The Top 5 Islands To Visit In Greece

The Top 5 Islands To Visit In Greece

Planning a holiday causing you stress? Do you want to go to Greece but don’t know which part? Or perhaps you have been to Greece but want to go back to a different location? Panic over! We have the top 5 destinations for you to visit. Whether you like to party, sight see or just relax in paradise, there is a Greek island suited to you!


Crete

Crete is the largest and most populous island in Greece, what with it being the fifth largest in the Mediterranean Sea. It is also one of the most popular holiday destinations in Greece, with many tourists describing it as a holiday of a lifetime; due to the islands unique and spectacular history. The islands history gives Crete its character with noticeable historic marks and was known as the cradle of Minoan civilisation during the second millennium BC. The island has impressive mountains, valleys, gorges, and glorious beaches. Benefits don’t just stop there as the island has a great town nightlife for those who like a mixture of bar and clubs. Bit of a night owl? Venture just outside the town, to the hotel beach strips and hit the many clubs that are open till the early hours of the morning!

(Picture courtesy of cheapholidays.com )

Athens

If you like history and touring, and want to be in the centre of it during your holiday, Athens is the Greek island for you! Athens is an island which has a strange combination of historic and modern buildings. It is also one of the world’s oldest cities with its history dating back 3,400 years ago. Did you know that Athens is known and the birthplace of democracy?

If you are looking for something more than beautiful beaches and overwhelming history, why not do a spot of shopping. You will be truly spoilt for choice, what with a huge variety of shops and shopping areas including, the Aiolou street and Ermou street. If you want shopping with a difference we recommend Athens market, which has small unique stalls and stands, where you can enjoy a traditional Greek shopping experience.

Similar to its history, Athens has a wide range of restaurants to choose from offering all types of cuisine such as local, ethical and international, all you have to do is decide what mood you are in! Athens does not have a wide variety of clubs but does have cool and quirky bars.


(Picture courtesy of cheapholidays.com)  

Kefalonia

If breath-taking views and beaches is what you are after, Kefalonia is the winner. Known for its shockingly blue seas and bright white sand, Kefalonia is home to some of the best untouched beaches in the whole of Greece. This Island is the perfect place for you to lie back and relax in true paradise. Kefalonia is the place for walking, cycling or even horse riding. Apart from being rich in stunning scenery and beautiful villages, Kefalonia is also diverse in traditions and local products such as, olive oil, feta, wild thyme and fir-tree honey, cheese, pasteli, and the Kefalonian meat pie. Kefalonia is a peaceful island with a calm night life with a range of bars and restaurants, all dotted along the seafront where you can watch the sunset over the gorgeous beaches.




 (Picture courtesy of kefaloniatravel.com)














Mykonos

If a holiday is all about the nightlife for you then Mykonos is the island for you. Known as the Ibiza of Greece with its crazy dancing, wine selection and stylish clubs, you can dance the night away until 6am. The island is the most stylish of the entire Greek island. However, if you want some privacy during the day the north beaches of Mykonos are more secluded with the south beaches more lively, offering activities such as jet-skiing, parasailing, skiing and windsurfing. This lively island is the perfect place for you to visit if you are going with a bunch of friends, or even a hen or stag do!







(Picture courtesy of inspiredluxuryescapes.com)






Zante
Zante offers something for everyone, and an added bonus, Zante holiday deals are always the cheapest due to the earthquake in 1953, which destroyed virtually all of the islands elegant Venetian mansions. Due to this fact, the island is one of the most popular Greek holiday islands. The locals working in Zante are said to welcome tourists with open arms; giving visitors the true Greek friendly service. Zante is not always recognised for its beaches but it should be as they are spectacular. This island is the whole package, it has multiple beaches to choose from, beautiful scenery, water sports, restaurants, bars, clubs, entertainment, and villages which preserve the traditional Greek way of life.

(Picture courtesy of lowcostholidays.com)

So what are you waiting for? Head on over to Compare Discount Holidays and find cheap holiday deals today before they all get snapped up! Visit www.comparediscountholidays.com

Why We Love The Greek Islands!

Thousands of tourists flock to the Greek islands every year; with their beautiful coastlines, gorgeous restaurants and lively towns it’s no surprise why so many of us become attached to these beautiful holiday destinations!

