Visit Crete

Visit Heraklion, the capital of Crete. Explore the ancient Minoan palace of Knossos (Europe's oldest city, with labyrinthine ruins and vibrant frescoes), see the Venetian fortress of Koules guarding the old harbour, and browse the Archaeological Museum (home to the Phaistos Disc and Minoan artifacts). Sample local dishes like dakos (rusk salad) and bougatsa (custard pie) at the central market.

A Venetian fortress, a minaret-studded old town and a long beach on the north coast of Crete.

Visit the stunning island of Santorini, known for its white-washed buildings and breathtaking sunsets

See Greece's shipwreck beach on Zakynthos

Explore the beautiful Greek island of Corfu in the Ionian Sea. Wander through Corfu Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage site with Venetian, French, and British architecture, including the 16th-century Old Fortress), visit the Achilleion Palace (built for Empress Elisabeth of Austria, featuring neoclassical design and statues of Achilles), and relax at Paleokastritsa (a scenic bay with crystal-clear waters, a monastery, and hiking trails).

Visit Kos, a Greek island in the Dodecanese with sandy beaches and ancient ruins. Explore the Asklepion (an ancient healing center and medical school), see the Castle of the Knights (14th-century fortress built by the Knights of St. John), stroll through Plaka Forest (a natural oasis with peacocks and springs), and relax on Paradise Beach (known for its golden sand and clear waters).

Explore Euboea, Greece's second-largest island, connected to the mainland by a short bridge. Visit the medieval Venetian castle in Chalkida, known for the unique tidal phenomenon of Euripus Strait (changing direction every 6 hours). Relax in the natural hot springs of Edipsos, favored by ancient Romans and modern spa-goers. Discover the mysterious Drakospita ('dragon houses') of Styra, megalithic structures dating back to the 6th century BC.

Bronze Age Minoan palace outside Heraklion, legendary seat of King Minos.