Ionian Islands, Greece

A few strong earthquakes destroyed the whole old city, and therefore modern-day Corinth architecture is mostly sturdy concrete buildings designed to withstand significant seismic loads. However, this town, with its lovely quayside, friendly local residents and appetising food keeps attracting tourists. Part of the reason is because the ancient Corinth is located only 7 km away and Nemea, with its famously good wines (AOC red wines), is also nearby.

Galaxidi is a lovely, peaceful resort in the northern coast of the Gulf of Corinth. Its slow pace of life and unostentatious beauty make it a favourite destination for those who plan to explore Delphi, 15 to 20 km into the mainland.

Unspoiled Meganisi lies 4 nautical miles away from Lefkada in the south-eastern direction. It is the biggest of three inhabited satellite islands. Traditional architecture, welcoming people, a relaxed pace of life, picturesque harbours with fish taverns and traditional entertainment, glorious views, calming green landscapes and deep bays with translucent water and pebbly beaches all contribute to the idyllic Mediterranean holiday atmosphere.

Most visitors to Meganisi arrive by their yachts, so this island is largely untouched by mass tourism. The island’s beaches are secluded, and some ae only accessible only by boat. Take a stroll around the relaxed, scenic port town of Vathy (Vathi), tasting delicacies at the many fish taverns.

Kefalonia is the biggest island in the Ionic Sea, celebrated for its scenic variety and amazing beauty. Steep cliffs carpeted with lush greenery create a striking picture against the aquamarine sea. Here you see re fined aristocratic villas next to charming rural estates.

The Blue Flag Myrtos Beach, one of the best in Europe or even in the whole world, is in the centre of the island, next to Divarata village. Myrtos constantly makes it into the world’s best beaches lists. The colour of water here defies description. But Myrtos is only the beginning of a long list of Kefalonia attractions, which, among other things, includes Mount Enos National Park, 1630 m above sea level.

Nafpaktos, meaning “boatyard”, is an amazing, historically rich destination on the mainland, offering both sea and mountain scenery. As you sail into the port, you’ll see a majestic Venetian Castle towering over the town. Visit the castle for tremendous views over pastel hued houses, pebbly beaches and ancient crenelated Venetian walls.

West of the Venetian port there is a park named after Miguel de Cervantes with a monument to the great author of Don Quixote. If you are wondering about the connection between a great Spanish writer and a small Greek town, the inscription on a plaque under the statue provides some insight.

Athens is one of the oldest cities in the world, the capital of Greece and the cradle of democracy. The city was built around the Acropolis and Lycabettus hills dominating the flatland. According to legend, the hills were formed when Athena threw two rocks from the sky to help protect the city from enemies.

Walking around the centre of this megapolis, with so many historic buildings and ancient monuments, let your mind wander back to the Golden Age of Athens. Think back to when Pericles ordered the rebuilding of the Parthenon, one of the finest examples of Greek architecture.

Athens is particularly exciting at night: trendy clubs, fine restaurants and upscale events make this city a supreme entertainment venue.