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Spending Christmas in Greece

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dimi_pat

Active member
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.
 
I have never been! Hopefully someone who has will chime in. I will say, after reading your writeup, I am definitely intrigued.
 
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Clothing
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Last-minute travel tips in Greece

I love to travel to Greece and I do so whenever I can. There's an art to it, though, and I am never really going into it "blind". It's a good idea to start by thinking generally about where you might want to go.

Athens is usually the starting point for most travelers, with its iconic Acropolis offering panoramic views and a history lesson all in one spot. If you're a beach lover, head towards the Cyclades for stunning beaches and the classic, postcard-worthy Santorini sunsets. Or, if it's history you're after, the ruins of Delphi or the ancient city of Mycenae will surely captivate you.

Then, we need to figure out how to get where we want to go. For island hopping, the ferries are an experience in themselves – though if you're time-strapped, consider a local flight to get you to the major islands quickly. On the mainland, a mix of car rentals and public transport can be efficient and economical, especially when visiting sites off the tourist map. Keep an eye on the schedules and book in advance if possible to save time.

Sometimes I rent a car, to be honest it's the easiest for me.

The rest of the details tend to sort themselves out. For example, you can book your lodging as you go along, especially off-peak.

Visiting Delphi worth it?

I am trying to figure out if visiting Delphi is worth it. I want to fit seeing as many historical sites as I can into my itinerary. I've always been fascinated by ancient cultures and their histories, which naturally puts places like Athens and Santorini on my list. Recently, I've been reading up on Delphi and am intrigued by its significant historical and cultural value, not to mention its picturesque landscapes.

Given its status as the center of the world in ancient Greek civilization and the home of the famous oracle, it sounds like a place full of fascinating stories and ruins. However, I'm also aware that Greece is full of remarkable places to visit, each with its unique allure.

Best places in Greece to see the Venetian influences?

I am interested in the Venetian influences that are interwoven into certain parts of the country. From the architecture to the local customs, I understand that the reach of the Venetian Republic left a notable mark that can still be felt today.

I'm in the midst of planning an itinerary focused on exploring these influences and I’d love to hear from you about the must-visit spots where one can best experience the essence of the Venetian presence in Greece.

Do any of you have recommendations for specific towns, buildings, ruins, or even local festivities that embody this cultural blend? Any hidden gems or lesser-known locations that surprised you with their Venetian charm?

Of course, I expect Crete, with its famed Venetian fortresses and the romantic old town of Chania, to be part of this list. But I'm certain there is a wealth of places, perhaps on other islands or on the mainland, which equally showcase this unique period of history. I also know there are influences in Corfu. Is there anywhere else?
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