where local culture determines how tourists experience the island rather than the other way around, and the island has managed to stay untouched and incredibly authentic.

This blog post would try to give a complete guide to the bus timetable for Amorgos, so keep reading and let;’s uncover more details about the beautiful island of Amorgos.

In order to get into Amorgos, you’ll need to use ferries, since there are frequent ferries leaving from the port of Piraeus, it is possible to go to Amorgos by ferry from Athens all year round. Also, there are ferry links from other Cycladic islands. There is no airport on the island of Amorgos, but you can fly to Naxos or Santorini and take a ferry from there.

Now that you’re in the city, the Amorgos Bus Company is a bus-based public transportation company in Amorgos. There are 27 bus stops along 8 bus routes run by the Amorgos Bus Company. Their bus routes serve the areas between the stops at Kalotaritissa Beach and Lagada as well as between the stops at Tholaria and Navagio (Shipwreck).

The 8 bus routes according to the Amorgos Bus Company, their routes and their time of operation are as follows:

  1. Timetable and stops for the ΑΙΓΙΆΛΗ – ΚΑΤΆΠΟΛΑ bus route (Updated). There are 7 stops on the – bus (Αιγιάλη – Κατάπολα), which travels from Agia Anna and ending in Katapola. They include: Agia Anna, Monastery, Chora, Kastelopetra, Camping Kastanis, Rahidi and finally, Katapola. An outline of the forthcoming week’s bus time schedule: operational hours are 10:30 AM to 5:30 PM. They work every day.
  2. Timetable and stops for the ΑΙΓΙΆΛΗ – ΘΟΛΆΡΙΑ bus route (Updated). There are 6 stops on the – bus (Αιγιάλη – Θολάρια), which travels from Aegiali and ending in Tholaria. They include: Aegiali, Mpogiatzi, Camping, Fokiotripa, Aegialis Hotel and finally, Tholaria. An outline of the forthcoming week’s bus time schedule: operational hours are 10:45 AM to 11:15 PM. They work every day.
  1. Timetable and stops for the ΑΙΓΙΆΛΗ – ΚΑΤΆΠΟΛΑ bus route (Updated). There are 8 stops on the – bus (Αιγιάλη – Κατάπολα), which travels from Aegiali and ending in Katapola. They include: Aegiali, Agios Pavlos, Asfontilitis, Chora, Kastelopetra, Camping Kastanis, Rahidi and finally, Katapola. An outline of the forthcoming week’s bus time schedule: operational hours are 10:00 AM to 09:30 PM. They work every day.
  2. Timetable and stops for the ΑΙΓΙΆΛΗ – ΛΑΓΚΆΔΑ bus route (Updated). There are 6 stops on the – bus (Αιγιάλη – Λαγκάδα), which travels from Aegiali and ending in Lagada. They include: Aegiali, Mpogiatzis, Kaminaki, Manoliou, and finally, Lagada. An outline of the forthcoming week’s bus time schedule: operational hours are 10:30 AM to 11:30 PM. They work every day.
  3. Timetable and stops for the ΚΑΤΆΠΟΛΑ – ΚΑΛΟΤΑΡΊΤΙΣΣΑ bus route (Updated). There are 13 stops on the – bus (Καλοταρίτισσα – Κατάπολα), which travels from Kalotaritissa Beach and ending in Katapola. They include: Kalotaritissa Beach, Navagio (Shipwreck), Agia Paraskevi, Paradisia (Agia Paraskevi), Pirgos, Arkesini, Moyros Beach, Valsamitis, Chora, Kastelopetra, Camping Kastanis, Rahidi and finally, Katapola. An outline of the forthcoming week’s bus time schedule: operational hours are once a day at 5:30 PM. They work every day.
  4. Timetable and stops for the ΜΟΝΑΣΤΉΡΙ – ΚΑΤΆΠΟΛΑ bus route (Updated). There are 6 stops on the – bus (Μοναστήρι – Κατάπολα), which travels from Monastery and ending in Katapola. They include: Monastery, Chora, Kastelopetra, Camping Kastanis, Rahidi and finally, Katapola. An outline of the forthcoming week’s bus time schedule: operational hours are 10:35 AM and ends at 6:35 PM daily.
  5. Timetable and stops for the ΧΏΡΑ – ΑΓΊΑ ΆΝΝΑ bus route (Updated). There are 6 stops on the – bus (Χώρα – Αγία Άννα), which travels from Chora and ending in Agia Anna. They include: Chora, Monastery and finally, Katapola. An outline of the forthcoming week’s bus time schedule: operational hours are 10:15 AM and ends at 5:15 PM daily.
  6. Timetable and stops for the ΚΑΤΆΠΟΛΑ – ΧΏΡΑ bus route (Updated). There are 5 stops on the – bus (Κατάπολα – Χώρα), which travels from Katapola and ending in Chora. They include: Katapola, Rahidi, Camping Kastanis, Kastelopetra and finally, Chora. An outline of the forthcoming week’s bus time schedule: operational hours are 9:45 AM and ends at 8:00 PM daily.

