GREECE AS A TOURIST DESTINATION

By: Iva Mihaylova Yarmova

University of National and World Economy
Specialty: International Economic Relations
Home to some of the world's most important historical sites, Greece is known for its
natural beauty and fascinating culture. Ancient archaeological locations, sparkling blue
water, sand and pebble beaches, and a balmy Mediterranean climate make Greece one of
Europe's prime tourist destinations.
Greece and the Greek Islands are famous for primeval civilization, amazing
landscapes, and well-established leisure industry. The Greek islands are the most popular
Greek destinations, especially in summer. But attention is also given to encourage, apart
from summer holidays, winter tourist resorts, therapeutic spas, ecotourism, working
holidays and discovery holidays on the mainland. Island cruises are very popular as well. In
all parts of the country the Greeks always manage to provide hospitality and peaceful way
of life.
Life as most of the world knows it today can be traced back to ancient Greece. Ideas
and inventions from democracy to modern medicine put this Southeastern European
country in the history books forever. Greece is the birthplace of The Olympic Games,
Philosophy, Cartography, Western Medicine and the Hippocratic Oath. Most people,
however, are more interested in Greece as one of the world’s best travel destinations.
Surrounded by the beautiful Mediterranean Sea and thousands of exotic islands, it is a little
paradise.
 1.Tourism in Greece
Tourism in Greece traces its roots to ancient times, but it started flourishing in the late
1960s and particularly in the early 1970s. In a slow but stable pace, Greece has today managed to
become one of the most favorite tourist destinations among Europeans, Asians, and Americans.
Tourism is one of the most important sectors of the Greek economy, being an export champion
and a key pillar of economic growth. Tourism accounts for 18% of Greece’s GDP and employs
more than 900,000 people, accounting for one fifth of the workforce. The large number of
islands, the archaeological and historical sites in combination with the excellent weather
conditions, are some of the most important elements of Greek tourism, which have played a
significant role in establishing Greece as a country unique in welcoming and providing
hospitality services.
Listed below are some of the most popular tourist destinations:

1.1 Acropolis, Athens

Considered the symbol of Athens and Greece, and indeed of Western civilization, the
Acropolis is a rocky hill rising in the heart of modern Athens, crowned by three magnificent
temples dating from the 5th century BC. The best known and most distinctive is the Parthenon,
originally made up of 58 columns supporting a roof and decorated by decorative pediments and a
panel. Bordering the foot of the Acropolis and connecting it to the city’s other major ancient
attractions like the Ancient Agora, the Roman Forum, Kerameikos, and the Temple of Olympian
Zeus, there is a 2.5-kilometer walking path known as the Archaeological Promenade.
 1.2 Santorini

Famous for its stunning caldera, the volcano, and the romantic atmosphere, Santorini is
considered one of the top places to visit in the world. Rested on the edge of steep cliffs, the
picturesque villages of Santorini offer a great view to the Aegean Sea and the submerged
volcano. Apart from the caldera villages with the traditional Cycladic architecture, such as Oia
and Fira, there are many things to see in Santorini. The most important ancient site is Minoan
Akrotiri, a town that was entirely covered by volcanic ash when the volcano of Santorini erupted
in about 1,500 BC. Another less-known archaeological site in Santorini is Ancient Thera, located
on top of a hill above Perissa and offering a breathtaking view. The sunset of Santorini is
probably the most famous in the world.

1.3 Mykonos
 Greece's most glamorous island destination is Mykonos. Because of its vivid nightlife,
chic boutique hotels, classy seafood restaurants and live music venues, Mykonos is widely known
as the “Ibiza of Greece”. The island is particularly popular with international celebrities. The
trademark of the island, though, is the beautiful traditional windmills in front of Little Venice.
Little Venice is one of the most romantic places in Mykonos. This neighborhood is full with
elegant and gorgeous old houses that are situated on the edge of the sea. Many travelers in the
past have fallen in love with this charming area to its magnetic appeal. Quite amazing are the
sunset views from Little Venice. Other attractions include Paraportiani (a whitewashed church in
Mykonos Town) and numerous sandy beaches along the island's south coast. Mykonos has an
airport and is connected by ferry and catamaran to Athens' port, Piraeus, and Rafina.

