Once a thriving city, Gortyn (alternative spelling: Gortyna, Gortys), is often times omitted from the travel agencies’ list of sights to see on Crete. Visit the Nilometer and the Basilica of St. Titus and don’t forget to check out the Law Code of Gortyn.
History
The city dates from the Neolithic times, developing fast in the Archaic and Classic age. During the Roman era it served as capital and became known as a Christian center. The city was destroyed in the 9th century by the Saracen attackers.
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Epidaurus is a small village located quite near to Athens. The modern town, Epidavros, was built near the ancient site. The village is well known for the Ancient Theater of Epidaurus, one of the best preserved ancient theaters. The theater is located about an hour and a half drive from Poros. Most travel agencies organize day trips on the island so be sure to check with your travel agent.
Archeological Site
The main archeological site is the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus.
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Have you heard of the Greek ouzo? I bet you did. More than just a Greek drink, Ouzo is a philosophy, a way of life. The best ouzo comes from Lesvos, as most café owners in Greece would admit.
What is ouzo?
Ouzo is a very strong drink, with an anise or licorice-like flavor. Ouzo always accompanies mezedes (appetizers) and you might even find it in mixed drinks.
If you don’t like strong alcohol drinks, chances are you won’t like ouzo either. But it’s worth a try, right?
Name and history
The origin of the name is still …
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The island of Alonissos is still a “hidden” treasure of Greece. Known for the Marine Park, lovely traditional villages, its beaches and nightlife, Alonissos is starting to become popular among British and German travelers. Northern Europeans started to buy old houses on the island and restored them to their original glory.
How to get to Alonissos
Alonissos is connected to the mainland by ferries. Throughout the year, there are daily ferries connection from Alonissos to Agios Konstantinos –best choice for travelers coming from the Athens area- and Volos –best choice for travelers coming from central Greece.
For a fast trip
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The Emerald of the Aegean, Thassos (Thasos) is one of the hidden treasures of Greece. Well known to Greeks –and lately to the Europeans as well –this small island offers lovely beaches, as well Greek culture and tradition. The island is located close to the mainland which offers great opportunity for excursions.
In antiquity the island has been famous for the goldmines and marble quarry. Today, it’s still famous for the marble quarries but also for the honey and olive oil produced here.
How to get to Thassos
If you travel by plane you should know that Thassos doesn’t have an airport.
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Greeks like to eat at night and if possibly in open air. So look for a taverna which has a really nice terrace where you can enjoy the warmth of the night and the company of fellow travelers.
Don’t expect to find plates breaking, flaming cheese or ouzo flowing like a river…real Greek restaurants don’t look like anything you would image from the movies. Just for your information, breaking plates has been outlawed in Greece years ago. Also, the real Greek cuisine can be totally different than what you can find in Greek restaurants …
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