The Beaches

The Ionian Islands are famous for their idyllic locations, and each of the islands are able to boast their beauty through fabulous beaches!

Since there are many hidden coves dotted around the islands, there are boat trips from resorts and harbours to these beautiful secret beaches, passing hidden coves and giving you the perfect opportunity to view the breath taking coastlines.

The Shipwreck at Navagio Beach in Zante is a famous location, and is said to be the most photographed beach in the whole of Greece. Only accessible by boat, this hidden paradise is great for exploring, and the sea is a beautiful crystal blue.

Myrtiotissa Beach, located in Corfu, has a very isolated and idyllic atmosphere. So if you’re looking for a relaxing afternoon of peace and quiet, be sure to give this beach a visit. It is surrounded by cliff-tops, vegetation and rocks which secures Myrtiotissa’s natural beauty.

Myrtos Beach in Kefalonia is a world famous stretch of sand, and we can see why! It is one of the most dramatic beaches located on the Ionian Islands. Travelling down to Myrtos beach is an incredible experience in itself, the roads wind to the bottom giving you spectacular views of the beach and sea on your journey down!

The Cuisine

The inviting tavernas provide a fantastic dining experience as they offer a unique combination of the most beautiful Mediterranean flavours, made from perfectly fresh products. Steeped in history and surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea, Greece is home to some of the finest ingredients in the world.

Moussaka can be found throughout the Mediterranean, but the iconic Greek baked dish is based on layering: aubergine, minced meat, fried pureed tomato, onion, garlic, a few spices and then a little potato topped with cheese. Definitely a dish worth a try!

The Kefalonian meat pie is a delicacy which the island has become famous for. The tavernas scattered around the island often cook the pies to their own traditional recipes, which would have been passed down for generations. This beautiful dish is something you must try if you’re visiting Kefalonia this year!

Be sure not to leave your Greek location without trying the wild greens, cooked vegetables, natural yoghurt and delicious sweets! Mmmmm.

The Beautiful Coastlines

The Greek Islands offer pure beauty and simplicity. The dramatic rocky coastlines surrounded by the crystal blue sea give these favourite destinations the finest reputations for breath taking scenery.

 The sandy beaches, blue sea and hot sun keep Greece a favourite amongst all of the popular destinations. The still air and stunning views makes these islands so tranquil, with the ability to throw you into an idyllic paradise.

The spectacular land and lush sea- scapes will cause you to fall in love with these islands even more. There are many view points on each island where you can stand and admire the beauty of these destinations for as long as you wish!

The Picturesque Towns

The islands are home to many beautiful towns, both old and new.  If you’re going on holiday to any of the Greek Islands, you will find many of their towns are beautifully kept, with cobbled streets and narrow stepped alleyways, accompanied with beautiful tavernas and boutique stores.

All of the main towns on each of the islands all hold their unique characteristics and qualities. Corfu has an old 16th century fortress which allows you to enjoy some spectacular views from the top, and then take a step back in time.

In Zante town there are a number of stunning old churches and museums which portray the best of the islands historical features.

The evenings are particularly attractive in the main Greek towns; with divine restaurants, glamorous shopping and beautiful harbours -all sparkled with traditional Greek ambience. What more could you want!

History and Culture

The Greek Islands are enriched in history and culture. There are old ancient monuments and sites scattered all across each of the lands and the Greek people are devoted to keeping these beautifully preserved.

Located high up into Corfu’s mountains, Old Perithia is a deserted village which provokes interest amongst many tourists. This small mysterious town will keep you fascinated by the islands history! Monuments and old villages are commonly found amongst the beautiful sites of the Ionian Islands, with a Greek taverna never too far away. They are always popular tourist attractions and are another reason we love to keep coming back to these beautiful destinations.

So these are just some of the reasons why we adore the Greek Islands. If you’re a new visitor, let these beautiful destinations live up to your expectations! If you haven’t booked yet, what are you waiting for?! Find cheap holiday deals by paying our website a visit:  www.comparediscountholidays.com

(Picture courtesy of Travel All Together )

Feeling A Little More Adventurous This Year? Here Are Some Exotic Locations You Must Visit!

Still looking for holiday ideas?  Why not try somewhere a little more exotic. There are so many beautiful locations for you adventure seekers waiting to be explored!  Below we've highlighted the perfect holiday destinations if you’re searching for a little more this year!

