If you’re looking for an opportunity to travel to a part of the world that you’ve never seen before, a trip to the Greek Islands could be just what the doctor ordered. Regardless of your age or interests, there’s a little bit of something here for everyone.
5 Reasons to Visit the Greek Isles
The Greek Islands are unlike anywhere you’ve ever visited before. There are 6,000 of them spread throughout the Ionian and Aegean Seas (though just 227 are inhabited). Each island has its own distinct style and flavor. From the windmills of Mykonos to the blue and white architecture of Santorini, it’s a region of the country that everyone should experience at least once. Here are a few specific reasons why:
- Beautiful Weather
Greece is said to be the sunniest country in all of Europe (and possibly the world). On average, the islands are drenched in 250 days of sunshine each year (while the island of Rhodes gets roughly 300 days of sunshine annually). Yet, in spite of the beaming sun, most Islands are relatively comfortable year-round. The cool breeze and crisp, clear water make for an amazing combination.
- Friendly People
The people of the Greek Islands are among the friendliest in the country. They’re warm and welcoming to visitors and will go out of their way to make you feel at home. The same goes for ship captains, travel guides, and fellow travelers that you’ll meet from around the world.
- Luxury Experiences
You can make your trip to Greece whatever you want. If you’d prefer a budget-friendly trip with lots of rich history and visits to museums, you can find that on the mainland. But if you’re searching for luxury and relaxation, we recommend island hopping. You’ll return from your trip feeling refreshed and invigorated!
- Tasty Food and Drink
Every island has its own cuisine, but you won’t be disappointed anywhere you go. Fresh seafood is aplenty, as is good wine. Many islands even have their own wineries, which allow you to meet the owner, tour the vineyards, and sample the wine.
- Rich History
Greece is often called the Cradle of Western Civilization. Over the centuries, it’s served as the central point for world travel and global commerce. Tradesmen, kings, warriors, and travelers from Europe, Asia Minor, and North Africa have used Greece as an important “stepping stone.” Today, travelers enjoy its beauty and rich history.
The country is home to 18 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and has enough ancient sites, ruins, and artifacts to keep you in awe for weeks. The earliest traces of civilization go back to 3,000 B.C. when The Minoans roamed the land. And when you travel to Greece, you’ll get to experience the same beauty they did thousands of years ago.
Start Planning Your Greek Island Cruise Today
Saying you want to go on a cruise through the Greek Isles is like saying you want to go on a “road trip out West.” With so many different places to see, you have to be a bit more specific. Planning ahead is a must. Otherwise, you could end up missing out on some of the islands or sights that you want to experience.
When it comes to ships, you have the ability to choose what vibe you’re going for. Instead of traveling via large, commercialized cruise liners, many travelers opt for luxury gulet charters, which provide unabated views, personalized service, and a much more intimate experience.
You’ll also have to decide how long you want to travel. Depending on your itinerary and budget, trips can range from just a couple of days to two weeks or more. (Obviously, the longer the trip, the more opportunity you have to leisurely see the islands.)
Finally, consider how much of Greece you want to see in addition to the islands and plan to tack these days on the front or back end of your trip. Many people fly into Athens, see the city, and then take a cruise. (And with so much to see in and around Athens, you should definitely extend your trip by a minimum of two to three days.)
Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or want to take the family trip of a lifetime, a Greek island cruise awaits – begin planning today!