Fortezza – A Worthwhile Visit with Room for Improvement. Historically, Fortezza is a fascinating site and absolutely worth a visit while in Rethymno. The entrance fee is €5 for a single adult, and you can explore the grounds in about 40 minutes to an hour—assuming you can handle the intense July heat and direct sun. The panoramic views of the sea and the city are stunning, offering plenty of breathtaking photo opportunities for those into photography or scenic walks. However, there are a few things to keep in mind. There is no guided tour or detailed signage throughout the site, so those interested in learning the historical context may want to research in advance. Some areas appear to be accessible for children, but I would strongly caution parents—there are several open drops with only a small chain as a barrier and no warning signs. Supervision is absolutely necessary. Maintenance could be improved. We noticed visible garbage in a few of the indoor areas that were otherwise open to visitors. There is a stand-style café inside selling coffee and cold drinks, which seemed popular, though I did not purchase anything myself. Washrooms are available near the entrance, along with a small gift shop offering some interesting items. Overall, the Fortezza is a memorable and culturally rich stop, but it would benefit from better upkeep, clearer safety measures, and more historical information for visitors.

€5 per person. No wait time. It's a nice city view point and you need around 30minutes to stroll around the Fortezza. Not much to see within the area though. Visited in early September at around 12:00 and it was warm and a bit windy, still manageable to walk around for 30minutes.

Nice place to visit. We payed 12 euros for one kid and 2 adults. The view is amazing, but there is no guide and nothing written about the history of this place. Feels like they don’t invest much of taking care of it. Worth visiting bit could definitely be improved.

Big fortress with some preserved ruins and buildings. Some chambers are accessible and are extremely interesting. Unfortunately there is a smell around lots of the ruins.

Fortezza is certainly worth a look. The streets up to the Fort when on foot are stunning and then the views from the Fort of the old town are fantastic. I would avoid the midday as there is very little cover or shelter form the sun and it was very hot. The entrance fee was not bad and i would say does reflect the lack of places to see inside.

We visited this after walking past it numerous times and I think it would've been best to keep how it looks inside in our imagination. The ticket is €5 per adult and even that felt a bit much. The only thing worth seeing here is the view of the city from the fortress. Other than that, the place is just dirt, rocks and some rundown buildings. There is no tour guide or even plaques explaining what you're looking at. This place has so much potential, but it's so badly maintained... Too bad it's being managed by incompetent / uninterested people.

Great views. Large complex, however not really much to look at and what there is has no signed history. Could be so much better. Typical Greek EU spent funds with no long term plan for continued maintenance and improvement

Pro - the location is perfect, right in the old town with easy access to the beaches, restaurants and bars, and all major attractions. The room I stayed in, I3, with courtyard view, has the necessary accommodations for a trip - fridge, mini oven, iron, hairdrier, washing machine. The bed was comfortable. Stella, the hostess, was very nice and understanding. Con - I was anxious when I read in 2 other reviews that the air conditioner from the room next door is noisy, and I was hoping this was an overstatement. Unfortunately, it was an understatement. Room 3 does not have a noise canceling window, and the air conditioner from the room next door is extremely noisy (imagine a helicoper noise all night long). When I signaled this issue, the owner called some technicians that sprayed the machines with water, which has nothing to do with the root cause, these should be replaced. I did manage to get used to the noise, as I slept with ear buds and a pillow on my head, but I need to be honest and warn others, especially if you are light sleepers.

Inexpensive, but there was a bad smell coming from bathroom and also there are restrictions with using the boiler. The apartment had old furniture aswell.

Very centrally located apartment in the old town. No parking available. The room was small

(Translated by Google) Great location, very close to everything. The apartments are stylish, the Internet works well, the hosts are not intrusive and polite, there is almost everything you need, the only thing missing is salt and butter, if you are staying for a short time, it is not very convenient to buy your own. The only downside is that there is a bed on the second floor and it gets a little hot there at night, the air conditioning doesn’t reach there, the air hardly moves. (Original) Шикарное расположение, очень близко ко всему. Апартаменты стильные, интернет работает хорошо, хозяева не навязчивые и вежливые, есть почти все необходимое, не хватает только соли и масла, если ненадолго заселился, то покупать свои не очень удобно. Единственный минус на втором этаже кровать и там жарковато ночью, кондиционер туда не достаёт, воздух почти не двигается.

(Translated by Google) Perfect location in the heart of the old town. Accommodation sufficiently equipped for a short stay. Cleanliness more than adequate. Quiet apartment despite the location which is a real plus! Pleasant and discreet owner. We recommend! (Original) Emplacement parfait au cœur de la veille ville. Logement suffisamment équipé pour un court séjour. Propreté plus que correcte. Appartement silencieux malgré l’emplacement ce qui est un véritable plus ! Propriétaire agréable et discret. On recommande !

(Translated by Google) It is an apartment in the Old town of Rethynon in Crete, near Venetian Port, Rethyno Cathedral, close to everything. In a quiet, clean place, it is modern, beautiful and has air conditioning, refrigerator, kitchen, TV. It is a very comfortable and cozy apartment. (Original) Es un apartamento en el Old town de Rethynon en Creta, cerca de Puerto Veneciano, de la Catedral de Rethyno, cerca de todo. En un lugar tranquilo, limpio, es moderno , bonito y tiene aire acondicionado,nevera, cocina, tv. es un apartament muy comodo y acogedor.

(Translated by Google) A very good place, we booked via booking for 4 nights and it fully met our expectations. (Original) Bardzo dobre miejsce, rezerwowaliśmy przez booking na 4 nocy i w pełni spełniło nasze oczekiwania.

Really interesting place to visit with lots to see, also very beautiful. There were a few rooms/object with a lack of information/ description. With a bit more info it would have been 5 stars.

We visited as part of a trip. Interesting place. Unfortunately many areas too dark to see exhibits clearly. Nearby cafe was poorly stocked and there were some birds and animals in adjacent garden in awful caged areas.

Loved our visit to the monastery. Such a sad history but it also showed the defiant and courageous character of the local people. Beautiful buildings and grounds steeped in history with an onsite museum. Highly recommend.

This monastery is truly a place worth visiting. Nestled in a peaceful setting, it carries centuries of history and spiritual depth. The atmosphere is calm and reverent — you can really feel the presence of the monks who still live and pray here. The architecture and icons are beautifully preserved, and there are many fascinating historical details to discover around every corner. Whether you’re interested in culture, history, or simply want to experience a moment of quiet reflection, this monastery is absolutely worth the trip.

Beautiful architecture and very photogenic though not tons to see inside, outside of the Gallery where more details about its history and important objects. We spent about 40-45 minutes slowly wandering through this 17th century monastery. The map provided showed the key places to see and gave a little context - no other signs were available outside of the Gallery. There are some uneven steps and low doorways so take care. It was busy but not crowded when we visited on a July Monday. They mention online shoulders and knees should be covered, but didn’t appear enforced based on other visitors. Small shop onsite with some Cretan souvenirs and a lot of Christian icons for sale. Prices felt a bit steep, eg €4,5-5 for a magnet. Large free gravel car park. Toilets available in car park area are adequate. Cafe next door has refreshments available.

Arkadi Monastery is a monument to the Greek people and the right of individual determinism. In 1866, the Ottomans sent a large army to Arkadi Monastery to crush a Cretan rebellion. Rather than surrender to become slaves, the small group of Cretans in the monastery decided to blow up the ammunition magazine to kill themselves and as many Turks as they could. This helped solidify foreign support for Greek independence.

A very good old monastery with an unique history. Probably founded in 11th Century by a monk named Arkadios. Here, monks had a history of taking parts in various historical events not only in Crete, but also in whole Greece. This monastery was once looted, it's monks were tortured, still these monks again came back to stay here. There is a museum also inside the premises.

I visited the Panathenaic Stadium in Athens during the summer. Being there feels like stepping back in time. The entire stadium is constructed from marble and faithfully follows the design of the original structure built thousands of years ago. It hosted the first modern Olympic Games and stands as a powerful symbol of Greek heritage and athletic spirit. I highly recommend visiting this historic site.

Amazing structure and a neat place to visit! If you are athletic, you might as well take a run around the Olympic stadium and feel like an Olympian Athlete! We ventured up the stadium and sat like a spectator and watched other visitors do the running around for us. Don't forget to stop in the mini museum. It has several of the old Olympic flame torches and photos. This place was packed in its glory days!

