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Tourist Attractions

Description

  • The spectacular Panathenaic Stadium remains one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions and is a shining beacon of modern Athens.

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  • Following several transformations over its long history, it eventually became the home of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896 and remains the only stadium in the world built entirely out of marble.

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  • acropolis, (Greek: “city at the top”) central, defensively oriented district in ancient Greek cities, located on the highest ground and containing the chief municipal and religious buildings. Because the founding of a city was a religious act, the establishment of a local home for the gods was a basic factor in Greek city planning.

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  • From both a religious and a military point of view, a hilltop site was highly desirable: militarily, because an acropolis had to be a citadel; religiously, because a hill was imbued with natural mysteries—caves, springs, copses, and glens—that denoted the presence of the gods.

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  • New Acropolis Museum, museum in Athens, Greece, built to house the archaeological remains of the ancient Acropolis site that were formerly housed in the original Acropolis Museum (first opened in 1876). The New Acropolis Museum opened in June 2009.

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  • The simple exterior of the 226,000-square-foot (21,000-square-metre) building, designed by Swiss American architect Bernard Tschumi, was intended to resemble the nearby Parthenon. In addition to adjusting the dimensions and modeling the columns to mirror those of the Parthenon exactly, Tschumi’s design also incorporated seismic technology in anticipation of the region’s frequent earthquakes. Among the museum’s many treasures are artifacts from the Archaic, Classical, and Roman periods. All were found in the Parthenon, on the slopes of the Acropolis, or in other extant structures on the site. Notable works from the collection include the original Caryatids, the relief of Nike Adjusting Her Sandal, and portions of the Parthenon frieze. The museum also has hundreds of marble sculptures.

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  • National Archaeological Museum, Greek Ethnikon Archaiologikon Mouseion, in Athens, museum of ancient Greek art, containing probably the finest collection of Greek antiquities in the world. The museum was erected in 1866–89 and extended in 1925–39, when an additional wing was built. The holdings include sculptures, bronzes, pottery, jewelry, and artifacts from all parts of Greece; they range in date from the Neolithic Period to the Hellenistic Age.

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  • Among the museum’s treasures are the contents of six shaft graves from Mycenae, including the so-called Mask of Agamemnon as well as gold objects, cups, diadems, and a bull’s head in silver with gold horns and rosettes. Treasures of Archaic Greek sculpture include many kouros and kore figures (standing male and female figures) as well as fine vases. The best-known kouros is the colossal figure from the temple of Poseidon at Sounion. Sculptural fragments from the pediments of the Temple of Aphaia at Aegina illustrate the pre-Classical phase of Greek sculpture. Sculpture of the Classical period of the 5th century BCE is well represented. An especially fine piece is the bronze statue of Poseidon found off Cape Artemision in 1928 and dating from about 450, possibly by the sculptor Kalamis.

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  • A dynamic cultural institute in the centre of Athens, the Museum of Cycladic Art (MCA) focuses on promoting the ancient cultures of the Aegean and Cyprus, with particular emphasis on Cycladic art of the third millennium BC. The Museum of Cycladic Art’s temporary exhibitions focus on archaeology and modern and contemporary art with the aim to familiarize the public with important twentieth and twenty-first century artists and to explore the relations between ancient cultures and contemporary art.

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  • Today, the MCA contains over 3.000 artefacts of Cycladic, Ancient Greek and Ancient Cypriot Art, which provide testimony to the cultural developments and interactions that took place in the Aegean and the Eastern Mediterranean from the 4th millennium BC to the 6th c. AD. The MCA is a private institution functioning under the auspices of the Nicholas and Dolly Goulandris Foundation (a non-profit organization) and the supervision of the Hellenic Ministry of Culture & Sports.