Mexico

Renowned worldwide for its beautiful coast line, Mexico has become a top holiday destination for anyone looking for an exciting and exotic holiday. With its vibrant cities, sun kissed coastlines and breath taking landscapes, Mexico has it all to offer and will ensure you have a holiday of a life time!

The Mexican Caribbean coastline offers stunning scenery which boasts the countries natural beauty. Riviera Maya is home to many indulgent resorts and hotels which show Mexico at its most luxurious.

If you are looking to experience their exciting and vibrant culture, you can indulge yourself into the historical legacy.  Mexico has many monuments and landmarks scattered around the country, most prominently the elaborate ancient Maya temples and Teotihuacán pyramids.

Sit and soak up the glorious sunshine on the beaches of Acapulco, we’re sure you’ll never want to leave!

(Image courtesy of Long Time Coming)

Tunisia

If you’re a beach lover, or looking for a bit more adventure - Tunisia delights many for a lot of reasons! Whether you like a little history or a lazy day on the beach, you will find what you’re looking for in this popular exotic holiday destination!

The popular holiday location Hammamet sits along the north-east coast and is home to many beautiful beaches with dreamy blue clear waters; a hotspot for pure relaxation and exciting water sports!

 Sousse town is perfect if you want a little history as well as modern aspects, the ancient wall of Medina is set alongside inviting restaurants and cafes, a perfect setting for the evening.

On the south east coast of Tunisia sits the divine island of Dejerba which is scattered with thousands of palm trees and picturesque villages. There are miles of white sandy beaches and many markets to visit.

(Image courtesy of Tunisia Online )

Marrakesh 

Marrakesh is one of the most fascinating cities in the world, giving tourists a captivating insight into the city’s history and culture. Marrakesh is known as the ‘ Red City’ due to the deep coloured walls that surround it.

Visit Jemaa el –Fna, Marrakesh main square to view the very best of the diverse culture. The markets are alive with colour, fragrance and sounds that will give you an experience of a life-time. Thought to be ten times busier than Piccadilly during rush hour, you will find a market place filled with steaming food stands, story-tellers, snake charmers, and acrobats – an experience you will never forget!

Marrakesh truly is enriched with history and culture and even children will be fascinated by its many monuments and grand palaces.

There are many resorts in Marrakesh which offer luxury stays with great service, big pools and spas – ensuring for a very enjoyable and comfortable stay.

(Image courtesy of Tourist Destinations)

Dominican Republic

The Dominican coast is famous for its out-standing beauty; from long white stretches of sand, to mountainous landscapes and rain forests deeper into the inland.

Punta Cana is one of the most popular locations on the island, as the white-sand resort of Bavaro has a long sweep of luxurious hotel complexes and an exciting choice of shopping squares and restaurants.

Puerto Plata is a busier location which offers tourists the opportunity to experience the traditional Dominican Town and culture.  Here you are able to wander the old quarter streets and view its colourful painted buildings, and ride the town cable car all the way to the top of Mount Isabel del Torres. Full of vibrant activities and relaxing locations, Puerto Plata is perfect for a luxury Caribbean break.

(Image courtesy of The Modern Gladiator)

Egypt

Egypt remains one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world, with an estimated 12 million gathering here every year.

If you’re looking for sun, sea and sand, the popular resort Sharm el Sheikh oozes luxury and has the most beautiful exotic surroundings. You can expect beautiful white stretches of sand, crystal clear sea and every water sport there is out there!

If you’re a history enthusiast, you can visit the large museum in Cairo and see Tutukarmuhns death mask and the mummified remains of ancient pharaohs. In Luxor, you can explore the Temple of Karnak and the Valley of the kings, which is the largest ancient religious site in the world.

Egypt is a famous destination for beautiful beach seekers and lovers of history; there are a range of locations to accommodate both types of holiday!

(Image courtesy of Trip Advisor)

So what are you waiting for? Treat yourself with a holiday to one of these exotic locations and experience a once in a life time dream holiday!  Get comparing the best deals to these locations now by paying us a visit: www.comparediscountholidays.com

7 Top Summer Festivals Across Europe

We look at our highlights for this summer’s top festivals across Europe.