Charges change according to time and distance. You can pay as little as €1.80 to travel from Chora to Katapola, for instance, to as much as €3.50 to travel from Katapola to Kalotaritissa. A minor fee is added for the nighttime slots. For instance, Chora-Katapola now costs €2.00 rather than €1.80. Tickets can be bought right there in the car. Only one route is covered by the price of the ticket.

Each village on the island of Amorgos is connected by air-conditioned buses provided by the Amorgos Bus Company. Buses connect the villages of Aegiali with Agios Pavlos, Chora of Amorgos, Katapola, and the villages of Kato Meria relatively often during the summer.

Amorgos is an amazing location with exceptional natural beauty and spectacular landscapes. It is the perfect location for any nature lover, despite being rocky and rugged. Amorgos is a small island, yet it has a well-developed transportation system. This area is well worth exploring, whether on foot, by bus, or in a private automobile.

The cheapest method of transportation on the island is public transportation. The neighborhood bus service operates a number of routes every day from early in the morning until late at night. Also, there are specialized late-night bus services. The majority of bus lines originate in Aegiali, Katapola, or Chora and travel to practically every settlement on the island.

The Monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa, which is close to Chora, is also frequently visited. After the bus drops you off at your destination, you must walk to the Monastery. Information and updates can be also found at amorgosbuscompany.com

And that would conclude today’s post.we’re convinced that by now, you know a lot about island of Amorgos and its main attractions; the bus routes in Amorgos for 2023 and the description of the bus routes, timings, and frequency. We also talked about the ticketing system, prices and how to purchase tickets and concluded with the special services provided by the bus system in Amorgos such as night buses, special routes for tourists and other services and how to access these services and their availability. We believe this blog post was helpful, if you have comments please feel free to reach out to us.

Most visitors to Greece are familiar with Piraeus Port in Athens. There are three ferry terminals in Athens, which not many people are aware of. Rafina Port is the second biggest of these. The Rafina port, which handles over 2 million passengers annually, is also the second busiest port in Attica. It is one of the primary escapes to the Cyclades and the islands of the northeast Aegean Sea and is situated on the Athens coast to the northeast.

Rafina Port is located on the easternmost point of the Attica peninsula, 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) from the city center of Athens and 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) from the airport. Depending on traffic, it takes an hour to travel to Rafina port from the city center and 30-45 minutes to travel there from the airport.

The port of Rafina is situated closer to the Cyclades in the northwest. Because of this, getting to Andros, Tinos, and Mykonos via ferry from Rafina is the simplest and quickest option. Ths blog post gives a thorough guide on how to book a ferry the Rafina Port, what to expect when you get there and how to get there. So keep reading to discover all you need to know about the Rafina Port in Athens!

Unlike Piraeus, the port is fairly small, and getting around the port area only takes a few minutes. Rafina port has a variety of ferry kinds, from small, quick ferries to larger ferries that can transport automobiles. The Rafina’s passenger port includes a single, spacious terminal with two high-speed vessel ramps and 13 ramps for standard boats.

The pier is just a few meters from the port’s entrance, making it simple to walk to the ships’ locations. Due to the numerous ferry departures and arrivals throughout the summer, the port of Rafina can get extremely busy. Hence, if you are taking a vehicle, we strongly advise that you go to the port at least one hour before your ferry departs.

Taking a taxi from the heart of Athens is the quickest method to get to Rafina Port. Depending on traffic, a taxi ride from Athens to Rafina will often take up to 4 passengers under an hour. If you don’t have a car, you can take public transportation to go to Rafina. Here are a few ways you can get there: The KTEL Attikis intercity bus lines will take you from the heart of Athens to Rafina.

Every hour, buses travel from Pedion tou Areos, and the trip takes around 1.5 hours. Please be mindful of the city traffic and take an earlier bus to ensure that you arrive in plenty of time for your ferry departure. The cost of the bus to Rafina is €3. Depending on traffic, a taxi ride to Rafina from Omonia or Syntagma takes around an hour. It costs approximately €5.0 during the day and €6.5 at night (00:00-05:00).

