Athens Tips, Suggestions, Examples to Enjoy!

[Latimer]

2 minutes ago, marazul said:

It is a transfer and tour company. I have been using them for nearly 20 years. The founder, George Kokkotos and his sons, grew his taxi service to a full service company.

Sesrch this board for my, and others, comments.

That's great will check them out.

Are they reasonably priced?

[marazul]

2 minutes ago, Latimer said:

That's great will check them out.

Are they reasonably priced?

They are competitive.  "Reasonable" is subjective.  To me, yes, they are. To others, get a quote and decide. 

[Latimer]

11 minutes ago, marazul said:

They are competitive.  "Reasonable" is subjective.  To me, yes, they are. To others, get a quote and decide. 

Many thanks for this will definitely get a quite.

[TLCOhio]

8 hours ago, marazul said:

It is a transfer and tour company. I have been using them for nearly 20 years. The founder, George Kokkotos and his sons, grew his taxi service to a full service company.

Sesrch this board for my, and others, comments.

 

Yes, we have used them three times and things worked well.  Definitely check and see what fits your interests, budget, etc.  

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

[highplanesdrifters]

On 12/27/2022 at 8:23 AM, TLCOhio said:

Although the Corinth Canal and the Peloponnese Peninsula are not in Athens, they are nearby.  In 2006, before doing our cruise from Athens, we did a wonderful day tour of these interesting areas.  

We will be booking something for this area. Contacting George's taxi. 😉 Care to comment on your experience.   Thanks much!

[marazul]

44 minutes ago, highplanesdrifters said:

We will be booking something for this area. Contacting George's taxi. 😉 Care to comment on your experience.   Thanks much!

Years ago we did a 5-day tour of the Peloponnesus with George in his yellow taxi.  It was a great experience.  He arranged for nice hotels and inns.  We toured Mycenae, Nafplio, Sparta, Mystras, Gythio, the Mani peninsula, Kalamata, Olympia and the drive along the Loussios river gorge.  At the end he dropped us off at the ship for our cruise.  The extended tour his company is doing now is very much along those lines and, of course, they now have vehicles of all sizes to accommodate your party.  

 

Another time we did a 3-day tour to Delphi and Meteora with George.  Now we use them for transfers whenever we go to Greece.  And once, when we were staying at the Sofitel by the airport because of a very early morning flight, we had them pick us up and drive us to Sounion and then go for dinner at a taverna on the beach.

 

You can do as little as a day tour to some of the places in the corner near Athens like Corinth, Mycenae, Epidaurus and/or Nafplio, or an extended tour like ours.   You will be taken good care of.

Edited July 24, 2023 by marazul

[highplanesdrifters]

21 hours ago, marazul said:

Years ago we did a 5-day tour of the Peloponnesus with George in his yellow taxi.  It was a great experience.  He arranged for nice hotels and inns.  We toured Mycenae, Nafplio, Sparta, Mystras, Gythio, the Mani peninsula, Kalamata, Olympia and the drive along the Loussios river gorge.  At the end he dropped us off at the ship for our cruise.  The extended tour his company is doing now is very much along those lines and, of course, they now have vehicles of all sizes to accommodate your party.  

 

Another time we did a 3-day tour to Delphi and Meteora with George.  Now we use them for transfers whenever we go to Greece.  And once, when we were staying at the Sofitel by the airport because of a very early morning flight, we had them pick us up and drive us to Sounion and then go for dinner at a taverna on the beach.

 

You can do as little as a day tour to some of the places in the corner near Athens like Corinth, Mycenae, Epidaurus and/or Nafplio, or an extended tour like ours.   You will be taken good care of.

Thanks for all the great intel. Will be contacting them shortly. Will also see if they can do shorter tours at places like Nafplio. Not a fan of the ships bus tours. 😉

[highplanesdrifters]

More questions!

Also trying to decide what to do in the following ports, any suggestions CC intelligentsia?

CORFU

SAMI

PYLOS

CRETE

SANTORINI

[marazul]

12 minutes ago, highplanesdrifters said:

More questions!

Also trying to decide what to do in the following ports, any suggestions CC intelligentsia?

CORFU

SAMI

PYLOS

CRETE

SANTORINI

Try posting this on a new thread rather than on this Athens thread.

