Summer is quickly approaching, and you cannot wait for it to get here. So why not organize a small gateway excursion to appease your appetite?

You pick up the globe, spin it, and leave fate to decide your next destination…

Would you look at that, Greece it is. But then, the ever-recurring dilemma appears. Should you visit Athens, the old city of gods, once the cradle of civilization – or – just lay back and enjoy the beautiful Greek summer which is already underway in one of the numerous islands?

To that we say, why not both?

Even if you decide to visit Athens, and feast on the plentiful beauties, stories, and secrets it conceals, you can still spend a day at sea and experience a different side of this country with no fuss. Join a full-day cruise from Athens and discover three of the most famous and fascinating islands of the Saronic Gulf and of course, a swim in the turquoise Mediterranean sea!

First, there’s Hydra, with the extremely picturesque capital, filled with red-tiled houses and stone-paved narrow alleys which are built like an amphitheater as a safe shelter for Pirates.

Then there’s Poros. The vibrant lakeside resort with the grand historic clock tower engulfing the pastel-hued stack of houses is as romantic as it gets and a prime destination for shopping.

And last, but certainly not least, Aegina, an Athenian suburb by all regards, combines the alluring, laid-back character of a typical Greek island with a fair dose of prestigious classical landmarks.

So, start packing, and remember to bring along your bathing suit. No matter where you go in Greece, there is always a chance of impromptu bathing time.

For cruises visiting the Saronic Gulf, click below:

One day cruise Hydra, Poros & Aegina islands

When Athens pops up into a conversation, the words that usually come to mind to describe it are the likes of “sunny”, “summer” and “sea”. While Athens might not be a winter holiday destination the way other snowy cities are, many lovely traditions and tasty seasonal foods are there to tempt you. The most magical time of the year is truly unique in the Greek capital.

Come wintertime, the whole city lights up as it’s decorated throughout with festive lights. The capital pulses with life as Athenians are out and about in squares and alleyways enjoying the sparkle of Christmas. People are shopping for gifts, decorating their homes and preparing for family feasts.

Greek Christmas traditions remain a deep-rooted part of the culture. Whether it’s children singing Christmas carols, families and friends sharing a lovely Christmas dinner or youngsters partying and playing cards all night long on New Year’s, Greeks know how to liven the festive spirit.

Then there is food. The Greek habit of cooking huge quantities and varieties of food, with the extended family meal stretching well into dinner, is very prominent during holidays. As far as sweet delicacies go, Greeks usually fall into one of two camps: those who love melomakarona and those who go nuts for kourampiedes. Melomakarona are syrupy, oil-based biscuits while Kourabiedes are crumbly, buttery walnut cookies covered in powdered sugar.

Tis the season to be jolly, why not spend it in Athens?

Click here for Food and Walking tours around Athens

For tours visiting Athens click below:

Athens Food Tour

Acropolis, Athens City Tour & Acropolis Museum

Athens By Night (night life)