Mietwagenrundreise "Die Geburtsstätte europäischer Kulturen"

About the destination: Thessaloniki, one of the oldest major cities in Europe and the second largest city in Greece, spans twelve kilometers within a basin formed by low hills that overlook a bay leading into the Thermaikos Gulf. It is a bustling city and one of the most significant trade and communication hubs in the Mediterranean. The devastating fire of 1917 destroyed a significant portion of the city's historic center, and further damage was inflicted by a major earthquake in 1968. However, there are still numerous examples of the city's rich history and diverse cultures, although they are hidden amidst the post-1917 development. This mix of architecture has resulted in an incredible fusion of styles that are distinctly Thessaloniki. Roman monuments stand next to modern university campuses, modernist buildings face medieval churches, and Ottoman structures will soon top the tunnels of Thessaloniki's latest addition, the subway. The city authorities have made significant efforts to preserve the state of the cultural heritage, and it can be assumed that more will be done to ensure that it remains a permanent part of the city's landscape and that it is well explained and accessible to both locals and visitors. However, the greatness of Thessaloniki is not solely in its standing structures. This city is truly vibrant, and not just in terms of heavy traffic or extensive construction. The people here enjoy expressing themselves publicly, and it's difficult to spend time here without witnessing the authentic and indigenous culture of the city. Plateia Aristotelou hosts open-air concerts during the summer, but there are also spontaneous gatherings that provide visitors with a glimpse into the lives of ordinary Salonicians. Students often gather in front of the Rotunda to play their guitars at night, and the Roman Agora occasionally hosts plays or shows organized by various groups in the city. Every two years, this cultural blossoming takes the form of the biennale of contemporary art, a highlight of the city's artistic community's calendar. Byzantine churches, Roman constructions, Muslim buildings, modern architecture, vibrant nightlife, and stunning beaches define Thessaloniki. As the second largest city in Greece, Thessaloniki combines over 2,300 years of history with all the amenities and excitement that a modern European city can offer a visitor.

About the destination: Kalabaka is a municipality in the Trikala regional unit, part of Thessaly in Greece. The Meteora monasteries are located in the town. Kalambaka is the northwestern terminal of the old Thessaly Railways, now part of OSE. Kalabaka was voted as one of the most beautiful places in Greece. Nearby Meteora, with its cliff-top monasteries, is the main tourist attraction in the city.

About the destination: Delphi, an ancient city and home to the most significant Greek temple and oracle of Apollo. It was located in the region of Phocis on the steep lower slope of Mount Parnassus, approximately 6 miles (10 km) from the Gulf of Corinth. Delphi is currently a major archaeological site with well-preserved ruins. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987. The ancient Greeks regarded Delphi as the center of the world.

About the destination: Athens is named after the goddess of wisdom, Athena, and her grandeur is celebrated by the stunning Acropolis that towers over the modern, cosmopolitan city that Athens has become. As one of the oldest cities in the world, Athens is the cradle of western philosophy, democracy, and theater. Today, the Greek capital continues to be a significant global hub of culture, with its historic center, iconic classical sites, and museums brimming with artifacts from ancient Greece. The Acropolis, topped by the iconic Parthenon, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Cars are prohibited in the historic center, which has transformed into Europe's most impressive pedestrian walkway. In this archaeological park, visitors can experience the city's contrasting nature by visiting the New Acropolis Museum, a modern, high-tech building with bright, spacious exhibition areas, and the National Archaeological Museum, Greece's largest archaeological museum dedicated to ancient Greek art. The Acropolis and Mount Lycavittos, the city's highest points, serve as landmarks as they can be seen from most locations in the Plaka, the old historical neighborhood. The Plaka is located beneath the Acropolis and extends nearly to Syntagma, the location of the Greek Parliament. For a glimpse into the indulgent Athenian lifestyle, visit Monastiraki, a popular spot for locals to eat, drink, and socialize. The nightlife belongs to Psirri, a lively neighborhood known for its bars, live music venues, and thrilling nightclubs. Southeast of the city center, a beautiful stretch of coastline offers breathtaking views of the shimmering blue Aegean Sea. Few European capitals can boast of having sandy beaches and clean swimming waters so easily accessible. Athens thus provides the best of both worlds – an exciting city break and a relaxing beach vacation. Athenians are surprisingly friendly and outgoing, and their zest for life's pleasures is so contagious that even the most reserved traveler will find themselves taking time for leisurely coffees and evening walks, dining out late, and enjoying the city's nightlife long after the rest of Europe has retired for the night.

