According to mythology, the first colonist was Cretan Alcaios, who built the first city in the location where Parikia stands today. Getting There: Take a one-hour flight from Athens.Paros has been inhabited since 3200 B.C. Overview: Corfu is a lush gem of an isle evincing strong Italian influence in its cuisine and architecture. The island has spectacular swimming coves fringed with tropical plants and fruit trees, as well as Greece’s largest selection of private villas, making it an ideal spot for a family vacation. Corfu Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with neoclassical mansions, wide piazzas and three forts designed by Venetian engineers. It also differs in its culture, which, due to its proximity to Italy, displays a strong Italian influence in its cuisine and architecture. Located in the Ionian Sea west of mainland Greece and a one-hour flight from Athens, the island of Corfu is markedly different from the small, windswept Cyclades in size - it is about ten times as large as Santorini - and topography, with lush landscapes that are green year-round, thanks to heavy rains in the winter. Related: Cruising the Greek Isles Best Greek Island for Families: Corfu Highlights: Visiting the beaches of Psaraliki and Soros, watching the breathtaking sunset from Vathys Volos, canoeing or kayaking between Antiparos and Despotikon. Where to Stay: One of Indagare’s favorite private villas Getting There: Take a direct flight from Athens or a ferry from Santorini or Mykonos Overview: Paros offers the best of the Cyclades: whitewashed villages, charming harbors and secluded coves, along with a rich cultural scene. Just off the coast of Paros, tiny Antiparos has largely escaped the effects of mass tourism and boasts lovely turquoise water, pristine beaches and stunning stalagmite caves. A longtime cultural hub, it attracts international artists and art aficionados to its contemporary exhibitions and events.
#Paros greek island series
It is spotted with ruins, evidence of occupation by a series of cultures and civilizations going back to 3,200 BC.
Paros, the second-largest Cycladic island, reached the apogee of its glory during the Classical period, thanks to its world-famous marble. Highlights: Going on a boat cruise with stops for snorkeling visiting a winery hiking relaxing at your hotel touring the ancient city of Akrotiri Best Greek Island for Scenesters: Mykonos
Where to Stay: Kirini Suites & Spa or Canaves Oia Hotel & Suites Getting There: Fly into Athens and then take a 45-minute flight to Santorini. Overview: Primarily a relaxation destination-guests can easily while away an entire day lounging poolside-Santorini also boasts rich volcanic vineyards, red- and black-sand beaches, underwater treasures and prehistoric ruins. True or not, Santorini has an undeniable air of mystery that enhances its idyllic charm. It is widely believed that this event is the source for the legend of Atlantis. Its unique C-shaped crater is the result of the second-largest volcanic eruption in world history, which took place 3,600 years ago.
The Aegean island is a caldera, with steep cliffs and towns dotting the upper ridge. Almost otherworldly in its dramatic beauty, Santorini is all about the simple pleasures of summer in Greece: sun, sand and the obligatory evening aperitif.