65 interesting facts about French Polynesia

Ah, Paris! A city shrouded in a haze of romance, where all lovers dream of visiting, the capital of world fashion, art, and baguettes. The Champs Elysees, the Louvre, French champagne, Notre Dame Cathedral ... The sights of Paris can be listed endlessly. And everyone has heard of them.

Getting to know Paris based on little-known facts

But some things are unknown or little known to the general public. For example, that more dogs live in Paris than children, or that the shortest street is less than 6 meters long.

We at Bemorepanda thought you might be interested in learning more about the French capital. We have compiled a list of 45 interesting facts that will give you a better idea of this European city.

1. Tom Cruise could have been made an honorary citizen of Paris, but his candidacy was rejected

Due to Cruz's association with Scientology and what many considered him to be the leader of the cult, the Paris authorities voted against it in 2005.

Our reference: Scientology is the belief that the spiritual essence of a person exists separately from his body and can live several lives. This religious movement appeared in the middle of the 20th century.

2. Counting trees is an official job in Paris

A man counts all the trees in Paris and gets paid for it; how do you like such a job? There are already 484,000 trees officially registered, and more are planned to be planted in the coming years. Paris is currently among the cities in Europe with the highest forest cover.

By the way, 222 trees in Paris are remarkable either for their beauty or fantastic shape, their history or rarity. For example, in the Parc du Champ-de-Mars, the oriental plane tree (Platanus orientalis, L.) grows, which is distinguished by its age (planted in 1814) and an unusual cluster of 6 trunks.

3. There are 450 parks and gardens in Paris

Parisians are picnic lovers, which explains why the city has 450 parks and gardens scattered throughout the city. However, there are many parks and squares in Paris,

In particular, the Luxembourg Gardens, in addition to vegetation, is notable because there are 106 statues and three fountains.

4. There are more dogs in Paris than children.

In Paris they love dogs very much, there are more of them in the city than children. There are about 300,000 dogs in Paris or one for every seven people and every two children (out of a population of 2.1 million).

As a result, here.

Parisians value their dogs as much as their free time, which is why dogs accompany their owners to places that the rest of the world reserves only for people: restaurants, shops, and public transport. Wherever the Parisian goes, the dog too... well, almost.

Ironically, dogs are banned from most city parks and green spaces—perhaps one of the reasons why they are accepted almost everywhere.

5. There are five Statues of Liberty in Paris

Many people will find it strange that there are several replicas of the Statues of Liberty in Paris, given that the most famous of them are located in New York, USA.

The Statue of Liberty is one of the attractions in New York and the whole USA. The fact that there are five authentic models of the Statue of Liberty in Paris is explained by the fact that it was a joint Franco-American project dedicated to the friendship of the two peoples.

6. A Boldini painting was found in a Parisian apartment that had been locked up for over half a century.

The apartment in Paris was locked up for about 70 years. Someone was paying rent for it every month, and when the tenant died, a painting by Giovanni Boldini worth over $2 million was found inside.

The background of this find is as follows: in 1942, a young Parisian woman, fearing persecution by the Nazis, fled to the south of France, leaving behind a luxurious apartment in Paris, to which she never returned. Seventy years later, this hidden treasure trove of art and antiques was finally discovered for the first time.

The painting is a portrait of Giovanni Boldini's muse, Martha de Florian. The famous Parisian socialite and actress are pictured wearing a beautiful revealing pink muslin gown. The painting was painted in 1888 when de Florian was only 24 years old.

But the most exciting thing is that it turns out the deceased owner of this apartment was none other than the granddaughter of Marthe de Florian. It was from the love notes, and letters between de Florian and Boldini found in the apartment that the woman in the painting was identified.

7. There is a law about the exact recipe for making baguettes.

You'll need to follow the 1993 decree. For bread to be recognized as a Parisian baguette, it must meet specific size requirements and have a sure dough consistency.

8. Paris was originally a Roman city called Lutetia.

In 52 BC, Roman traders operating along the river seized control of Parisia and changed the name to Lutetia. These are just a few of the many intriguing variations of the name of Paris.