1.4 Delphi

On the Greek mainland, Delphi is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Built on the lower
slopes of Mount Parnassus, overlooking a dramatic canyon, the site was sacred to the ancients,
who came here on pilgrimages to worship Apollo (god of light, prophecy, music, and healing)
and to ask advice from the mythical Oracle. It is made up of the crumbling ruins of numerous
temples, a theater, and stadium, dating from between the 8th century BC and the 2nd century AD.
Nearby, stands the Delphi Archaeological Museum, displaying an impressive collection of
discoveries from the site. Delphi lies 180 kilometers northwest of Athens.
 1.5 Corfu

One of Greece's top tourist destinations, Corfu sits in the Ionian Sea off the west coast of
the mainland. The capital, Corfu Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage site, thanks to its elegant
Italianate architecture — it was ruled by the Venetians for several centuries. It has romantic
pedestrian-only streets to discover two 16th-century fortresses and the arcaded Liston, lined by
old-fashioned cafes. Away from the main town, the island is lushly beautiful, with granite rocks
tumbling into the sea in its north and smooth green hills in its south. The most popular beach area
is Paleokastritsa, on the west coast, about 25-kilometers from Corfu Town. There can be found a
collection of deep, curving bays sheltering sand and pebble beaches stretching into a clear blue
sea. Corfu is served by an airport and ferries from Igoumenitsa and Patras on the Greek mainland.
In summer, ferries sailing from Ancona and Venice also stop there.

1.6 Metéora Monasteries

 One of the most unusual things to see in Greece has to be the Thessaly Plain, where
bizarre rocky outcrops are capped by the centuries-old monasteries of Metéora. On the UNESCO
World Heritage list, six of the monasteries are open to the public. Several flights of stone steps
carved into the rocks need to be climbed to reach each monastery, and inside, can be found
flickering candles, religious icons, Byzantine frescoes, and burning incense. Opening hours vary
so at least one day in the area will be needed for seeing all six monasteries. The nearest town is
Kalambaka.

1.7 Zákynthos

Home to gorgeous scenery both above and under the sea surrounding it, Zákynthos
(Zante) island is another top tourist destination in Greece. It is also easy to access, with a location
just 16 kilometers off Peloponnese's west coast in the Ionian Sea. Two of the biggest boasts on
this geographically intriguing island are its pebble and sand beaches with Shipwreck Beach being
the most famous, and stunning sea caves like the Blue Caves. Inside, the sparkling water reflects
the color of the blue sky on the cave walls to create a magical glow. The Blue Caves are only one
of the many watery attractions around this island. There is also excellent snorkeling and scuba
diving.
 1.8 Rhodes Town

Lying on the Aegean Sea, close to Turkey, Rhodes is the largest of the Dodecanese
islands. Also known as the “Knights’ island”, Rhodes has a rich historical past. The most
important monument of the island is Rhodes Old Town. Rhodes Old Town is a UNESCO World
Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe, attracting millions of
visitors every year. Rhodes combines cosmopolitan vibes with medieval architecture in a unique
way. The natural landscape, imposing buildings, ancient towns and picturesque villages meet
amazing beaches, fashion boutiques, top restaurants, and dance clubs.