Amazing absolutely stunning. The stadium itself represents history. We went there for the Athens marathon and the place was completely spectacular. The runners turned up all the way from the Marathon and it felt great. Bravo!

Great historical site. Still relevant to today with the Olympic spirit. Small museum and included in €10 entrance fee is a self guided audio presentation which highlights interesting facts. Easy access with buses. If you visit on a hot day bring sunglasses and a hat. Two kiosks near entrance with drinks and snacks.Definitely highly recommended

We visited on a Oxi (Ohi) Day, a public holiday. The queue was quite long and since you can’t buy tickets online, you have to stand in the sun. It took us about an hour to get to the head of the queue. Don’t forget to pickup the audio guide that’s included in the ticket price. The museum under the stadium was nice too. It had torches from various olympic years on display.

An incredible piece of history — and truly impressive in person! Standing in an all-marble stadium where the first modern Olympics were held is a unique experience. The architecture is grand, and walking around the track or climbing the seats gives you a real sense of the place. Definitely recommended.

With just one full day in Athens, visiting the Panathenaic Stadium was at the top of my list -and it did not disappoint. The architecture is breathtaking, built entirely from marble and designed to transport you back to ancient times. Knowing it once held over 80,000 spectators -from everyday citizens to royalty -made standing there even more awe-inspiring. The entrance fee is €10, but with my UK student ID I was able to enter for €5. Inside, the vaulted passage showcases fascinating artifacts from the very first Olympic Games to more recent ones, including medals and torches from across the generations. I even ran a little race on the track (while chasing my hat that kept flying off in the wind!) -a playful and memorable moment that made the visit even more special. Totally recommend adding this stop to your Athens adventure;it’s history, culture, and fun all in one.

There are two trails. Looking from Acropolis the left one is way easier. It goes through the forest. The right one is paved, but seems longer and is steaper. The view is great, though for the view of Acropolis I would suggest Hill of the Muses, where the Socrates prison is. Less people, closer to the Parthenon.

A magic hill with a perfect view of all Athens and Piraeus, the sea and the sky meeting together and the horizon melted between! From the top of Lycabettus you can enjoy the beautiful sunset emerging in the sea and something special is that you enjoy the Acropolis from above instead of from below as you usually see it in Athens..

Amazing view, a bit of a hike though. Be prepared to get a bit hot and sweaty. Definitely worth it though. This is probably the best view of Athens

For. The. View. Wow. Looks daunting to get up, but disappointingly easy in terms of challenge and distance. Great view up top. For seeing the acropolis, mid afternoon not a great time as you get the glare from the sea.

When in Athens - going up Mount Lycabettus is a MUST! A superb view all over Athens with a small restaurant to enjoy a delicious meal or drink. A fenicular can take you up & down to the top.

It's a little bit long hike through the forest but it's worth it. You will be greeted by a friendly cats. Cable car is 7 euro per person

It’s a little bit of a trek to get up to the top but once you do the views are priceless. The hike from the bottom was about 45 minutes with a few short breaks. It’s definitely doable but be sure to bring some water along if it’s a hot day to stay hydrated. There is a little cafe at the top to grab some drinks and snacks once you get there to refuel for the way down. It was a bit of a mission but was quite an experience to say the least.

I didn’t quite u destined this is not accessible by a car or a buggy and drove all the way out to see it only to find a single track hiking trail. I guess I should have researched this better. The road to get to it is pretty rough as it is first a paved road and then a dirt road. Then it gets pretty rough and then to find out I don’t get to see without hiking was disappointing. Next time I come to see the island I will arrange a boat tour to see this!

A boat trip to Kleftiko is an absolute must-do while visiting Milos. We did a catamaran trip with Polco Sailing and it was one of the best days we had in Greece. The water is clear and warm, the history of the area is so interesting, and the rock formations are stunning.

Really the best way to get here is through a boat tour. I went with a great group. The waters were clear and fairly calm. Since it's October it was fairly chilly but the sun was shining so the cool water was welcome.

Beautiful spot in Milos that can only be reached by boat. Enjoyed anchoring and spending the afternoon there, swimming, and taking in the beauty of the rock formations

go by car and then walk on the designated road, I assume that 90% of the length of the car road is better quality than anywhere else on the island. We went with a Fiat Panda without any problems. When we arrived on foot at the shore, the boat tourers were surprised how we got there on foot...

An incredible place with a wonderful view. A must if you have the chance to come here. The landscape, the color of the water, the energy. Everything.

Absolutely stunning! My husband and I made the hike down and brought our goggles with us. We were able to swim to the caves and have a great snorkeling experience, as well as comfortably relax on in the private rock area at the end of the hike. Definitely recommend!

Last 3 minutes of drive up are unpaved and like others I got a flat tire. Otherwise the drive up is beautiful but also quite dramatic and treacherous. Not for the faint of heart! The cave is an amazing part of history and myth so I couldn't skip it it. One plaque at the entrance of the site gives a brief detail of its significance. Best if you read up yourself. According to Google the site is open til 8pm. Sign at entrance says 4pm. Was officially closed when I arrived but thankfully the gate door was open.

I would have given it 5 stars if not the unnecessary rails - in my opinion they could have been removed after the exploration of the cave. It is a really nice cave in terms of its shape and place, but the smell - it was hard for me to stay there longer, very strong smell of rotten wood and pigeon poop. It was very nice just to stay a bit longer next to the cave, it was very calms, only the birds and the echoes of their wing flaps bouncing off the cave. Beautiful little flowers. Our 9y/o son says spent all the time playing with the remaining snow just next to the cave. I would suggest to grab some snacks with you as it is a very nice place to sit with the view of plateau and have some snacks.

Found the car park there is a dirt track wglhich goes to another car park. The walk up was 430m and was really pretty. The caves had a guide but was full of bird poo. Personally found it a bit off putting but was free

The cave is noteworthy for its religious and mythical significance. Not an especially interesting-looking cave though still worth a visit. The highlight for us were actually the views of the mountains and the plain on the way to the cave. Spectacular scenery! Note that the last 1.5km of road to the cave is unsealed, single lane, rocky and has no Armco barriers. Daunting… if there are two cars passing each other..luckily there is very little traffic… we didn’t pass any other cars on the way up or down. Do-able.

I’ve seen many people turn back due to (presumed?) road conditions, It’s possible to drive up with a 2WD as long as you’re careful! Get to the site from Angoni in the north if you have a 2WD, other roads require a 4WD Quite a number of people in these reviews confuse this cave with the diktaen cave or psychrocave and claim this one is not worth it. The cave itself is not the typical fairytale cave- unlike the other contender - but rather the cave where you would expect Zeus to be hidden from Kronos. This has been a major site in the Minoan and Hellenic religions, evidenced by the finds made here, and just that fact makes it worth going. There is also a very interesting and imposing altar from antiquity at the entrance that is quite unique.

Great views, and interesting place. Worth to see. PS: in case 1km climbing is not for you, there's a road till the very end. It looks gravel, but in fact only beginning and the middle part are gravel. The rest is solid. With slow driving regular car can make it.

The drive up alone to this cave is worth it for the truly stunning scenery and interesting views, the plateau is incredible and looks like an African savannah, truly dripping in natural beauty. We arrived at the end of the tarmac road and carried on up the gravel road to a parking area just below the entrance, we walked up to the entrance to be greeted by a young lady and her son, she gave us a book on the area and informed us the entrance was free, she then proceeded to give us a guided tour, not a great deal to see but worth it none the less, over all a great visit and definitely worth the effort.

The trip was about an hour and a half from where i'm staying.But after you get out of the hustle and bustle, the trip was awesome. A lot of places you could pull over and take pictures or just pull over and go down to the shore. The temple itself was twenty euros, which seemed kind of high.But I did have a good time and got plenty of pictures.

The temple is beautiful, but the tickets are a little expensive for how much time you can actually spend here. This is definitely one of the best places you can watch the sunset from, though. We went on a semi-cloudy day, and even then the sunset was stunning. There is also a cafe that is nice to take some time to relax at, since if you're staying in Athens it is a bit of a drive.