9. The first photograph of people was taken in Paris

This intriguing little thing about Paris, France, first appeared in 1838. The picture shows the boulevard Temple; in the left corner, a man shines his shoes.

10. Notre Dame is considered the zero point of Paris

If you visit the area, you can find a miniature compass in the concrete in front of Notre Dame Cathedral. This place is in the center of Paris because it is zero point.

This small geographical marker judges the distance from Paris to all other places.

The Paris Zero Point - one of the so-called "zero kilometers" around the world - marks the supposedly exact center of a city or country. All other locations are considered to be measured as the distance emanating from that point.

11. It is forbidden to distribute night images of the Eiffel Tower.

Distribution means that the publication and sale of these images are prohibited. However, posting these images on social media is entirely legal.

A small clarification: taking pictures of the Eiffel Tower at night is not at all forbidden if it concerns any ordinary person. But for professionals, the situation is different.

The Eiffel Tower lighting and twinkling lights are copyrighted, so professional use of images of the Eiffel Tower at night requires prior permission and may incur fees.

Therefore, professionals should contact the management company of the Eiffel Tower to inquire about the terms of use of images depending on the case.

12. Paris has an underground city.

Paris is undeniably a beautiful city, but it also boasts an entire city beneath it, known as the Paris Underground City, or catacombs. Nevertheless, it is a grim place where the remains of more than 6 million Parisians are kept.

13. Paris is not the largest French-speaking city in the world.

The capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kinshasa, is the rightful holder of this title. Paris has a population of over 2 million, while Kinshasa has over 12 million people who use French as their official language.

14. It will take you about 144 days to see the entire Louvre

To be more precise, it would take at least 200 days to see everything in the Louvre. Given the magnificence of the Louvre exhibits, more than this time is needed because it would require standing in front of each of them for only 30 seconds.

This is even though the Louvre Museum contains more than 380,000 exhibits and displays 35,000 works of art in eight curatorial departments.

15. In Paris, an annual competition for the best baguette in the city is held.

Paris hosts an annual Baguette Grand Prix to determine the best French bread in the city. 200 bakers take this challenge seriously - the winner gets at least 4,000 euros in cash, fame in France, and additional customers for their bakery!

16. Women in Paris were once forbidden to wear trousers.

Until 2012, women were not allowed to wear pants in public. All women were prohibited from wearing "men's clothes" under legislation that went into effect in 1800, and those who wished to do so had to obtain police permission.

However, even with the law in place, women continued to wear pants without any repercussions. It wasn't until 2012 that the law was finally repealed, thanks to the efforts of Najad Vallo-Belkasem, a former minister for women's rights, who argued that the law could no longer be compatible with contemporary values.

17. The Eiffel Tower was almost destroyed during World War II

The order to demolish the Eiffel Tower was given shortly before the liberation of Paris in August 1944.

18. Paris is home to one of the most famous paintings in the world.

"Mona Lisa" by Leonardo da Vinci, the most prestigious and famous work of art in the world, is stored in the Louvre in Paris. Although the artwork is well known, many people are often shocked by how tiny it is when they see it live. Its exact dimensions are 77 cm × 53 cm.

Since 2005, the Mona Lisa has been exhibited in a protective glass case in a secluded splendor in the center of the hall. This unique treatment is partly due to the need to ensure the preservation of such a famous work but also to the requirements of conservation: the result was not painted on canvas but on a poplar board, which warped over the years, causing cracks.

19. There are 37 bridges in Paris

Considered the most beautiful bridge in the world, the Pont Alexandre III, the Pont Bier Hakeim with breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower, Pont Neuf (Pont Neuf), the city's oldest surviving bridge, and the Pont des Arts are just some of the most famous and stunning bridges of Paris worth visiting.

20. There are about 38,000 restaurants in Paris

There are about 12,000 restaurants in the very center of Paris. Ninety-four have one Michelin star, 12 have two, and 10 have three stars. After Tokyo, Japan, Paris has the.

Our reference: a Michelin star is a restaurant's rating regarding the quality of cuisine and other parameters.

21. You can shoot video in Paris for free

You may be shocked to learn that. It's free except for filming in museums, parks, or swimming pools, where fees apply.