[highplanesdrifters]

8 minutes ago, marazul said:

Try posting this on a new thread rather than on this Athens thread.

You're reading my mind, posted on SS. 😉

[TLCOhio]

On 7/25/2023 at 9:49 AM, highplanesdrifters said:

More questions!  Also trying to decide what to do in the following ports, any suggestions CC intelligentsia?  CORFU   SAMI   PYLOS   CRETE   SANTORINI

 

Sorry, have not been, yet, to any of these locations.  All sound good and interesting.  More reasons to head back to Greece, explore more, enjoy their food and people, soak up the great history and culture, etc.  

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

[Latimer]

On 7/25/2023 at 2:49 PM, highplanesdrifters said:

More questions!

Also trying to decide what to do in the following ports, any suggestions CC intelligentsia?

CORFU

SAMI

PYLOS

CRETE

SANTORINI

As cruise excursion is sold our for Santorini we are thinking if doing a half day tour with Viator. We have used them before and alwaysbern very good.

 

[TLCOhio]

6 hours ago, Latimer said:

As cruise excursion is sold our for Santorini we are thinking if doing a half day tour with Viator. We have used them before and alwaysbern very good.

 

Appreciate this follow-up making the important point about private tour guide options.  We have used "Tour by Locals" many times and it has worked well for us.  There are reasons to use cruise line tours, but many are overpriced and do not always have guides who do much more than just repeating the boring, memorized "talking points" you can read on Wikipedia.    

 

From the Washington Post this morning, they had a story titled: "8 less-crowded places to appreciate art, history and nature."

 

They had this sub-headline: “Skip the Acropolis in Athens for the Temple of Poseidon” with these highlights: “Between extreme heat and wildfires, it’s been a hot and dangerous summer in Greece. Earlier this month, the Acropolis in Athens shut down twice for several hours because of extreme temperatures. The monument’s staff went on strike over dangerous conditions.  In addition, visitors face a new e-ticketing system debuting this month to control Acropolis crowds, which often clock in at more than 17,000 visitors a day. Avoid the chaotic scene and go southeast of the capital to Cape Sounion to see the Temple of Poseidon.”

 

For this location, they shared: "Dedicated to the god of the sea, the ancient marble temple perched on a cliff’s edge is one of the most important historical sites from Athens’s Golden Age."

 

We have not yet been to Cape Sounion, but it sounds interesting and worth exploring.  Any other been there and can share their experiences at the Temple of Poseidon?? 

 

Full story at:

https://www.washingtonpost.com/travel/tips/less-crowded-sites-rome-paris-japan/

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Norway Coast/Fjords/Arctic Circle cruise from Copenhagen, July 2010, to the top of Europe. Scenic visuals with key tips. Live/blog at 248,131 views.

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[Host Bonjour]

On 7/30/2023 at 11:15 AM, TLCOhio said:

From the Washington Post this morning, they had a story titled: "8 less-crowded places to appreciate art, history and nature."

 

WaPo piece by Natalie B. Compton

[marazul]

On 7/30/2023 at 11:15 AM, TLCOhio said:

They had this sub-headline: “Skip the Acropolis in Athens for the Temple of Poseidon” with these highlights: “Between extreme heat and wildfires, it’s been a hot and dangerous summer in Greece. Earlier this month, the Acropolis in Athens shut down twice for several hours because of extreme temperatures. The monument’s staff went on strike over dangerous conditions.  In addition, visitors face a new e-ticketing system debuting this month to control Acropolis crowds, which often clock in at more than 17,000 visitors a day. Avoid the chaotic scene and go southeast of the capital to Cape Sounion to see the Temple of Poseidon.”

Terry,

Sounion is a little over one hour away from Athens.  The temple is lovely in a beautiful setting.  However, it does not compare to the Acropolis.  Save that for after you have done everything else in Athens.  It is best at sunset, and then followed on the way back by a drive along the beaches and maybe stopping at one of the many tavernas for dinner.  

[TLCOhio]

On 8/3/2023 at 12:43 PM, marazul said:

Terry, Sounion is a little over one hour away from Athens.  The temple is lovely in a beautiful setting.  However, it does not compare to the Acropolis.  Save that for after you have done everything else in Athens.  It is best at sunset, and then followed on the way back by a drive along the beaches and maybe stopping at one of the many tavernas for dinner.  

