60 days in Greece, Bodrum City & Demre (Kale) Itinerary

Few places manage to capture the world's imagination quite like Greece, a land of sun-kissed coastlines, tranquil whitewashed villages, lively seaside towns, and well-preserved ancient sites. One of the world's top tourist destinations since ancient times, the country draws nearly 20 million visitors each year. Athens, the birthplace of Western civilization, continues to attract the biggest crowds and serves as a base for exploring the country and its 227 inhabited islands. Away from its cities, Greece features a picturesque countryside of olive groves, vineyards, and tiny settlements nestled against rolling hills and rugged mountain ranges. Explore the old mainland on foot and discover the islands on a guided boat or ferry tour.

Scenic landscapes and a high concentration of ancient sites make the Peloponnese one of the most desirable sightseeing destinations in Greece. Separated from the Greek mainland by a narrow gulf, the region contains well-preserved archaeological reminders of the country's eventful history. The Peloponnese also boasts impeccable beaches, local cuisine, and a slew of tiny mountain villages. This region remains relatively uncrowded and lets you discover a quieter and greener corner of Greece, one ruled by traditional hospitality and the simple pleasures of life.

The largest of the Greek islands, Crete offers travelers more than just sun, sea, and sand. Famed for its warm hospitality, outstanding infrastructure, and contrasting landscapes, the island represents one of the world's richest areas in terms of history and culture. Crete burst onto the world scene over 4,000 years ago, when it served as the center of the Minoan civilization, one of Europe's earliest organized societies. Despite the island's wealth of developed beaches, the traces of the mysterious and enchanting Minoan empire remain Crete's top attraction, drawing visitors from all over the world. The island capital Heraklion provides an ideal base for exploring a renowned Minoan palace complex, the site of Europe's oldest city.

An island of green hills, fertile valleys, and golden beaches, Rhodes blends cosmopolitan and traditional cultures, exemplified by its traditional taverns, upscale hotels, and archaeological sites. Nicknamed the "Island of Roses," this island offers visitors a chance to discover lively tourist resorts in the north and tranquil rural areas in the south. The island's slow pace seems utterly unaffected by the challenges of mass tourism, its permanent residents stubbornly clinging to their age-old traditions and relaxed lifestyle. As you explore the areas farther away from the busy coastline, take time to meet the garrulous locals in their natural environment, the village tavern.

Rich history and scenic landscapes make Chios one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Aegean. Nicknamed the "Mastic Island" because it remains one of the world's major producers and exporters of mastic gum, Chios offers visitors a chance to explore medieval villages and age-old monasteries. Start at the ancient settlement serving as the island's center of shopping, dining, and entertainment. Alternatively, make the southwestern port of Mesta your base for touring a cluster of satellite islands reachable by boat or ferry. The island is nearer to the Turkish coastline than the Greek mainland, and as a result shares much of eastern Turkey's topography of rugged crags and fragrant citrus groves.