greece

From the culture and history of Athens to the tranquil sands of Corfu and the vibrant nightlife of Mykanos, Greece leaves an impression that lasts a lifetime. In south-eastern Europe by the Mediterranean Sea, it is a nation with a glorious past and a bright future.

Greece is perhaps best known as the cradle of western civilisation, and the evidence of these tentative roots is still clearly visible today. From the Acropolis of Athens to the site of the original Olympic Games in Olympia, thousands of years of history are just waiting to be discovered.

These astounding ruins are not limited to just mainland Greece. The island of Crete was the birthplace of the ancient Minoan civilisation and is full of archaeological sites of interest, such as the Minoan palace at Knossos and well preserved ruins in Phaistos and Gortys. The island of Rhodes is also home to a large number of ancient ruins and medieval castles, as well as having fantastic beaches and picturesque countryside.

Back in the modern world, popular resorts such as Halidiki in the north of mainland Greece, Kos in the Dodecanese island archipelago and Zante in the Ionian island group all offer lively and vibrant nightlife and clubbing scenes. They are also popular destinations for scuba diving and a range of exciting water sports.

For those seeking a romantic vacation, the island of Kefalonia has many excellent holiday resorts, abundant sunshine and serene sandy beaches. Myrtos beach is particularly popular, while the underground lake at Melissani provides a unique and memorable experience.

Kalamata on the Peloponnese peninsula is ideal for a cultured stay on the Greek mainland, and has plenty of museums and ancient city ruins to keep visitors occupied. It is also known for its culinary prowess, and Kalamata olives are eaten throughout the world.

In the Aegian Sea to the southeast of the mainland, the volcanic island of Santorini has the most Minoan Archaeological sites outside of Crete, while the nearby tiny island of Skiathos has scores of sandy beaches and is just the thing for sun seekers in need of a quiet relaxing holiday in the sun.

With a population of almost 11 million, the Greek capital of Athens is busy to say the least. But it¿s worth braving the crowds of locals and tourists to see the many archaeological remains scattered throughout the city, such as the Acropolis and the 2,500 year old Parthenon temple.

Greece has long been a popular destination for holidaymakers seeking a decent mix of sun, sea, history and culture and looks set to remain that way for many years to come.

• Go island hopping
• Marvel at the ancient ruins of temples and palaces
• Visit the site of the original Olympic Games in Olympia
• Experience the frenetic night life of Kos and Zante
• Drink Ouzo and eat olives in a local tavern
• Go scuba diving in the warm waters of the Mediterranean