I would skip Crete, Rhodes, and Corfu - but that is mainly because they are so heavily touristy to me. I have been there and although they all have their individual charm there just is too much touristy for me.

Have you considered some of the other areas near Greece along the adriatic sea? Different cultures too.

Thanks, Lyfia, that is very helpful, because they were all on the bottom of my list.

What areas of Greece along the Adriatic were you thinking of?

Seafood in Piraeus was outstanding, but remember, this was decades ago.

I think the hike to the top of Mount Ida on Crete is probably more than you would want to tackle, but the views... The Minoans and their connection to other Bronze Age civilizations is of interest to me. I found the ruins of the Palace of Knossos fascinating.

Delos is another wonderful island to visit from an archaeological perspective.

My top picks are Delphi, Crete and Delos.

I have Delphi on the list, as a daytrip from Athens. If i recall correctly, you can't stay on Delos? It's a ferry ride from Mykonos (not on my list). I know it might sound odd but I have TBH, the photos from Crete haven't sent me -- the Knossos either if I am being honest. I think I need to research Crete more since so many people like it!

Yes, i saw the monastery in Meteora, that looks cool --- did you drive there from Athens? what's the 4hr ride like if so. I will look up the other mainland spots your mentioned.

I love Turkey, been to Istanbul several times on business and on vacation a few times, also did Izmir, Pamukkale, Ephesus. Not wild about being in Erdogan country now, plus DD1s bestie summers on the coast of Turkey and no doubt she will go one year.

Were you in Symi at all, or just snorkelling nearby from the Turkish coast? I am wondering if it is worth it to go to Symi since I have to go via Rhodes and it wastes a day each way ....

It has been a while for me, but these are things that I still remember fondly:

- Herod Atticus theater below the Acropolis - Saw a classical concert there, it was amazing to be seated there surrounded by such history on a beautiful warm night.

- Olympia - Ancient Olympic site

- Epidavros theater/ruins

If you go to the beach on the islands just be aware that some might be topless or nudist ... I don't remember that part fondly! I stayed clothed, but lots of uninhibited old German men didn't!

Chispa, that's a lovely idea to look into plein air performances!

Yeah, my kids would rather die than visit a nudist beach, esp w their parents. Can't say I disagree.

If Knossos isn't of interest, then skip Crete and you're right, Delos is a day trip by boat from Mykonos, so that's probably not good for your agenda on this trip either. Gooster's snorkeling idea sounds like an interesting option. I've never dived on an antiquities site.

I was surprised how dirty, hot, miserable, and generally un-fun Athen was. As far as European capitals go, I can't think of another quite like it.

Thanks, Patrick... I find that kind of advice so helpful. One of my pet peeves of travel journalism is that it is almost always written under the assumption that the reader had already decided to go to the destination being discussed, and so there is no analysis of whether one should even go..

I initially thought Athens was the kind of place you go to to check "Acropolis" off your list, and then skedaddle. But I find it interesting that an Aman resort opened there a few years ago, and a Four Seasons is in the wings. Usually these kinds of luxury hotel investments are not made unless they are justified ... so IDK... were these places built just because most people have to go through Athens to get to the islands? I have to look at their websites to see what areas of the city they are sited in, and what they list as "things to do".

I will be flying BA and they fly London direct to probably ten greek islands, so I could skip Athens, but since I want to see Delphi and now am pretty sure I will add in Meteora, so I will be stuck with time doing Athens transfers.

Gooster thanks for mentioning Meteora.... I had come across a mention of it but I thought it was way far out of the way to see a monastery, until i realized there are a BUNCH! Wow.

PS Aha! The Four Seasons is 30 min outside of Athens. The Aman is in Porto Heli, 2.5 hrs away! Sounds like they don't like Athens either!

It has been a while, but Patrick's experience wasn't the feeling I got in Athens. But then again my college boyfriend was Greek, so I got to see it through his eyes and stayed with his family and friends.

Summers are hot and the city would shut down between 1-4 pm to escape the heat.

If you love good feta cheese, olive oil, oregano and fresh bread ... yum!

It might have become "un-fun" during the past decade due to their economic issues?

We are planning a trip to Greece this summer.