1.9 Thessaloniki

Situated in northern Greece, Thessaloniki is the country's second biggest city after
Athens. Due to its position close to both Bulgaria and Turkey, it has always been a crossroads of
various cultures and religions. The most popular spot in the city is Thessaloniki Beach
Promenade. There, both visitors and locals enjoy long walks near the sea and watch the sunset.
Apart from the beach promenade, Aristotle Square, which is located right in the city center, is
another famous spot. Around this square is the commercial center of Thessaloniki, where are
situated all kinds of shops, restaurants and coffee places. But maybe the most important landmark
of Thessaloniki is the White Tower. Located at the port of Thessaloniki, the White Tower is the
most photographed tourist site in the city. Another popular site is Kamara. Kamara is an arch
constructed by the Roman general Galerius in the 3rd century AD. Other interesting places to
visit in the city center of Thessaloniki are the Roman Agora, a beautiful ancient theater, the
palace of Galerius, a vestige of the Roman era, as well as the World Heritage-listed Byzantine
churches.

2. Culture
Greece is a multi-cultural country of countless and various goods. It has been influenced
by its location on a very important trade road and by the continual occupation from the Romans
until its independence from the Ottoman Empire in the 19th Century. Greeks are really proud of
their culture as a definition of their national and ethnic belonging. They speak of their country
with intense passion. Wonderful regional traditions, religion, music, language, food and wine, are
the major composites of the culture in mainland Greece and the Greek islands, creating an
incomparable cultural base for everyone wishing to visit and understand modern Greece.

3. Traditions in Greece
Customs and traditions in Greece are an important aspect of the Greek culture. Most of the
traditions and festivals still celebrated today are religious.

3.1 Name day celebration

Most Greeks are named after a religious saint. A very important tradition is that everyone
who has a name coming from a saint celebrated by the church celebrates his name on a given day
of the year. On the "name day" of someone, his friends and family visit him without invitation
and offer wishes and small presents. The hostess of the house offers pastries, sweets to the guests.
In Greece, name days are more important than birthdays.

3.2 Carnival
In Greece, the Carnival is called "Apokries". The festival lasts two weeks. Everyone is
costumed and parties take place in the streets and bars, throwing colored confetti to each other.
The most famous Carnival Parade takes place in the city of Patra. The Carnival is believed to
come from paganism, and more precisely from the old festivities worshipping Dionysus, the god
of wine and feast.
 3.3 Easter
Easter is the most important celebration for the Greeks, even more than Christmas. On
Good Thursday or Good Saturday, women dye eggs in red and bake buns. On Good Friday, the
day of mourning, the icon of the Christ, decorated with flowers, is taken out of the church and
carried around the village followed by a slow procession. Afterwards, people return to the church
where the believers kiss the image of the Christ. During the night of the Holy Saturday,
everybody dresses well and goes to the church where a ceremony is held. Just before midnight,
all of the lights of the church are turned off, symbolizing the darkness and silent of the tomb,
while the priest lights a candle from the Eternal Flame, sings the song of praise Christos Anesti
(meaning Christ has risen) and offers the flame to light the candles of the people. Everyone
passes the flame one to another. The bells ring continuously and people throw fireworks. The
Good Saturday Dinner takes place after midnight and consists of mayiritsa, tsoureki and red eggs.
On Easter Sunday, the family roasts the lamb on the spit. Corfu Island is the most famous place
for Easter.

3.4 Greek Independence Day

The Greek Independence Day is celebrating the declaration of the Independence War
against the Ottomans on March 25th, 1821.

3.5 The Ohi Day

On October 28th, the Greeks celebrate the day when the Greek dictator Metaxas refused to
let in the Italians, who invaded the country during World War II. It is the celebration of the heroic
OXI meaning NO. Most Greeks put a Greek flag on their windows and balconies, while a parade
takes place with the participation of school students and the army.

