There’s something about Greece, doesn’t just saying the word make you think of exotic gorgeous beaches, beautiful scenery, delicious food (and big fat weddings, lol)? But as much as Greece does offer all of these things – each of the following locations also has it’s own unique qualities.
Athens
My first trip to Greece was on a cruise and the only stop in Greece was the capital city, Athens. Not sure exactly why I had pictured it to be a certain way, but in my opinion, other than some beautiful, historic landmarks it was a typical busy city.
This trip was a solo trip and I had done my research on the “must-sees.” I’m normally not one to do a ship excursion (I normally like to venture out on my own and also save money), but because of the short time there I wanted to get a lot in a short time. The tour I chose did an overview of the city, a visit and guided tour of the Acropolis and Parthenon and also allowed some free time in a shopping district called the Plaka.
I’m embarrassed to admit that I didn’t know what the difference was between the Acropolis and the Parthenon, but the Parthenon is the temple above and the Acropolis is basically the hill and/or grounds that it sits upon.
Mykonos
Fortunately on one of our next adventures, Mykonos was a stop. And what a stop it was! This beautiful island is a popular stop on Mediterranean cruises and we soon found out why. Such a pretty place, known for it’s fabulous nightlife with a huge assortment of shops, cafes and beaches.
It’s easy to get lost in the winding maze of white washed streets – but who cares? it’s so much fun just to wander.
Santorini
Not sure if it’s just me or not, but does everyone have “that place” they go to in their mind when they’re having a sad day, or are feeling frustrated, etc. It’s like when you picture yourself there things just seem better? Well, Santorini is mine. I didn’t really know Santorini existed till my first trip to Greece (Athens), and while looking at the postcards I was in awe of a few of the cards with this gorgeous landscape of little white cave houses with bright blue roofs – it just didn’t seem real, that a place like this would even exist. It was then and there that I decided that I would be back and Santorini was my top priority.
Breathtakingly beautiful even from afar…
There are cable cars to get you to the top and back down, and there’s also the option of riding to the top on a donkey (but after being on a cruise ship for a few days and indulging on a few extra desserts in the dining room) there was no way that I could subject a poor donkey to dragging our butts up a fairly steep climb.
Once at the top, you are in the capital of Santorini called Fira – full of shops and restaurants and gorgeous views. But wait, there’s more…. you must get to Oia! There are buses and taxis available in Fira to take you on an approx. 20 minute drive to Oia – which in my opinion (and Baby Bug’s too!) is one of the most beautiful places on earth.
this pathway lined with beautiful shops and restaurants can get quite busy, especially when more than one ship is in port – spectacular views!
We like to picture ourselves on those 2 white patio chairs, sitting for hours until the sun sets. Santorini by the way, is a regular on many of the “world’s best place to view a sunset” lists.
So yes there is much more to Greece than these 3 locations, but if you have a chance to visit any of these three, you’re off to a great start.