About the destination: Tolo, or Tolon, is a beautiful fishing village. There is plenty to do in this town. Visitors can enjoy all kinds of water sports, explore the surrounding area, or take day cruises to nearby islands. Many people, however, prefer to simply relax and experience traditional Greek hospitality, the simplicity of the fishing village, and its fine golden sand beaches. It is considered the perfect destination for all types of tourists who want to visit Greece. Tolon Bay was described by Homer in the Iliad as Asini, one of the cities whose fleet took part in the Trojan War. Since the mid-20th century, thanks to its natural beauty and its location—which provides easy access to nearby archaeological sites—Tolon has seen the beginning of its tourism industry and has become the summer resort it is today, welcoming visitors from all over the world.

About the destination: Sparta, officially Sparti, is a city in Laconia, Greece. In the center of the city you’ll find the Archaeological Museum, and at the northwest edge stands the Tomb of Leonidas, also known as the Leonidaion. Directly in front of the tomb there is a tavern named “Leonidas.” North of the modern city begin the ruins of ancient Sparta. Leaving the Acropolis through the North Gate, you can see the remains of the earliest ancient walls, the Heroon, and the Altar of Lycourgos, while to the east lies the Sanctuary of Artemis Orthia. At the southwest edge of the city, the Museum of the Olive and Greek Olive Oil showcases the culture of the olive and the technology of olive-oil production. Sparta enjoys a sunny, warm Mediterranean climate. Points of cultural interest: - Museum of the Olive and Greek Olive Oil - Archaeological Museum of Sparta - Archaeological Museum of Mystras - Manousakeio Museum of Urban and Folk Life - Koumantareios Art Gallery of Sparta

About the destination: Olympia is a city in the Peloponnese region of Greece. This was the location of the original Olympic Games. These games, which took place every four years in honor of the Greek god Zeus, continued throughout the entire Classical Age. The main sanctuary, or Altis, contained temples, altars, shrines, and public buildings for both religious and secular uses. The flame for each modern Olympic Games is still ignited in this city, using a reflection of sunlight in a parabolic mirror, and then transported by torch to the location where the games are to be held.

About the destination: Ioannina is a significant tourist destination in Greece. Lake Pamvotida, with its tranquil waters and small island, is a natural monument that the entire area revolves around. The town's strong cultural traditions, being home to numerous renowned novelists and poets, along with the artistic and intellectual events organized throughout the year, offer visitors the chance to explore the roots of Epirus's intellectual life. Magnificent buildings such as the House Matei Hussein, the Ottoman mosque of Veli Pasha, and the entire historic center of the town are unique attractions.

About the destination: Thessaloniki, one of the oldest major cities in Europe and the second largest city in Greece, spans twelve kilometers within a basin formed by low hills that overlook a bay leading into the Thermaikos Gulf. It is a bustling city and one of the most significant trade and communication hubs in the Mediterranean. The devastating fire of 1917 destroyed a significant portion of the city's historic center, and further damage was inflicted by a major earthquake in 1968. However, there are still numerous examples of the city's rich history and diverse cultures, although they are hidden amidst the post-1917 development. This mix of architecture has resulted in an incredible fusion of styles that are distinctly Thessaloniki. Roman monuments stand next to modern university campuses, modernist buildings face medieval churches, and Ottoman structures will soon top the tunnels of Thessaloniki's latest addition, the subway. The city authorities have made significant efforts to preserve the state of the cultural heritage, and it can be assumed that more will be done to ensure that it remains a permanent part of the city's landscape and that it is well explained and accessible to both locals and visitors. However, the greatness of Thessaloniki is not solely in its standing structures. This city is truly vibrant, and not just in terms of heavy traffic or extensive construction. The people here enjoy expressing themselves publicly, and it's difficult to spend time here without witnessing the authentic and indigenous culture of the city. Plateia Aristotelou hosts open-air concerts during the summer, but there are also spontaneous gatherings that provide visitors with a glimpse into the lives of ordinary Salonicians. Students often gather in front of the Rotunda to play their guitars at night, and the Roman Agora occasionally hosts plays or shows organized by various groups in the city. Every two years, this cultural blossoming takes the form of the biennale of contemporary art, a highlight of the city's artistic community's calendar. Byzantine churches, Roman constructions, Muslim buildings, modern architecture, vibrant nightlife, and stunning beaches define Thessaloniki. As the second largest city in Greece, Thessaloniki combines over 2,300 years of history with all the amenities and excitement that a modern European city can offer a visitor.