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blopez34

Active member
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?
 
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?
This is an excellent list! I would also sit and think about some saints from Greece you admire and see if you can visit some sites. For example, I recently went to Aegina to visit the Saint Nektarios relics. There are other such sites to visit.
 

First Time Tips to Greece

I've been fortunate enough to visit Greece quite a few times over the years, and recently a friend asked me for advice before their very first trip. It surprised me how difficult it was to answer!

Once you've traveled somewhere often, you start taking a lot of things for granted. I'm not sure what the most helpful tips would be for someone experiencing Greece for the first time.

If you were helping a first-time visitor, what advice would you give? I'm thinking about practical things, cultural etiquette, transportation, money, restaurants, pacing an itinerary, or even little things you wish someone had told you before your first visit.

What are the biggest mistakes first-time visitors make, and what are some experiences you think every newcomer should have? I'd love to pass along some advice from people with firsthand experience.

Best food towns to visit in Greece?

I’ve started realizing that some of my favorite memories from Greece are connected to food more than anything else. Little tavernas, bakeries, seafood by the water, village meals that seemed simple but tasted incredible. It’s making me think that next time I go to Greece, I’d love to plan at least part of the trip around food.

I’m not fully sure yet if I’ll be going this summer, but I’ve been daydreaming about possible places to visit. What towns or regions in Greece do you think are especially great for food lovers?

I’d love recommendations for places known for traditional cooking, local specialties, seafood, baked goods, or just amazing tavernas in general. Islands, mainland towns, mountain villages — all recommendations are welcome.

Would especially love hearing about places that felt authentic and memorable rather than overly touristy.

Which Greek island feels the least touristy in the summer?

I know that July and August are busy almost everywhere in Greece, especially on the more famous islands, but I’m curious about places that still feel relatively local and relaxed even during peak season.

I’m not necessarily looking for somewhere completely empty. I’d just love an island where you can still find traditional villages, local tavernas, quieter beaches, and a slower pace without feeling like the entire island is built around tourism.

Have you visited an island in the summer that still felt authentic and not overly crowded? I’d especially be interested in places where locals still seem to set the rhythm of daily life rather than visitors.

Which island would you recommend, and what made it feel less touristy to you? Was it the beaches, villages, restaurants, fewer cruise ships, or just the overall atmosphere?

Is Island Hopping Worth the Effort?

I've been thinking about trying an island-hopping trip the next time I visit Greece, but I'm wondering if it's actually worth the extra planning and travel time. In the past I've usually picked one island and stayed there for the duration of my vacation, which has been relaxing and let me really get to know the area.

Part of me loves the idea of experiencing several islands in one trip since they each seem to have their own personality, food, scenery, and traditions. On the other hand, I wonder if constantly packing, catching ferries, and checking into new accommodations takes away from the experience.

For those of you who have island-hopped, did you feel it was worth it? How many islands did you visit, and did you wish you had spent more time in fewer places? I'd love to hear your itineraries, tips, and whether you'd do it the same way again.

Is Greece easy to travel around without renting a car?

I’m trying to figure out whether it’s realistic to travel around Greece without renting a car. I’d prefer not to drive if I can avoid it, especially since I’m not familiar with the roads, parking, or driving customs there.

For those who have traveled around Greece using public transportation, how easy was it? I know there are buses, ferries, taxis, and domestic flights, but I’m wondering how practical they are once you get outside the main tourist areas. Did you ever feel limited by not having a car?

I’m also curious whether it makes sense to rely on public transportation for most of the trip and just rent a car for a day or two when needed. Are there certain types of places that are especially difficult to reach without one?

I’d love to hear from anyone who has done a Greece trip mostly or entirely without driving.
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