The best regions of Greece for living and investing

Greece, the country of sun, sea and ancient history, is attracting more and more attention both for permanent residence and for profitable real estate investments.

However, choosing a region is not an easy task. Let's look at the largest cities and islands of Greece, comparing their advantages and disadvantages for living and investing.

Athens is the heart of Greece, a city with a rich history, the cradle of Western civilization. Here, the ancient ruins of the Acropolis intertwine with modern skyscrapers, creating a unique, dynamic urban landscape.

The population of the capital is approaching 3 million people, which is a third of the country's population.

This means a rich life, a wide choice of cultural events, a large number of jobs and developed infrastructure.

Advantages of Athens:

• Developed infrastructure: Athens has a modern transport system, including a metro (one of the most modern in the world), commuter trains, buses, trams and trolleybuses. Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport provides convenient connections to the entire world, and the port of Piraeus - connections to the Aegean islands and other countries. Large-scale infrastructure modernization projects are being implemented in the city.
• Economic center: Athens is the political, economic and cultural center of Greece, which provides a large number of jobs and business opportunities.
• Cultural wealth: The richest historical heritage, world-class museums, theaters, concerts - Athens offers an inexhaustible source of cultural enrichment.
• High standard of living: Despite economic fluctuations, Athens offers a high standard of living, especially in comparison with other regions of Greece.

Disadvantages of Athens:

• High real estate prices: The cost of housing in Athens is significantly higher than in other cities in Greece. Prices range from 1,700 euros per square meter in the western areas to over 3,000 euros in the south.
• High cost of living: Food, services and entertainment are more expensive in Athens than in the regions.
• High population density: This can be uncomfortable for those who prefer a quieter environment.

Thessaloniki, the second largest city in Greece, is an important economic and cultural center of the northern part of the country. It is a vibrant city with a rich history, known for its cosmopolitan character and lively nightlife. The presence of the Aristotle University, the largest in the Balkans, makes Thessaloniki an important educational center.

Thessaloniki Advantages:

• Lower Property Prices: Thessaloniki offers significantly lower property prices than Athens.
• Quieter Environment: Unlike Athens, Thessaloniki offers a more peaceful and relaxed atmosphere.
• Convenient Location: Thessaloniki is closer to many Balkan countries, which can be an advantage for those who travel to the region frequently.
• Rich History and Culture: Thessaloniki also has a rich history and culture, although it is different from Athens in its character.

Disadvantages of Thessaloniki:

• Less developed infrastructure:  Compared to Athens,  transport and other infrastructure in Thessaloniki is less developed.
• Fewer employment opportunities:  The job market in Thessaloniki is smaller than in Athens.
• Less cosmopolitan atmosphere:  For those who value diversity of cultures and nationalities, Athens may seem more attractive.

This is a popular resort area with numerous towns and villages: Marmaras, Nikiti, Sarti, Afytos, Paliouri.

The main tourist attractions are the thermal springs of Kassandra, the religious buildings of Athos, the ruins and vineyards of Sithonia.

All the beaches of Halkidiki are public, accessible to everyone. However, some areas of the beaches are under the care of restaurants and cafes. If you want to settle down on such an area, you need to order from the establishment's menu - an excellent reason to enjoy Mediterranean cuisine near the azure sea.

Halkidiki is a place where everyone will find something to their liking.

Active holiday lovers will appreciate the variety of water sports and the lively resort atmosphere of Kassandra, lovers of peace and solitude will find their paradise in Sithonia, and seekers of spiritual enlightenment will go to Athos.

Regardless of your preferences, Halkidiki will give you unforgettable impressions and memories of a wonderful holiday in Greece.

Corfu: an island of contrasts

Located in northwestern Greece, Corfu is known for its rich history and diverse cultural heritage. The influence of the Venetians, French and English has left its mark on the architecture, traditions and lifestyle of the locals.

• History and culture: Corfu is a real open-air museum. Here you can see ancient fortresses, narrow streets, Byzantine churches and palaces. Corfu Town, the capital of the island, is home to the main attractions.
• Nature: Corfu amazes with the diversity of landscapes: from lush olive groves to rocky shores. The beaches on the island are mostly pebbly, but there are also sandy areas.

