When you visit Greece, at the juncture of Europe, Asia and Africa, you are standing at a crossroads of cultures, colors and civilizations. Not only do you enjoy the wonderful warmth that comes from vacationing in a Mediterranean climate, but you experience the warmth of the Greek people, so proud of their rich heritage and traditions. The birthplace of so many things we might take for granted in the Western world, such as modern-day democracy, theater, even the Olympics, Greece has an undeniably important history. Its inhabitants and the country's culture have made incredibly significant contributions to the world in terms of literature, philosophy and science.

From its traditional blue-and-white architecture to its ancient ruins, rocky mountains to golden beaches, modern cities to secluded islands - Greece is a feast for the senses. And that's not even mentioning the amazing Greek food! Sample savory spanakopita, moussaka and stuffed grape leaves during your resort stay in Greece, and if you are one to take in all of the exciting nightlife, hit the bars and clubs in Athens and on the islands to try the licorice-flavored national drink, ouzo.

Athens (Philippos Hotel, Fresh Hotel, Herodion Hotel, Divani Palace Acropolis, Sofitel Athens Airport) Select Athens' recorded history dates back 3,000 years, so naturally this capital city is a treasure trove of historically and culturally significant ruins. The most important architectural sightseeing stop is the Acropolis, with its famous Parthenon, which was built in honor of the goddess Athena between 447 and 438 B.C. Also sample the delectable Greek food, shop the many open-air markets, and if you're a night owl, hit the bars, clubs and traditional tavernas for live Greek music.

Heraklion / Crete () Select The largest of all the Greek Islands, Crete offers a mountainous interior and many coastal beaches with rocky coves, charming villages and harbors. It is known not only for exciting nightlife, but for its intriguing ruins from the Minoan civilization. The island capital, Heraklion, is its economic center, but you'll also find many archaeological sites here. Crete's beaches here can be bustling, with sun beds and umbrellas for rent and watersports to enjoy, or totally secluded, for private oceanside strolls.

Mykonos () Select The island of Mykonos is known for its traditional, cubic, white-washed buildings and blue-domed churches. Beaches here are glorious - long stretches of golden sand and crystal-clear water. Popular beaches can be found on the south side of the island, but if you prefer a bit of seclusion, explore the more unspoiled coast to the north.

Rhodes () Select In addition to its quaint villages, Rhodes offers visitors many important archaeological sites and historical monuments to visit: the Acropolis of Lindos, remains of an ancient Minoan settlement, and the oldest medieval town in all of Europe. Developed beaches stretch all along the eastern coast of the island, with more remote coastal access (and great breezes for windsurfing) on the west.

Santorini () Select The tiny island of Santorini, resting in the Aegean Sea, is the site of one of the biggest volcanic eruptions the earth has ever seen. See remnants of volcanic activity in the giant cliffs of the caldera, a geological wonder. The ancient Minoan city of Akrotiri is a major attraction, as are the famous beaches, including Red Beach. Ride a donkey or take a cable car up to the steep cliff walls from the small port of Ormos to the island's capital, Fira.

Athens  Heraklion / Crete  Mykonos  Rhodes  Santorini