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cubrinj

Active member
I think I might want to visit Greece for Christmas this year. Do you have any tips? Some things I am thinking:

  • Seems I might want to be there for a month? Maybe from December 6 to January 6? From what I understand that is considered "the season"
  • I of course want to go to church - especially on key feast days
  • I will likely be staying near Athens with some friends
  • Does anywhere in Greece have any great Christmas markets?
 

k_tsoukalas

Moderator
Here are some Christmas markets that I know about:

Athens Christmas Market

Located in Syntagma Square, this market features everything from traditional Greek sweets to handmade wooden toys. It's also a great place for souvenirs.

Thessaloniki Christmas Market

Head to Aristotelous Square to experience the city's Christmas market. There are vendors selling items such as Christmas ornaments, handmade jewelry, and clothing, souvenirs, and more.

Chania Christmas Market

I love Crete - I bet it's gorgeous at Christmas! During the Christmas season, the city transforms into a winter wonderland! The Chania Christmas market features vendors selling local products, holiday treats, handmade gifts, and more.
 

Monasteries to visit near Athens?

I am interested in visiting some religious sites in Greece. I've written in different threads that I have been interested in Meteora.

I will be staying in Athens for most of the time but I am cool with doing day trips or overnights in other places. I am getting an Air BnB for a few weeks so there is some flexibility there.

Doing preliminary research, this is what I have come up with:

Daphni Monastery - The Dafni Monastery is one of the most important Byzantine monasteries in Greece and is not far outside of Athens.. The monastery's main attraction is the stunning Byzantine mosaics that adorn its walls and ceilings.

Monastery of Kaisariani - this monastery is also pretty close to Athens on the slopes of Mount Hymettus. I hear a must-see is its beautiful courtyard and garden, which is filled with fragrant flowers and lush greenery. Visitors can also admire the impressive architecture and explore the surrounding landscape.

Monastery of Penteli - this monastery is located on a hill overlooking the city. It was founded in the 16th century and was once a center of learning and culture. Today, the monastery is a popular destination for visitors who are interested in its architecture and the impressive views from its rooftop terrace.

Do you have anything to add?

Getting Trip Insurance for Greece?

Lately when I've been booking travel, I noticed that I often have the choice to get a travel insurance. For example, when I just went to book my flight.

I said yes to the insurance because the price was low enough.

I know that they actually have trip insurance policies, which I have never used.

Does anyone here actually get trip insurance when going to Greece? If so, what is your motivation?

Greece at Christmas?

I think I might want to visit Greece for Christmas this year. Do you have any tips? Some things I am thinking:

  • Seems I might want to be there for a month? Maybe from December 6 to January 6? From what I understand that is considered "the season"
  • I of course want to go to church - especially on key feast days
  • I will likely be staying near Athens with some friends
  • Does anywhere in Greece have any great Christmas markets?

Spending Christmas in Greece

Here are some thoughts on what to do at Christmastime in Greece - I am thinking of going this year...

Athens

There is a festival that takes place at Syntagma Square, which is transformed into a winter wonderland. It is the perfect place for people of all ages to enjoy the celebrations. From Christmas carols to food stalls to ice-skating, this Christmas market offers a wide range of activities and experiences.

Thessaloniki

The Thessaloniki Christmas Market is one of the most popular markets in Greece. The market is held at the Aristotelous Square, which is lit up with beautiful Christmas lights and decorations. You can enjoy Christmas carols, street performances, and traditional Greek delicacies here. The highlight of this market is the Christmas village, which is set up in the middle of the square.

Kalamata

Kalamata is a beautiful city located in the Peloponnese region of Greece. During the Christmas season, the city hosts a vibrant Christmas market that attracts locals and tourists alike. The market is held at the central square of the city, where you can enjoy various festive activities such as ice-skating, live music, and street performances.

Chania

Chania is a picturesque port city located on the island of Crete. The Chania Christmas Market is a four-day festival that is held in the city's historic center. The market is decorated with colorful lights and ornaments, and you can enjoy festive food, local wine, and traditional Greek music. You can also buy handmade crafts, gifts, and souvenirs from the market.

Nafplio

Nafplio is a beautiful coastal town located in the Peloponnese region of Greece. During the Christmas season, the town transforms into a winter wonderland with its festive decorations and colorful lights. The Nafplio Christmas Market takes place at the Syntagma Square, where you can enjoy traditional Greek food and drinks, festive music, and various activities such as face painting and Christmas workshops.

Art Social Presents Season 3 of "The Outstanding Artist" hosted in Spetses, Greece

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