Greece Vacations

Greece vacations are some of the most popular things to do in all of Europe. The country's mild Mediterranean climate, idyllic beaches, and numerous Greek islands mean that a beach vacation to Greece rivals any found anywhere else on the continent. Perhaps only Spain's island of Ibiza surpasses the nightlife and nonstop party atmosphere found on the island of Mykonos. Here is famous Paradise Beach, one of the most popular Greece vacation spots and resorts, drawing both straight and gay visitors, as well as families. It is, in essence, two beaches—a quiet one in a secluded cove and the famous large party beach—meaning families never need worry about the topless sunbathers or partying young people. Mykonos hotels around this resort area range from elegant boutique properties and charming bungalows to apartments and villas. There are even simple beach cabins and permanent tents with electricity and full bathrooms, as well as primitive camping sites.

If you want a beach vacation to Greece in a more remote place, you have numerous choices among the more than 6,000 Greek islands and islets, as well as those beaches along the coastline of the mainland. Only about 227 of the islands are inhabited, and some of those have very small populations and are virtually unspoiled. Ikaria Island, not far from the coast of Turkey, is a perfect example. Its permanent population hovers around only 10,000 residents, and you can find beaches here that are nearly deserted. If you choose Therma Beach on the island's southern coast, you'll also be in an area known for its therapeutic mineral hot springs. As Greece vacation spots go, this is a relatively undiscovered island—something its fans hope will continue to be true.

There is another sort of beach vacation to Greece that can be enjoyed on diving and sailing holidays. There are yachts, catamarans, and traditional sailing vessels of every description available, and these will take you to secluded coves and lagoons on the islands as well as to cities for sightseeing tours and nightlife. The diving is excellent off many of the islands, as well as along the Turkish coast, and some of the Greek islands are within only a couple miles. Even if you're staying on the mainland, you can enjoy Greek getaways on beaches within a few miles of Athens.

In fact, most Greece vacations will begin in the great ancient city of Athens, and just about everyone except diehard beachgoers will spend at least a couple days here visiting the famous sights of ancient Greece such as the Acropolis. The remnants of ancient Greece will be found everywhere, and other prominent sites on the mainland include the oracle at Delphi and the ancient city of Olympia, site of the first Olympic Games. There are many vacation packages available that concentrate on the richness of the archeological sites in Greece, which are also found on many of the islands. An itinerary might include a few days in Athens with excursion to Delphi, followed by taking one of the ferries to Crete where the incredible ancient Minoan palace of Knossos is located. There are seventeen UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Greece, and all of them are of historic or archaeological interest, so Greece vacations with this emphasis are plentiful.

Many Greece vacation spots cater specifically to families with children, so it's not all about parties, nightlife, and young people bent on a good time. All inclusive resorts and hotels are found in virtually every location, and almost all of them—like the two Club Med resorts (Greglolimano and Athenia) north of Athens—have special children's clubs and supervised children's activities and facilities.