Tag: Greece

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Greece: A Land of Myths and Legends

on May 16, 2024

A trip through Greece lets visitors step into the landscapes and architectural marvels that inspired some of the most legendary stories from Greek mythology. Travelers can embark on a journey through the realm of gods and goddesses as they explore the stories that have shaped Western cultures for millennia. Gate 1 Travel offers a variety of tours through Greece that highlight some of the most iconic locations linked to the legends of Greek mythology.

Olympia: The Birthplace of the Olympic Games

The archaeological site of Olympia invites visitors to experience the Sanctuary of Olympian Zeus and explore the ancient stadium where the Olympic Games were first held in his honor in 776 B.C. A stop here is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to walk the same paths once trodden by ancient athletes and worshippers. With its well-preserved stadium, gymnasium, and temples, Olympia offers a tangible connection to the myths that have shaped Greek culture.

Delphi: The Oracle’s Sanctuary

Situated on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, Delphi was considered the center of the world in ancient Greek religion. Home to the Oracle of Delphi, this site was where the priestess Pythia delivered prophecies believed to be inspired by Apollo, the god of prophecy and the sun. Visitors can explore the Temple of Apollo, the ancient theatre, and the Delphi Archaeological Museum, which houses remarkable artifacts from the site.

Delos: Birthplace of Apollo and Artemis

The small island of Delos, located near Mykonos, is revered as the birthplace of Apollo, the god of light, and his twin sister Artemis, the goddess of the hunt. According to myth, their mother, Leto, gave birth to them on this island. Travelers on our 15 Day Kaleidoscope of Greece with Mykonos & Santorini tour can add an optional day trip to Delos where they can explore its extensive archaeological ruins.

Athens: The Acropolis and Beyond

No trip to Greece is complete without a stop at Athens. The cradle of democracy and philosophy, it is also deeply intertwined with Greek mythology. The Acropolis, with its iconic Parthenon, was dedicated to Athena, the goddess of wisdom and war, the city’s patron deity. The Erechtheion, another magnificent structure on the Acropolis, is associated with the myth of Athena and Poseidon’s contest for the city’s patronage. Beyond the Acropolis, the Temple of Olympian Zeus and the ancient Agora are also steeped in mythological lore.

Knossos: The Minoan Palace of Crete

The Palace of Knossos, located on the island of Crete, is linked to the myth of the Minotaur, a half-man, half-bull creature that resided in the labyrinth constructed by Daedalus. According to legend, King Minos kept the Minotaur in this labyrinth, and it was eventually slain by the hero Theseus. The ruins of Knossos reveal the grandeur of the Minoan civilization and offer a glimpse into the legends of ancient Crete. Several of our packages, including the 10 Day Essential Greece with Crete escorted tour, make stops on this beautiful island.

Santorini: The Legend of Atlantis

Santorini’s dramatic volcanic landscape is often linked to the myth of Atlantis, the legendary sunken city described by Plato. The island’s archaeological site of Akrotiri, a Minoan settlement preserved by volcanic ash, offers a glimpse into ancient life and fuels the imagination about the possible inspiration for the Atlantis myth. The stunning sunsets and unique geology of Santorini add to its mystical allure.

Greece is a land where ancient sites and breathtaking views echo whispers of the tales of gods and heroes. Standing in these locations will offer a captivating journey through the myths that have shaped human history. Whether you are an avid mythology enthusiast or a curious traveler, Gate 1 offers tours of Greece that provide an enchanting experience that bridges the past and the present.

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Island Explorations in Greece

on November 17, 2021

Discover Our Destination Guide to Mykonos and Santorini

With over 200 islands, the thought of island hopping in Greece may be, well, overwhelming. In this guide, we’ll focus on two destinations that are world-renowned: Mykonos and Santorini. Both Mykonos and Santorini are home to compelling history and mythology, reflect iconic Greek architecture, and showcase dynamic Mediterranean cuisine. Whatever your travel vibe, there is truly something for everyone in the Cyclades.