For Athens we are considering the King George or the Hotel Grande Bretagne. Porto Heli has amazing villas for rent (one of them had a farm attached, but I can't find it right now). I don't think we will go there this time though.

Our itinerary is not quite firm yet; there are a lot of moving parts still. Right now it looks like Athens and environs, Crete Santorini and Rhodes.

One of my friends is Greek. Her in-laws live in Athens and she says that the situation in the streets can be somewhat unpleasant. There are many peddlers and she is more comfortable speaking to her children in a language other than English when she is in the city itself.

We will hire a guide to take us around. I am not concerned about our safety. The situation in the country saddens me terribly though.

I am grateful for all the advice on this thread :-)

@mtnredux -- When we did the mainland journey, we also stayed in Napflio, about two hours from Athens. Thus it was close to Corinth and the Canal, Olympia, and Epidaurus. We drove to Delphi and stayed nearby to hit the grounds in the morning, and then headed to Kalambaka. However, I will warn you, that road to Kalambaka was a bit crazy. The Greeks have a habit of taking a two lane road and squeezing a third right down the center (while driving on the side). Once you accepted that, it was fine, but just a bit unnerving at first.

For the snorkeling among the ruins, we were at Cleopatra's Baths, near Fethiye. It was a stop on our sailboat/gulet cruise and is in an area of hot springs (Hamam Bay). There is another sunken city that is being opened at Kekova. Both are reachable from Rhodes via Ferry (90 minutes to Fethiye). But I don't know if I'd go out of the way -- I'd find another snorkable ruin closer by. I agree about Erdogan -- our French real estate agent says she's selling lots of properties recently to Turks escaping him and it's been several years since we've been last -- a lot has obviously changed.

Well are you stuck on just visiting Greece? I was going to suggest Montenegro and Croatia along the Adriatic Coast. I've not been to Croatia, but friends speak highly of it along the coasts. Montenegro area was beautiful, but it has been a long long time since I was there (in the 90s).

Personally, I also really liked Epidauros and Mykenae, close to Athens. Also, the three fingers of Chalkidiki because it's still not that overrun (although it's not that easily accessible).

As far as islands, I'd skip Mykonos. I also like some of the lesser known Cyclades, such as Paros, Naxos, and Siros, and a quick trip to Delos.

I'm also a big fan of Crete because of its size, but would stay on the Southern coast and/or the mountains and plateau. So much less touristic. One of my favorite places is in Zaros (inner of the island). I'd hike the Samaria gorge AFTER all the tour buses and stay overnight at the bottom of the gorge. I've done it twice, and it's definitely a highlight.

My brother and I are planning to go to Greece June 2019, and so maybe we'll run into you there!

I like the idea of snorkeling to see ruins. We have no children, and so our itinerary may be different - we definitely want to visit Crete and Mykonos as well as Athens, and probably Santorini, although that is probably last on the list. We'll only have two weeks, due to DB's job, but we also like to stay three days in one place at a time, if possible. I could see spending four days in Crete, but I don't think I would want to be there longer than that. We won't be going through London, but if you stop there, you can see plenty of Greek artifacts at the London Museum. We would prefer to go through Berlin, but I do not think it is a hub, and Frankfurt does not really interest me.

Rita,

Good to know about Athens in re walking around the streets. I am looking at The Zillers, which seems to have lovely views, or, further afield, the Margi. Incidentally, if you need to stay near the airport when transferring, the Sofitel at Athens Airport is one of the highest rated hotels (odd). I do like the LHR Sofitel and I also stay at one in midtown NYC.

As far as villas, I am head over heels with some of them I have found. In fact they may drive the itinerary. I did mention above that the hotel is very very important to us. Years ago we went to Kangaroo Island, half a world away and hard to get to, partly because I was drawn to a wonderful hotel called Southern Ocean Lodge. Anyway, Here are two villa companies I have found; a friend recommended serendipity.

http://serendipitygreekvillas.com/Luxury_Villas_Milos/Villa_Nafsika

https://www.bluevillascollection.com/santorini/item/148-hyacinth

You must update us when you return!