    • Tourist Attractions

    Description

  • Oia is the most beautiful village of Santorini that recently started looking like a glamorous town, every day gathering thousands of people longing for seeing the famous Oia sunsets. If you have time to visit just one place in the island – choose Oia. That’s what you’ve been dreaming of for so many years looking at the pictures of the white churches with bright blue domes. Oia is located 11 km away from Fira and is a pedestrian town. Most of the visitors come here to admire its unique architecture, captains’ houses, Blue Domes, cave houses and the sunset. You can see crowds of people here any time of the day, for it’s a must to see if you are in Santorini. Otherwise you’ll have to come back! Oia is famous for its chic and expensive restaurants and a great shopping, too. The truth is that in this town you can find all the beautiful, quality, expensive and exclusive goods. Santorini is being visited by all the famous and important personalities of the whole world regularly, therefore every expensive world famous brand is presented here. This town hosts an incredible number of hotels, although most of them you do not notice thinking these are just the houses of the locals.

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  • The whole place is built along the Cliffside. Do not expect to swim in the sea if you stay here – the beaches are located on a different, flat side of the island. Oia is the only settlement of the island that can boast of a marble avenue crossing its whole length.

    • Description

  • Fira is the beautiful capital of the island and the biggest and most cosmopolitan settlement of Santorini. It is located in the western edge of the island, opposite the volcano and the two volcanic islands, Palaia Kammeni and Nea Kammeni that lie in the sea. Access to Fira, besides the road routes from the port and the airport, is also feasible by cable car or through a donkey path from the port, for those seeking a traditional experience. Fira is a combination of natural beauty, social life, night life, and shopping, where you can feel the liveliness of the island and where all the action takes place. What makes it so ravishing is the Caldera view that leaves visitors speechless anytime of the day. A walk to the scenic alleys during the daytime will fill you with harmony, while at night you can find yourself in the middle of a big party. There is a wealth of restaurants, cafes, bars and clubs where you can relax and enjoy the tremendous view or dance and have fun. It actually owns the greatest dining out and entertainment selection of the island and the largest shopping center, too. Moreover, there are many clothes shops, gift shops, souvenir shops, supermarkets and other facilities for every need.

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  • Among the wonderful landmarks, the Megaro Gyzi Cultural Center that presents a variety of collections and organizes several cultural events, like concerts and theatrical performances, and the two cathedrals of Fira are worth visiting. Two of the exceptional museums of Santorini are situated in Fira as well, the Archaeological Museum of Thera and the Museum of Prehistoric Thera, which offer a multitude of relics and historic items from the whole island. In addition, in close distance to Fira, in Kontochori village, there is the Folklore Museum of Emmanuel A. Lignos which holds six rooms-exhibitions that depict the way of life in the 20th century. An abundance of accommodation options can be found in the capital of Santorini, from luxurious hotels with an outstanding caldera view to a camping area for an alternative stay that will satisfy nature lovers.

    • Description

  • Two islands in the caldera were formed about 440 years ago, Palea Kameni (Old Burnt Island) and Nea Kameni (Young Burnt Island), and visiting them is one of the most fascinating experiences on Santorini. Charter boats leave Old Fira Port at various times during the day, including sunset tours suitable for those who have walking challenges.

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  • If you're especially fascinated by volcanos and have good walking boots, do the Nea Kameni on-island tour and get a look at the volcanic activity that both formed Santorini and possibly destroyed Atlantis.

    • Description

  • The beautiful Perissa Beach lies at the base of Mesa Vouno Mountain that separates Perissa from Kamari and on its top you can admire the eminent archaeological site of ancient Thera and a superb view. It is about 13 kilometers away from Fira, on the southeast coast of Santorini and is easily accessible by car or bus. The scenery that the black lava sand along with the sandy sea bottom and the dark blue, crystal clear waters compose is impressive. It is one of the longest and most famous beaches in Santorini, a characteristic sight of the volcanic island. It is a fully organized, cosmopolitan beach with an abundance of comfy lounging chairs, umbrellas and other amenities, like lifeguards, showers and a playground. It is worth mentioning that it has received the Blue Flag award since it is very clean and tidy. At the end of the beach there is a suggested diving location if you are bold enough to dive. You can choose from a wide variety of water sports, from wind surfing and parasailing to jet skiing, canoeing and banana boats that will rock your experience. In addition, there are two diving centers for fascinating explorations. Finally, a wonderful water park with three water slides and pools offers fun and entertainment to children and grown-ups as well.