We offer various tours that include multiple-day stops in both Mykonos and Santorini. Island hopping, then, is more like island traversing: itineraries with enough time to truly gain a sense of place and savor an island sunset. Here, you’ll find insights on archeological destinations, local cuisine, plus travel tips to help you maximize your time in the Cyclades. Let’s dive in!

Unearthing Museums and Design Marvels In Mykonos

In recent years, the island of Mykonos has made a name for itself amongst jet setters and celebrities. But there’s much history and culture to discover away from the cosmopolitan hustle and bustle. Throughout Mykonos, there are plenty of opportunities to explore history, connect with nature, and dine on traditional dishes. And if you happen to be an architecture buff or a photography aficionado, Mykonos is a dream.

In Mykonos, you’ll find enchanting examples of Cyclades architecture. Brilliant white walls, cubed houses, and bright blue doors create a gorgeous skyline along turquoise seas. Combined with centuries-old windmills, domed churches, and cobbled pathways, you’ll find beautiful sights at every turn. Grab your camera at sunrise or sunset for a truly awe-inspiring photo session (and don’t forget a solid pair of walking shoes!).

Mykonos is also home to several museums that provide an in-depth look at life in Greece throughout the ages. The Aegean Maritime Museum displays historical photographs, artifacts, and replicas of ancient ships, while the Folklore Museum features artwork, textiles, and musical instruments from the 1800s.

The Archaeological Museum of Mykonos is one of the oldest museums in Greece, and houses artifacts dating back thousands of years. And for another architectural and historical gem, visit the Panagia Paraportiani. This centuries-old church, which is actually several churches joined together, is an iconic sight in Mykonos.

Discovering Mykonos Flavors and Folklore

Of course, all this exploring builds quite an appetite! Throughout the island you’ll find staples of Greek cuisine, from grilled octopus to honey pie. Be sure to save some room for kopanisti: this salty, peppery cheese is a staple in Mykonos, and is often served atop bread with fresh tomatoes and olive oil.

While you’re exploring local restaurants and cafes, be sure to snap a photo of the pelicans that call the island home. They’re considered a mascot of sorts in Mykonos, in honor of a now famous pelican rescued in the 50s by a fisherman, who the locals endearingly named Petros.

A couple other interesting tidbits about Mykonos: legend says the island was formed by the petrified remains of giants defeated by Hercules! And for more history (plus a truly remote Greek experience), head to the island of Delos, located just a few miles from Mykonos. The island is literally one big archeological site, and is also a UNESCO world heritage site.

Discovering Volcanic Beaches and Delightful Cuisine in Santorini

Next stop, Santorini. Santorini is home to exquisite sights that are truly quintessential Greece: brilliant waters, blue-domed churches, and coastal towns carved into the terrain. Santorini actually consists of a group of islands, and is not only a popular tourist and wedding destination, but a locale immersed in fascinating geological and historical gems.

The region where Santorini is located has experienced extensive volcanic activity throughout history. One particular eruption – over 3,000 years ago, during the Minoan Age – created a massive, underwater crater known as a caldera. Fun fact: locals and researchers alike have suggested Santorini may be the location of the lost city of Atlantis.

Out and About: Activities in Santorini

With all this ancient geological activity comes much to explore! If you love the beach, you’ll find picturesque shorelines of red, white, and black sand, along with volcanic rock. Scuba diving enthusiasts can navigate beautiful underwater formations and clear, turquoise waters (while keeping an eye out for signs of Atlantis, of course!).

There are an array of routes to discover Santorini, from horseback riding to sunset cruises, guided hikes to ATV excursions. Just remember that wherever your day’s travels take you to, you’ll most likely encounter steep or rugged terrain. Even if you have a beach day in mind, you might want to leave your flip flops at home.

On the foodie front, you can dive into classic Greek fare throughout Santorini, but be sure to leave room for some of the island’s acclaimed local ingredients. Fava beans, capers, and cherry tomatoes are all trademark ingredients in Santorini, as is the whimsical white aubergine (eggplant). If you’ve never been much of a fan of eggplant, give white aubergine a try! They’re celebrated for being much sweeter than most aubergines.