A beautiful place in itself, but the unjustifiably high price of €20 made us turn back and take a free walk in another part of the peninsula, where the views were just as breathtaking. Is the price of watching the sunset — even next to such a stunning temple — really comparable to the entrance fee for Mycenae, Corinth, or Epidaurus, where, in addition to the ruins, you also visit a museum and get a wealth of information? A highly promoted tourist spot — deservedly so for its amazing views, but not for its price.

Well worth the visit. Beautiful spot for sunset or sunrise just pity cant buy tickets in advance and so creates lenghty lines to get in . One desk to buy tickets . Bathrooms another long line for ladies especialy.

This place is just magical during sunset.🌄 It was actually raining when we got there and just before the sunset at 18:30, the weather turned. There was also a beautiful rainbow🌈 Don't buy tickets in advance due to weather conditions, so just buy on the spot.

Visiting the Temple of Poseidon was an unforgettable experience. The temple itself is truly majestic, standing tall for more than 2,000 to 3,000 years and offering a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Greek history. The surrounding sea views are breathtaking, and when combined with the temple’s presence, it feels almost magical. The highlight of the visit was without doubt the sunset. It is one of the most beautiful I have ever seen, with the colors reflecting over the Aegean Sea and the temple glowing in the evening light. The road leading to the temple was also a wonderful part of the journey, with scenic views all along the way. A must-visit when in Greece! 🌅🏛️

The temple on the edge of the sea is a magnificent view. It's definitely worth it to visit. It's not so hard to get to there from Athens with the public transport. You can take the bus to Sunion which cost only 6.20 euros in direction. We took it from the Singrou-fix at around 11 o'clock. The trip to there takes around two hours and the road is very beautiful by the sea. The entrance ticket is 20 euros. There is coffee/restaurant there. The bus will drop you off right to the entrance of the temple.

Such a nice place. We went on a windy day and it wasn’t nice to go for a swim. The views are amazing. There are a lot of caves with long corridors inside- really impressive. The water looks amazing and you can spend 1-2hours just walking around. Free of charge. There is free parking. No easy access for handicapped.

A must go place in Milos. Better visit it in the morning with better sunlight and lesser people. Highly recommended to wear water shoes for easy walking and getting back to shores after swimming. Water is quite cold in October

Amazing spot. Loved swimming there. There are some caves as well. Highly recommended! Easy to get there by local bus (2euro) from the port. Lots of tourists- FYI

Went here twice during our weeklong visit to Milos! This place is out of this world — definitely one of my favorite watering holes ever. I’d recommend going for sunrise or sunset to avoid the crowds.

Sarakanikio is truly a sight to behold, with its unique lunar-like landscape. The white volcanic rocks and turquoise waters create a striking contrast, offering an unforgettable visual experience. It's a place where yoy can feel a sense of tranquillity and awe. It's a fantastic spot for sunbathing and swimming. This natural wonder is a testament to the raw beauty of our planet. Overall, it's a must-visit location for anyone seeking a memorable coastal experience.

Absolutely stunning! A must do in Milos. Went at sunrise and it can get crowded throughout the day, but totally worth it. Also, if you go explore farther to left you’ll be able to get away from the more touristy areas!

Sarakiniko, Milos, is an otherworldly destination that captivates all who visit. The "moon-like" landscape, with its wind and water-sculpted white volcanic rock, is truly breathtaking. It's a photographer's paradise, offering endless opportunities for stunning shots, especially during sunrise or sunset when the light paints the stark white stone with warm hues. The contrast of the brilliant white against the deep blue of the Aegean Sea is simply mesmerizing. Beyond its visual appeal, Sarakiniko is a place to create memories. It’s perfect for a romantic stroll or a tranquil moment of reflection. The smooth, wave-carved rocks invite exploration, and the small coves provide perfect spots for a refreshing dip. Whether you're an avid photographer or just seeking a unique and serene experience, Sarakiniko is an absolute must-see on any trip to Milos. It's more than just a beach; it's a geological wonder and a memory-making masterpiece.

Some photos of Heraklion archaeological museum. Was really fun and interesting. But I feel I wanted more time then I had to explore it all. After the guide was done we had only 20 min to explore the rest or buy some suverni. Would be great if it would have been 1-1,5 hours after extra. But overall it was a great enjoyment.

This museum is phenomenal! Informative, clearly laid out, fabulous collection of artefacts. Super helpful for understanding and appreciating the history and culture of the Minoan people (especially alongside a visit to Knossos Palace). I would recommend spending at least two hours here—I did 1.5 hours and wished I had more time. Entry was free on the day I visited.

The Heraklion Archaeological Museum is an absolute must visit in order to gain an understanding and appreciation of the astonishing Minoan civilization. Suggest visiting the Archaeological site of Knossos first and then visit the archaeological museum. Focus especially on the Phaistos Disc, the priestesses with the upraised arms, and the amazingly beautiful frescoes. Suggest you allow two to three hours to get a good tour of the museum. Also, keep in mind that after 1450 BC, Crete had a blended Mycenaean-Minoan culture.

Totally a MUST-visit after Knossos palace. The collections are absolutely incredible - so detailed, beautifully displayed, and full of context that really ties everything together. You finally get the full picture of Minoan history, myths, and daily life (and honestly, it makes Knossos make so much more sense 😅). I loved how well-organized everything is - from tiny gold jewelry to fresco fragments. Ypu could easily spend hours here if you’re into ancient culture. Unfortunately I came 1.5h before closing so I still have a feeling that there was so much more to see. Tip: go after Knossos, not before - it’s like getting the answers after the adventure 😉

Had the option of coming here as part of a Knossos tour. It is a complete no brainer to choose to visit as the museum amplifies and expands your appreciation of the history of Crete particularly after visiting Knossos. I was unable to book tickets online beforehand, but the queue was worth standing in for 15-20 minutes, i'm unsure how long it is normally but there was on a Wednesday a later opening time of 1-8, so it was just a one of those things. However it was a superb building and rooms to view and look at the archaeological finds. Everything was densely packed in but was thoughtfully laid out and I could have spent much longer than the 1.5-2 hours I had available, and this was just prioritising the first floor with the Minoan finds.

Amazing place full of items mainly from Knossos Palace. I would recommend visiting this place prior to seeing Knossos Palace. There is a cafe with a great view over the part of Heraklion and sea port. To avoid the crowds i believe it is better to come in an afternoon.

What can I say, the archaeology in this museum is amazing. The amount and quality of the finds on display at stunning. It covers all throughout the ages. We visited Knossos before visiting the museum, everything just slots into place and you get to understand the history and relevance of the finds.

This place is amazing. Overwhelmed. One can ask a simple question- how would they build without having today’s technology and tools? You can explore it on your own, taking a local bus from downtown Heraklion for over 2 euros- 2nd zone. Early afternoon there are less people. If you like you can hire a local guide or use your phone to download valuable information. I recommend 2-3 hours of your time. There is a toilet before the gate - nothing inside. There are few benches you can sit while walking around. There is a cafe and souvenir shop with not expensive basic guidebooks in different languages. There is a huge parking lot, I believe for free. We did not need it, since we used a bus.

I really like how certain areas are restored next to the unrestored sections so you can really see the passage of time. Nice open site with plenty of shady spots to sit. Small cafe area at the front is fairly busy, but once you’re inside the grounds it feels very spacious and open.

The Minoan palace of Knossos is the second most visited site in all of Greece. Of course, the most visited site is the Acropolis of Athens. Suggest that you buy a couple good guide books on Knossos, and fully read and absorb them prior to your visit. This enable you to fully appreciate and understand the heroic achievements of the Minoans in creating this beautiful palace. Suggest paying homage to Sir Arthur Evans for excavating and preserving this magnificent archaeological site. Suggest to eat the crowds that you arrive by 0900.

Some photos of the Knossos palace and archaeological site. Was really fun and interesting. But I feel I wanted more time then I had to explore it all. Guide was amazing. But 1 hour extra would been great to walk around by one Self

Awesome historical monument. The reconstructed areas are tastefully done and the excavation has been done so you can really get a feeling for the importance of the site. The Knossos app (if you have a guide they can show you a QR code for the website) let's you see what many areas would have looked like before being ruined, so you can stand in a spot and see what it would have looked like. Well worth a visit.

The site is of course awe inspiring. Simply walking on the same grounds as the amazing ancient Minoans and trying to imagine how the palace looked like with the help of some of the restorative work done is amazing. Still, at times you feel quite lost. Can't truly understand what has been restored(except for the clear ones), what was original and most of the signs don't really help that much either. For such a historical site, there should be an improvement on all aspects.

