06/30/2025
Just got back from a fun and refreshing summer adventure in Greece, and it delivered the perfect mix of history, culture, and coastal beauty I was hoping for. I started off in Athens, the lively and historic capital of Greece. One of the highlights was visiting the Acropolis — standing at the top and seeing the Parthenon up close was a great experience. The sweeping views over the city were impressive, and it was fascinating to soak in just how much history surrounds the place. I also spent time wandering around Plaka, a charming old neighborhood with a mix of local shops, neoclassical architecture, and cozy places to eat. The next day, I took a bus ride northwest to Delphi, about two hours from Athens. The ruins are set in a beautiful mountainous landscape, and walking around the Temple of Apollo and the ancient theater gave a real sense of how important this site once was. Thankfully, it wasn’t too crowded. I also hiked up to the Stadium of Delphi, which overlooks the sanctuary below and offers an incredible view of the valley — a great bonus to the visit. On the way back, we stopped by the town of Arachova, tucked into the slopes of Mount Parnassus. It had a lovely mountain-town charm, with beautiful views and a glimpse into local culture. Overall, it made for a great day trip to and from Delphi. Next stop: Santorini — or Thira, as it’s known historically — one of the Cycladic islands in the Aegean Sea. It’s one of the most famous islands in the world, and for good reason. With its dramatic cliffs, whitewashed villages, volcanic beaches, and views of the caldera, the scenery was stunning. I spent three days there, exploring the island at an easy pace. Of course, I caught the famous Oia sunset, which lived up to the hype. Santorini had a laid-back yet vibrant energy that made it easy to enjoy. From there, I took a ferry to Naxos, which turned out to be the most relaxed part of the trip. The ferry ride was smoother than expected, and as soon as we arrived, the massive marble Temple of Apollo (also known as the Portara) greeted us right by the port. Facing the island of Delos, it’s an iconic landmark and the unofficial symbol of Naxos. The island itself felt more local and low-key compared to Santorini, with beautiful beaches and clear waters in every shade of blue and green. Some parts even reminded me of my hometown in India — a mix of simplicity and warmth. Overall, the trip had a little bit of everything — ancient history, incredible landscapes, scenic beaches, delicious food (especially the Greek yogurt!), and the chance to slow down and take it all in.
