Greece at a glance

Three seas, around 6,000 islands and 5,000 years of history — Greece is made for discovery from the water. Here's everything you need at a glance before you set sail, from practical facts to the beaches, history, food and nightlife that make a Greek sailing holiday unforgettable.

Useful Information

• Capital cityAthens
• Official languageGreek
• CurrencyEuro (€)
• Time zoneGMT +2
• Calling code+30
• ClimateMediterranean
• Population10,815,197 (2011 estimate)
• Central airportAthens International Airport
• Main citiesThessaloniki, Patra, Larissa, Heraklion, Volos

Sun & Beaches

Wondering why you should sail in Greece rather than another Mediterranean country? Its marvellous beaches and brilliant sunlight are the strongest argument. Dare to discover this small corner of Europe that offers all the excitement and relaxation you need on holiday. Greece is the perfect place to lie under the warm sun, swim at exotic beaches and watch magical sunsets.

The best way to get to know a country made of seas and islands is to journey across its waters. Charter a yacht and enjoy the freedom and the absolute blue of the sea. Visit the countless islands scattered across the horizon, sail from one to the next, and swim at beaches secluded or popular, cosmopolitan or wild — deep blue, green and turquoise water with fine sand like golden powder.

Drop anchor at the beach of your choice and dive in, alone with the sun. Listen to the whisper of the waves and breathe in the fresh sea air. Or, if you're more active, dive, water-ski or try windsurfing, parasailing and paragliding in crystal-clear water. Whatever you choose, a sailing holiday under the Greek sun is a truly unique experience.

History & Culture

Greece has a story 5,000 years old. Its culture has evolved over millennia, and the line between history and myth is often hard to draw — but both will inspire and guide you as you travel the Greek islands. Sail to Odysseus's Ithaca, to Pythagoras's Samos, or to Kos, the birthplace of Hippocrates. Walk the islands where philosophers such as Aristotle, Plato, Socrates, Pythagoras and Archimedes once lived.

In the depths of time, some four to five millennia ago, the Hellenic, Mycenaean, Minoan and Cycladic civilizations flourished — early but rich in achievement. The very idea of Democracy was born here, in the age of Pericles' "Golden Century", and the spirit of the Olympic Games, also born in Greece, lives on today. Add the wealth of Greek mythology and the Olympian gods — did you know the word "Europe" itself comes from Greek myth? The spirit of ancient Greece is felt on every corner, and you can reach out and touch it at archaeological monuments thousands of years old.

Greek Cuisine

Greek cuisine is quintessentially Mediterranean — diverse, generous and full of regional character. While the culinary traditions across the country share much in common, each area has its own specialities. The choices are almost infinite, and the ingredients are superb: olive oil, vegetables and herbs, grains and bread, fruit, yogurt, wine, fish and a variety of meats including poultry, lamb, pork and rabbit — not to mention the Greek desserts that change from place to place.

During your sailing holiday you'll find flavours you'll never forget. Taste the cuisine of the Ionian Islands, or sail to the Cyclades for "Kykladitiki" cooking (the cuisine of the Aegean islands). Visit Chalkidiki for Macedonian cuisine, with its influences from Pontian and "Mikrasiatiki" traditions (the Greeks of Constantinople). Every destination brings a different taste that will keep you coming back.

Nightlife

Greece is famous the world over for its vibrant nightlife, a cherished part of the local culture. Bars, night clubs, restaurants and tavernas, beach parties, themed nights and special events are just some of the options. The fun is everywhere — especially on islands like Mykonos, Rhodes, Santorini, Corfu and Ios, where bars and clubs stay open until sunrise to local and international music. The drinks flow freely and the appetite for celebration never ends.

After an exhilarating day under sail, dock at the harbour of your favourite island and dive straight into the Greek night.