 

Appreciate this helpful comment and follow-up from our knowledgeable Greece expert.

 

When doing Athens, most also includes some of the great, nearby islands.  This profile might be of interest.  

 

From the London/UK Telegraph yesterday, they had this headline: “40 of the best Greek island hotels for 2023" with this sub-headline: "Gaze upon glittering sea views, seek out local tavernas for long, lazy lunches and soak up the sunshine at these island retreats.”

 

Here are some of their reporting highlights by Heidi Fuller-Love: “Imagine golden beaches lapped by a balmy turquoise sea, feet-in-the-water tavernas where you can sup on Ouzo and tiny traditional villages where daily life is serenaded by the click of komboloi worry beads or the chirp of crickets, and you’ll understand why Greece’s sun-dazzled islands are a magnet for UK travellers. From family favourite Corfu or Crete to sultry Santorini’s sugar-white villages teetering above that celebrated volcanic caldera, to traffic-free Hydra’s art galleries and boho vibe, each Greek island (and there are 227 inhabited ones) has its own unique charm.”

 

Here are a couple key locations we have visited and enjoyed:  "Rhodes’ Unesco heritage-classed old town – with its fortress walls built by the Knights Templar and narrow cobbled streets lined with medieval inns – is truly unique (it was once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World). Cinderella of the Cyclades, Mykonos was once one of Greece’s poorest islands until it was ‘discovered’ in the 1960’s by shipping tycoon Aristotle Onassis and his wife, former First Lady Jackie Kennedy."

 

Full story at:

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/europe/greece/articles/the-best-greek-island-hotels/

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

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[sambamama]

Matt Barrett has a very useful blog all about Greece. It talks all about the islands, what to see, hotels, ferries, restaurants, how to get around, travel agents, just about everything you need. I have a 7 day Greek cruise booked and am using it to extend my Greece stay to a month or so.

[bennybear]

We used Michael Sterianos taxi tours from Athens to Delphi and Meteora.  He was great to deal with and arranged good overnight accommodation, an excellent driver and good van. 
 

 

We have visited Crete several times and find it easy to get away from touristy areas as it’s a huge island.  We have also enjoyed staying on Paros, Santorini, Skiathos, Skopelos. Keffallonia, Zakynthos.    So many islands yet to visit!

Edited August 19, 2023 by bennybear

[Shelby Cruiser]

Does anyone know where Princess drops off passengers during a  self guided walking tour of Planka after seeing the Acropolis. 

[TLCOhio]

From the London/UK Daily Mail this morning, they had this headline: “The best cities in the world for culture in 2023 named” with these background highlights: “Time Out's ranking was drawn up via a survey of 21,000 city-dwellers across the globe who were asked about the 'quality' and 'affordability' of their city's cultural scene.”

 

In Greece, Athens was ranked fifth in the world.  Here are their reporting highlight: "Locals named the Acropolis as their favourite cultural venue in Athens.  'Athens has been a global centre for the arts since... well, forever,' says Time Out. But these days, the Greek capital 'is known as much for its anarchic underground culture as it is for ancient ruins', says the guide.  It notes that nonetheless, it was the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum that locals named their favourite cultural venue, 'proving just how much the city remains gripped by its own history'."

 

Full story at:

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/article-12779565/The-best-cities-world-culture-2023-named-Time-Edinburgh-beating-New-York-Melbourne-trumping-Paris-none-make-five.html

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

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[cruisemom42]

As a follow up to Terry’s post above, Athens was also recently named a “Don’t Go” destination for 2024 by Fodor’s due to crowding and over tourism, citing concerns expressed by UNESCO about a lack of management for important sites like the Acropolis.

 

Athens was #2 on their list. Probably to no one’s surprise, Venice is #1.

 

Apparently the Acropolis site is visited by up to 17,000 tourists a day. If you do go, read up on new timed tickets at peak times and pack your patience.

[TLCOhio]

On 11/23/2023 at 5:45 PM, cruisemom42 said:

As a follow up to Terry’s post above, Athens was also recently named a “Don’t Go” destination for 2024 by Fodor’s due to crowding and over tourism, citing concerns expressed by UNESCO about a lack of management for important sites like the Acropolis.  Athens was #2 on their list. Probably to no one’s surprise, Venice is #1.   Apparently the Acropolis site is visited by up to 17,000 tourists a day. If you do go, read up on new timed tickets at peak times and pack your patience.