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  • You can unwind and enjoy your day at the plenty seaside cafes and bars and taste traditional dishes in the several taverns and restaurants you can find. Its cosmopolitan character becomes obvious day and night in the lively clubs and beach bars, where many young people gather. Nevertheless, the beach is a must and ideal for old and young alike as it has something for everybody.

    • Description

  • Kamari Beach is one of the most popular and most visited beach resorts in Santorini. It is located in the seaside village of Kamari, 10 kilometers southeast of Fira and close to the Airport. It is at the foot of the imposing Mesa Vouno Mountain where the prominent archaeological site of Ancient Thera is found. It is easily accessible by bus that departs from Fira and the rest of the island and there is a big parking lot where you can leave your vehicle. The beach is composed of black volcanic sand and is 5 kilometers long, among the 3 longest beaches in Santorini, with deep crystalline waters and a series of trees. Despite the fact that it is extremely busy, it is maintained very clean and has been awarded the Blue Flag. It is fully organized with hundreds of sunbeds and umbrellas, showers, a lifeguard on duty and numerous facilities. Kamari Beach has actually everything you may need for a relaxing and satisfying day at the beach as it offers the most amenities you can find. There is a diving center where you can take lessons and try snorkeling. Here you have the opportunity to experience a variety of water sports as well, such as windsurfing, water skiing, surfing and paddle boats that induce an adrenaline rush. In the north part of the beach there is a fine spot for dives, only for daredevils. Close by you can find a football field and a beach volleyball area that add to the amusement.

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  • A long, parallel promenade is ideal for a pleasant stroll where you come across various shops. The lively atmosphere at the numerous cafes, bars, restaurants and night clubs by the sea can offer you an enjoyable time. The beach is ideal for everyone, of all ages, and is a wondrous typical beach of Santorini, the volcanic island.

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  • Just seven and half kilometers south of Fira, a different side of Santorini emerges, an aspect that harkens back to the picturesque Greek villages of yesteryear. Here, the pace of life is more relaxed; cats stroll in the alleys, families dress up in their Sunday best to go to church, and piano lessons can be heard through the open windows of the cultural society. The main square, with its tall pine trees and quaint little coffee shops, is the focal point for socializing and entertainment. Regardless of the season, its busiest time is noon, when people gather for ouzo or Santorinian beer accompanied by excellent local meze.

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  • This is Pyrgos, the largest preserved village on Santorini and the island’s former capital. Strategically built in the heart of the pre-volcanic hinterland and at the foot of Mt Profitis Ilias, Pyrgos affords panoramic views. Yet, located that bit further from the famous caldera, it has been spared the terraces, balconies, infinity pools and master suites that adorn the glossy covers of tourist magazines the world over. Pyrgos is not swamped by sunset spotters, nor is it the first choice among the hordes of cruise-ship passengers. Its charm is different: more subdued, less picture-perfect, little advertised.

    • Tourist Attractions

    Description

  • The destruction of the Mercado de la Encarnacion in Seville left a huge void in the urban character of the city center which remained unfilled for over thirty years. The market enriched the city with life, and with its absence, the vitality of the Plaza de la Encarnacion was soon challenged by the negative implications of economic downturn.

