What was my favorite thing about Greece? Was it the food? Was it the free shots of Mystico after the food? Was it the hundreds of stray cats lounging under the Greek summer sun? Was it the calm beaches? I have a few favorites and I’ll share some of my experiences in this breathtaking country.
Naxos –
Naxos is small and quiet. It’s a good destination if you’d like to skip the more touristy parts of Greece. The local atmosphere makes you feel like you can relax and not stress about stuffing a billion to-do’s on your itinerary. There are a few must-see attractions, but otherwise, it’s best you hit the beaches and eat as much Greek cuisine as you can!
If you love to cook as much as I do, check out Tzibalakis’ spice shop near the ports. Whether you buy anything or not, it’s an experience in itself to just sniff all the baskets of spices and tea leaves.
One of our favorite Greek dishes besides the pita and souvlaki and tzatziki was this delicious little number. We must’ve gotten this pastry, one made with feta cheese and honey, for every meal. We learned if the feta block is solid, it’s not a good pastry. If it’s a bit melted, you hit the jackpot.
Mount Zeus. This experience is not for everybody. My mother had to tap out after the terrifying drive up the mountain – no railings and extremely narrow roads. Once your car can no longer continue, it’s up to you to begin your hike a long a trail that turns into dirt and eventually turns into rubble.
The hike up Mount Zeus to the Cave of Zeus was perilous, especially in a dress, but well worth it. If you prefer the journey over the destination, this hike is for you – just don’t wear a dress like I did.
Some other attractions include the castle that sits on the hill of the port. My family and I didn’t intend to visit it but we got lost shopping in the labyrinthine streets of Naxos and stumbled upon its walls.
One of the easiest temples to visit is Apollo’s. It sits just at the end of the port and offers gorgeous views of the ocean. If you can stand the wind, stay a while. It’s a nice spot to unwind from the busier areas of the island.
I haven’t mentioned any of the beaches, but there are a variety to choose from – some are best for clubbers while others are for people who enjoy water sports. If you love to be naked, there are also beaches for birthday suits. But wherever you go, you’ll always have a gorgeous view of the sunset.
Santorini –
After a nearly three hour ferry ride to Santorini, my family only had a few hours to explore this island. Since they have been many times before me, they led the way.
It was extremely crowded, which my parents found unusual for the time of the year. They promised that this wasn’t the true Santorini, so I have to say with their word in mind, my first impression of the beautiful volcanic island wasn’t the best or truest one.
Regardless, I had plenty of fun admiring the famous blue and white buildings and shopping along the streets for the best jewelry. I have to say though that my favorite shop was quiet and tucked away. Mnemossyne Gallery had beautiful unique pieces that were incredibly affordable in price and rustic in craftsmanship.
My mother and I also spoiled ourselves with a twenty minute foot bath at the fish spa. It was definitely one of my weirder experiences, but it was quite fun to feel all the fish nibbling at your feet.
2022 update: I had the opportunity to return to the island for a longer extent of time, and while my feelings about Santorini have not changed, I did get to experience one of their iconic volcanic beaches.
The one we visited was called Kamari Beach. I recommend going for a dip, but be careful because volcanic rock is rather slippery. Also, there are plenty of restaurants lining the beaches if you need to dry off for a bite!
Athens –
When we visited Athens, it was hot. It was so hot that we needed to go back to our hotels for AC breaks. The most important things to see in Athens were outside, so you could imagine our struggle.
First things first, you have to see the Acropolis and the Parthenon. If you’re in Athens and you’re not doing that, then what are you doing? Shopping and eating is fun but you are in the birthplace of Western civilization. Let’s get our priorities straightened out. With that said, hit the Acropolis Museum first and learn about what you are going to visit.
Once you are updated on its history, the hike up to the Acropolis is filled with artifacts and ruins to admire. I highly recommend going early in the morning when it’s not too hot and crowded. My father claims that the last time he visited, it was almost ten degrees hotter…and it was already eighty something degrees at 9 AM.
There are other ruins scattered about the city. The ruins pictured below belong to the Temple of Zeus. It’s a short walk around the columns and thankfully there are some shaded areas.
You also have the opportunity to get a full view of the city – you can even see the ocean from this altitude. If you visit Mount Lycabettus, you can see just how big Athens is. It’s quite breathtaking, but I warm you that once again, it’s a steep climb and so so hot.
While you’re there, don’t forget to peek inside the small chapel that sits on top of this mountain. If you have any loved ones, you can leave a candle for them by the window.
Overall, Athens was hot and busy, but how can you really unwind when you’ve got so much history to see? Anyway, I got all my naps in on the beaches of Naxos. If you’re planning to go to Greece, definitely visit Athens, but be nice to yourself and give yourself some beach time on one of the islands or on the country coast.
I shall end this entry with a bunch of stray cats I found throughout the trip. They are amazing and precious.
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