There are similar City buses (AS) as well. These buses, number 314 (St. Douk. Plakentias – Rafina), leave from the Doukissis Plakentias (Line 3) metro station and make stops close to Rafina’s harbor. A taxi will take you there in around 10 minutes from the bus stop to the harbor. The trip takes about 45 minutes and the 314 bus lines run roughly every hour. You can use the Athens Transport tickets and cards on this route.

You should note that there isn’t any free parking in the port of Rafina unless you leave your car on one of the surrounding town streets, which is a little bit more away from the port entrance. The Rafina public parking lot is 3 minutes from the port terminals, and parking costs as little as €4.5 for the first 6 hours. Private parking lots that provide the option of parking in a covered area are also located close to the port.

There are various shops and helpful services in the town center, which is not far from Rafina’s port. If you have time, you can stroll through the city and relax at one of the ouzeri and tavernas known for their delicious fish dishes. The stunning church of Agios Nikolaos, Rafina’s signature structure, is located just five minutes from the harbour on a tiny hill with a commanding view of the Aegean Sea. The stunning Marikes beach, located approximately 1.5 km south of the port, is a great place to swim before or after your journey.

All year long, there are multiple daily ferry crossings from the port of Rafina. You may get ferry boats to areas like Tinos, Andros, Mykonos, Crete, and the islands of the northeastern Aegean Sea from Rafina. Ferries from Rafina often sail for destinations in the Cyclades Island chain. Moreover, there are frequent ferry services between Rafina and Marmari in Evia. It often takes less time and costs less to go to any of these islands from Rafina’s Port than it does from Piraeus. The busiest ferry routes from Rafina are:

  1. Rafina to Andros: Because of its distance from Piraeus, Andros is frequently overlooked by tourists. It is one among the Cyclades islands with the most vegetation and has some of Greece’s top beaches. It’s also a terrific weekend getaway from Athens because it only takes a little over an hour to get there. Golden Star Ferries and Quick Ferries are two ferry companies that operate on this route.
  2. Rafina to Tinos: Tinos is a wild, hilly island with a number of wonderful settlements and several stunning beaches that is well-known for its enormous religious ritual on August 15. If you enjoy classic, real Greek cuisine, it’s also a terrific place to visit. It’s simple to travel there because it’s only a few hours from Athens.
  3. Rafina to Crete: Throughout the summer, there are weekly crossings on this seasonal route. The nine-hour ferry ride from Rafina to Heraklio in Crete normally departs from central Cycladic islands like Naxos or Santorini.
  4. Rafina to northeast Aegean: In the summer, there are frequently direct ferries from Rafina to Ikaria or Samos in the northeast Aegean.
  5. Rafina to the Cyclades: The ferry service goes from Rafina to the central and southern Cyclades. Rafina to the Cyclades islands is served by a large number of ferries during the summer. Rafina-Milos and Rafina-Santorini are two of the most well-liked routes, respectively.
  1. Rafina to Mykonos: The majority of Greece itineraries include this tiny island, which has gained popularity among the international jet-set since the 1950s. You’ll either love it or loathe it, depending on how you like to travel. If you have the chance, take a day trip to the archaeologically rich island of Delos from Mykonos Town. Only 2 hours and 10 minutes are needed to go from Rafina Port to Mykonos.
  2. Rafina to Evia: Evia is a truly undiscovered island that is only one hour from Athens and is not particularly well known to foreign tourists. To move around and take in the unspoiled splendor, you’ll need a car. You may anticipate meandering roads, a lot of gorgeous, green beaches, protected bays on the island’s west coast, and undeveloped, open beaches on its eastern coast. Although a bridge technically connects to Evia, taking a boat there is faster.

The following is a short list of what to bring with you when island-hopping in Athens. Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, a daypack, wet bag, a waterproof camera (not required, although Athens has some stunning, crystal-clear water that you may love to take pictures of), a small padlock (Athens is notorious for pickpocketing), sandals, water shoes, hiking shoes, and lastly, a coverup or scarf. Also, planning and adhering to a budget is crucial while visiting the Athen islands. The budget should include the cost of meals (both eating out and buying groceries), travel, and excursions.

To summarize all that has been said in this blog post, Rafina Port in Athens is the second biggest of the three ports in Athens and this port handles over 2 million passengers annually, is also the second busiest port in Attica. We also discussed the different ways one can use in order to get to Rafina Port, how to get there as well as the transportation options and prices.