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  • In April of 2011, Jürgen Mayer Hand Arup teamed to complete their solution for Seville’s central square – an architecture that brings a contemporary spirit to such a historical and traditional space. Entitled Metropol Parasol, the massive timber structure (which is one of the largest timber structures built in the world) draws residents and visitors back to the city center as its striking aesthetic provides a variety of markets and restaurants bounded by the dynamic shape of the parasols. We enjoyed the video as it illustrates the impact architecture can bring economically and socially to enrich even one of the most established city centers in the world. The ability for the design team to look toward the future allows Seville to preserve its historic cultural prowress while not limiting itself for future greatness. Special thanks to Marina from Arup for sharing the video with us!

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  • Agrari Mykonos: Agrari and Elia are located near each other, forming a huge sandy beach, 8 kilometres from the island's capital. Agrari Beach is less popular than its neighbor Elia and much calmer. They both can be reached by local bus and by taxi-boat.

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  • As with many of the beaches you approach from on high and then down a long, thin, steep road. There is a smallish cafeteria and two sets of beach loungers with shades. There are many nudists on this beach. From this beach you can walk over the rocks to the left to visit Elia beach.

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  • Mykonos Little Venice: Little Venice is one of the most romantic places in Mykonos. This neighborhood is replete with elegant and gorgeous old houses that are situated precariously on the edge of the sea. Many discerning travelers in the past have fallen in love with this charming quarter to its magnetic appeal. Quite amazing are the sunset views from Little Venice. Its whitewashed edifices against the backdrop of the azure blue Aegean Sea is simply marvelous. The air of nonchalance that prevails in Little Venice disarms the most discerning of travelers. Little Venice evolved from the picturesque Alefkandra beach and extends right into the peripheral areas of Kastro, as it is popularly referred to. Visitors are highly recommended to stay in one of the quaint houses that dot the Mykonos shoreline for the sheer pleasure that they afford. You can sit down with a peg or two of your favorite tipple in the quintessential wooden stairways even as the surging waves crash underneath. A truly magical aura indeed. The ethereal beauty of Little Venice is such that it has and still is a favorite haunt of highly acclaimed artists who have made this charming neighborhood of Mykonos their home. In fact, many artists have portrayed the magnetic beauty of Little Venice in their priceless artworks, etchings, and paintings thereby promoting the reputation of this esteemed neighborhood of Mykonos to the outside world. No wonder, Little Venice is today among the most photographed tourist neighborhood in Europe.

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  • Little Venice is fully geared up to cater to the whims and fancies of the discerning international travelers. There are plenty of entertainment options ranging from pulsating clubs to well-stocked bars where party animals are known to jive well past midnight. Art galleries abound here and exhibitions of renowned artists are a regular feature too. In the days of yore, many distinguished sailors had built their houses right on the picturesque shoreline. Many of these houses have today been converted into chic bars which are still very conspicuous by their old world charm. You can still sit down with your folks over endless pegs of your favorite liqueur and watch the solitary shipping vessel cruise by at the distant horizon creating a surreal impression.

    • Description

  • Fokos in Mykonos: Fokos is located on the northern side of Mykonos island. Due to its long distance from the developed southern beaches, Fokos is secluded and very calm, even in high season. The sandy beach of Fokos has no tourist facilities, like umbrellas and sunbeds. There is only one tavern in the region, which is traditional in style and had delicious dishes.

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  • A part of Fokos has turned into a naturist beach. Fokos can be reached only by private means, after a turn in Ano Mera. It is located right after the artificial lake of Marathi, which provides the island with fresh water.

    • Description

  • You won’t have trouble finding a cold brew on Mykonos, but if you’re the kind of traveler who wants to know more about the beer they’re sipping, a tour and tasting at Mykonos Brewing Company is a must. Take a 30-minute tour, and sample six small-batch beers.

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  • The brewery is only 30 minutes from the town center on foot, meaning you can indulge without worrying about transport.

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  • Yoga Mykonos LUX gives you an opportunity to practice Yoga under the guidance of a professional instructor either individually or in a group of other yogies. Private sessions can be arranged to suit, either in your residence or on the seashore in your favourite place.

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  • Our instructor provides you with all necessary equipment and auxiliary materials for your comfort and practice.

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