Great news for travelers: Starting July 1, 2020, all regional airports in Greece reopened, allowing direct flights without restrictions. Random testing is conducted at airports. Eager to fly sooner? Flights to Eleftherios Venizelos Airport in Athens began on June 15, with testing on arrival. If your original vacation plans were canceled, Greece's stunning destinations are ready for your summer getaway.
Culinary Highlights in Crete
Wine Adventures in Heraklion
For wine enthusiasts, Heraklion is a must-visit. Home to 68% of Crete's vineyards, the region boasts 18 indigenous grape varieties and a 4,000-year winemaking heritage. Its ideal climate—cool winters, dry summers, and Mediterranean sun—produces exceptional wines.
Follow one of two wine routes starting from Heraklion city, visiting top wineries. Don't miss the Liatiko grape, a rare red variety offering spicy, floral notes and unique sweetness. Sample PDO Sitia and Dafnes wines made from it—harvest happens in July. Pack an extra suitcase for your favorites. Yamas!
Chania: A Food Lover's Paradise
Foodies, add Chania to your list. Savor grilled octopus, mezes, fried cheese, and sweet pastries at cozy tavernas. Elevate your trip with cooking classes featuring the renowned Mediterranean diet: extra virgin olive oil, grains, fish, legumes, vegetables, and fruits—proven healthy by research.
Master Cretan recipes like pepper oil-sprinkled bread with tomatoes and olives. Kali Orexi!
Rhodes for Adventure Seekers
Jeep Safari Thrills
Rhodes captivates with its medieval old town, turquoise seas, and beaches—a Dutch favorite. For adrenaline, join a Jeep Safari to the Seven Springs gorge, with streams and a narrow, dark tunnel (75 cm wide, 1.7 m high) leading to a lake. Explore more nature and taste local honey at a beekeeper's.
Windsurfing Excitement
Craving more? Windsurf at Prasonisi Beach, powered by steady northwesterly winds. Two sandy coves meet at an island—drive over the hill for epic views of waves and surfers. Beginners' courses available.
Corfu from the Water
Luxury Boat Trips
Feel the wind in your hair on a catamaran from Gouvia harbor. Sunbathe, sip wine at sunset, or rent a sailboat (license required) or skippered boat. Cruise past Nissaki and Kalami villages, swim in secluded coves, snorkel, and enjoy a Greek meal onboard.
Paxi and Antipaxi for Photographers
Extend your voyage to Paxi and Antipaxi (1.5 hours from Corfu). Sail past historic fortresses, dramatic cliffs, and olive-clad mountains. Lounge on paradise beaches or dive into exotic waters—photographer's dream!
Zakynthos: Water Paradise
Welcome to white sands, towering cliffs, vibrant sunsets, and electric blue seas. Navagio Beach is iconic—hike to the clifftop viewpoint from Volimes/Anafonitria parking for the ultimate shipwreck shot, thanks to sulfurous caves tinting the water.
Try waterskiing, jet skiing, or paragliding for 50 shades of blue from above.
Caretta Caretta Turtles
Spot loggerhead turtles, one of the world's largest sea turtles, in Zakynthos' National Marine Park (est. 1999), protecting flora, fauna, monk seals, and nesting beaches in Laganas Bay. Eggs laid mid-May to mid-August (1,200 nests yearly) hatch after 60 days. View responsibly from afar at beaches like Sekania (protected).
The Best of Athens
Brunch with Acropolis Views
Travel back 2,500 years at the Acropolis sanctuary—80m above Athens, atop a massive rock with Parthenon and Temple of Nike. Culture fans rejoice. Enjoy Greek brunch 10 floors up for panoramic views. Pair with a street art tour blending history and modern vibes. Photo (c): Electra Hotels
Athens Festival
Festivals are back! The Athens & Epidaurus Festival, a world-leading cultural event, runs all summer. Catch ancient dramas at Epidaurus Theater, art exhibits, music at Odeon or Herodes Atticus, dance, and more. Highlights: July 18 'ERT National Symphony Orchestra, Beethoven Gala' for his 250th birthday, led by George Petrou.
