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Visit Greece

Blue Flags 2026

The Hellenic Society for the Protection of Nature has announced that, out of a long list of 51 countries, Greece ranked second this year in the Blue Flag programme awards, as 624 beaches, 17 marinas and 17 eco-friendly boats have earned the world’s most recognised eco-label. Greece received 14% of beach awards worldwide, the country’s top names on that list being the Region of Crete (154 flags) and Halkidiki Regional Unit (93 flags). The International Committee presented the label to 4.378 beaches, 747 marinas and 158 eco-friendly boats across the globe. For more information, click here. What is the Blue Flag Programme? The Blue Flag is a large-scale programme of environmental awareness and protection, which is implemented every year, in European countries and in other parts of the world by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). The Blue Flag label is an international symbol of quality and is one of the best-known environmental labels worldwide. It has been awarded since 1987 to beaches and marinas, and since 2017 to eco-friendly boats that meet the strict requirements of the programme for sustainable boating tourism operators. It is aimed at making beaches, marinas and boats better and safer, while at the same time protecting the natural environment. The Hellenic Society for the Protection of Nature is the programme coordinator for Greece. It is the oldest conservation organisation in the country and it has been active in environmental education and the protection of nature since 1951. Did you know that... In order to receive a Blue Flag eco-label, a beach must not only be found to have an excellent water quality, it must comply with 33 criteria (38 for marinas and 51 for boat operators), concerning cleanliness, environmental management and awareness, various amenities and services, information, visitor safety and protection of the coastal area.

27/05/2026
Blue Flags 2026
Visit Greece

Panathēnea Festival 2026: A meeting point for innovation, business and the arts

Bringing together the worlds of technology, entrepreneurship and creativity, Panathēnea Festival returns from May 27–29 in Athens, welcoming more than 10,000 founders, investors, artists and creatives. Inspired by the spirit of an ancient celebration of ideas, the festival reimagines it for today—where innovation and culture intersect. For the business and tech community Designed for investors, startup founders, business and tech professionals, enterprises, researchers and academia, Panathēnea offers a unique platform to explore the future of innovation. The festival hosts leading figures such as Neil Rimer (Index Ventures), alongside representatives from Sequoia, Atomico, Balderton, Accel and Visionaries Club. Founders from decacorn and unicorn companies including Mati from ElevenLabs, Shuo from Deel, Alan from Fuse Energy and Anastasis from Runway will join industry leaders from NVIDIA, OpenAI, Microsoft and Google, as well as the team behind EU-INC—collectively shaping the next chapter of Europe’s startup ecosystem. For the creative industries Panathēnea also speaks directly to filmmakers, musicians, artists, students, record labels and production companies through its dedicated Arts program. The inaugural Panathēnea Arts stages focus on film and music, featuring masterclasses, screenings, live performances and cross-disciplinary collaborations that reflect today’s global and interconnected creative landscape. A standout presence is Academy Award–winning filmmaker Barry Jenkins, joining as the Film headliner. A city-wide experience With 70+ side events across Athens, curated 1:1 meetings, and the city itself as an open playground, the festival creates countless opportunities for meaningful connections and new ideas to emerge. Secure your place and be part of what’s next here. See you at Panathēnea Festival this May.

27/05/2026
Panathēnea Festival 2026: A meeting point for innovation, business and the arts
Visit Greece

Blue Flags 2025

The Hellenic Society for the Protection of Nature has announced that, out of a long list of 52 countries, Greece ranked second this year in the Blue Flag programme awards, as 623 beaches, 17 marinas and 17 eco-friendly boats have earned the world’s most recognised eco-label. Greece received 15% of beach awards worldwide, the country’s top names on that list being the Region of Crete (153 flags) and Halkidiki Regional Unit (93 flags). The International Committee presented the label to 4.302 beaches, 736 marinas and 158 eco-friendly boats across the globe. For more information, click here. What is the Blue Flag Programme? The Blue Flag is a large-scale programme of environmental awareness and protection, which is implemented every year, in European countries and in other parts of the world by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). The Blue Flag label is an international symbol of quality and is one of the best-known environmental labels worldwide. It has been awarded since 1987 to beaches and marinas, and since 2017 to eco-friendly boats that meet the strict requirements of the programme for sustainable boating tourism operators. It is aimed at making beaches, marinas and boats better and safer, while at the same time protecting the natural environment. The Hellenic Society for the Protection of Nature is the programme coordinator for Greece. It is the oldest conservation organisation in the country and it has been active in environmental education and the protection of nature since 1951. Did you know that... In order to receive a Blue Flag eco-label, a beach must not only be found to have an excellent water quality, it must comply with 33 criteria (38 for marinas and 51 for boat operators), concerning cleanliness, environmental management and awareness, various amenities and services, information, visitor safety and protection of the coastal area.

