GREECE

The following are the heritage sites, grouped into recommended gateway cities. This may help in planning on the logistics (travel and accommodation) of your journey.

ATHENS (ATH)

Athens, the sun-drenched cradle of Western civilization, is a breathtaking tapestry of ancient ruins and spirited modern life. The city remains anchored by the Acropolis, where the Parthenon continues to command the skyline. Below, the historic Plaka and Monastiraki districts offer a maze of bougainvillea-lined streets and bustling flea markets. While visitors marvel at the world-class Acropolis Museum, they can also dive into the edgy street art of Psiri or enjoy the sunset from Mount Lycabettus. Renowned for its rooftop bars and traditional tavernas serving authentic souvlaki, Athens remains an essential, ever-evolving Mediterranean destination.

Archaeological Sites of Mycenae and Tiryns

KALAMATA (KLX)

Located in the southern Peloponnese on the Messinian Gulf, Kalamata is a vibrant coastal city renowned worldwide for its namesake olives and premium olive oil. Accessible via Kalamata International Airport, this city seamlessly blends history with modern leisure. Visitors can explore the 13th-century Kalamata Castle, wander through the historic Old Town with its Byzantine churches, or stroll along the extensive seaside promenade lined with cafes and tavernas. Beyond its beaches, Kalamata is a cultural hub hosting an international dance festival annually. It serves as an ideal base for exploring ancient Messene and the dramatic landscapes of the Mani Peninsula.

KAVALA (KVA)

Kavala, a stunning coastal city in northern Greece, is celebrated as a “gift of nature” blending mountains with the Aegean Sea. Built amphitheatrically around a scenic port, it serves as a cultural crossroads between East and West, famously rich in tobacco history and Byzantine heritage. Visitors are captivated by the imposing Kamares Aqueduct, the grand 15th-century Byzantine Fortress overlooking the city, and the picturesque cobblestone streets of the old Panagia district. Kavala is a culinary paradise, offering fresh seafood and local delicacies like kourabiedes almond cookies. It is also the ideal base for exploring nearby sandy beaches and the UNESCO-listed archaeological site of Philippi.