Recently we spent two weeks in Greece which was fantastic! Travelling in late April to early May definitely has its advantages – less congestion and people, perfect daytime weather and all the staff you meet in restaurants, bars and hotels are lovely and friendly because the season has only just started, so everyone and everything is fresh and new.
The only drawback is the water is still a bit chilly for swimming because the days aren’t yet stiflingly hot, there isn’t as much need to have to cool down with a swim.
We spent the first two days in Athens, staying in a lovely boutique hotel with stunning views of the Acropolis from its rooftop terrace as well as some of its rooms. We had the room with the spa which when you sat in it, you looked out at the Acropolis! Not a view you see every day.
Athens was a very easy city to walk around and their public transport, although a little old, was very good. We spent one morning doing the Acropolis tour and the rest of the time we just walked around the streets, stopping off at little tavernas for something to eat.
Then we took the ferry over to Hydra for a couple of days – wonderful little island with great walks. We were very glad to be there at the beginning of the season because already the place was beginning to fill with day trippers from Athens. I imagine at the height of summer it would be bulging at the seams.
After Hydra we spent the next eight days cruising through the Cyclades islands on a sailing ship that takes 40 passengers, but again, because we were there early in the season, there were only 20 of us onboard.
We visited some lovely little islands – Paros, Antiparos, Syros & Kythnos – as well as the two biggies - Mykonos and Santorini. It was a lovely way to get around the islands and very relaxing. We stopped off at different islands each day for swimming (for those of us daring enough too), sightseeing and eating. On Syros, we hired a moped and spent the day riding around the island visiting small fishing villages, which were bereft of tourists when we were there, but already preparing for the summer onslaught.
So, if you are considering a visit to Greece, think about going in the off season – April/May or September/October. There is still plenty to see and do, the food is just as good as in the high season, there are just a lot less other tourists to contend with. Ask us for more information or to book your next getaway to Greece!