We moved on to talk about the main attractions of the Rafina Port and things to do there; furthermore, we talked about the islands that can be reached from Rafina Port and finally how to plan your island hopping trip and what to expect. You should note that the Rafina port is extremely popular on the weekends and in the summer. It is advisable that you consider the possibility of a traffic jam if you are traveling by car or better still take public transport, the price for their fares have already been stated in the blog post.

Try to stay hydrated when island-hopping in Athens, so bring a reusable water bottle. This concludes our discussion on the ultimate guide to Rafina port in Athens. Have you been to this city? Post your stories and advice in the comments section below!

The Agora is the one historical site in Athens that most clearly establishes the city’s position as the birthplace of Western civilization. Democracy in classical Greece was born in this context. The greatest Greeks, including Plato, Socrates, Demosthenes, and others, theorized, spoke out, and engaged in debate in this center of commerce, politics, religion, and culture. The Agora Museum, housed in the two-story Stoa of Attalos that was constructed in the second century BC, also houses the important artifacts.

The old Agora of Athens, also known as the Classical Agora, is the most well-known illustration of an ancient Greek agora. It is situated to the northwest of the Acropolis and is bordered on the south by the Areopagus Hill and on the west by the Agoraios Kolonos Hill, also known as Market Hill. The Agora’s original purpose was as a center of commerce, assembly, or habitation. Ths blog post gives a thorough guide to visiting the ancient Agora of Athens, what to expect when you get there and how to get there. So keep reading as we explore the ancient Agora of Athens together!

The Ancient Agora’s location predates the existence of Athens itself. It was formerly utilized as a cemetery and residential neighborhood. It became a public area and was used for gatherings and assemblies during the beginning of the 6th century BC.

Agora continued to advance during the Hellenistic and Roman eras, but the Heruli, a North European tribe, invaded Athens in 267 AD, and like all other places, the Agora was largely damaged and abandoned. During the era of classical Athens, the site attained its pinnacle. Civic offices and public buildings were built in great quantities. They were temples honoring the twelve Olympus gods as well as the spectacular Hephaestus temple. It now houses the excellent Agora Museum.

The Ancient Agora is a 15-minute walk from the Acropolis and near to the Thisseio and Monastiraki metro stations. Adrianou Street is where you enter. Tickets to the Ancient Agora and the Museum are 10 (April to October) or 5 (the rest of the year) (November – March). Seasonal changes in opening hours can be found on the official website. The Agora, the Acropolis, and five additional archaeological sites are all accessible to visitors in Athens.

The on-site ticket office sells tickets, or you can purchase them online: etickets.tap.gr.
The Athenian Agora’s entrance is free on certain days: Melina Mercouri, a former minister of culture, was remembered on March 6; International Day for Monuments and Sites / World Heritage Day is on April 18; World Museums Day is on May 18; European Heritage Days are the last weekend in September; The public holiday on October 28th is called “OXI day.”; And lastly, every month’s first Sunday, from November to March (2021 only) the 21sts of October, November, and December

The Ancient Agora is easily accessible from any part of Athens. The Ancient Agora can be readily accessible on foot from Monastiraki metro station in less than 5 minutes due to its central location in Athens. also Thissio on line 1 and “Monastiraki” on lines 1 & 3 are the nearest metro stations. Keep in mind that it takes 3–5 minutes to walk from the subway to the Ancient Agora.

It is essential to note that political, social, religious, and commercial activity are all centered around the ancient Agora in Athens. The Agora is the one historical site in Athens that most clearly establishes the city’s position as the birthplace of Western civilization. Democracy in classical Greece was born in this context.

The greatest Greeks, including Plato, Socrates, Demosthenes, and others, theorized, spoke out, and engaged in debate in this center of commerce, politics, religion, and culture. You can also visit the temples, a former concert venue, and consider life in the past beneath the renowned long, marble colonnaded arcades.

The Agora Museum, housed in the two-story Stoa of Attalos that was constructed in the second century BC, also houses the important artifacts. Agora’s shady lanes offer a wealth of things to explore. The Stoa of Attalos, one of Ancient Agora’s most spectacular structures, has undergone renovations and now houses the museum. The Temple of Hephaestus is another important landmark.