A must for any history buffs. It’s so interesting and not difficult to walk around. Enjoy your tour with a guide. They will explain everything and help you skip the queue. There is toilets, cafeteria and a gift shop. Plus the resident peacocks and cats. Buses and Taxis easy to get to and from the site.

This place is amazing. Overwhelmed. One can ask a simple question- how would they build without having today’s technology and tools? You can explore it on your own, taking a local bus from downtown Heraklion for over 2 euros- 2nd zone. Early afternoon there are less people. If you like you can hire a local guide or use your phone to download valuable information. I recommend 2-3 hours of your time. There is a toilet before the gate - nothing inside. There are few benches you can sit while walking around. There is a cafe and souvenir shop with not expensive basic guidebooks in different languages. There is a huge parking lot, I believe for free. We did not need it, since we used a bus.

I really like how certain areas are restored next to the unrestored sections so you can really see the passage of time. Nice open site with plenty of shady spots to sit. Small cafe area at the front is fairly busy, but once you’re inside the grounds it feels very spacious and open.

The Minoan palace of Knossos is the second most visited site in all of Greece. Of course, the most visited site is the Acropolis of Athens. Suggest that you buy a couple good guide books on Knossos, and fully read and absorb them prior to your visit. This enable you to fully appreciate and understand the heroic achievements of the Minoans in creating this beautiful palace. Suggest paying homage to Sir Arthur Evans for excavating and preserving this magnificent archaeological site. Suggest to eat the crowds that you arrive by 0900.

Some photos of the Knossos palace and archaeological site. Was really fun and interesting. But I feel I wanted more time then I had to explore it all. Guide was amazing. But 1 hour extra would been great to walk around by one Self

Awesome historical monument. The reconstructed areas are tastefully done and the excavation has been done so you can really get a feeling for the importance of the site. The Knossos app (if you have a guide they can show you a QR code for the website) let's you see what many areas would have looked like before being ruined, so you can stand in a spot and see what it would have looked like. Well worth a visit.

The site is of course awe inspiring. Simply walking on the same grounds as the amazing ancient Minoans and trying to imagine how the palace looked like with the help of some of the restorative work done is amazing. Still, at times you feel quite lost. Can't truly understand what has been restored(except for the clear ones), what was original and most of the signs don't really help that much either. For such a historical site, there should be an improvement on all aspects.

A must for any history buffs. It’s so interesting and not difficult to walk around. Enjoy your tour with a guide. They will explain everything and help you skip the queue. There is toilets, cafeteria and a gift shop. Plus the resident peacocks and cats. Buses and Taxis easy to get to and from the site.

We visited the aquarium and rescue center during our trip to Crete. The aquarium is very well organized, with a great variety of marine life, from colorful fish, turtles to reptiles. It's both fun and educational – perfect for families, but also interesting for adults. The rescue center part was especially touching. It’s inspiring to see how much effort goes into rescuing and rehabilitating injured turtles. The staff is passionate and knowledgeable, and they were happy to answer all our questions. It's heartwarming to see these beautiful creatures being cared for so well. Highly recommend visiting – it's a great way to learn, support a good cause, and enjoy the beauty of marine life!

Lovely little place run by people who enjoy their job and are good at their job. Very interactive with being able to touch and hold some of the animals. Is a small place, only took around 30 minutes to look around and interact with animals. Did not cost much to enter 10 euros which we payed for at the door, was no waiting time to enter. Although I understand this is a rescue centre they do have some long term wildlife in the facility that will not be reintroduced into nature I feel the vivariums/ tanks could be bigger and more engaging for the animals. In particular a few lizard tanks looked over crowded and some animals in small tanks. Including a very large fish which only had minimal movement.

Well worth a visit. Got to see the sea turtle and octopus being fed as well as listening to detailed history of all the amazing creatures on show. You can hold various reptiles if you are brave enough. The best thing about this place is the fact it is supporting the local ecology, is not owned by a bif corporate entity and is a labour of love. Any money you spend here directly goes to the looking after of the animals and funds future expansion.

What a wonderful little place! Please visit and keep this place in business, they are worth it. The conservation work they do is great.. the aquarium part is really good, but the best part really, is the reptile section. I will not spoil anything for you as the surprise is much better witnessed in person with no warning (its not scary, don't worry). If I can, I will be back for another visit.

Wow wow and wow, we absolutely loved it here. You can tell as soon as you walk in that they love what they do all the animals are well looked after and there fact you get to get up and close to the reptiles. Definitely worth the visit you will not be disappointed. It's a great place to visit.

Very small aquarium/terrarium in a flat and yard. To avoid the place getting too crowded they let visitors in slowly and when previous visitors exit. This means a line forms. We waited over 30 minutes in line for what is essentially a 30 minutes visit. It is a nice little place if you don’t mind most fish and reptiles being held in small aquariums with little to no shelter. There are lots of general info posters about ocean life scattered around but not a lot of specific info on the animals in each aquarium beyond their names. The yard with the free-roaming tortoises and lizards is the highlight of course, but is rather crowded. Looks like the animals are used to nudging their way between the visitors. The staff in the yard are friendly and jovial. If you are here and can find a time without a line in the entrance then the place is worth a visit.

What to say about this amazing place. We first visited back on our first trip to crete possibly 2012! And we come every year since. The place is just great. They take care of the animals. They are so clean and so well looked after. The gent who owns it is just well a gent and his staff are so knowledgeable and friendly. We look forward to it every trip and is the first thing we book, we now bring our child who has also found a love for this amazing place. Thankyou as always

Not a Relaxing Stay – Needs Serious Improvement We stayed at the hotel with our extended family – adults and kids – during the summer. From the moment we arrived, the service was lacking. No welcome, no guidance to rooms, and the lobby was extremely hot with no drinks offered. Rooms were spacious but had weak air conditioning and ant problems in several of them. Beds were very basic and uncomfortable. Despite being told we’d get bottled water daily, we didn’t receive any unless we asked. The dining room was overcrowded and hot, with no air conditioning. Food was okay – better for kids than adults. The evening shows were unimpressive, and the Greek restaurant had a nice view but isn’t suitable for families with small children. Although the water slides were fun, there's no shade on the way up, making the ground too hot to walk on without shoes. The music around the pool was extremely loud all day, even in the rooms – not ideal for those seeking peace and quiet. Service overall was poor, and I even witnessed a staff member yelling at a guest over a simple food request. Wouldn’t recommend for anyone looking for a calm or high-quality all-inclusive experience.

The food is excellent and the selection is amazing! The area can be a bit windy since it’s up north, but there are plenty of other attractions to enjoy – lots of pools, fun water slides, kids’ corners, playgrounds, and more. The whole resort is quite spacious and access to everything is included in the price, even the sunbeds on the beach. It’s truly a paradise for children. Snacks outside of breakfast, lunch, and dinner are fantastic as well. You can choose from fresh vegetables, fruit salads, or classics like pizza and toasties – even vegetarians will be happy. The alcohol is not cheap quality either; they serve well-known brands like Havana Club and Beefeater. And at the bar, they’ll make you a real coffee, not just one from a machine.

We are On our last day at this hotel. Last 13 days have been great. Rooms are excellent, and cleaned every day. Lots of choice of food and drink. Places to eat all over the complex. Pools are a little cold, but everyone loved the new water slides. The entertainment team Jayden etc are a great laugh well worth getting involved with some of the activities. Overall fantastic holiday.

Great hotel for family vacation. Plenty of offers for children (pools, kids club, playgrounds). Mini Disxo for children on 6 of 7 days. 3 different restaurants (2 with breakfast and lunch) with all inclusive. Also 3 different pool bars included with drinks and some snacks. The Water Park is right next door and has multiple pools for all ages. Some slides for and access to sunbeds in the park and on the beach are also included. The staff is very friendly, especially towards children. The hotel is a great destination for vacation with kids!