 

Super great tips and insights, as always, from cruisemom42.  Being popular is kind of "good", but it does create other issues and questions.  Maybe a need to escape from busy Athens and go out to the scenic, nearby islands?

 

From Condé Nast Traveler magazine last month, they had this headline: “24 Best Places to Go in 2024” with these highlights for Greece's Cyclades by writer Ali Wunderman: “Is there anywhere more popular than the Greek islands right now? This past summer, the Cyclades—an island group that includes Mykonos, Santorini, Paros, Milos, and Ios—dominated social-media feeds with beautiful blue and white backdrops, thrilling beach clubs and nightclubs, and unparalleled shopping. With more smart stays being unveiled in 2024, as well as new flights,  plus the 2022 launch of Cycladic, the first inter-island airline, means it’s easier than ever to get there. Hotel business is booming. Plush hotels are rare on these islands, expanding the options for luxury stays in the Cyclades."

 

Bring back great memories?  Need to go back for more?  Lots to see and enjoy there.  Right?

 

Full story at:

https://www.cntraveler.com/story/best-places-to-go-in-2024#intcid=_conde-nast-traveler-verso-hp-trending_80991bd1-1d14-4b9f-965a-7f9ff1e971d6_popular4-1

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

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[TPgal]

I'm so glad to have come across this post!  We are booked on an NCL Athens/Santorini/Ephesus/Istanbul cruise in 2025.  Because of that darned kid we have to go in July and will be one of the many Americans causing havoc.  I hope we luck out with the weather and don't melt away into puddles. 

I have seen the recommendations for George's taxi and am hopeful that by booking a private tour or two that it will enable us to see more sites in without spending our days stuck in a line or on the metro.  (Saving all my pennies for this trip.)

We'll pack our patience and water bottles, and am now spending the meantime reading all the excellent articles Terry has posted.  

Thank you, from Terri in Seattle. 

[TLCOhio]

2 minutes ago, TPgal said:

I'm so glad to have come across this post!  We are booked on an NCL Athens/Santorini/Ephesus/Istanbul cruise in 2025.  Because of that darned kid we have to go in July and will be one of the many Americans causing havoc.  I hope we luck out with the weather and don't melt away into puddles. I have seen the recommendations for George's taxi and am hopeful that by booking a private tour or two that it will enable us to see more sites in without spending our days stuck in a line or on the metro.  (Saving all my pennies for this trip.)  We'll pack our patience and water bottles, and am now spending the meantime reading all the excellent articles Terry has posted.  Thank you, from Terri in Seattle. 

 

Like your name, Terri!!   Appreciate your kind follow-up and comments.  Yes, lots to do in and around Athens.  The summer in the Med can have its challenges, but if you bring "patience and water", it helps.  Plus, good drinks in the evening!!  

 

Don't be shy with any added questions.  Keep researching and planning.  

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

[TLCOhio]

From the London/UK Daily Mail this weekend, they had this headline: “Your guide to a year in Greece: Time your trip to get the best of the country's historic sites - without battling the crowds” with these highlights writer Angela Epstein: “Avoiding the crowds while seeing the great sites of Greece isn’t easy.  Last summer, police were even deployed at the Acropolis in Athens to help manage more than 17,000 visitors each day.  Yet, with its countless festivals, natural beauty and an array of historical monuments, you do not have to limit visits at peak periods."

 

There are a variety of tips and ideas throughout the year as to where to go in Greece to avoid crowds and congestion.  For Athens, March was a highlighted month with these specifics suggested:  "This is a great time to see the Greek capital.  On March 25, patriotic Athenians commemorate the Greek War of Independence with a grand military parade — quite a spectacle. Hike Mount Lycabettus to enjoy the blossom."

 

June was suggested for "charming Corinth" including this highlight: "Landmarks include Acrocorinth, ancient Corinth’s soaring acropolis."

 

Full story at:

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/article-12959001/Your-guide-year-Greece-Time-trip-best-countrys-historic-sites-without-battling-crowds.html

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

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