The Acropolis, which rises directly above you, will be perfectly visible while you are walking across the gardens. It is amazing to see how the ancient Greeks viewed this as the location of the gods, prosperity, and authority. Also some of Athens’ most significant structures, including the Apollon Patroos, the Church of the Holy Apostles, the Temple of Hephaistos, and others, can be found in the region of the old Agora. Some of the must-see places within the site at Agora include:

  1. Stoa of Attalos and the Temple of Hephaestus: one of the best preserved temples of its kind in Greece is the temple to Hephaestus. Hephaistos, the patron god of metalwork, pottery, and crafts in general, was honored by the temple’s construction. King Otto, the first monarch of the modern Greek state, was greeted with it. Since then, and up until the 1930s, the structure served as a museum.
  2. Holy Apostles Church of Byzantium: apart from the Temple of Hephaestus, the Church of Holy Apostles is the only building in the Ancient Agora that has survived entirely from its construction. It was built in the 11th century.
  3. Theater of Dionysus: the theater of Dionysus was built in honor of the Greek drama deity Dionysus and was one of the first and largest theaters in existence. It was situated south of the Acropolis. In the theater, significant Greek plays from the time were presented. The Dionysus Theatre has remained true to itself over the years.
  4. The Bouleuterion’s ruins: the Bouleuterion, a modest building from the end of the 6th century BC that resembles an early Greek temple, is located on the west side of the Athenian Agora. The area was used to accommodate the Boule council members, who were charged with Athenian Democracy’s legislative, executive, and advising functions.
  5. Atrium of Agrippa: this was given the name Agrippine in honor of their son-in-law and Augustus’ general, Marcus Vipsianus Agrippa. Around a marble-paved orchestra, the room could hold up to 1000 people at once, who would be seated across 19 rows of benches. Despite collapsing, the Odeon was restored, although with a smaller seating capacity than before—only 500 people.
  6. Urania’s Aphrodite Temple: the temple was entirely devoted to the Greek goddess Aphrodite and was located northwest of the Ancient Agora of Athens. Aphrodite’s sobriquet, Urania, denoted her lofty and spiritual nature. According to legend, the shrine houses a marble figure of the god created by the Greek sculptor Phidias.

The sacred Athens ruins welcome almost 3 million visitors each year. As a result, getting tickets at the counter is challenging. Nonetheless, you can go to the ticket office and buy the tickets if you want to try your luck. With proper identification, free tickets will be given to Europeans and children under the age of five.

There is no other sure-fire method if you happen to be there on a very busy day besides the www.headout.com, which can be bought online. You can also benefit from discounts and cashback when you book them online, which can save you time and money. There are different types of tours available and their cost available on their website.

In summary of today’s blog post on the guide to visiting the Ancient Agora of Athens, we talked about the Ancient Agora of Athens. We also explained that the word “agora” in Greek refers to a gathering place or marketplace. As implied by the name, it had truly been a marketplace for ages, where people came to buy and sell products.

We talked about how to access the city and what to expect, stating that the ancient Agora was not only utilized as a marketplace where people exchanged things, but it was also a meeting place where people discussed current events, gossip, and even attacked the government. Aristotle, Plato, and other well-known Greek philosophers congregated here to discuss and trade ideas.

It is highly recommended that you note that there are steps to climb while visiting, it is highly recommended that visitors go to Ancient Agora wearing comfortable shoes. Also early morning hours are the ideal time to visit the Agora. And note that for children under the age of five are admitted free of charge, and children from 6 to 24 are admitted for half price. Please be aware that a passport or photo ID is necessary for free or discounted tickets.

This concludes our discussion on the ultimate guide to visiting the Ancient Agora of Athens. Have you been to this city? Post your stories and advice in the comments section below!

It’s a scorchingly hot Saturday evening, you’re holidaying in the tourist friendly area of Athens for a week or so and you’re looking for a place to go. As a avid traveller, you’ve been sightseeing, you’ve had a look at the historic monuments around the area and now of course, it’s time to Eat!… not the small snacks or food discourses that will keep you ticking during the day.

No… I’m talking about the meals that will leave you drooling and daydreaming about the next meal on the way, once you finish your most recent dish. Lest we forget, Athens is the capital of one of the most prominent food popular countries in the world.

I mean come on, who doesn’t have cravings for Greek food from time to time.Now imagine tasting those very dishes in the home country itself, with the sunlight beaming down on you as you tuck into the dish in front of you, with relish and genuine delight.

Ergo, you’ll have more than enough time to consume and divulge yourself into a well seasoned, well prepared meals that will have you push Greece, towards the top end of your holiday destinations in not too distant future.

The country itself is notorious for its delectable mix of delicious meals, that vary from Mediterranean dishes (Moussaka), bakeries, traditional Greek meals such as Tarmasalata or grilled meat and much more.