Unlocking History in Santorini

A visit to Santorini offers many opportunities to learn about the vast history of the region. Reflecting Santorini’s ancient history is Akrotiri. Remember that massive volcano eruption, circa 1600 BC? Although Akrotiri was buried in volcanic ash, it actually preserved much of the town’s structures, and even artwork. An exploration of the archeological site reveals remarkably intact, centuries-old houses and frescoes. At the Museum of Prehistoric Thera, you can examine artifacts that have been excavated from Akrotiri. And no trip to Santorini would be complete without visiting Oia. The village is one of the most photographed locales in all of Greece. While in Oia, visit the Naval Maritime Museum, where you’ll find a treasure trove of seafaring relics inside a renovated 19th century mansion. The museum displays collections of historical maps, masts, and naval equipment. Just make sure to leave your evening clear to catch the Oia sunset: a brilliant way to cap the day, and a sight that has mesmerized travelers from around the globe.

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The Parthenon at Sunrise in Athens, Greece

on September 21, 2018

Athens is a true hub of ancient civilization mixed with a modern, lively city. Here, you will find the Parthenon, pictured, the Acropolis, the Temple of Olympian Zeus and many more ancient Grecian sites. Other points of interest in the city include the Acropolis Museum, the Plaka area and the central plaza of Syntagma Square. Don’t let the ancient sites fool you, Athens has an excellent subway system and has easy access to the Mediterranean and Aegean seas.

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This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by user @ tsanta2011 using the hashtag #gate1travel. This Mediterranean view was taken in Athens, Greece.  Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s Greece trips here!

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The Dreamscape of Santorini, Greece

on August 3, 2018

There aren’t many places on earth that are as beautiful as the Greek Isles and one of the most loved and visited is Santorini. Santorini is known for its iconic white houses with blue accents that are super popular with visitors. Fira Town is the capital of Santorini and is where the featured photo was taken! This area is easily walk-able and a must see when visiting the area.

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This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by user @ tsanta2011 using the hashtag #gate1travel. This Mediterranean view was taken in Santorini, Greece.  Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s Greece trips here!

Travel Tips

Our Top 12 Most Popular Tours of 2018

on May 14, 2018

Gate 1 Travel is letting you in on a little secret. Today we are sharing the top 12 best performing tours thus far in 2018 because you deserve to know! These tours vary greatly in destination but they all excel in showing you must-see sites, beautiful cities, unique cultures and natural beauty all in one escorted tour! We are giving you a countdown of our top 12 tours in hopes of giving you some inspiration when it comes to planning your next unforgettable adventure. Journey with us from Ireland to Vietnam to the United States with a whole world in between and enjoy our list.

12. 9 Day Enchanting Ireland
Enchanting Ireland is right. Ireland is a beautiful country known for a warm culture, lush greenery and excellent sites to see. While on this tour of Ireland you will see some Blarney_Castleof the can’t miss spots including the city of Dublin, where you will enjoy a city tour, visit Trinity College to see the Book of Kells, and have free time to explore. Also enjoy the Killarney area where you will drive through the world-famous Ring of Kerry and see sites on your way. On this tour you will also see Blarney Castle, Waterford, Bunratty Castle, Cliffs of Moher and Galway. If you have been wanting to visit Ireland, there is no better time than the present to go green.

11. 8 Day Essential Vietnam
Vietnam is a country that is so incredibly different from anywhere else that it’s popularity is no surprise. Your tour of Vietnam will most likely begin with a visit to Ho Ch Minh City, formerly Saigon, where you will have the chance to take an optional excursion to Cu Chi Tunnels, enjoy a optional half day tour of the city or explore the city on your own at your leisure. You will also visit the incredible Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and see caves, grottos, islands, stalactites, stalagmites and waterfalls, to name a few! You will also have a full day in Hanoi to either explore the city leisurely or take some optional tours that include the Museum of Ethnology and a Cyclo Ride/Water Puppet Show. This genuine country will win you over and you will enjoy every minute of it.

