Greece is a mythical country, culture and breathtaking landscape, more than just islands. There is a mix of ancient history, breathtaking scenery, and the true Greek flair found in the Mainland Destinations in Greece that is unknown to the beaten roads of Santorini or Mykonos. Indian tourists planning their European vacation can now have the opportunity to visit the other side of Greece which is full of heritage, adventure, and food escapades with Greece visa for Indians .

We are taking you on a comprehensive tour of the 10 most popular places in the mainland that you should not see when in Greece at Go Kite tours.

1. Athens – The Timeless Capital

No tour of Greece can be finished without visiting Athens, the birthplace of the Western civilization. The city is also home to iconic Acropolis and Parthenon and it is a perfect combination of the ancient city and the modern urban life. Explore the beautiful streets of Plaka, visit the Monastiraki Flea Market and have a panoramic view of the city in Mount Lycabettus. Other Mainland Destinations in Greece start at Athens.

2. Delphi The Belly Button of the Ancient World

Delphi which could be found on the mountain Parnassus slopes was initially thought to be the center of the world according to Greek mythology. Archeological location here comprises the Temple of Apollo, the ancient theater and the Delphi Museum which contains the treasured artifacts. The religious ambiance and breathtaking mountainous landscapes make it a tourist destination worth visiting for both history and nature lovers.

3. Meteora Meteor Showers in the Sky

Meteor is one of the most amazing places in the world. Out of the plains, massive rock pillars rise sky high with centuries old monasteries at the top. Some of these monasteries are still inhabited and provide a rare insight into the life of monasticism and spirituality. The surrealistic scenery has designated Meteor a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most fascinating Mainland Destinations in Greece.

4. Thessaloniki The Thessaloniki Cultural Capital of Northern Greece

Thessaloniki is the second-largest Greek city that is a vibrant cultural, historical, and culinary hub. The city has Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman influences, and the white tower, Rotunda, and Arch of Galerius are some of the landmarks in the city. Do not overlook the vibrant waterfront prominence and the Portuguese food culture of the city, in particular, its tasty bougatsa (Greek pastry).

5. Nafplio -The Byronic seaside town

Nafplio is often referred to as the most romantic city in Greece and its beauty is in its Venetian buildings, paved streets and the fortresses along the sea. Nafplio, the former capital of modern Greece, has such sights as the Palamidi Fortress, Bourtzi Castle, and Syntagma Square. It is an ideal place to have a relaxed vacation because of its scenic harbor and warm cafes.

6. Olympia -The Birthplace of the Olympics Games

The holy place of Olympic Games is Olympia, in the region of Peloponnesus in the year 776 BC. Nowadays, one can visit the ancient stadium, Zeus and Hera temples, and Archaeological Museum. The landscape near the monument is green and serene that creates a perfect place to consider the ancient Greek successes.

7. Pelion -Mountain of the centaurs

Pelion is another undiscovered secret with mountain and sea. Old stone villages such as Makrinitsa and Portaria are located on green slopes with the view of Aegean Sea. During summer, beaches in Pelion are like an ideal place and during winter, it becomes a snow-white escape of the skiing lovers. It is a cool place to find a respect for the multiplicity.

8. Ioannina – The Lake City

Located on the shore of Lake Pamvotis, Ioannina is a city which is full of the past, stories, and beauty. Its castle walls have beautiful mosques, museums, and cobblestone lanes that are located in the old town. Ride a boat to the small island in the lake, which is a source of monasteries and conventional desserts. Ioannina also leads to the gorgeous Vikos Gorge and the villages of Zagori mountains.

9. Kalavryta – A Mountain Escape

Kalavryta is a picturesque mountain town located in the north of the Peloponnesus which has a scenic rack railway traversing the dramatic Vouraikos Gorge. It is also the place of the ancient Monastery of Mega Spilaio and has one of the best hiking, skiing and rafting. It is ideal for those who want to have adventure and calmness when traveling.

10. Epidaurus The Ancient Theater Experience

Epidaurus boasts of an ancient theater that is one of the best preserved in Greece and which is still being used in the modern times. The sanctuary of Asclepius which is the god of healing is also located there. It is also a great experience to visit Epidaurus, where one gets the most interesting picture of the ancient Greek culture and architecture among the calm countryside.

Why not Visiting the Mainland as opposed to the Islands in Greece

Although the Greek islands can take all the action, the mainland can provide a more interactive experience of the Greek history, traditions, and natural diversity. With mountain-top snow caps, green valleys and archaeological marvels, the Mainland Destinations in Greece will be a closer touch to the history of the nation. The tourists have the chance to sightsee at their speed and not the large crowd of tourists in the islands.

Travel Tips for Visa Travelers

• Best Time to Visit: Spring (April -June) and autumn (September -October) have good weather conditions and these seasons are not crowded with tourists.
• Transportation: Greece has good road systems and bus services within the mainland of the country that link the main cities and tourist sites.
• Cultural Etiquette: Greeks are also very warm and hospitable, knowledge of a few words such as Efharisto (thank you) will go a long way.
• Accommodation: You could find any type of accommodation: Boutique hotels, countryside guesthouses, and each of these is affordable.

Conclusion

The Mainland Destinations in Greece allow a person to dive into a whole new side of this nation- where history, nature and culture meet in a very beautiful way. It could be you are strolling across the historic ruins, enjoying the natural Greek cuisine, or have a breathtaking view of the mountains, in any case, every destination has a memorable experience.

As an Indian tourist, who has decided to visit these marvelous places, obtaining a visa to Greece is the first thing you need, in order to enjoy a heritage and wonder-filled trip. By using Go Kite Tours you get to experience a smooth traveling experience, including visa services to a tailor-made itinerary planning, and help you explore the very core of Greece like never before.