Still don’t believe me? We’ll sit down, relax and have a look at some of the top restaurants we rated among the best in the area, for food courses of all kinds and tastes to your pleasure …

No.5 – Le Greche

Le Greche

This five star Ice cream shop is located in central Athens, where you can take pleasure in some of the finest gelato dishes served up, from traditional Greek cuisine and certain recipes, drummed up from nearby countries like Italy and San Marino.

The restaurant takes pride in providing fruit menus, sweet chocolate and additional information at the door, whilst giving the customers additional information, about the food they’re going to receive once ordered, in the plush, comfortable seats set for them to settle in. Furthermore, the options included are also gluten and lactose, for those who may suffered from food related allergies.

No.4 – Kanaria

kanaria athens

Located in the surburbs of the city, Kanaria is a retro styled restaurant that ensures that it’s visitors are settled and accommodated in a manner, that suits both their food tastes and financial needs. Set up by the Argyropoulos family in the 1950’s, the shop is based off the ideals of your typical Greek food dishes (albeit only five are served in the shop), all of which are affordable and delicious in equal measure.

The garden like settings around the restaurant, give the location a sense of tranquility and peace, you don’t always get in foreign settings when you go to restaurants on unknown territory, but that’s where Kanaria comes in strong, alongside its succulent dishes which make the mouth water, just at the sight or thought of tasting the meals in question (e.g. Pan fried prawns). Mmmm…..

No.3 – Seychelles Restaurant

Seychelles Resturant

A modern food bistro, Seychelles maintains a top notch quality menu that enables customers to choose from healthy salads, to butch meat dishes, seafood based dishes centred on pappardelle ideology, Cycladic cheeses and more, for your delight. Trendy as well as settling, the restaurant can be located near the Aldvi centre where civilians come down, from Keramikos neighbourhoods to enjoy and savour the meals, available on menu.

This also gives tourists or travellers like yourself, to incorporate and take in the differing cultures on show, as a combustible mix of accents, delects, forceful food opinions take hold of a up and about venues providing the best service available, for foodies to enjoy. Also, the prices may I tell you are also affordable and appealing for you to invest your spare cash on for a meal …. Thank God!!!

No.2 – Hytra Restaurants

Hytra Restaurant

This beautiful restaurant is based on the sixth floor of the Onassis Cultural Centre, where visitors can find cuisine based around distinctive and notable flavours when they enter the venue , while overlooking Acropolis views as they eat the dishes prepared for them. The restaurant was listed on the infamous “La Liste” batch of restaurants branches, notable for their success in 2019.

Hytra provides it customers with rich Greek heritage and gastronomy, through the presentations of their meals, for customers to fester over… these meals include regulars like gourmets, Short Ribs, Cod, big pork dishes and more. Let’s not forget also, the airy atmosphere that contributes towards the location being ideal and more than enough of a sweetener, for tourists or local civilians to enjoy their time in the restaurants….

No.1 – Ta Karamanlidika Tou Fani

Ta Karamanlidika Tou Fani

You want that traditional Greek Deli flavour, I recommend you come here and savour that taste for yourself. Centred around a neo-classical house, the deli plays host to a series of regional dishes such as fried aubergine, saganaki cheese, pastrouma (dried meat), zucchini and more, for any customers to enjoy on the enticing menu. Again, like most Greek restaurants in Athens we’ve seen how the prices are to most financial charging in regards, to how people can order these meals and not burn a significant hole in their pockets…. Phew!

Now of course we’ve given you a selection of restaurants for you all, to choose, ponder, pick and eventually eat at, once you enter the city of Athens.

The question is…. Which one will you pick my dear readers??

From sun kissed beaches to elegant ancient ruins, Greece has something for everybody. Whether you’re heading for the romance of the islands, or shitting the shops in Athens, getting around easily is an essential part of enjoying your trip. In this post, we’ll talk you through how to get around Greece, where to stay, what to eat and, most importantly…how to budget for it all!

Types of accommodation on offer

When visiting Greece, the types of accommodation available to you are much the same as in any other country, but you need to go equipped with knowledge of prices!

Hostel

Simple, no frills, with communal bathroom – can be found in most Greek cities. If you’re happy sharing a bedroom with other travellers, expect to pay €10 – €15 per night. For a private dorm, you’re looking at no lower than €30 – €60 per night.

Hotels

If you’re visiting Greece’s cities, you can find a budget hotel for €40 – €6o per night if you’re prepared to put the work in. If you’re booking in a hurry, your average hotel price in Athens is around €220 per night.

AirBnb

Prices for whole-property rentals have risen across Europe since Covid. In a Greek city such as Thessaloniki, you should expect to pay at least €50 per night for a private flat that sleeps two people.