10. 8 Day Classic National Parks, Mt. Rushmore, Yellowstone & Grand Teton
What better way to see what the world has to offer than by visiting parts of your own country? Although our country doesn’t have a history as old as some others, we do have amazing sites, national parks, natural phenomenon and plenty of great cities with their own special elegance. On this tour you will see 3 national parks, stay in 6 different locations and have the experience of a lifetime, all in 8 days! Visit Rapid City, the gateway to South Dakota’s Black Hills and iconic Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial. Experience the beauty of Yellowstone National Park, the first national park in the United States and home to “Old Faithful”, hot springs, thermal features, rock cliffs and more! You will also get to visit Grand Teton National Park, with its dense forests and rich wildlife and then continue to Salt Lake City, Utah. It’s time to see what the United States has to offer and explore some of our greatest treasures.

9. 15 Day Cambodia & Vietnam
This excellent tour gets you seeing two of the greatest countries of Southeast Asia and experiencing some of the greatest sites they have to offer. In just over two weeks you will Vietnam HalongBay_1109_dt_16304888experience 7 different cities and add two different countries to your list! While on tour, visit Siem Reap, home to some of the most famous sites in the world; Angkor Thom and Angkor Wat. Travel to Ho Chi Minh City and enjoy leisure time or take some optional tours to get to know this fascinating city. While on your Cambodia & Vietnam tour you will also see the city of Phnom Penh, Tonle Sap Lake in Cambodia, the ancient town of Hoi An, Hue; home to a wealth of palaces, temples, museums and libraries, Halong Bay and Hanoi. This tour covers so much of these two amazing countries that it is a truly unmissable experience.

8. 13 Day Turkish Treasures
Welcome to the true crossroads of Europe and Asia; Turkey. This country has history that dates back to B.C. and has ancient sites to see that are some of the oldest on earth! On your journey to Turkey you will tour the city of Istanbul and see the Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, Topkapi Palace and the Spice Market. Traverse the ancient city of Cappadocia with its surreal rock formations, rock-cut temples and plenty of hot air balloons in the sky, with an optional have your own hot air balloon ride! This extensive tour also includes visits to the classical city of Troy, the port city of Izmir, the resort town of Antalya and Ankara the modern capital of Turkey. Learn about the country and sites you have read about in books like The Illiad and venture to this country today.

7. 13 Day Kaleidoscope of Central Europe
Central Europe has so much to offer in such a small area of the world. On this tour you will visit 5 major cities with a few stops along the way, and potentially add 5 new countries to your list. You will travel to the medieval city of Krakow, Poland, a city that was greatly affected by WWII and see the Jewish Quarter and Ghetto of the city as well as taking a solemn visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau. Experience the former center of the Hapsburg Empire; Vienna, Austria, where you will view Schonbrunn Palace, Empress Maria Theresia Monument, Votive Church, City Hall, Parliament and more. This tour will also bring you to more unforgettable places such as Warsaw, Czestochowa, Budapest, Bratislava and Prague. If you enjoy history, culture, music and experiencing unforgettable places, this tour is perfect for you.

6. 11 Day Affordable Croatia & Slovenia
Croatia is a travel location that is increasingly popular for good reason! This seaside country has excellent cities by the water and a neighboring country of Slovenia that you will not want to miss. This tour includes stops in 7 towns and cities with optional tours to see even more. This extraordinary tour takes you to Dubrovnik, the walled and cobbled-street city that you have probably seen on Game of Thrones, as King’s Landing, and in many pictures. Also explore the lake-side city of Bled, set among the Julian Alps and one of Slovenia’s most popular resort towns. Opatija, Zadar, Split, Krka National Park, Vodice, Zagreb and Ljubjana, Slovania are all included on this fully-packed tour. Come see why so many people are visiting this country and discover many of your own reasons!

