Greece is a country that has always loomed large in the American imagination. With its beautiful Mediterranean landscape, towering mountains and over 6,000 islands, it is a nation where magical memories are made.

It’s also a nation steeped in rich history. One of the world’s great ancient civilizations, it made pivotal contributions to government, philosophy, literature and the arts, forming the world’s first democracy in Athens in 508 BC. 

With a large and vibrant population of Greek Americans, Greek cuisine has spread far and wide. From rich lamb dishes, moussaka, spanakopita and souvlaki, to gyros topped with Greece’s signature sauce, the yogurt-based tzatziki, Greek dining features many classics that have reached international acclaim. 

Baklava, a rich pastry of honey and a blend of nuts and spices, is as associated with Greece as ouzo, the national spirit, an anise-flavored aperitif that is almost an essential to accompany any meal.

The Greek flag (Nicolas Economou/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

In the modern era, Greece saw occupation by Italian and German forces during World War II but emerged as a democratic market-based economy during the post-war reconstruction of Europe. 

As the Iron Curtain of the Soviet Union descended upon Eastern Europe, Greece was spared the ravages of communism, aided by forceful diplomatic intervention on the part of the United States and United Kingdom to ensure that the nation did not fall under the Soviet sphere of influence.

Though Greece has endured a somewhat turbulent social, political and economic history since, including a civil war and a series of economic crises, it remains an exceedingly popular tourist destination and has such varied appeal it offers something for everyone.

Gleaming white Santorini, with its internationally renowned sunsets, is arguably the most famous island destination in Greece. This volcanic island features black sand beaches, towering cliffs and quaint villages and is regularly visited by major cruiselines.

Sunset at dawn in the village of Oia, Greece (iStock)

Fira, the capital city, is perched on a towering cliff and offers stunning views of the surrounding islands. On the northern tip of the island, westward-facing Oia is famed for having the most beautiful sunset in the Mediterranean. Thousands of tourists gather daily at the end of the day to watch the last rays of sunlight gleam across the picturesque white-washed buildings.

For those seeking a laid-back beachfront experience, Kamari, on the island’s eastern side, is an excellent choice. Not to be missed is the Thera ruins, which tower over the island, and are best reached by an ATV, which can be rented at reasonable prices at numerous locations around the island.