Page 19 - (DK Eyewitness) Travel Guide - Greek Islands

CRETE Best for
Beaches, traditional
PAGE 244 Crete is also known as the Great Island, not just for its culture, Venetian castles
and urban architecture
size, but for the space it takes up in the heart of the
locals. The most southerly, and largest, of the Greek
Islands, Crete is dominated by soaring mountains Home to
Haniá, Réthymno, Iráklio,
and sandy beaches, and is marked with a history of Palace of Knossos, Phaistos,
occupation that has not dimmed the Cretan passion Samariá Gorge
for individuality and freedom. Its north coast bustles Experience
with resorts as well as historic towns, while the south- Live Cretan music and
west is less developed. The island has possibly the best free -flowing tsikoudiá
hiking in the region, and attracts rugged hikers bent on spirit in a taverna
trekking famous Samariá Gorge.

ATHENS
PAGE 282 Sprawling, concrete Athens is an
incredibly vibrant city. This bustling
capital, overlooked by the ancient
temples on the Acropolis, is the
birthplace of philosophy, Classical art
and democracy – a tradition that
continues through lively student
protests and activism. The streets here
are alive with open-air markets and
walls decorated with some of the best
street art on the globe. While you can
see the major sites, including the
Acropolis, in one well-planned day, the
city may tempt you to stay longer.

Best for
Lively student life, Saturday morning
markets, gritty street art
Home to
Acropolis
Experience
A summer concert at the Odeon of
Herodes Atticus on the Acropolis

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