1.       White Lights Festival, Russia (24^th May – 28^th July)

A unique music and arts festival held in St. Petersburg through May and June is full of popular and diverse performances and showcases and is fast becoming renowned as one of the best music festivals in the world.  With its Northern positioning during June and part of July the city is almost always in daylight as the sun never descends below the horizon far enough to allow the sky to grow dark. 

Major venues across St Petersburg play host to some of the musical and arts performances; like the Mariinsky Theatre who host a number of operas, ballets and dance concerts. During the festival carnivals also take place, with one of the most spectacular being held at Peterhof that showcases reproductions of key historical events. 

(Image courtesy of Tourism Updates)

2.       La Tomatina Festival, Spain (25^th – 28^th August)

In Bunol, Spain you can paint the town red, quite literally, as you join in with the La Tomatina festival that sees an hours long food fight with thousands of revellers gathering to throw tomatoes.  A tradition in the area since 1944/1945, but no one is exactly sure of the history of this world famous event.

With the council providing the tomatoes a continually growing audience is drawn to the festival year on year. A crowd of 10,000 to 40,000 people join the event to throw over 100,000 tonnes of tomatoes, more than doubling Bunol’s tiny population of around 9000 people. 

Come 11am googles are secured, swimming caps are pulled on and the cracker sounds to alert 5 trucks full to the brim with tomatoes that they dump in the middle of the streets. This all cues the start of the huge tomato fight. The fight lasts approximately one hour.

(Image courtesy of Huffington Post)

3.       Rijeka Summer Nights Festival, Croatia (June – July)

An outdoor Croatian festival plays host to classical concerts, with ballet and theatre performances through the summer. The festival really has something for everyone; you are just as likely to catch an old classic as a gritty British film. The musical shows take place in the city’s squares, streets and beaches giving each of them a spectacular backdrop.  The festival is also a fantastic showcase of Croatian performing arts. 

(Image courtesy of Panoramio)

4.       V-Festival, England (16^th – 17^th August)

Seeing a stellar line up this year, with world renowned acts Justin Timberlake and The Killers headlining the shows are set to be knock outs. With other big names from across the globe such as Lily Allen, Bastille, Kaiser Chiefs and Rita Ora there is something to suit most music tastes. With entertainment tents and fairground rides V-festival stands out as one of England’s best and biggest summer festivals. 

With the festival alternating its acts on the two days between two locations, in Weston Park, Staffordshire and Hylands Park in Chelmsford you’ve two chances to catch your favourite acts.

(Image courtesy of Blood Sweat and Fashion)

5.       Rock en Seine, France (August)

Over three days in August the biggest rock festival in France takes place in a fascinating and beautiful historical park on the outskirts of Paris. Drawing visitors from all across Europe the event is continuously a sell-out year on year, demonstrating its popularity. A camping festival so if you’re feeling the true spirit, pack your tent and camp out with the other revellers, alternatively the music finishes early enough to catch the metro back into Paris city centre.

The line-up includes people such as Radiohead, LCD Soundsystem, Bjork and Mark ronson all performing over four stages. Children are also welcome there’s a ‘mini rock’ festival featuring music and creative activities to keep them occupied.

(Image courtesy of Talk in French)

6.       Venice International Film Festival, Italy (August – September)

The festival dates back to 1932 and has taken place every year from late August to early September ever since. The festivals main aim is to promote awareness of all aspects of international cinema in a fun way, where freedom of opinion is granted. 

At the festival the cream of the crop competes for the Golden Lion award, it is awarded annually to the best film showcased at the festival.

(Image courtesy of Islands)

7.       Brussels summer festival, Belgium (August)

Originally a music festival, it has expanded within recent years to include movie screenings, street theatre and exhibitions; this all adding to the festivals growing popularity. With a wide variety of music from hip hop, electronic music, indie and world music all performed outdoors in the city’s main squares it is a very lively and varied festival with lots to be experienced. 

There is a strong representation of Belgian artists, but over the years there has been a growing presence of international musicians featured such as Beastie Boys and Jamie Cullum. Alongside the performances there are various craft and food stalls in an ‘urban village’ and burlesque performances.

(Image courtesy of Daily Mail)

So if you’re looking to add a bit of culture and excitement to your summer these are some of our top events to check out. There are of course plenty of other festivals going on all across the world which you can find cheap holiday deals to and enjoy a great summer holiday.

Why not come and compare discount holidays to find amazingly cheap deals. Quick before they all go!