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  • Things not to miss
If there are 1000 things to do before you die, having a sundowner overlooking Santoríni's crater would near the top of the list. Lie back and enjoy the unforgettable scenery of one of Greece’s poster beaches. Rising like ecclesiastical eagles’ nests, these monasteries are among the most awe-inspiring religious sites on earth. The bare granite cliffs of Ýdhra (aka Hydra) soon part to reveal the fabulous horseshoe of its harbour, perhaps the most scenic in Greece. There’s much more to Greek wine than dodgy retsina and you should visit at least one vineyard while you’re here. For more information, see Wine. A trek to the home of the Greek gods is supremely atmospheric and a worthwhile challenge for hikers. Billed as the Greek Tuscany, this region has it all: lush countryside, excellent beaches, character-packed villages and superb treks. Experience the most frenetic nightlife east of Ibiza at the party capital of the Greek summer. A ghost town that provides a time capsule for the modern tourist to step through to the Byzantine age. The 16km descent of this lush and leafy gorge enclosed by towering rock faces is an unforgettable hike. For a true taste of Greece, tuck into a mezédhes (meze) platter of starters and dips accompanied by a glass of ouzo. The imposing relief of lions guarding the main entrance to the Citadel of Mycenae is, incredibly, thirty-odd centuries old. This small rock with its spectacular ruins is a cultural icon and a symbol of the birth of Western civilization. Famous as the setting for Captain Corelli’s Mandolin, Kefaloniá remains a firm favourite despite the crowds. Located in an unbeatable natural setting, this ancient site has retained its inscrutable mystique through the centuries. The biggest festival in Greece, Easter combines devout Orthodox belief with joyful spring celebrations. There are very few places on the islands where you can’t turn a windy day to your advantage, especially off Lefkádha in the Ionians or Náxos, Páros and Ándhros in the Cyclades. Once home to the ancient Colossus and the medieval Knights of St John, this is one of the most captivating islands in Greece. One of the most beautiful islands in Greece, Pátmos is also home to the haunting Monastery of St John the Divine. Mamma Mia! what an island – you can see why Hollywood’s location scouts chose this as the ultimate sun-drenched Greek escape. Simply the best restored, vividly coloured and ultimately most exciting of Crete’s Minoan palaces. With its elegant Venetian architecture, fine museums and, uniquely, a cricket pitch, Corfu’s capital is the heart of the Ionians.