! Take your time reading this😁 I just camed back from my holiday with my family and i want to tell you my honest review. To be honest i had the lowest expectations because i knew that on booking the rating wasn't very good.Me and my family usualy go to hotels that are +8.5 rating,but at that time it weren't many hotels available. So when we arrived i saw verry old walls and an old reception and my first thing that i said was:I don't think this is an hotel beacause it was so old and it creeped me out😅,but hear me out after we walked in the mini streets of the hotel i fell in love.Everything is close to eachother😍From the food zone-Beach side-activities-pools-rooms it is amazing. The sea is clear as the water,the views are amazing,and the waves are the best feeling🥰 Okay,THE FOOD WAS ABSOLUTLY THE BEST FOOD FROM ALL HOTELS,guys if u like eating meat,sea food,pasta,pizza,tacos,whatever u want litreally,go HERE!😋 HEAR ME OUT,my parents are very picky when it comes to food,we went to egypt,turkey but nowhere the food was so tasty like hear,the plates where finished😁Don't get me wrong,egypt and turkey have bigger ospitality and a larger amount of food and diversification,but we prefered to be very delicious and it was!I want to thank to all the members of Star Beach Village and we will totally come back!♥️ PS: in front of the hotel there is a whole street of the city center🥰

We come here just for a few hours to let our daughter play nice and clean not to busy, the water is fairly cold for young children to play in! The play park is excellent for all ages water park area is clean and amazing for children to run free for a few hours. Amazing place to take children to burn off some energy! Bouns its next to beach.

I stayed at Star Beach in Crete and had an amazing experience. The resort is fantastic, with delicious and varied food options. The staff were always kind, friendly, and very helpful. Everything was well taken care of, and I truly enjoyed my time here. I will definitely return in the future!

My mother waited 50 years to come here. Today we made her dream come true. An amazing place for Greek Orthodox Christians to visit once in their lifetimes. We saw a number of pilgrims entering the church on their knees - we were absolutely gobsmacked to realise they started this from the port nearly a kilometre away! Visiting again tomorrow.

Attracting thousands and thousands of people every year this church has been standing as the beacon of religion for many years among the believers. Truly an exceptional feeling visiting it, one that you definitely should not miss upon visiting the island. Many believers can be seen crossing the road on their knees moving uphill towards the church, an act of courage and importance among many, and one we should all admire!

A place that leaves a deep impression. The church is beautiful inside and out, with countless incense burners hanging from the ceiling that create a truly unique atmosphere. Even more moving is seeing the pilgrims making their way up from the port to the sanctuary on their knees, a powerful sign of devotion.

Second time in this church. The first time was 1 year ago when it had a big celebration with a lot of people lining up to get into the church, so I decided to skip. This time, on a normal Saturday afternoon, there was no line and quite quiet. Strolled around and just admired its peacefulness.

Amazing place and inspiring experience whether you are religious or not, this place and the effect it leaves on the faithful is both emotional and touching. Definitely a must-see while in Tinos.

This church is peaceful and absolutely wonderful. People are truly welcoming, the Holy icon is well presented . A nice place to be, to stay, to pray .

Lovely authentic pilgrimage church, complete with pilgrims. So Greek Orthodox. Really worth seeing.

As many other beaches we have experienced in Turkey, also this one is full of garbage. It's quite disgusting, and a pity. There seems to be no municipal cleaning service and people are uncivilised too. The beach itself could be gorgeous, long shore, shallow water.

This beach is undoubtedly one of the best beaches we have ever visited. Its pristine, golden-white sands and mesmerizing turquoise waters create a postcard-perfect scene. The beach is impeccably clean and offers a tranquil escape with complimentary sun loungers. Our kids were in absolute heaven. A must-visit!

Pristine white sand, family friendly, shower and toilet facilities. Fish are visible in the water. Amazing beach

The water is a bit cluttered with different debris like plastic waste and parts of algae, especially while entering the water, water’s edge But then if you go deeper, it’s cleaner The beach is quite spacious, there are few toilet facilities (quite smelly truth to be told) Sand is kinda clean

This is a difficult one, the beach in so many ways is superb. It long, sandy, shallow, the water even in late September is warm enough for swimming comfortably BUT.... Maybe it's because it's the end of the season but the beach is covered in rubbish, I mean cigarette buts, bottle caps, plastic of all sorts, I mean just so much. Ok you might say well lots of beaches have bits of rubbish on them these days but thus is the main tourist beach that is so long and wide it could easily have a tractor go up and down at night with one of those rubbish filter / trailers behind it. Such a shame.

Beautiful and clean public beach. Lots of space to find a good spot. Water is so clear and even end of September still OK temperature wise. There are cabins where you can change and even open showers to wash off the sand. Toilets are there but might be hard to look at... Nevertheless for a public and free beach extremely pleasant.

Stunning beach. Very clean. Water is warm and flat. Did plenty of swimming here in summer. A must visit.

Fun hike and experience past the river and waterfalls. Not an easy path as you cross over multiple surfaces, so it is a good challenge. Make sure to wear swimming clothes if you want to make it to the final waterfall. Best to park near the beach.

⸻ If you’re in Samos, this is an absolute must-visit! If you love adventure, water, and waterfalls, this place is perfect for you. It was truly an amazing experience. There’s no rope at the first crossing, but the second part has a rope to help you pass. Alternatively, you can use the ladder to get to the other side — it’s definitely the easier option. The water was beautiful — not freezing cold, just refreshing enough. One of the most stunning waterfalls I’ve ever seen in my life. Highly recommended!

Very nice walk. Bring your swimsuit if you want to see the first waterfall. At the restaurant, feel free to ask if you can see the food, the cook will be delighted to show you.

Nice, interesting place to visit. There is a lot of green trees and bush, calm river and rest from sun. First of all: you need waterproof bag, shoes for water and rocks and good condition. To reach first waterfall it’s sth around 15-20 minutes of walk, then you have to swim sth around one minute in cold water and you’ll see first of them. Nothing complicated, but still: you have to swim and don’t be afraid about rocks. Too see another ones, you need go by stairs (they are pretty scary) and then reaching taverna, go down also by stairs and steep hillside. On the right there is second waterfall (you have to go through the river). On the left, you have to go sth around 20 minutes in the river bed - a lot of slippy rocks. Be careful! It’s not for people who are not physically active. Although, still worth to see it.

Beautiful place. getting to the falls requires some wading and occasional short swims in cold water. Don't leave your expensive Salomon walking shoes at the start though as someone will steal them while leaving cheaper trainers and other stuff 🤬

Quite cool place but water cold as ice, even in July. Water shoes are necessary, just like swimming ability cause in one place in deeper, without feeling ground.

Bring good water shoes not flipflops. A wetbag to put your belongings (phone, water, a fruit), swimwear and strong knees and hands ;)To get to the "first part" of The waterfall you need to go up the wooden stairs (5min climb) then you go down on the side of the restaurant. Enjoy the adventure, take you time don't rush it. "Second part" we couldn't get there cause we weren't stong enough to pull ourselves up the rope. I wish I was cause I enjoyed that part we did do.

The most beautiful island, if you like Greece it's a place you must go, still very authentic, lots of beautiful beaches, churches, historic places to visit, if you don't go you will never understand the peace it brings to the soul.

The pleasant atmosphere of the island sets you up for rest. There are places for quiet relaxation and fun, noisy recreation. A large selection of taverns and souvenirs. But the cats here are not fed or given water either How to change this???

I visit the island every year! It is a big island with lovely places full of restaurants and coffee! The beaches are lovely and you can still find beaches that don't charge the umbrella and the sunbeds on top of your order! Pythagoreio, Marathokabos, Kokkari, and psili Ammos are a few of the places you can visit!

While being over in Turkey we done the day visit to the Greek island Samos. We had a really nice day over on the island and would recommend going if you've got the chance. It's absolutely beautiful! The only thing I would say is make sure you know what you want to do before going and possibly think about hiring a motorbike or car for the day as some of the main attractions are more inland of the island. We visited a lovely little pizza restaurant just along down from the main square of the marina which I would also highly recommend, really reasonable priced and amazing food!

Very nice island. In September the water was too cold to really swim or dive, but the people are very nice and the prices are only high in Pythagoreo and Kampos, everywhere else it's pretty cheap. The highlight of the island is the village Manolates there you can also find the only museum of the island. You need a car to explore the island. Its big enough to keep you occupied for a couple of weeks, but nearly all churches are closed or in disrepair. Honest review: Its totally worth a visit and has its own charme, but don't expect too much.

