Things to do in Greece

Exploring from the water makes each day different. Gulet cruise the Dodecanese's starry first XI, ticking off UNESCO World Heritage sites recalling 6,000 years of previous enchanted travellers. Drop into secluded harbours for a taste of traditional island life. Marvel at Santorini's volcanic wonder or the 365 ancient churches of Ios. Or just dive into The Big Blue - magical depths rich with reefs, ruins and spectacular biodiversity.

Greece offers a trip through time as much as space, with six millennia of history and creativity. Take to the stage in the birthplace of theatre at the hill-ringed 4th century BC auditorium of Epidaurus. Or stand on the starting line of world sport at ancient Olympia. Be awestruck by mountain-set Delphi and its tales of prophecy, or stand amid the stones of Agamemnon's Mycenae conjuring the dramas it inspired. In Athens, explore the majestic Acropolis.
Less old but no less grand are the mountain monasteries rising in the majestic Loussios gorge, or the Byzantine island churches encountered while blissfully sailing the Cyclades. Along the way, spend time in Arkadia (yes, it really exists), lovely seaside Nafplio (first capital of modern Greece), and UNESCO-rated medieval Monemvasia hidden away on its own island off the Peloponnese coast.

Stride deserted trails across secret islands like Syros, Sifnos, Tinos or Ulysses' rugged home Lefkada on a Greece walking holiday. Pause for traditional villages, honey-stoned ruins and cooling dips on virgin coves, or just drink in the views and scent of wild herbs. Discover Santorini's volcanic beauty away from the throng. And on the mainland, trek Mt Olympus, Greece's highest peak – and home of ancient gods – for spectacular alpine flora and fauna.

15,000km of coast and thousands of islands make for water sports nirvana. Shallow waters and excellent winds make the Argolic Gulf ideal for windsurfing and kite surfing, or take things slower with kayaking or maybe some sea-biking! Brush up sailing skills on island voyages, feeling the wind and trimming the sails as you head for another perfect cove or characterful port.

Crystal clear water with 40m visibility makes Greece a diving joy. Fin past reefs and wrecks, sharing the briny with curious dolphins, colourful scorpion and parrot fish, sleek moray eels and barracuda plus, perhaps, loggerhead turtles and monk seals. Dazzle yourself with a night dive through phosphorescent plankton in a magical Ios bay. And don't forget the water snaking inland – you'll love rafting on the Lousios, one of the most beautiful rivers of Greece.