Greece is thought to have up to an incredible 6000 islands although only 227 are inhabited. The islands are spread between the Aegean sea to the east and the Ionian sea to the west. Car hire is available on a number of the islands as well as at many locations on the mainland. If you are thinking of travelling between the islands and the mainland, it is a good idea to make sure you have adequate insurance to take a hire car on a ferry.
Syros is in the Aegean Sea. It is over 80km² so car hire is the ideal way to see all of the island. The main town Ermoupoli is built on two hills and has a grand feel. This is in contrast to Ano Syros which has the characteristics of a Cycladic village. There are so many beaches on the island but, whether you choose Kini beach to the west of Ermoupoli or Azolimnos to the southeast, a hire car will get you there more comfortably.
Another beautiful island in the Aegean is Thassos. The waters surrounding the plentiful supply of beaches are crystal clear. Head inland to discover quaint villages with traditional stone houses. Go trekking and explore ruined castles and mystical caves. The ancient Agora, the remains of a market, are well worth a visit and easy to reach when you have your own transport.
Kos is one of the Dodecanese islands and is actually located far closer to Turkey than the Greek mainland. Although many visitors are, quite naturally, attracted to Kos because of its superb beaches, this fascinating island is brimming with history and culture. And to add to that Kos still has some unspoilt wild areas and the Dikeos mountains perfect for walkers.
The area around Thessaloniki has many opportunities for day trips with a hire car. Within a couple of hours drive of the city of Thessaloniki are several very interesting places to visit. The remains of the ancient city of Aigai were found near the city of Vergina. The most important finds were the palace and the burial ground. The spectacular Edessa waterfalls are a must and the Cave of Petralona formed about a million years ago is captivating.
Chalkidiki, or Halkidiki as it is also known, is a popular tourist destination with gorgeous beaches, a vibrant nightlife and cultural hotspots including Stageira, the birthplace of Aristotle, and the mosaics of Olynthus. If you fancy exploring further afield with your hire car, then head for the city of Kavala, one of the most attractive cities in Greece. The old city boasts a castle, an acropolis and a lighthouse so no shortage of wonderful buildings to see.
You may decide to fly to Athens and begin your Greek holiday from this stunning capital city. Considered to be the birthplace of democracy, Athens is built among seven hills. If you are heading away from the city with your hire car, take time to visit the Parthenon, the Plaka district and the Temple of Olympian Zeus before you travel onwards. Athens is crammed full of ancient ruins but these are mixed in with some very modern buildings making it an extraordinary city to explore.
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