Wonderful place. The locals are really friendly and the island is great for hiking. It has a bit more foliage than some of the smaller islands which makes for great shade when the sun's burning. There are a lot of affordable places to eat and quite some nice hotels (I stayed at Villa Maria). You can get around the island by car or bus (or walking but that takes a bit long if all you need are some tomatoes for dinner). If you intend to use the bus often, which is what I did, make sure to inquire about departure times with locals, as this appears to change often. *Sidenote: I added a photo of the bus schedule as for april 2022.

Big surprise! Green island with beautiful beaches and warm, crystal clear sea and a few attraction. For active people I highly recommend hiking to Seitani beach and swimming in potami waterfalls, for lazy days Livadaki beach is a must, you won’t be bored. The people are super friendly, kind and talkative. Food tasty and affordable. I would say the west side prefer meat, in the East sea food is more common. There is no clubs. A lot of elderly tourists mainly from Germany. The city of Samos and Karlovasi looks like abandoned with its damaged buildings in other hand Pitagorio is absolutely lovely. Rent a car is a need. Take your swimming shoes but can forget snorkling. Temperature in October still warm 23-28°, evenings are chill and windy. Overall It is nice place to visit and rest.

Since you can’t really drive all the way through the park I have to get a rating at three. Is our understanding that there is a military base at the end of the peninsula which overlooks Greece so they do not allow your access to that part of the pregnancy.

Rated as one of the top 10 beaches we found in an online article we decided to head along in the car. The park is separated into around 4 or 5 beach areas each with its own car park and its own access to the beach. Several have cafes serving soft drinks (non alcoholic) and snacks only in what I can only describe as an archaic fashion. With dirty sunbeds at a cost there are however, free to use picnic benches which I would highly recommend but seemingly a feature well recognised by the locals. If you're lucky enough to be traveling in a car then I'd recommend finding your own private beach!

I went to Dilek National Park on a weekday in May 2023 driving a motorbike. You can only enter from the north side of the peninsula for a ticket. There are a few beaches that you can visit and are not too far from the entrance. Beaches are beautiful and equipped with facilities for pic-nic, bars and plenty of toilets. At the time of my visit, none of the cafes/restaurants were open. Unfortunately the area that you can visit is quite limited compared to the extent of the peninsula, I wish I could visit more. Also, if you need info about the peninsula and trekking possibilities there isn’t much available and I recommend visiting the tourist information point in Kusadasi (opposite the port).

best place for cycling, swimming or trekking

If you have a car or go by bus or taxi the beaches are a refreshing change from the resort complex! Relatively harmless boar roam around scavenging but only because idiots feed them and don't understand they'll keep coming!

Beautiful beaches and many areas to rest and eat on the waterfront.

Absolutely beautiful. The park was perfect for any family get together or picnic for two. The beauty in Turkey is spectacular. Friendly people everywhere.

This place is huge. One can find anything from printing service to suits and souvenirs. Of course there are a lot of restaurants and cafes. There is no need to visit every corner of it. Maybe just casually stroll and see where one is lead to.

Beautiful place, lots of stores to buy just about anything. Some are cheap and others expensive. Cool experience seeing the historical building and having a tasty Turkish coffee in the middle of the market. It’s closed on sundays. Free to walk around

AMAZING PRODUCTS+GOLDSHOPS🔥 BUT you must be careful… some shops are shady and try to sell you 8k as 14k gold❗️ I tell u what to watch out for!⬇️ The ones on the PICTURES ARE TRUSTWORTHY & HONEST PEOPLE🙏 offering AMAZING PRICES and sell REAL 14k GOLD👌 u can TRUST THEM🩷 My FAVOURITE shop is HALIS&ORHAN i bought nearly all of my jewelery from them. They tested all of their products and my old ones also in front of my eyes. They r the BEST shop in the whole Bazaaar hands down!🙌😍🤩🤘 There are some other shops where even the 14k tester-liquid is fake!!!! 585 stamped is 14kgold dont forget!! I solved it by cross testing a lot of shops, 😉 these down always gave me good products 🥰⬇️ Have fun🩷 hope my information helps you🙏

A great place to walk around. We tried the mussels and rice. They were excellent. We also did the pickle juice which was also excellent. Lots and lots of interesting shops.

Unique bazaar as there is no goods and shops for tourists. Most of famous bazaar in Turkey is full of shops for tourist with expensive price. But here, most of customers are Izmir people. I like this bazaar. Merchants are friendly and kind! Visit here and feel some authentic turkey bazaar vibe!

Kemeralti bazaar is quite a busy place. You can find hundreds of things to buy from there as the prices are reasonably low. Make sure you have enough space in your suitcase before visiting the bazaar because there are too many souvenirs to buy. There are beautiful bags with Turkish embroidery patterns and praying beads and countless teas and coffees. There are numerous cafes to have a quick bite but they are all super busy. This bazaar is a must visit place.

Really nice bazaar with everything from food to house utilities and party supplies. I had a lot of fun just walking and exploring

Beautiful and sacred holy ground. Be prepared to do a lot of walking as most vehicles are not permitted close to the entrance. We enjoyed seeing the home of the Virgin Mary. The wall of intentions was moving and special. We enjoyed walking the grounds and looking at the landscape. Recommend dressing modestly or you will need to wear a covering. Photography is not permitted in the house.

In Meryemana, Turkiye, the Virgin Mary's House is located. Reverant, quiet, with a prayer wall we stood in a contemplative mode, remembering the struggles of Jesus and the prophecy that was to unfold. I thought of the pain Mary and her sisters endured, but still after all these years Mary provides love and forgiveness to all those in need. These prayers and requests were represent at the prayer wall at Mary's House. It was symbolic of the needs from people all over the world. One gentle man touched my heart so, as he went around retrieving prayer notes that had fallen off the wall. He tenderly returned each note from the ground to the wall. A qentle act of kindness. There are no photographs allowed in Mary's House but prayer candles may be purchased there. Worth the visit!

Mary lived in this house after death of Jesus Christ. The house has two small rooms. The environment is very peaceful here. You will need to walk 10 mins to reach the house. Because of queue you may get a few seconds only inside the house. Overall, a must visit place if you are in Izmir.

Is it actually Mary’s house or just a tourist trap? Jury is still out. Is it worth a visit for you to decide for yourself? Yup. They herd you through the house at a gallop so don’t expect to spend much time checking things out inside the house. Basically just a quick walk through of a tiny house. There’s a holy fountain and a wishing wall too. The whole site might take you 20 minutes to get through.

We are overjoyed after visiting this beautiful place. We were fortunate to arrive before closing time, so we had enough time to explore this magical place and appreciate its magnificence. Very peaceful and calm atmosphere.

Very special and sacred. Be prepared for a bit of walking as cars are not permitted close to the entrance. The wall of intentions was special, and the grounds are lovely. Dress modestly or take a covering. Photography is not permitted in the house.

There was about a 30 minute wait to reach the house. As you reach the house there is an open air alter with priests leading mass. You would need to check the schedule if necessary. Our guide shared that only about 12-14% of the house found in the foundation is from an archeological dig. You walk thru 3 rooms that include religious pictures and statue. After you leave the house you come to 3 fountains that have been blessed. There is then a fence where people tie their prayers. At the end of the walkway are restrooms and a museum shop.where you can purchase blessed icons. Right outside the gates and at the entry are shops selling souvenirs, candy and food. To me this seems out of place at a religious place.

Beautiful location. A lot of the structures are intact and well preserved it was difficult to get there without a guide, taxi or tour group, so it can be pricey. The ancient library is a major highlight and they do live reacting of Roman guards. Lots of history. There is a small bathroom and market stand will snacks and food around the midway point of the walk. When we went (end of June) it was 103 degrees F° with no shade. We spent about an hour and a half walking through but needed to leave due to the heat. Would love to walk around more. Important: bring good hiking shoes that grip, the marble floors are polished and slippery. We had hiking boots and sandals and still slipped a few times, but our friends with simple sneakers had to walk very slowly and carefully to avoid falling down.

Visiting the land of Ephesus, the Ancient Greek Theaters and the Ancient Great Library of Celsus is a very special visit. The rain was pleasant and the temperatures cool ondaywevisited. Most visitorsshouldexpecthightemperaturesandverylittlecoolingbreezes. The Library of Celsus is an ancient Roman building in Ephesus, Photos of the library are world reknown. Ephesus is located in Anatolia, near the modern town of Selçuk, in the İzmir Province of western Turkey. It is world famous. It was designed not only to store scrolls and books—holding an estimated 12,000 manuscripts at its peak—but also to serve as a monumental tomb for Celsus, whose sarcophagus lies in a crypt beneath its main floor. Mark Anthony walked here long ago and households thrived and m markets prospered.

