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dpappas87

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I decided that the next time I go to Greece, I want to go on a lot of walks or hikes. I know I could always meander anyplace I visit - either walk around a neighborhood or by the beach, etc. I am more interested in finding some great walks or hikes in or near Athens.

I saw that Mt. Lycabettus was recommended somewhere on this forum, and I saw that someone said to go during sunset. Is there anything else like that in or near Athens?
 
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There are many hills to climb in Athens. Lykavittos is the most famous and many people go in the evening to catch the sunset - if you can find the room amongst the crowds. I usually climb up early in the morning when there is hardly anyone up there and the views of Athens are unobstructed.

Filopappou Hill is also a popular destination. It is more of an archaeological wonderland with Pnyx (the birthplace of democracy), Socrates prison and an ancient monument. I took some amazing photos of the Acropolis from Filopappou with a 300mm zoom lens.

Also, Strefi Hill is good as it gives good views of both Lykavittos and the Acropolis.

Some parks that are great to walk around are the National Botanical Gardens behind Syntagma and Pedion tou Areos which had some amazing art installations last time I walked through there.
 
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There are many hills to climb in Athens. Lykavittos is the most famous and many people go in the evening to catch the sunset - if you can find the room amongst the crowds. I usually climb up early in the morning when there is hardly anyone up there and the views of Athens are unobstructed.

Filopappou Hill is also a popular destination. It is more of an archaeological wonderland with Pnyx (the birthplace of democracy), Socrates prison and an ancient monument. I took some amazing photos of the Acropolis from Filopappou with a 300mm zoom lens.

Also, Strefi Hill is good as it gives good views of both Lykavittos and the Acropolis.

Some parks that are great to walk around are the National Botanical Gardens behind Syntagma and Pedion tou Areos which had some amazing art installations last time I walked through there.
Kalley Mera from Thailand Vangelis....such terrific contribution from you here!.....Sas Efgharisto ya afta.....wish I could join you and I can bring some Mezedex! ....and some krassi .....and kanu mey blah blah ya Zoi mas!
 
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Vangelis, thanks for the tips on the hikes and avoiding the crowds! I am looking forward to giving your suggestions a try!
 
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I agree with all the suggestions. I heard Lykavittos was a great experience and totally worth doing. It is on my list, as well!
 
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Pack List for Trip to Greece in Spring

I have a trip to Greece planned in the spring. Mainly, I want advice on the weather. In the meantime, I made my best guess and came up with a list. Anything to add or subtract?

Clothing
  • A light rain jacket or windbreaker: For the inevitable April showers
  • A couple of long-sleeve shirts: For those cooler mornings
  • A lightweight sweater: For layering when temperature changes
  • A pair of comfortable pants: Think breathable fabrics like cotton, and a pair of jeans.
  • Shorts and a sundress: For warmer afternoons
  • Comfortable walking shoes: You’ll be exploring villages and ancient ruins, so cushioned soles are a must.
Accessories
  • A versatile scarf: Can double as a shawl on cooler evenings
  • A wide-brimmed hat: For sun protection
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen: Essential for beach days
  • Reusable water bottle: To stay hydrated without contributing more waste

Tips for visiting monasteries in Greece

While visiting the monasteries, remember you are in a sacred place. Dress modestly, with legs and shoulders covered, to show respect for the local customs and faith. Keep your voice low to preserve the peaceful ambiance and adhere to any photography restrictions to respect the privacy of the monks.

I've had some people ask me, so I thought I'd start a post about etiquette. If you are out taking tours and you don't dress properly, be sure to look for a scarf or skirt (for the ladies) that they may provide to make you respectable enough to enter the space. It's far better, though, to dress properly in your own wardrobe!

Loud talking is a no-no. It's also a good idea to observe Orthodox customs when entering the sacred space, even if you aren't Orthodox. Non-orthodox may venerate icons, light candles, submit prayer requests, etc.

Can anyone think of anything else to add?

Taking a culinary tour of Greece

I would like to take a tour or create my own itinerary to do nothing but visit Greece to eat all the food. I want to go to some unique and memorable destinations. For many reasons, both Ikaria and Crete are on my list. I will have maybe two weeks in Greece so I truly don't have the itinerary fleshes out. Or if anyone can recommend a tour company, that would be good too.

Some questions:

Best Time to Visit: What's the ideal time of year for such a tour, considering weather, food seasons, and avoiding peak tourist crowds?
Must-Visit Places: Besides the obvious choices like Athens and Santorini, are there any off-the-beaten-path locations that are a foodie's dream?
Local Experiences: Are there particular cooking classes, food markets, or local farms that offer a deeper dive into Greek cuisine and its preparation?
Travel Tips: Any logistical tips for traveling within Greece that might make moving from one culinary destination to another smoother?

Thanks in advance!

Itinerary for self-planned yacht trip through the Greek islands

I am working on planning a yacht trip through Greece. I live it because I am in total control of the itinerary and what goes on, unlike booking a cruise or something. There's enough of us in the group to make this a super affordable trip.

I am developing am itinerary - thought I'd run it by you:

  1. Athens to Mykonos: Begin in the historic port of Athens and make your way to the cosmopolitan island of Mykonos. Dock at Agios Ioannis beach and take a stroll through Little Venice.
  2. Mykonos to Naxos: Naxos awaits, with its marble gateway to nowhere and beautiful beaches. Try the local kitron liqueur for a true taste of the island.
  3. Santorini: Sail to the iconic island of Santorini, where the sunset from Oia is second to none. Enjoy a swim in the hot springs of Palea Kameni and taste some of the best wines in Greece.
  4. Ios to Folegandros: Keep the vibes high in Ios known for its lively atmosphere, then find tranquility in Folegandros, where the untouched Mediterranean prevails.
  5. Return to Athens: Wrap up your adventure with a pitstop in Syros, the capital of the Cyclades. Its charm lies in its austere yet handsome neoclassical buildings and the stunning Aegean views.

What do you think? Anything to add or subtract? I have about 10 days.

yacht-greece.jpg

Greek Islands Food Tour?

I am a foodie and I love to cook. Does anyone know of any food tour situations that I can do in the islands, or maybe island hopping?

I am in the midst of planning an exciting adventure to Greece and am particularly interested in experiencing the country through its cuisine. I've heard that island hopping offers not just stunning views but also a taste of local flavors that differ from island to island.

With so many beautiful islands, from the renowned Santorini to the charming Skopelos, I'm looking for recommendations on food tours or culinary experiences that are part of island hopping packages. Any recommendations you may have would be great!
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