10/06/2025
Blue Flags 2025
Visit Greece

Explore the Greek Countryside: Sustainable Trekking & Biking Trips

Greece, with its diverse geography, is a nature lover's paradise. The country offers outdoor enthusiasts many opportunities to explore its natural beauty while embracing green tourism practices. Follow us as we explore the world of eco-friendly hiking and biking tours, while highlighting must-visit destinations, and offering practical tips. National Parks and Island Adventures Greece is home to several national parks, each boasting its own unique characteristics and breathtaking scenery. The Parnassos National Park, located on the slopes of Mount Parnassos, Central Greece, is a haven for hikers, cyclists, and nature lovers. While you’re at the foot of the mountain, make sure you visit the Archaeological Site of Delphi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The mountain’s highest peak reaches 2457 m., so, if you climb to the top, you will be well into the alpine zone! The Ainos National Park, situated on Mt. Ainos, Kefalonia island, in the Ionian Sea, features stunning vistas, pristine beaches, and a diverse range of wildlife, such as the local fir species called Abies Cephalonica, and the small semi-wild horses, which you’ll see mostly on the SE side of the mountain. The Vikos-Aoos National Park in Epirus (northwest Greece) is characterised by its dramatic gorges, sparkling lakes – some of them alpine - and picturesque villages. You will enjoy exploring Vikos Gorge, a must-visit landmark, which is included in the Guiness World Records as the deepest canyon in relation to its width. In the Greek south, on the island of Crete, Samaria Gorge is a hiker's paradise, featuring stunning scenery, ancient ruins, and an incredible array of flora and fauna. The island of Evia, located east, off the coast of mainland Greece, is the second biggest Greek island. Its highest peak is on Mount Dirfys, a popular hiking and mountain biking destination, offering breathtaking views of the sea below. Steni Village (made up of Upper Steni and Lower Steni), and Pyrgos Village are must-visit destinations on the mountainside. Explore the nature reserve of Steni, with forests of plane trees, chestnut, fir, and oak, beautiful gorges, rivers and streams. The island's well-marked trails will take you through beautiful landscapes and traditional villages, ideal for your eco-friendly hiking and biking tours. Practical Tips for Eco-Friendly Travellers When embarking on our next adventure in Greece, make sure: * you always follow marked trails and respect protected areas to avoid damaging sensitive ecosystems; * you bring reusable water bottles and coffee cups to reduce waste and minimize your carbon footprint; * you support local communities by choosing family-run accommodation and dining at traditional tavernas. Greece's great natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality make it an ideal destination for a memorable holiday. By embracing sustainable tourism practices and respecting the environment, you can enjoy the country's breathtaking landscapes while leaving a positive impact on the local communities. Start planning your next adventure today!

26/05/2025
Explore the Greek Countryside: Sustainable Trekking & Biking Trips
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Santorini is Ready to Welcome the World

Now More Than Ever Dreaming of dazzling sunsets, whitewashed villages, and crystal-clear waters? Santorini, one of Greece’s most treasured islands, is not only as stunning as ever—but fully ready to welcome visitors for another unforgettable season. Despite recent seismic activity in the region, the island is safe, serene, and completely open for travel. All tourism and essential infrastructure are fully operational, ensuring that every traveler’s experience remains seamless and joyful. From the vibrant shops in Fira to the iconic caldera views in Oia, everything is just as magical as you remember—or even better. Behind the scenes, scientific teams are keeping a close eye on the situation, and proactive safety plans are in place. Thanks to well-coordinated efforts by local authorities and experts, Santorini continues to be a destination where you can relax, explore, and enjoy with total peace of mind. Interest in Santorini is soaring. At recent international travel events like ITB Berlin, global excitement about visiting the island was as strong as ever. And it’s no wonder—Santorini blends natural beauty, rich heritage, and world-class hospitality like nowhere else. So whether you're planning your first visit or returning for the tenth time, know this: Santorini is not only open—it’s thriving. The island is waiting to welcome you with open arms, glowing sunsets, and unforgettable memories. Εxperience the wonder of Santorini—safe, spectacular, and more inviting than ever!

10/04/2025
Santorini is Ready to Welcome the World
Visit Greece

Seismic Activity in Santorini

As widely reported, our beautiful island of Santorini is experiencing a complex seismic event since the beginning of February 2025, due to a more intense seismic sequence in the Anydros area 19 miles northeast of Santorini. Although Santorini is an active volcano with minor eruptions during the 20th century, with episodes of unrest without an eruption, the current 3-week duration of seismicity has led to the application of several civil protection measures by the Greek Government out of an abundance of caution. The Government continues to monitor the situation closely and based upon expert national and international scientific information will, where and when necessary, take precautionary measures to secure Santorini. Similar to many of the world’s other high-demand volcanic tourist destinations, Santorini goes through a period of unrest. We respectfully urge potential visitors to adopt and comply with measures and guidelines issued by local and national authorities.