*Echoes of the Apostles and Empire* Standing in the Great Theatre of Ephesus is like standing in history itself. With a capacity of over 25,000 seats, this awe-inspiring structure was the largest theatre in ancient Asia Minor and still dominates the site with its grandeur. Built during the Hellenistic period and later expanded by the Romans, it hosted dramas, political events, and gladiator fights. For Christians, this theatre holds profound significance. According to Acts 19, the Apostle Paul’s preaching led many Ephesians to abandon idol worship, especially that of the goddess Artemis. This angered local silversmiths who made shrines for Artemis, causing a riot. The mob dragged Paul's companions into this very theatre, and for two hours the crowd shouted, "Great is Artemis of the Ephesians!" Knowing this brings the stones to life with spiritual history. Unfortunately, during our recent visit, the theatre was under restoration, so we weren’t able to go inside. Still, seeing it from the outside was deeply moving. One unexpected highlight was meeting the famous local cat “Garfield,” who’s become something of a mascot at the theatre. We took so many fun photos with him—it truly made the visit even more memorable. We recommend visiting early morning or late afternoon to avoid the strong sun and crowds. #EphesusTheatre #Acts19 #ApostlePaul #GarfieldTheCat #BiblicalSites #UNESCO #TurkeyTravel #AncientDrama #FaithJourney

Believed to be the largest in the ancient world: could host up to 25,000 seated spectators. Initially used for drama, in Roman times gladiatorial combats were also held on its stage. Elton John performed a special, solo concert at the Great Theater on July 17, 2001.

We stayed in Izmir and drove to it. It was roughly an hour to get to it. Very nice site and well preserved.

A must see. Our guide was very knowledgeable and made it easy to visualize how the residents lived. Very advanced facilities such as water pipes, tolet system etc. Make sure you arrive early. When our tour bus left the cars trying to enter was out of sight.

Nice sunny ☀️ weather, you pay 💰 per person 28.71 euros 💶 if you get the deal. Parking 🅿️ cost 💲 around 3€ There are a small market with lots of options. We did all the walking around in 3 hours but this will definitely depend on you. January is great as there are not many tourists and prices of hotels are cheaper.

We were attending this attraction on Saturday, 11 o'clock. It took us 3.5 hours to get there from Fethiye so we couldn't make it earlier and we were ready to see many people inside , even though it wasn't high season anymore. You make a big circle on the car to get to the official parking lot, pay 120 tl for parking and then get through the gates. In October 2025 1 ticket costs 30 Euro and you pay in liras. Then you start your journey using a golf car or walking The territory is huge. At first, you walk through the ancient city and it takes you around 20 minutes to get to the travertines. There are not many people around, they are all chilling at the pools. There's a beautiful garden and mountains around your way, many benches and tables for the picnic which is really nice. You can also visit the museum and the ancient theatre. The travertines are very beautiful in the sunlight. Not all of them are filled with water but you can still take great pictures Some people get deep down so they are alone in the bigger area, all of the tourists are concentrated on top of the pools. You need to take of the shoes to get there, the stones can be slippery but the water is pretty warm. The views around are breathtaking! You can also enjoy your time at the cafes right next to the travertines and get some snacks. So I'd say it was worth visiting once in the life time (in the sunny weather and preferably earlier on the weekday) however the entrance fee is very high and I'm not sure it's equivalent to the experience you get

Pamukkale is impressive from the first step. The snow-white terraces and azure pools look almost unreal, like a natural chalk castle. Hiking trails allow you to get close to the cascades; the water is warm and pleasantly tickles your feet. There are many tourists, so peaceful photos are rare-arrive early in the morning or late in the evening. There's an entrance fee, and some terraces are closed for conservation, but the overall view is breathtaking. Nearby Hierapolis boasts a well-preserved Roman amphitheater it's worth a visit. Bring comfortable shoes, a swimsuit, and water; don't leave litter and respect the securit rules. I highly recommend it it's one of those places that's easier to experience than to describe.

It is an amazing natural formation by accumulating minerals from the flowing hot spring water. There is a dedicated section where tourists can experience travertine and hot spring water under their feet. It is required to enter the travertine area without shoes and socks. There is a self serve cafeteria. There are always a huge number of tourists visiting it. Considering that there is an entry fee, the authority could increase the number of WC facilities.

A magical place for me! The real experience of walking barefoot (like most) or with some bathing shoes in this white marvel is bar none. Even though there is a lot of water, I found the surfaces to be not slippery at all. You can spend a few hours just running around the hill. Enterprise of €30 is a bit steep.

We entered through the South Gate, which is the closest entrance to the travertines. If you’re visiting with children, elderly people, or anyone with walking difficulties, it’s better to take a buggy car — tickets for it are available right after the ticket check. The amphitheatre is a bit uphill, but worth the short climb. Many of the travertine pools had water during our visit, and all the main attractions — the travertines, ancient amphitheatre, Cleopatra Pool, and other monuments — are located within the same area. Unfortunately, the Cleopatra Pool was closed for renovation when we visited. Please note that the entry gate opens only at 8 a.m. We arrived at 6:30 a.m. but were told that even the parking area gates would open only at 8 a.m. We still got to enjoy watching the hot air balloons take off around 6:30 a.m. from outside the gate, which was a beautiful experience.

Very beautiful place. Very interesting. It is better to come with short clothes or a swimsuit. It's just a shame that it's so expensive for tourists. For tourists 30 euros and for Turks 4 euros. At the checkout they are trying to sell headphones For 10 euros. That they don't need them at all.

It’s definitely an attraction worth visiting, but I don’t feel the €30 entrance fee is justified. The place is rich in history and the audio guide shares fascinating stories from the past, making it a wonderful site to learn from. Still, the price feels a bit too high. I hope the government could consider lowering the entrance fee or at least offering discounted rates for groups. The colors give the impression of being painted, and uncovering the history behind them makes the experience truly engaging.

Great day out, very pretty and amazing sight. The salt was a bit hard on your feet at times as you can't wear shoes until you get to the top. It was nice to paddle in the pools.

We enjoyed ourselves and it was very informative. The ruins are cool especially the reconstructions but also just lots of columns and carving laying about. The museum was also very good. It was hot but there are numerous fountains and shady benches and picnic tables, cafe prices are relatively reasonable considering.

Beautiful site, but frustrating experience Hierapolis is stunning, with incredible ancient ruins and breathtaking views. However, the visitor experience could be much better. They charge $10 for Bluetooth headphones, but you can’t even use them during the tour, which feels misleading. While the history and scenery are worth seeing, the management of tours and extra charges leaves a lot to be desired.

If you love going back in time to see how the ancient people lived, then this is a must see place. The amphitheater is mind blowing and breathe taking. This was a city that had Roman influence and the artifacts and carving were mind boggling.

Completely bad ass. Mega old city up on a hill. The tomb of Philip the Apostle, BTW it's empty. Calcium pools at sunrise, i cut my foot in there. Balloons at sunrise...way cool. Oh and the Gates of Hell. You can't go in there because, yep, you'll die. WOO HOO!!!

It's a quiet good place but to much people and looks kinda artificial. Not enough water and it could be very hot in a sunny day. And in the entrance they try to scam you. They'll give you 30 euro tickets then will charge like 40 euros and won't even ask if you wanna pay or not I just realized it because I was paying for few people and the money it deducted was like insane then I asked them why have I been charged extra they said that they gave me a headphone that I never asked for then somehow I managed to return the head phone and get refunded but I bet 90% of people who are paying by a card won't even notice

Nice place to see some history, be prepared to walk and get lots of sun. Has some cafes for food and drink Be aware that if you want to walk down you need to go barefoot. Otherwise you're taking one of the roads back down (long way). There is parking even outside the lot along the road and some other places for free.

We drove from Antalya to Salda Lake, and the drive was smooth and easy, with clear roads. The lake itself is visible from a distance, but the main tourist area is a bit further inside. Positives: •Great for Photography: The lake offers stunning views that are perfect for photography enthusiasts. •Fresh Air: The surroundings are refreshing, providing a great escape into nature. •Beautiful Views: The lake’s unique turquoise waters make for an amazing sight. Improvement: •Cleanliness of Shoreline: While the lake is beautiful overall, the shore could be cleaner. Extra Note: Be cautious of honey bees in the area. One seemed especially interested in my wife, leaving her with a memorable sting! A picturesque spot with minor drawbacks, Salda Lake is worth visiting for nature lovers and photographers.