As with any holiday, the further ahead you plan, the cheaper you will get your digs. Also look at staying on one of the islands, like Aegina, and travelling to and from Athens. The surrounding islands are often cheaper to stay on than the mainland, and are just as beautiful and worthy of an exploration!

Lastly, it’s always worth considering a visit off-season as this will drastically reduce your travel and accommodation costs.

Public transport

Public transport in Greece can be confusing for those not accustomed to it. With popular routes being operated by a number of different private companies, finding one reliable timetable can prove almost impossible. Here’s a brief overview of how you can get around in Greece…

Bus

KTEL, (the Joint Association of Bus Operators) is a network of Greek bus services made up of a dozen or more private companies -with not one central website for times and information! If you’re using a KTEL, it’s best to google your route well in advance to allow time to work out your plan of action. Don’t be put off, though, as these buses are a fantastic way to explore Greece.

Ferries

You can also look for discounts by booking through the Trainose mobile app. Ferries are a fantastic and scenic way to visit the Greek islands. You can book ferries easily online through Ferryhopper. Be sure to compare routes and times to get the best price.

Train

Over the last decade, Greece’s train service has gone through a bit of an upgrade and offers a very easy and comfortable way to see the country. From Athens you can visit many of the smaller towns and cities like Thebes and Thessaloniki. Prices vary depending on time of day and distance travelled, but as an example, the town of Kalambaka is 5 1⁄2 hours train ride from Athens, and the journey will set you back around €30.

Taxi

If you’re ordering a cab in Greece ahead of time, consider booking it through apps like Beat or Taxiplon, as these will give you an estimated fair and let you know when your driver is due. Taxi fares differ from city to city, but you should expect to pay an average of €4 just for getting in a cab, with the average tariff being €1.30 per kilometre.

One ticket to rule them all

In Greek cities, you can buy a single ticket that grants you access to a variety of public transport including busses, trains, ferries and metro. As a rough guide, a single ticket for public transport in Athens will cost you less than €2, and is valid for 90 minutes. Within

those 90 minutes you are entitled to any number of journeys. There are other ticket types available, with a five day transport pass coming in at less than €90.

Food and entertainment

Greece has a lot to offer in terms of night life and cuisine, with traditional theatre sitting alongside nightclubs and authentic cuisine sharing menus with exciting gastronomic experimentation. If you’re looking to go for broke, casinos are all the rage in Greece, while a more conservative night at a cinema will cost you on average of €8.55 a ticket.

When it comes to eating out, prices vary wildly from city to city, from street to street. Street food vendors offer fantastic kebabs and souvlaki for €3-€4, while high end dining can cost upward of €35 per person for a three course meal. (Not including booze!) In the middle, you have the Tavernas which offer incredible and authentic Greek cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere – and you can pick up moussaka and a drink for a respectable €10!

Additional costs

Budget as best you can, but there’s always the odd little surprise charge that leaves a dent in your pride (and your wallet)

While working out your allotted spends, always try and allow a little extra to just enjoy a bit of shopping! Greece is considered a Mecca for retail, with jewellery stores to electronics and furs.

Guided tours are also an excellent way to see Greece, but aren’t always cheap. You can expect to pay €20 per adult to enter the Acropolis (less if you visit off season, of course), while food or wine tasting tours in Greece start at around €100 per person per day.

There are a number of “jump the queue” websites that allow you to book tours and museum tickets ahead of time, and it’s worth doing so as you will often save a good amount of money.

Conclusion

When travelling through Greece, be it by ferry, train, boat or bus, the most important thing to do is plan ahead! Here’s a little recap to help you!

  • Look for digs on the islands for a better price
  • Remember, everything is cheaper off season
  • Allow plenty of time to plan public transport routes
  • Budget extra if you can!

If you’d like to read more, check out the links below for more information.

Until next time…happy budgeting!

Greece Travel Cost – Average Price of a Vacation to Greece: Food & Meal Budget, Daily & Weekly Expenses | BudgetYourTrip.com

Getting around in Greece – Lonely Planet Home | Hellenic Train

Crete is the largest of the Greek Islands, with a rich and varied history that feeds directly into its beautiful and unique diet. Crete is more unlike the rest of Greece than many realise, and this blog will give you an insight into the history, culture and authentic cuisine that make this island so distinctive.

