September 03, 2010
Greece: Athens and the Isles
A view of the shore of Mykonos in the Greek Isles.
From the ancient streets of Athens to the eclectic Isles, Greece offers a plethora of vacationing options and some surprisingly good deals. The most affordable times to visit Greece are in spring (March-April) and fall (October-November). During these months, you can avoid large crowds and steep prices and still enjoy the warm Mediterranean weather. Airfare and accommodation rates drop dramatically on both the Greek mainland and the islands during these low seasons.
Transportation: Flights from the States to Greece can be costly during the high season, but deals can usually be found online. Investigate Lufthansa's "We Fly Home" website, which offers discounted rates from U.S. cities to Greece even during the summer months. As for transportation within the country, the ferry system is efficient and affordable, but boats to the islands run less frequently in the low seasons. The slower ferries cost less, while the faster hydrofoil boats are double the price. Regardless of which method you choose, island hopping via ferry is a budget-friendly way to explore the region. Flights from the Greek mainland to the Isles are available primarily through Olympic Airways and can cost as little as $50 each way; this option may be good for those who wish to visit several islands in a shorter time span.
Accommodations: In Athens, luxury accommodations can be had for reasonable rates during the spring and fall, and four-star lodging can be as low as $150 a night. Staying near the Plaka district provides a central sightseeing location, where many hotels have rooftop terraces with swimming pools and panoramic views of the Acropolis. The Plaka is a short walk to the Parthenon, includes some of Athens's best restaurants and is near public transportation. As for the Greek Isles, lodging is moderately priced in the off-season and most expensive in summer. For an alternative to expensive beachfront hotels, research family-owned villas or private apartments, which may be economical options during the summer months.
You'll definitely want to spend some time exploring Athens.
It's 'Summer Fun Time' here at ReZoom. So, if you want to make the most of the season, check the Travel channel often for new stories on planning the perfect summer vacation. We'll have insight from experts in addition to great ideas for all of your own adventures.
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