4 Greek cuisine

Greek food and wine are an important aspect of the culture of Greece. They are famous for
their good quality and amazing taste. Some dishes are common all around the country, whereas
some others are local culinary specialties and can be found only in a specific region or Greek
island.
4.1 Greek Mezedes
 The mezedes are appetizers, served before or with the main dishes, usually accompanied
with ouzo or tsipouro. They come in small plates. It is one of the basic elements of the Greek
culture to share food and wine with friends, in a joyful and unhurried environment.
Tzatziki- Greek yogurt with finely chopped cucumber, garlic and olive oil.
Saganaki- Fried cheese.
Keftedakia- Fried meatballs of beef, garlic and bread.
Spanakopitakia- Small spinach pies with crushed feta cheese.
Kalamarakia- Small pieces of fried squid with lemon juice.
Htapodi- Small pieces of octopus served either fried with lemon juice or boiled, with olive
oil, vinegar and oregano.
Feta cheese- The famous Greek cheese can also be eaten alone, as a meze, with olive oil
and oregano.
4.2 Main dishes
Greeks have a lot of excellent main dishes and meat is their favorite ingredient.
Moussaka- This famous Greek dish has a base made of potatoes topped with eggplants
onions, minced beef and béchamel crème.
Pastitsio- This is another well-known Greek dish reminding of the Italian Lasagnas. It
consists of spaghetti topped with minced beef, onions, tomato sauce and béchamel sauce.
Paidakia- Grilled lamb's ribs served with lemon.
Kokoretsi- This is one of the favorite dishes of Greeks. They mostly eat it during Easter. It
consists of wrapped and roasted entrails of lamb, served with lemon.
4.3 Greek wines
Tsipouro / Raki This really strong alcohol drink looks a bit like ouzo but with a stronger
taste. Greeks drink it with ice and sometimes add a bit of water. In different parts of Greece, such
as Crete, some islands and northern Greece, people make their own homemade Tsipouro, also
called Raki depending on the region.
Ouzo This is the most famous Greek alcohol beverage, the trademark of the country. It is
strong alcohol, drinkable straight with ice or with a bit of water. The best ouzo is made in Lesvos
and the most famous trades are Ouzo Plomariou and Barbayanni.
Mavrodafni This sweet wine is made in Patras Peloponnese. It is really thick and
dark,almost black and can be compared to the Portuguese Porto. This strong wine is used for the
Holy Communion in the Greek Orthodox Church.
 Retsina The famous Retsina is a Greek white wine with a particular gum taste. This taste
is due to the way of production of this wine: they put the grapes in a new barrel which have still
the wood gum on, giving to the whine that special taste.

4.4 Greek Coffee

And last, but not least attention must be paid to Greek coffee.
The traditional Greek coffee, which is boiled in a pot and served steaming hot, is quite
popular. However, there are several types of cold, iced and hot coffee, such as freddo espresso,
freddo cappuccino, the long-established frappe. What makes Greek coffee unique is the time it
takes to drink it. Coffee drinking is almost a ritual in Greece. Cafes in Greece are not only just an
entertainment place, but also a way of living and a big part of daily Greek culture. Cafeterias can
be seen in every corner of Greece, from the busiest spot of the town till the most secluded village
in the mountains. People in Greece have their favorite cafeteria where they enjoy long hours with
their friends. An average coffee meeting in a cafeteria for a Greek is about 1 and half hour. In
summer, cafeterias in Greece are the best places to enjoy a morning coffee or cold afternoon
refreshment. In small towns and villages, in the central square, you will find the Greek traditional
cafe that is called kafenion. These kafenions in Greece are mostly frequented by old pensioners
or middle-aged men who drink Greek coffee, chat and play cards or backgammon.

Really beloved by people, Greece is so rich in culture and beauty that it never seems to be
completely explored, no matter how many times you visit it. After all, this is one of the reasons
that brought it in the list with the best tourist holiday destinations worldwide. It is all about
Greece, from nature to locals, which makes people coming and coming to this wonderful land.
Personally, I have visited Greece many times, from crowded tourist sites like
Thessaloniki, to not so inhabited islands such as Samothrace and I have to say that every single
time I felt like I was in paradise on Earth. I surely understand why tourism in Greece is so
developed, apart from statistical facts – because you feel like home. Greek’s genuine hospitality,
the amazing food, nature, architecture, culture and music cannot leave anybody impartial.