Any Greece luxury holiday will be enriched by a journey through time exploring the ancient metropolis of Athens, the birthplace of democracy. Greece is home to more ancient sites than any other country in Europe, and the most iconic, the Acropolis, affords a 360-degree panorama over Athens. Relax into the easy-going way of life with a coffee on Syntagma Square before dipping in out of the city's many museums, galleries, boutiques and parks.
Night falls late here, and the stylish restaurants and bars welcome guests at all hours. For a beautiful panorama over the city, take a dip in the rooftop pool at the Hotel Grande Bretagne, or enjoy views of the Acropolis from its wonderful restaurant.
The lush pine-forested landscapes of the island of Spetses have made it among Greece’s best loved, most naturally pristine hideaways. Find a secluded bay and let time tick by, simply enjoying the beaches and crystal clear waters. The stone-paved streets of its historic villages are lined with colourful walls and two-storey neoclassical houses with wooden balconies, while mansion houses, ancient churches and chic restaurants are dotted around the picturesque Old Harbour. From Spetses, take a daytrip to the tranquil island of Hydra, or across to Porto Heli, a quiet, beach side town on the mainland.
The Peloponnese, a large peninsula off the southern tip of mainland Greece, is the country’s mythical heart, and a holiday here offers the best of Greece, from cultural riches such as ancient palaces, theatres and stadiums, to the natural beauty of the rugged mountains, pristine rivers and beautiful beaches. Ancient sites include the cities of Corinth and Sparta, the palace of Agamemnon at Mycenae, Greece’s best-preserved theatre at Epidaurus, and Olympia, which hosted the Olympic Games for a millennium. Venetian and Turkish influences are also on show in the castles and the frescoed churches.
Greece’s first capital, Nafplio, is a thriving cosmopolitan city today. Further inland, you will find majestic snow-capped mountains, valleys, gorges and wildflower meadows, along with spectacular caves. It’s no accident that the aptly named central region of Arcadia became synonymous with idyllic Classical landscapes.
