Discover the delights of Greek Islands From Izmir 2014

Ancient chestnut trees, picturesque vineyards and bubbling sources: Samos is a delightful place and Pythagorion is the ideal starting point for getting to know the natural beauties and local history on an island tour*. The Jeep safari*, which takes you right across Samos, promises to be an exciting adventure, whilst a boat trip* is more relaxing: drop anchor in some hidden bays and dive into the crystal-clear waters.

 

Kos or Coss a Greek island of the group of the Dodecanese, next to the Gulf of Gökova/Cos. The island measures 40 by 8 kilometres (25 by 5 miles), and is 4 km (2 miles) from the coast of Bodrum, Turkey, and the ancient region of Caria. The island forms a separate municipality within the Kos regional unit, which is part of the South Aegean region. In the Roman mythology, the island was visited by Hercules. The island was originally colonised by the Carians.

 

This island is celebrated for its natural beauty and delightful climate. Its most outstanding site is the Acropolis of Lindos; take a donkey trek to the site and pass charming whitewashed cottages on the way. The island's capital city is ringed with more than two miles of 15th-century walls. Most excursions include the medieval castle and Turkish market

 

Crete is the largest island in Greece, and the fifth largest one in the Mediterranean Sea. Here, the visitor can admire the remnants of brilliant civilizations, explore glorious beaches, impressive mountainscapes, fertile valleys and steep gorges, and become part of the island’s rich gastronomic culture. Crete is, after all, a small universe teeming with beauties and treasures that you will probably need a lifetime to uncover!

 

Mykonos is known for its whitewashed villages sprinkled with blue and jade green. It's also famous for its sophisticated nightlife. The most popular island in the Cyclades is bustling with activity, awash in beautiful alleyways, and home to alluring sandy beaches.

 

Here on the island of Santorini, you'll find a classic Greek seascape-whitewashed houses accented by sea-blue roofs. This is a treasure trove for both professional and amateur archeology buffs, with sites that include tombs that date back to the 9th century and the sanctuary of Apollo. Ride a donkey up the trail to the city of Thira or take a cable car. The views from Thira, set atop a ledge overlooking the sea, are stirring. Most ships allow just enough time here to wander the streets, admire the churches and browse the shops and cafes.

 

Formerly known as Smyrna, Izmir is located in Turkey’s Aegean province, which enjoys the finest climate in the country. Turkey’s third largest city and located in a region whose magnificent history has rendered it a key holiday destination. Lively and cosmopolitan, Izmir boasts scenic, palm-lined promenades that line a glittering bay, graceful avenues and attractive horizontal terraces that cloak the slopes of the surrounding mountains. The ancient city of Ephesus, one of the most important centers of the ancient period, has been inhabited for approximately 9000 years, starting from the prehistoric period, throughout the Hellenistic, Roman, Eastern Roman, Principalities and Ottoman periods, and has been a very important port city and cultural and commercial center at all stages of its history.