20/02/2025
Seismic Activity in Santorini
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Seismic activity in the Cyclades

Safety Measures / What You Need to Know Dear Travellers, We would like to inform you that the recent seismic activity in the Cyclades is a natural phenomenon closely monitored by the competent authorities. Daily life on the islands continues as usual, with no disruptions to infrastructure, transportation, or tourism services. Greece has extensive experience in managing such phenomena. Buildings adhere to strict earthquake-resistant regulations, and emergency services remain on high alert to ensure safety at all times. If you have planned your trip, there is no reason for concern! The Cyclades remain a safe and breathtaking destination, ready to offer you unforgettable experiences. Your safety and enjoyable travel experience are our top priorities. For official updates and guidelines, you may visit the General Secretariat for Civil Protection. Thank you for choosing Greece – we look forward to welcoming you and sharing the beauty of our islands with you!  For any further information, please contact your hotel or travel agent. Announcement by the Municipality of Thira (Santorini) as of 11th February 2025. Due to the current seismic activity in the area of Santorini, Civil Protection has taken precautionary measures in place until Friday, February 14, 2025. Until then, all events and gatherings in indoor spaces within the Municipality of Thira are canceled. Instructions for your safe stay - Contact your accommodation unit prior to your arrival to confirm its operation. - Avoid access and staying in the following areas: Ammoudi, Armeni, Korfos Thirasia, Old Port of Fira, Athinios Port (excluding ship docking times). Instructions for your personal safety - Avoid approaching abandoned buildings. - Choose safe routes, particularly in areas with steep slopes, due to the potential risk of landslides. - In case of a strong seismic tremor, immediately move away from coastal areas. For further inquiries, you can contact the Municipality of Santorini at the email: press@thira.gov.gr Daily updates are available here.  Additionally, for updates specific to Santorini and the surrounding area, please visit the Thira Municipality Official Website, which provides continuous updates. 

13/02/2025
Seismic activity in the Cyclades
Visit Greece

Cultural New Entries in Greece: Suggestions for your 2025 travels

The New Year holds new experiences for us all. Here are a couple of ideas on cultural places and other attractions you might be interested in, while you visit Greece this year. The Acropolis Museum in Athens houses a small newly inaugurated museum on its basement level, titled Museum of the Excavation. The exhibits include the remains of houses, workshops, and cemeteries of the ancient neighbourhood around the Acropolis walls, before and after they were integrated in the urban grid of Athens City during the 5th c. BC. While you’re in the capital, make sure you also visit the Elytis House Museum located in Plaka, a traditional Athenian neighbourhood, in the city centre. It is dedicated to the life and extensive works of Odysseus Elytis, a famous 20th century Greek poet and a Nobel laureate. Visitors will get acquainted with his works of literature, visual art items, manuscripts, archives, and audio documents. They will also see Elytis’ study room, which includes his library (counting 700 volumes), his couch, table and favourite paintings. Museum of the Excavation | © Panoulis In the heart of Macedonia, North Greece, a new underground railway system was inaugurated in Thessaloniki City on November 30th, 2024. What’s special about it is that, during the excavations a staggering 300,000 archaeological finds were unearthed there! So, if you happen to travel to Thessaloniki and use the underground you will be able to see on Venizelou Station a large exhibition area where Decumanus Maximus, a Roman avenue, and the shops and houses which lined the ancient Via Egnatia are on display on the exact space and depth they were found! This site is the largest international archaeological location on display within a major modern-day underground public infrastructure facility. On Agia Sofia Station, too, you can visit another small museum on the ground level with numerous ancient finds which include the above Roman road and a public square of that time. During your summer holidays on Ios, a Cyclades Island in central Aegean Sea, you can visit the Gaitis - Simossi Museum, inaugurated in September 2024. Items on display include paintings, installations (by Gaitis) and sculptures (by Simossi), crafted by this couple, who lived and produced their art on Ios. The museum buildings are located on a hill offering amazing views of Chora (the island capital), and the harbour, as well as of the neighbouring Sikinos, Paros, and Naxos Islands. Anogeia, Crete Next, we will take you on a trip to the Greek South: a mountain village on the island of Crete has recently entered the list of the Best Tourism Destinations according to the United Nations World Tourism Organisation. Built on the slope of Mt Psiloritis, Anogeia is a community in Rethimno region, which fosters environmental protection and sustainable development, while promoting forms of alternative tourism. Visit this village to experience the warm hospitality of the locals, enjoy the lovely mountain scenery and traditional architecture. Have an authentic & responsible travel experience, taste the delicious local cuisine, and learn about the area’s history and cultural heritage.

17/01/2025
Cultural New Entries in Greece: Suggestions for your 2025 travels
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“It takes a lifetime to discover Greece,

but it only takes an instant to fall in love with her.

—Henry Miller

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