I thought it was underwhelming but my wife thought it was great. It was on the way to Pamukkale from Sagalassos so worth a short detour. We just waded in, but some people were swimming. I can't say I noticed any special healing powers ;)

Beautiful tranquil lake. Not crowded when I visited in an October afternoon.

We were pretty hyped about coming here after reading it. The lake is a unique experience, but was not exactly what we thought. We went to a campground on the NW side of the lake and there was a sign saying "Prohibited entry to lake" with no exploration as to why. We didn't know if it was due to no lifeguard or because of something harmful in the water. We continued to drive around to the east side where there is a restaurant. We ate there (better food than expected) and they said we could get in the lake, which the kids did. All in all it's a neat experience, but we didn't see anything around the lake that actually talked about the significance of it. And there wasn't a single dock; we didn't see any boats, canoes, etc.

What an amazing nature and beauty about this place which is unbelievable, lake is super huge and we went from one corner to another even the village is so beautiful while going to Salda Lake. A must place to visit and also there restaurants and coffee shops around some key spots with restroom facilities.

Beautiful white sand beach lake in the middle of unexpected.... absolutely loved it

Salda Lake, often dubbed the "Turkish Maldives," is a breathtaking natural wonder with its striking turquoise waters and white sandy shores. The lake's unique beauty is a testament to the delicate balance of nature, created by the rare hydromagnesite minerals that form its shores. While its serene atmosphere and picturesque landscape make it a must-visit destination, it's crucial that we approach this fragile ecosystem with care. With increasing tourism, the need for responsible travel and strong conservation efforts is more important than ever to preserve this pristine paradise for future generations. Inst: @uyuyangezgin

Beautiful adventure!! Many natural vents with permanent flames above the ruins of the temple of Hephaistos You must take with you bottles of water and plenty of tissues because you will have so much sweating and become thirsty.. About 1000 meters climbing up with difficulty .. there are many rocks and tortious pathways ..

Make sure you’re QUITE fit and have no mobility issues. Intense 1km climb to the top on a rocky path with huge steps. Make sure it’s not going to rain; the rocks get pretty slippery. If you come close to dusk/night, bring big flashlights and hope you have good night vision. The fire coming out of the mountain is super cool though. Bring marshmallows! It’s about the size of a small campfire. The area at the bottom of the mountain is quite peaceful as well, which was surprising for a tourist attraction. Btw the road leading down to it is a quite windy downhill with many blind curves.

Amazing natural phenomenon. Careful, rocks are polished and slippery, even when dry and dusty. Bring a bright flashlight if you are staying after dark. Take photos after dark under the rocks around the fires.

Easy hike up. 60tl entrance per person, toilet 10tl. Would avoid going up in heat, still manageable.

So someone tells me there’s a place in Turkey where fire literally comes out of the ground. Naturally, I assume it’s one of those tourism exaggerations. Like when a hotel calls their pool “an oasis” and it turns out to be a lukewarm puddle next to a parking lot. Or when you’re promised an “authentic village experience” and get a guy in a tunic selling Pringles. But then I get to Mount Chimaera. And, folks, there ARE flames. Real, actual, unexplained flames just casually shooting out of the rocky hillside like it’s no big deal. No wood. No gas line. No special effects budget. Just fire. Eternal, logic-defying fire. The ancient Greeks looked at this and went, “Yep, monster breath.” And honestly? That explanation makes more sense to me than natural gas seeping through rock fissures or whatever science is trying to say. I still don’t believe what I saw. I kept blinking. I stare at the ground in disbelief a lot but not like this.

The chimera is not so fascinating as advertised. Impressive is the 1 km stair up which takes about 30 min, but very hard to go up. And then on the plato you see four small fires on the small territory. It is so crowded with the tourists that you need to take a queue to make a photo.

20-25 minute hike to see the eternal flame, pretty cool really! Bring some marshmallows to roast over the flames

Great experience. Was £36 each 6/9/25. Cable carts hold roughly 30 people. You can spend along as you want at the top. Mosque was closed, expo space was closed. Parking free at bottom. Nice road to the cable cart. Had fun racing up and down. Be careful as no barriers and if you go off you're probably dead.

Taking the Olympos Teleferik sounded exciting, but unfortunately, the weather wasn’t on our side. When we reached the top, everything was covered in thick fog we could barely see anything! It was a bit disappointing, especially since the ticket is quite pricey. If you plan to visit, definitely check the weather forecast beforehand. On a clear day, the view must be absolutely stunning, but in foggy conditions, you miss out on what makes the trip special. Most of the other activities at the top were also closed because of the weather. All in all, it was still an experience, but I wouldn’t go again. Once is enough and next time, I’d make sure to visit on a sunny day!

Excellent cable car ride. We didn’t have long to explore at the top though before we had to go sadly as we were accosted by the photographers who said there was no obligation to buy. We said no thank you numerous times and then gave in because they wouldn’t leave us alone. After having photos done in an out of bounds section at the top, the photographer took us to show us the photos. Even just one photo was 17 Euros alone so we declined even though they were very good. Despite not being obligated to buy, the photographer was not happy with us and pulled his face at us which I felt was rude. The gift shop was a little expensive but very good. The coffee shop was good value but staff were a little ignorant, looking me up and down. I enjoyed the cable car ride down. Recommended just to see the views alone.

Great place, beautiful views. Suitable for kids, gets crowded after a while but still very much worth it. Better to get the tickets online rather than local guides as it's cheaper.

To get to the lift there is a 20 min car journey from the road. The cable car is large and takes about 30 people. The height covered is so big that my es ached from the pressire changes. The view st the top was amazing. Take a jacket as it is cold. The building is spacious and the food adequate.

We went there with a rented car. Car broke down 800m from destination. Staff were very helpfull and found a man thats had jump leads to start the car and helped with this regard. Great views, and surprisingly cheaper prices on top of the mountain than at the bottom.

Great view - really nice excursion. However, the price tag is a bit high. We paid a bit below 200 € for 3 adults and two kids. The view is fantastic. Combine it with Paragliding and it is really worth it 👍.

The place is in ruins, you will be walking through a jungle forest with large stones and pieces of column all around you. Occasionally, you’ll see a wall or an arch. There are a few exceptions to this, the most notable being the theater, which is in remarkably great shape given how the rest of the city fared, and the small temple of Artemis (not the one near the parking lot). The setting is amazing, once you get up to the higher levels, you can see that you’re sitting in a straddle of a few shorter peaks with great views down two large valleys. Bring hiking shoes, the town is about a Moderately steep hike up from the parking lot. It took me about 3 1/2 hours round-trip and I got to see most of what I wanted but not everything. I walked about 9000 steps and climbed 51 floors. So it’s not like many sites where you pull up to the parking lot walk a kilometer and see just about everything.

The theater place at the border of a cliff worth the trip alone. Small hike from the parking, around 20min. Correct shoes needed and water.

Amazing place. Like Indiana Jones discovery. Fully natural with no manmade artifacts. One of the best ruins I have seen anywhere in Europe. It's a uphill ride from the entry gates which is about 5 km below. Then from the car park it's a 30 minutes walk up. Of this the first 10 minutes is tiring but after that it's all very exciting. A must visit.

Don’t visit the site, if you have an army like Alexander the Great did. He returned and went away from this eagle cradle. Otherwise with peacefull concerns Termessos calls you for a great experience in both, in history and in nature!

Must visit. But be prepared and take some water and snacks. Make sure to read about the place before you go as there is little to no info anywhere on the site.

My lord this place was like no other ancient city I've visited in Turkey so far and I've been to more than 10+ now! There was so much still there lying as rubble on the floor, especially on what was the main street in the city, and it looks as though it has remained untouched for centuries since it was destroyed by earthquakes. But the piece de resistance was the largely intact remains of the theatre in the mountains, really magical and ethereal! Loved this place!

Uphill hike of about an hour and a half when done slowly. We had a 5 years old child (mostly carried by the father) and its 60 years old grandmother along. So went up slowly but anyone can manage it.