Cretan cuisine at a glance

The Cretan diet is based on very simple bedrock; Olives, oils, pulses and vegetable, alongside nuts and dried fruits. Meat and fish consumption on Crete is lower than you might think, the Cretans instead favouring cheese as a source of protein. Cheese making is deeply traditional on Crete, with so many different varieties that many go unnamed and are referred to simply as “cheese”. Turkish and Jewish travellers brought to Crete a whole host of herbs and spices, the influence of which can still be seen in thick lamb sauces and zesty buttered snails.

History in every bite

From 824 – 961AD, Crete was under Arab rule, influences of which can still be found in its cuisine. A huge milestone in Crete’s food history, though, took place in 1204 when the island was sold to the Venetians, who used the island as a place to cultivate grains, wines, animal hides and woods to shape shipyards. Crete enjoyed a rip-roaring trade of import and export, with food from all over the world passing through.

These flavours and international influences leaked slowly into Cretan cuisine, until the island was taken by the Ottoman Turks in 1669, and their legacy is plain to see in today’s menus. In fact, many dishes considered traditionally Cretan were inherited from Ottoman cuisine. Phyllo pastry, aubergine papoutsaki and baklava all owe their place in the Cretan diet to this influence of Persian, Arabic and Byzantine cuisine that was brought to the island by the Turks.

Traditional Cretan dishes (and where to find them)

Dakos

Dakos

The quintessential Cretan starter. A rusk made of paximadia, a type of barley. Baked to perfection and served studded with seeds. Enjoy with olive oil, fresh tomato juice and salted cheese. You’ll find these everywhere, but those at To Steno are particularly yummy.

Bourbouristi

Bourbouristi

Greeks have eaten snails for centuries, and have as many different ways of cooking them. Here, they are lightly dusted with flour, fried, then served with salt, vinegar and rosemary. Incredibly moreish. You can find them at Chrisostomos, a restaurant specialising in wood- fired ovens.

Staka Me Ayga

Staka Me Ayga

While cream and eggs may not sound appealing, this Cretan specialty is not to be missed. Poached or fried, the eggs are served over a white source of cream, flour, salt and pepper. This gooey gorgeousness makes a great spread, dip, or just an different take on your morning eggs. Find them at To Antikristo.

Cretan Ingredients

Staka

Boil milk, let it cool. Slice off the foamy top, sprinkle with salt and store in the fridge. The result is this sour, salty, punch in the taste buds.

Syglino

A truly traditional meat. Tender cuts of pork are marinated in spiced extra virgin olive oil, then smoked over aromatic woods.

Ironwort

A self-seeding, wild tea. Close in flavour to marjoram, it grows on mountains, as high as two thousand meters.

Crete is an island in touch with it’s’ seasons. One sure fire way to tell if a restaurant or tavern is serving you authentic Cretan food is to check for seasonal ingredients. In spring, any chef worth their salt will be serving up peas, asparagus, courgette, fava beans and a host of other pulses. In summer, you’re looking for beans, aubergines, tomatoes, squash and okra. When winter comes, the freshest fare includes carrots, broccoli, cauliflower and avocado.

Also, look out for a daily specials board. If you find a tavern with a chalk board outside, advertising a different local fish or lamb dish every day, chances are the chef is planning his menu around each morning’s freshest local produce.

It’s all Greek to me

No matter how well you research a country and its cuisine, there’s one thing that can

unravel even the coolest of explorers: The language barrier.

If you have time, learn as much Greek as possible before visiting Crete.

If not, there are plenty of translation apps available for your phone, which translate English to Greek at the click of a button – and some will even read it out loud if you’re too afraid to have a go yourself!

Avoiding the tourist traps

If you’re keen to experience quieter, more authentic tavernas, stick to the south coast of the island. With fewer tourists here than Malia and Hersonissos to the North, you’re less likely to fall prey to sub-par tourist menus.

If you’re having trouble figuring out if an eatery is authentic, and aren’t confident asking about the food, just have a look at the outside of the building. If it looks like its seen better days – all flaking paint and mismatching furniture – but is still heaving with locals…chances are they’re there for the quality of the food!

Conclusion

And that concludes out whistle-stop tour of traditional Cretan food. We hope it’s given you an insight into just how unique a cuisine it is – not just that island bit off the edge of Greece!

Here’s a rundown of the points we covered

  • Beautiful things, basic beginnings. Cretan food is built on simple, quality ingredients.
  • The world in a plate. Cretan food takes influences from Venetians, Turks and Arabs

    to name but a few.

  • Be brave. Snails or creamy eggs may not be what you expect from Crete, but they

    are wondrous.

  • Keep an eye out for chefs using seasonal ingredients and locally caught fish.
  • Learn some Greek before you go!

Thanks so much for reading. We hope that’s got your appetite suitably whetted.