Gooster, when I read about the driving it reminded me how hard it is to find a good size rental car in europe (for 5 adult-sized people and lots of luggage). But then I looked at the trains and IDK, might be a pain to Meteora unless it is scenic?

Lyfia, At one time I wanted to add in Croatia. But I would want to do Dubrovnik, Split and Plitvice Park too. Greece is already too much to see! Not only that, each of my kids got to pick a trip and my DD2 picked Greece, so I kind of have to deliver Greece.

Nosoccer, I will look at those you mentioned near Athens. I already nixed Mykonos, and Delos is accessed from Mykonos. The other three mentioned , all i read about it great beaches?

Too funny, Lars, we must remember to check in as it gets closer to see if we will be in the same place at the same time. We can meet for some Ouzo. Yes, indeed the British Museum has a few of Greece's treasures! And of course my favorite island, Milos, "lent" the Venus de Milo to the Louvre!

I don't recall if I have posted it before, but this piece made me fall for Milos.

http://www.cntraveller.com/gallery/milos-greece

And this made me add Meteora to the schedule, after Gooster suggested it:

https://www.visitmeteora.travel/the-meteora-monasteries/

Okay, now I am vacillating about whether I should have kicked Symi off the schedule.

Read the description here:

Less than two hours’ ferry ride from Rhodes, Symi is a world apart. There are no coach parties, or high-rise resorts. Only handsome yachts, castaway coves, and sublime monasteries camouflaged in ancient cypress forests. The craggy coastline is sprinkled with dramatic beaches and sleepy fishing villages, most only accessible by boat or on foot. There’s only one ragged road that careers across the island’s mountainous spine to Panormitis monastery, a seaside sanctuary for Greek Orthodox pilgrims.

Perfectly preserved and blissfully unspoiled, Symi’s earthly charms also have plenty of devotees. Yachties cruise over from the Turkish coast to dive into the cerulean sea. Glamorous Italian lovers fall for the ravishing sunsets and amazing seafood (deep-fried baby shrimp is a local speciality). Boho French families come for the laidback vibe and elegant architecture.

Neoclassical mansions in every shade of peach, apricot and cantaloupe line the horseshoe harbour and surrounding hills. Built by 19th century merchants who made their fortunes shipping sponges and spices to Asia Minor, the whole town has been designated a national monument. Steep steps lead up to Horio, the sleepy upper town, a tumble of ruins with staggering views.

http://serendipitygreekvillas.com/Luxury_Villas_Symi/Villa_Apphia

Anybody been to Symi? It's a real PITA because you need to go to Rhodes first and then take a ferry to Symi, and back. But on the plus side there are a lot of intl flights into and out of Rhodes.

http://www.cntraveller.com/gallery/greece-cyclades-islands-paros-antiparos

Not much to add. I visited for the first time in the 70s and a few times since but not with teenagers. There are day excursions to Delos. Make sure to pack sea sickness tablets.

(Completely off topic, but with teens or older, I'd consider safari in Botswana, Okavango Delta, at one point. Summer is the best time to visit.)

I am going to Santorini in May and beginning of June! We are also going to Israel, Istanbul and Italy. Any advice is welcome.

@mtn -- Meteora is pretty far, and driving in Greece is an adventure. This article explains it better than I
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Travel-g189398-c7220/Greece:Driving.In.Greece.html

The hills holding the monasteries are over a 1000 feet, making for some pretty interesting vistas from below and above. Very much like a scene from a movie, but perhaps not as jaw dropping as some vistas. There are plenty of videos on YouTube that give you a better sense.

My visit to Greece was many years ago. We had planned to spend 4 days there but kept extending our stay. Athens, mostly, with a side trip to Delphi and, with a chance meeting with a longtime friend, a trip to the seaside. The people were wonderfully friendly.

Sue, to me that is the ideal of travel. Flexible itinerary, flexible stays. Not with a family of 5 scheduled up the wazoo, but someday!

Gooster --- I just had an epiphany! I am going to look into a helitour of Meteora. I thought of it when I read that some people felt it looked better in the photos than IRL. I do think it will be particularly nice from the air! And it will save a lot of time.

