6 of the best Greek island towns

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If you’ve ever island-hopped in Greece, you’ll have noticed each island has its own capital – the chora. Though they are sometimes overlooked in favour of beachfront resorts, these towns and cities are as diverse as they are plentiful. In Ionian isles such as Corfu and Zante, clients will find a distinctly genteel vibe, but if they head south to the Cyclades, rugged and historic settlements seem to cling to cliff edges.

 

For a Greek island getaway with a cultural twist, they’re the ideal base. Spend mornings in archaeology museums, stop for an iced coffee in a bustling square, then hop on a local bus to go hiking in the hills or spread out on the sand – these cities put clients at the heart of it all.

 

1. Chania, Crete

 

Visitors to Chania, the cultural heart of Crete and its capital until 1971, won’t fail to miss its huge medieval harbour (pictured main). A 16th-century lighthouse watches over a port that once hosted up to 40 galleys – today’s travellers, however, are far more likely to board a would-be ‘pirate ship’ or glass-bottomed boat tour.

 

The waterfront is lined by a rainbow of old warehouses, transformed into restaurants and shops. A pink-domed Ottoman-era mosque now houses a peaceful art space, but if clients are looking for something livelier, they can head into Chania’s maze of alleys to hear street musicians and sip local wine.

 

Book it: Inspiring Travel sells a seven-night stay at Domes Zeen Chania from £2,329 per person, based on two sharing a Tropical Bungalow. Includes breakfast, transfers and flights departing August 15.
inspiringtravel.co.uk

 

2. Spetses