• Recreation: Corfu offers a variety of recreation options, from a relaxing beach holiday to active tourism. Here you can go diving, surfing, hiking and visit numerous taverns and bars.
• Transportation. Ioannis Kapodistrias International Airport is located a couple of kilometers south of the island's capital. From the airport you can get to the city by municipal buses or taxis
• Infrastructure. Corfu has everything you need for year-round living. Many old villages are gradually turning into resorts with numerous cafes and shops.

Crete is the largest and southernmost island of Greece, shrouded in myths and legends. According to ancient Greek mythology, Zeus was born here.

• History and Culture: Crete is rich in archaeological sites that testify to its ancient history. The most famous of them is the Palace of Knossos, whose Minoan civilization was considered one of the most developed in the ancient world.
• Nature: Crete is famous for its picturesque beaches with white sand and crystal clear water. In addition, the island is rich in mountains, gorges and caves.
• Recreation: Crete is an ideal place for those who want to combine a beach holiday with educational excursions. Here you can visit archaeological excavations, try local cuisine, and engage in water sports.

• Transport. Crete is served by regular and charter flights of international airlines. There are three airports on the island. Two international ones are located in the cities of Heraklion and Chania, and the local airport is in the city of Sitia. In the low season, the easiest way to get to the island is from Athens - by domestic flight or ferry.
• Infrastructure. Crete has a rich infrastructure: there are eight public hospitals, three universities, and museums and historical and cultural attractions are located in the largest cities. Numerous resort villages and towns are rich in taverns, shops, equipped beaches, hotels, and water parks.

The fourth largest island in Greece, Rhodes (about 115,000 residents) is located in the Aegean Sea, part of the Dodecanese archipelago. Its 251-kilometer coastline stretches along emerald waters, offering a variety of beaches - from wild, secluded bays to equipped recreation areas with sun loungers and umbrellas (rental is paid, entry is free).

• Transport and infrastructure: Rhodes is famous for its well-developed infrastructure. Diagoras International Airport provides convenient connections to many countries around the world. From the airport, it is easy to get to Rhodes Town by bus (stop 200 meters away) or taxi. The seaport receives ferries from Athens and Turkey.

The developed infrastructure includes many shops, restaurants, theaters, cinemas and even a large water park. Historical attractions, such as the medieval city of Rhodes, harmoniously coexist with modern life.

• What to expect: Rhodes is an island for those who are looking for a combination of history, entertainment and a beach holiday. Here you will find a rich cultural program, the opportunity to explore ancient ruins, enjoy active recreation and, of course, bask in the sun on one of the many beaches.

Santorini, unlike Rhodes, is much smaller (about 15,000 residents), is a volcanic island in the Cyclades archipelago. Its 66-kilometer coastline is distinguished by a dramatic landscape: steep cliffs in the west and beaches with unique sand - gold, black and red - in the east.

• Features and infrastructure: Santorini is primarily an island for romantic holidays and lovers of picturesque landscapes. Although the infrastructure here is also developed, it is more compact than in Rhodes. The main resort villages - Thira (the administrative center), Imerovigli, Oia and Kamari - offer a wide choice of hotels and restaurants. Transport is provided by buses and taxis, but getting around by car here can be difficult due to the narrow streets and steep slopes.

• What to expect: Santorini captivates with its unique beauty: white houses, blue domes of churches, breathtaking sunsets over the volcano. The atmosphere here is calm and romantic. In addition to a beach holiday, you can visit the archaeological excavations of Akrotiri, take a boat trip to the volcano and enjoy exquisite cuisine in one of the many restaurants overlooking the Aegean Sea.

The choice between the islands depends on your preferences. If you prefer a relaxing holiday on the beach, rich history and cultural attractions, then Corfu is an ideal choice. If you want to get acquainted with the ancient civilization, enjoy the beauty of nature and try authentic Greek cuisine, then Crete will suit you.

Rhodes is suitable for those who are looking for a variety of beaches, developed infrastructure, rich history and active recreation. Santorini is an ideal place for a romantic holiday, lovers of picturesque landscapes and a calm atmosphere.