Unless I missed it I saw no mention of Naxos Greece. My husband and I were thinking of a trip in mid September. Amongst all the "what island" confusion I saw that there is decent light hiking plus other outdoor activities in Naxos? I also liked the look of this boutique hotel ( hope for a special) https://www.villa-marandi-naxos.com/hotels-villas-naxos/facilities-services-luxury-hotels-villas-naxos

Anyway, any thoughts on Naxos? We will fly into London and London to Crete with a ferry to Naxos. Good ?

I would not want to miss Meteora. We went rafting in the Vikos Gorge which was pretty spectacular. There are some great hikes that cross ancient bridges in that area.

That would be one of my picks dedtired. We will be meeting up with my brother and sister in law. In laws and Husband must have a beach and I must have some height to land somewhere and good light hiking areas. We all like good restaurants and exploring villages. There are 30 near-ish villages on Naxos. Mostly though there will be lots of relaxation. I thought Naxos (Saint George area) sounded like it had something for all. I especially liked that particular area because one could walk to the city, old and new and restaurants.

It's very hard to pick an Island.

We were in Athens in May 2017 and stayed at the Electra Palace. Rooms were fairly basic but the rooftop views of the city and the Acropolis were amazing. It was a good location but Zillers looks to be a bit better, if you're still thinking of staying in the city.

We never felt unsafe walking around but the years of protests have taken a toll on some areas. It was sad to realize the country was so economically strapped that it couldn't find the budget to clean up graffiti from years ago.

Three days in Athens was more than enough for us.

So far everyone's onboard with Naxos. Not all the islands are self sustaining as far as agriculture goes like this one so there should be some good eating.

Wish someone here has been there to tell about it but I have read some good things online.

Mtn, what have you come up with?

Hi, Jterri.

Our current itinerary is:

Fly into Athens, stay 3-4 nights

- daytrip to Delphi

- helitour of Meteora

Fly into Milos, 3 nights

Ferry iirc to Santorini, 3 nights

Fly to Rhodes, 3 nights

- daytrip to Simi via ferry

Fly back from Rhodes

.... For us, Athens and Santorini were givens, then I fell in love w Milos when I saw the CNtraveler piece. I also was very charmed by Simi, and DH wanted to see Rhodes. It helped that we can fly back out of Rhodes via London (I have lot of BA miles so all roads lead to London). We may do a bit of the UK on the way out or back.

Sounds like a great plan! My in-laws have been to Santorini and Athens so those are off my list.

Anyway, husband has shifted the dates on me. Not yet sure if that will align with family dates.

Why did he let me get this far? Grrr

Here's a booking tip for you...check the cruise ship docking schedules (there's a website). There are days when ships pay no taxes so there will be 10 ships docked in Athens, etc. And all the places of interest will be packed with tourists.

Santorini was my favorite place. It's perched on an old volcano rim. Fascinating geology and anthropology.

Thx Susan, I was going to forego Santorini because it is so overdone, but then I read that it is unique and worth it.

@mtndredux -- Santorini is definitely worth it -- it is overdone for a reason. Just avoid Thira, where the ships disembark. Oia's great and there are some nice places that are less busy throughout the island, if that appeals to you. Even the way between Oia and Thira has some very nice locales that require a car but are quite The only place remotely similar where you can stay on a volcano rim and look down on water is in Bali, and this is much higher and more spectacular.

Mtn, in Santorini check out what DH & I call the "donkey steps!" We rode a bus from the cruise port up to the top of the island then had to make our own way down. There is a cable lift thing which I refused to ride, so we walked down the very, very long flight of zig zag steps. You can also ride a donkey up or down the steps!

When we were in Athens a local lady said a nice thing to do is take the light rail from Athens down to the coast. It didn't cost much and the coastal scenery was lovely. We found a restaurant with outdoor seating and had a nice lunch and took the train back.

Your trip sounds wonderful!

Donna

Oh MsMeow, I think I'd be okay going up but not happy walking down (esp since I wear heels almost always)! LOL, most things people reccommend to do in Athens ... involve leaving Athens!

Gooster thanks for the tip in re Thira! As much as I'd rather not go where everyone goes, you are right, they go for a reason. As for Bali, we have been. But did i miss the volcano? We were in Ubud and then along the beach .. wherever Amankila and Amanusa are.