Central Greece

Thermopylae, Delphi, Arahova, Galaxidi, Karpenisi; Evia and Skyros. Whether you love driving, walking, swimming or you are just an enthusiast of all kind of sports, in Central Greece you will discover where the heart of true Greece beats – while being enchanted by the variations of its landscape.

Historical landmarks and monuments, stone-built settlements, the Oracle of Delphi, exciting hiking trails, national parks, ski resorts, beaches with turquoise waters, traditional customs and flavours, all tell the story of one of the most beautiful regions in Greece.

Cultural landmark monuments

The first stop is at Delphi, considered the navel of the world by the ancient Greeks. The site itself, with the temple of Apollo, the Castalia fountain and the adjacent museum, is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece. Heroic Thermopylae, a stone’s throw from Kamena Vourla and its famous spas, reminds us of the sacrifice made by Leonidas and his 300 Spartans. In Viotia, the byzantine monastery of Osios Loukas with its renowned mosaics is yet another important monument, included in the UNESCO World Heritage list. In Evrytania, you will find the monastery of Panagia Prousiotissa, with its famed icon of the Virgin Mary, dating from the time of Iconoclasm and attracting thousands of pious pilgrims every year.

Discover the wonders of nature

Mount Parnassos, one of the renowned National Parks in Greece and also known as the “Mountain of the Light”, is covered with thick forests of black pine and Kefalonian fir. Discover the dozens of trails hidden in its lush nature, as well as the famous Corycian Cave (the place where the Nymphs and the Greek god Pan were worshipped during antiquity). Speaking of wonders, you will have the chance to explore Evia, an island of outstanding beauty with forests, waterfalls and stunning beaches, including the famous Chiliadou beach.  In Evrytania, you can visit the gorge of Panta Vrehei (‘It is always raining’), a magical place full of lakes, waterfalls, caves and dense vegetation.

The best beaches of Central Greece

Most of them unexplored, all wonderful, the beaches of Central Greece introduce you to their idyllic waters;  Eratini, Sergoula, Trocadero and Kalafati beach in Phocis, Glyfa, Aghios Konstantinos, Kamena Vourla / Galini in Phthiotis, Aghios Isidoros and Plaka in Viotia… and, of course, the beaches of Evia;  Drosia and the famous Lefkandi (a stone’s throw from Chalkida), Kalamos and spectacular Chiliadou in Central Evia, Edipsos and Limnionas to the north, as well as Chrisi Ammos beach and the famous Figia to the south.

Beautiful settlements, long history

Chalkida: Ideal for a weekend getaway. Its trademarks are the Euripus Strait and the old bridge. A wonderful esplanade with fish tavernas and cafes awaits.

The Spa of Edipsos: You’ll discover a Belle Epoque atmosphere in one of the most timeless spas in Greece.

Arahova: Cosmopolitan Arahova, below the Parnassos ski resort, is  popular for winter holidays, before or apres ski.

Delphi: In the historic settlement of Delphi you will find the house-museum of Angelos Sikelianos, the Greek poet that revived the Delphic Festival in 1927 and 1930, as well as the European Cultural Centre of Delphi.

The other side of Mount Parnassos: Polidrosos, Ancient Lilea, Tithorea, Amphiklia, Gravia with the famous “Hani of Gravia” are just a few of the attractions hidden on the… other side of Mount Parnassos.

Galaxidi: The tiny port of Galaxidi has a very special charm thanks to its many attractive sea-captains’ houses and wonderful maritime museum.

Amphissa: The noble city with the old quarter district of Harmena, the impοsing castle, the traditional cafés and the Vagonetto, a unique theme park, the only one in Europe telling the story of extracting bauxite.

Karpenisi: The capital town of Evrytania is an ideal winter destination near the ski centre of Velouhi. Stylish hotels, traditional restaurants, tiny cafés and a beautiful landscape welcome you to this lively town.

Korishades: Traditional stone houses, trees, picturesque streets and the Museum of the National Resistance adorn the most beautiful village of Evrytania.

Skyros: The island with a character all its own. A scenic town (Hora), wonderful beaches, the Skyrian horse, the intricate wood-carved furniture, the monastery of Aghios Georgios with its miraculous icon and a famous carnival will offer you unforgettable holiday experiences.

Hiking, skiing and river trekking

Central Greece offers a huge range of activities from below sea level to the peaks of imposing mountains all year round. Evia’s trails will introduce you to the true magic of its lush nature. On Mt Parnassos more than 50 trails –among which is the E4 international trail, - as well as old paths, unravel through stunning scenery, perfect for hiking lovers. If you are looking for a skiing holiday, visit Mount Parnassos’ ski center, Greece’s largest and best organized, or the one in Velouhi, where you will also enjoy the outstanding view. The gorge of Panta Vrehei in Evrytania would be the ideal choice for river trekking.

Splendid local specialities and delicacies

Besides the breathtaking natural beauty and beaches, this holiday destination is also famous for its authentic local flavours. Among the most popular are katiki, a soft, fresh cheese from Domokos and the famous formaella and homemade pasta from Arahova. Add to this the prosciutto, as well as the excellent local meats and cheeses, produced in Evrytania and the vast olive groves of Amphissa, yielding superb olive oil, and you’re left with a deliciously unforgettable taste experience!