Here is why Greece is a country worth visiting

Greece is a country that has a lot of history and beauty. Many around the world know the country because of Ancient Greece, Greek Mythology and because of the greek islands such as Santorini and Mykonos.

However, Greece as a country offers more than just two very popular luxurious party locations and the backstory of Zeus. It is a country that needs to be explored, because it can offer you some of the best experiences as a traveller.

The Greek island and mainland with 'mystical' caves

When people think about Greek islands, they instantly have a vision of cobbled pathways, white painted houses and cute windmills. But what they don't know is that Greek Mythology is still hidden deep in caves on some islands such as Kefalonia.

In Kefalonia, there are two caves called the Melissani cave and the Drogarati cave. Both caves are close to each other, but they look completely different. According to Greek Mythology, the Melissani cave was once a home to the Nymphs, but it looks like a home fit for mermaids, with its clear turquoise waters glistening, as the sun is shining through the large hole that's on the cave rooftop. In order to enter the cave, you have to enter a small rowing boat and it is definitely worth the adventure.

The Drogarati cave looks like it's a home that's fit for a dragon, with the colour amber being so bold as the inside of the cave is covered in stalagmites and limestone formations. The cave is sometimes used for concerts and you can get a tour inside.

On the mainland in the Attica prefecture, there is the most famous cave in Greece called Koutouki cave. Situated on the Eastern slope of Mount Hymettos and above Paiania is a cave that was only discovered due to an accidental fall of a goat (the poor goat). It is now open to visitors who are wanting to be allured by this cave, that looks like it could have been a holiday home for Hades, due to the unique pattern of the metamorphic limestone inside.

Greek islands with some of the most incredible beaches

While Santorini might offer some of the most picturesque views and Mykonos might have the best sunsets, Lefkada is known to have some of the best beaches.

Lefkada is located in the Ionian sea and it is an island that is still connected to the mainland. It is an island that's loved by the locals and that travelers still need to discover. Lefkada is a huge island, with the best beaches being located on the west coast, such as Porto Katsiki and Egremni. Just imagine yourself lying on a golden sandy beach, with nothing but beautiful crystal blue turquoise sea that is clear in the shallow part and continues to turn into a deeper shade as the water becomes deep.

Close to Lefkada is Kefalonia, Ithaca and other small islands that are a boat ride away, making it the ultimate day trip to explore and swim.

Agistri is another Greek island that has some of the most incredible beaches. It is a small island that is 55 minutes away from Athens by ferry and it is worth visiting. The waters surrounding Agistri resemble natural swimming pools, as they are a naturally bright blue colour and contrast to a deeper dark blue shade as you continue to swim away from the coast. It is definitely worth visiting Aponisos beach, which is an organised beach run by a local family, and Dragonera beach, that is partially organised and usually suitable for campers.

Mountains and hilltops that will make your jaw drop

Greece is a mainland with a lot of mountains and hilltops, however there are a few that should be added to your travel bucket list.

The first is Meteora, because of the unique landscape and rock formation that makes it look like the rocks have rooted from the ground and have grown to a high peak, making the surrounding village look tiny. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it is absolutely breathtaking.

The second mountain that's worth visiting is Mount Athos. The tall rock formation is located above sea level, making it look like it could be the perfect setting for a fairytale.

Located in Athens is Mount Lycabettus. This small yet tall mountain stands grandly and has views on top that overlooks the city, with some of the best panoramic views. It is a reminder of Ancient Greece and still has a major influence on modern Greece, with many being inspired by what it stands for.

Trying the Greek cuisine

When visiting a new country for the first time, it's important to try the local cuisine. Yes, there is the safety net of familiarity by ordering meals that you know will be good (junk food etc), but it's important to give yourself the full experience by having a taste of the local cuisine.

The Greek cuisine is a healthy mediterranean diet, but it also has comfort dishes too. In order to get a good dining experience, it's important to visit non touristy restaurants and to follow where the locals go. However, there are just some cities and islands in Greece that will give you the best food scene.

Thessaloniki is a city located in Northern Greece and it is known for the dish Bougatsa. This is a filo pastry dish that has a creamy-custard filling and is topped with icing sugar. There are also savoury versions available, with minced meat being the filling. This city serves big portions and has a lot of delicious goodies worth trying.

Athens is a city that is worth visiting if you want to try Gyros or Souvlakia. There are many souvlatzidika (kebab shops) that serve delicious pita bread wraps with pork or chicken gyros or kalamaki (greek word for skewer), lettuce, tomato, tzatziki or mustard mayonnaise sauce and chips.

The majority of Greek islands are known to serve incredible seafood and fish dishes, but one island that is usually overlooked because many go to bigger Greek islands is Aegina. Aegina is the island that has locally produced (and delicious) pistachio nuts, but they also serve really good seafood and fish dishes. If you visit the village Perdikia, you will find a small strip on the port with fish tavernas where many locals dine.

When it comes to slow cooked meals then you have to visit Crete. The Cretan cuisine has many dishes that can be found almost anywhere, such as Pastitsio, but you can also taste dishes that are the local's favourites such as Dakos and Hochlioi Boubouritsi (fried snails).

Coffee culture is also huge in Greece, which is why it's important to try it and it's always made good, wherever you go.

Coffee and dishes to try:

Freddo Espresso

Freddo Cappuccino

Frappe

Greek Coffee (Eilliniko)

Moussaka

Pastitsio

Gyros

Spanakopita

Tiropita

Galaktoboureko

Loukoumades

Bougatsa

Tzatziki

Taramosalata

Gemista

Soutzoukakia

Saganaki

Feta baked in filo pastry, with honey and sesame seeds

Xorto

Briam

Fasolada