Everyone recognizes the iconic images of Greece: white washed architecture, blue roofs, cobblestone-paved villages and the turquoise blue waters of the Aegean and Ionian Seas. But venture further into this storied locale and discover a plethora of historic ruins filled with mythological tales of love and lore. Add in 6,000 islands (only 227 which are inhabited), a passion for fresh food and fine wines, and near perfect temps, and you've got a backdrop for romance.
Wedding Requirements While Santorini might be known as the most popular spot in Greece to wed, you can also choose from one of the country's many churches, historic town halls or even aboard a cruise on the Aegean Sea. Don't be alarmed if you hear honking horns in the street before or after your ceremony -- it is a friendly tradition here as passers-by wish you well. Contact the US Embassy in Greece before visiting to ensure you have all of the necessary documents. Generally, you will need birth certificates, a Single Status letter (along with an Apostille stamp, which you can get from the Secretary of State of your issuing state), and photocopies of your passports. Everything needs to be translated into Greek (except your passports) and sent in at least three weeks prior to the wedding date. athens.usembassy.gov/marriage.html
Things to Do
Athens Most international flights will take you directly into Athens, Greece's capital. For a day trip, check out Acropolis (Athen's "holy rock"), the Parthenon and the Temple of Athene Nike. Then shop in Greece's fashion mecca, Kolonai, where boutiques are filled with everything from the flea market to Jimmy Choo. And be sure to stop by Tsakalof Street -- a string of shops filled with shoes. Restaurants abound here from high-end to out-of-the-way taverns but don't leave without trying the souvlaki (small pieces of grilled meat or vegetables), Greece's national snack.
Santorini and the Greek Islands The Cyclades islands are the place to swim, sunbathe, waterski and windsurf. Santorini, the most iconic, is known for its blue domed churches and stepped streets. Start your sightseeing in Fira, the capital, set one of one if the island's highest points with striking views of the central caldera and the sea beyond . Then sample wine at one of the local vineyards (the island is known for its crisp, dry whites) before ending the day at Perissa, a black-sand beach lined with restaurants and bars. The Ionian islands are less traveled than the Cyclades, exuding privacy along vast stretches of sand or among forests of hundred year old olive trees hiding historic monasteries. While on the Dodecanese islands get away from the tourists at the hot mineral springs near Empros, Kos or the pebble-beach town of Livadia, on Tilos. The best way to get around the Greek Isles is by sea: cruises are popular, and they have a great ferry system during the warmer months. Come winter, when temps drop, the tourists leave and the islands are delightfully empty. The downside: Most ferries cut back dramatically on schedules and many resorts and restaurants close for the season, so check it out in advance.
Festivals You'll find a festival almost every month of the year in Greece. January 6 is the epiphany; in seaside towns, a priest will throw a cross into the water and young men dive in a competition to find it. February through March marks carnival season, the three weeks before Lent where everyone celebrates with dancing, drinking and dining. But the fireworks really come out for Easter: it's the most important date on the Orthodox Greek calendar, with loads of beautiful religious spectacle. (It's also a peak travel time for locals, and hotels fill quickly.) When summer hits, festivals are hard to miss but the Hellenic Festival is a favorite with plays and music held in the many indoor and outdoor venues.
Off the Beaten Path
Delphi Spend some time in Ancient Delphi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, located on Mount Parnassos and believed to be where Zeus's two eagles met after being released on opposite sides of the world. Among other things to see: a 4th century stadium, a tholos (dome), and the Sacred Way, a path once lined with "thank you gifts" offered to Apollo. — Tara Bradley
