The Guardian — Greece’s debt crisis rumbles on, making it harder for locals to go on holiday. But with 27 million visitors predicted in 2017, the tourism industry has proved resilient. As a result, enterprising Greeks are throwing open their villas and apartments to holiday-makers, offering personalised tours, and launching travel start-ups, to help visitors gain more authentic experiences of the country.
The Guardian correspondents travelled the country in search of the best affordable stays.
Affordable stays featured are in
Elafonissos, a small island 10 minutes by boat off the small south-east Peloponnese port of Pounta.
Kimolos, “a tiny volcanic island in the Cyclades, with thermal springs and sea caves inhabited by monk seals.
Gavdos, a tiny island off the southern coast of Crete. “Gavdos has a cult following of travellers who seek the simpler things in life. Away from the package tours and resorts of Crete, it’s a step back in time. Ferry connections can be fraught, but this adds to the charmed isolation,”
Anafi island, in the Cyclades. “It’s the mirror image of nearby and oversubscribed Santorini, Unlike most places in Greece, the local community encourages free camping so just grab a tent and find yourself a patch of sand.”
Athens (apartments from €55 a night), a selection of 11 colourful flats in various sizes, all within a stroll of the main attractions
