Greece to many is seen as a summer destination, but not many understand that one can have an excellent get away at any month of the year here. Although it is universally agreed that the islands are best visited during the summer, there are numerous destinations that operate with tourism year around. One does not need to enjoy the beach to be exposed to all the wonderful nature, history, and culture Greece has to offer. The following three destinations must be added to ones bucket list of places to visit in Greece, specifically during the “offseason”.
Rhodes. The island of Rhodes has a town that is fully operational year around, so you do not have to worry about all the restaurants and entertainment being closed for the season. Aside from the shopping and food found primarily in the main town, enjoy visiting the many castles found throughout the island. An archeological museum, toy museum, aquarium, and casino operate year around as well. Accompanied by an efficient public transportation system, venturing around the island by bus is a must in order to get the full expeireince.
Home of many resorts and a popular summer destination, Crete boasts many attractions to enjoy year around too. Going to wine tastings at one of the many winery’s is a must. The Cretan cuisine is worth a try, as mashed fava beans and simmered snails are dishes unique to Crete. The town of Chania thrives year around with all the bars and restaurants open to visit. Also, try hiking or skiing at one of the mountain ranges in Crete during the winter, another interesting option for one to be exposed to. Many museums are open year around too, and are worth visiting. The airports always have flights internationally and domestically, so getting there is no issue. While on Crete the bus and taxi system is very easy to figure out, making getting around simple.
Head to the nation’s capital of Athens for an amazing offseason getaway. Holding temperatures in the mid 60’s (farenheit) and 15-20’s (celcius) from the months of December to February, one can enjoy the cooler weather while navigating all Athens has to offer. Almost all the bars, restaurants, and nightlife operate year around, accompanied by year around museums and entertainment. One can enjoy the warmer weather by heading out to the suburbs of Vouliagmeni or Glyfada, and take a walk along the beautiful waterfront. Depending on how warm it gets, one may in fact swim at the beaches just 30 minutes outside of the city center (via train or car). The public transportation in Athens is immaculate, and very well organized. Here one can enjoy the athletic venues, nightlife, music, cuisine, nature, and just about most of what Greece has to offer. My favorite part of Athens is how it is similar to New York City, big and spread out, with countless options for entertainment. Plenty of foreigners come to Athens in the offseason for the same reasons, so one will not be alone in the capital. Having traveled all throughout Greece and living in Greece, Athens is an exciting city for those of all ages. It is one of my favorite things about Greece, and I love it there. Regardless of your interests, Athens has something up your alley year around that is worth giving a visit.
While reading this list I hoped to expose you to new areas or ideas when you are looking to come to Greece. Although there are other destinations, I highlighted three that would cover just about most people’s interests. Do not hesitate to do research on your own to find the perfect offseason getaway in Greece for yourself. There are plenty of memories to be made here at any given time of year. Κακη Χρονια, or Happy Belated New Year to my readers and wishing the best for 2021 moving forward.
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