5. 11 Day Enchanting Italy
Italy is always a great idea and this tour covers places you have always wanted to visit. If Venetian canals, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Michelangelo’s David, and Pompeii are things you have dreamed about, this tour covers it all and so much more. Visit and stay in the city of Florence, where David, the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio and Signoria Square await you. Take a tour of ancient Rome, home of the Colosseum, excellent food and a tiny country called Vatican City. This tour will also take you to Venice, Tuscany, Pisa, Assisi, Pompeii, Sorrento, Bay of Naples and more! If a friendly culture, excellent food and beautiful sites are on your travel list, you will surely cross them off with this tour of Italy.

4. 8 Day Essential Greece
This country, in the heart of the Mediterranean, is home to some of the most famous landmarks in the world; the Acropolis, Olympia and Delphi. This tour has an unbeatable DelphiAthenaprice and gets you all around Greece in just over a week! You will likely arrive in Athens, the capital of Greece and home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Acropolis. Take a tour of the archaeological site of Olympia and see where the games were first held in 776 B.C. Visit the excavated site of Delphi, enjoy the coastal road to the mighty Corinth Canal and take an optional day tour to Hydra, Poros and Aegina Islands. Discover this ancient country that is the birthplace of democracy and the cradle of Western Civilization on this unforgettable tour.

3. 12 Day Danube River Cruise with Prague
A river cruise through Europe is an excellent way to see many destinations while returning to the comfort of a ship between each. Being on a cruise means that while you are busy sleeping or enjoying the ship, you are being whisked away to a new and exciting destination. On your river cruise you will sail along the Danube river and visit Slovakia, Hungary, Austria, and Germany, you will also see the Czech Republic on this specific tour. Visit the essential Danube village town of Melk, Austria where you will walk along medieval cobblestone streets leading to 16th century houses and wine taverns. You will also visit the city of Prague on this tour, where you will see the world-famous Astronomical Clock. The Town Hall, Jewish Quarter and many more sites. Other stops on this tour include Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna, Durnstein, Linz, Passau, Vilshofen and Regensberg. It’s time to experience Europe in one of the most unique and special ways; on a European river cruise with Gate 1 Travel!

2. 10 Day Affordable Peru
Seeing Machu Picchu is on the bucket list of many travel enthusiasts. If you are one of these enthusiasts this tour was made for you. Visit the city of Lima, the capital of Peru and its excellent landmarks including the Palace of the Archbishop, the Government Palace and the Cathedral of Lima. You will, of course, experience the ancient capital of the Incan Empire, Cuzco, which contains some ruins of its own and will be your gateway to touring the incredible Machu Picchu. This tour also visits Sacred Valley, Ollantaytambo, Uros Islands, Puno and more! This exceptional tour brings you to some of the most photographed and visited places in the world and is affordable as well. Get out your hiking gear because Peru awaits.

1. 13 Day Kaleidoscope of Morocco
If you have not been to Morocco yet, it is a must-visit! This up and coming country has been hugely popular this year thanks to its unique culture, vast array of things to do and excellent pricing! This tour offers many essential locations in Morocco including Fez, an OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAancient city with breathtaking views that you can decide to discover on your own or join the optional city tour. You will also visit Marrakesh where you will visit the Saadian Tombs, Koutoubia Minaret, the Medina and the Bahia Palace. On this Moroccan tour you will also visit Rabat, Erfoud, Rissani, Ouarzazate and Casablanca. There’s no better time than now to start seeing the world and all its beauty and culture. What better way to explore, than to enjoy our most popular tour of the year to beautiful Morocco?

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The Monasteries in the Sky of Meteora, Greece

on January 19, 2018

Meteora, Greece is located in the center of Greece in a town called Kalabaka, about a 4 hours drive outside of Athens. Meteora is actually the name of the rock formations of which you will see beautiful Eastern Orthodox monasteries atop of, like the one shown in this magnificent view. Of the about two dozen elevated monasteries in Meteora, only about 6 are living monasteries, and these are a truly a must visit while exploring Greece!

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This week’s #g1photofriday was submitted by Instagram user @adventuringattorney using the hashtag #gate1travel. This majestic view was taken while in Meteora, Greece in the town of Kalabaka. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s Greece tours here!