
Because of its proximity to Attica, the history of Kea is closely linked to that of Athens, and the island has been inhabited since the late Neolithic period. During the Persian invasion the Keans fought alongside the Athenians at both the battles of Salamis and Artemisium. The only Cyclades islands to fight on the side of the Greeks apart from Naxos were Kea, Kythnos and Tinos. The Parians prudently waited at Kythnos to come in on the winning side, and for this act of duplicity they were afterwards forced to pay a heavy indemnity by Athens.

The capital and the largest city of the island. In the middle of the north coast, is also the transport hub with the international airport and the sea port, resulting in that most of tourism traffic arriving in Crete will pass from Iraklion at least twice. The city has a population of 120.000 the fifth largest in Greece.

Tinos lies very close to the southern tip of Andros. This is the holy island of Our Lady, which in August is swamped by pilgrims who have come to pray in Her church or in fulfilment of a vow. As Our Lady's feast day on 15 August approaches, the church and the town of Tinos become crammed with people, and religious services take place next to the commercial fair being held in the surrounding streets. A line of mountains, whose highest peak is Mt Tsiknias (in the myths, the home of the wind-god Aeolus), runs the length of the island.
When staying on one of the islands of Greece, you'll receive a two-fold benefit. First, the scenic mountains, forests and coastlines will mesmerize you. Second, there's a quiet stillness in many of the remote locations that is very inviting if you want a peaceful vacation. If you plan to visit several different islands in Greece, you might find an island tour package helpful. You'll be able to visit several different popular islands, and the travel agency takes care of your transportation to and from the islands by ferry and also your hotel stay at each island. You can enjoy islands such as Crete, Kos, Lesvos and Rhodes during your visit to Greece without the typical hassles. These tour packages are also great if you're planning to tour the Cyclades. Many packages enable you to choose which islands you want to visit during your stay, and your hotels as well.
The best means of transportation to the Greek islands is the ferry boat. It's inexpensive and very relaxing. The ferry boats typically have snack bars, restaurants and comfortable seating. Some boats have cabins where you can rest during your trip. There are also modern ferries that are similar to airplanes. These provide TV or movie entertainment, comfortable chairs and great food. Tip: Be sure to plan ahead when staying on an island. Make sure a ferry ride is available at the times you'll be arriving at or departing from each island. If you're uncomfortable planning the trip, use a dependable travel agency to be safe.
Don't become so occupied with the islands of Greece that you miss the mainland! Greece's mainland has much to offer as well. The Peloponessos, for example, is referred to by many locals as the "true Greece" and has many stunning beaches, seaside mountains and unique towns such as Githeon. Here you can discover Greece's most amazing attractions, the Diros Caves and the Santorini volcano. Also, there's the Byzantine city of Mystras, which overlooks Sparta. Also on the mainland is modern Greece's first capital city, Nafplio. Here you can visit the area of Argolis to see archaeological sites such as Epidavros, Nemea and Argos. Nafplio has fortresses, restaurants, great beaches and an active night life. Another popular area on the mainland is the Town of Kalavrita, where you can go skiing, see scenic mountains, and also visit a gorge with a train that runs for 22 kilometers near waterfalls and rapids, and the Cave of the Lakes.