No wonder many films, commercials, etc., are filmed daily in Paris. Yes, most movies shot in Paris did not pay for the use of locales. However, if this is a large production, you need permission from the authorities.

22. There are 6486 streets in Paris

Rue Degré in the 2nd arrondissement is the smallest at just 5.75 meters, while Rue Vaugirard in the 15th arrondissement is the longest at 4.3 kilometers.

23. The Eiffel Tower was originally a temporary structure.

The structure was supposed to last only 20 years before being destroyed. However, after it became popular and people came from afar to see it, it forever changed the history of Paris and France as a whole. The tower has become a hallmark of France and a popular tourist destination.

24. The Eiffel Tower was once considered ugly

The famous writer Guy de Maupassant dined daily at the Eiffel Tower restaurant, as it was the only place in the city where he could not see her because he considered her too disgusting for his eyes. But today, it is one of the most stunning sights in France and worldwide.

25. When the Eiffel Tower needs to be repainted, it's done by hand.

Every time a building needs to be painted, 60 tons of paint is applied by hand. Since its construction, the tower has been repainted 19 times, an average of every seven years.

26. The tradition of "locks of love" did not originate in Paris

Due to a failed romance between two young lovers, Nada and Rel, the custom of locking padlocks was born in a tiny Serbian village.

Young women in the city decided to start locking padlocks with their names and the names of their lovers on the "bridge of love" and then throwing the keys into the river as a sign of a lifelong commitment without treason because the relationship failed due to the infidelity of Rel, whose affair broke the heart, Nada.

Later, as a gesture of affection, everyone in the city and Serbia began padlocking, and the practice quickly spread throughout Europe.

27. Paris is the fashion capital of the world

It's undeniable that Parisian and French designers usually set the tone for fashion with world-class luxury fashion labels such as Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Givenchy, Balmain, Dior, L'Oreal, and more. French style has influenced the world, from haute couture to jewelry and handbag manufacturers.

28. Paris has the most beautiful avenue in the world

Avenue Champs Elysees is considered the most beautiful avenue in the world, although this statement is unofficial. This two-kilometer stretch of pavement between the Place de la Concorde and the Arc de Triomphe is lined with trees on both sides and is home to some of the most upscale shopping, nightlife, flagship stores, and museums in the world.

29. Notre Dame Cathedral has become the most visited attraction in Paris

As of 2019, the Eiffel Tower was visited by about 7 million people, and Notre Dame Cathedral by about 13 million.

30. The oldest permanent bridge in Paris is called Pont Neuf (Pont Neuf)

When the Pont Neuf was built, it was nicknamed the "New Bridge." The “New Bridge” eventually ceased to be the most unique because all the “old bridges” collapsed, and new ones had to be built, but it was impossible to change their purpose.

Even though the name reads "New," it is currently the oldest bridge in Paris.

31. Paris metro is the second busiest in Europe

With 5.23 million passengers daily, the Paris Metro is the second busiest metro system in Europe, just after the Moscow Metro.

32. Many tourists experience "Paris Syndrome."

Some visitors have a "Paris Syndrome" that frustrates them when visiting the city. The fact is that there, you can encounter things that could be more plausible, such as crime, dirty streets, and unfriendly locals. And all because, for a long time, Paris is usually depicted as entirely different - romantic and beautiful.

33. Paris is home to the most famous cabaret in the world.

Burlesque and cabaret clubs in Paris have a long history. Many of them are still in operation, and there is also the Moulin Rouge in Paris, the most famous cabaret in the whole world. The oldest nightclub, Paradis Latin, founded by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802, is also in Paris.

34. The very first Bloody Mary was made in Paris.

A young bartender named Fernand "Pete" Petiot invented the "Bloody Mary" at New York's Harry's in Paris in 1921. However, there are many urban legends surrounding who created the "Bloody Mary" because many would like to attribute this merit.

35. The main bell of Notre Dame Cathedral bears the name of Emmanuel

Bourdon Emmanuel, cast in 1686, is Notre Dame's largest, oldest, and most famous bell. When Emmanuel sounded during the liberation of Paris in 1944, it was named a National Historic Landmark, and campanologists (specialists involved in the scientific and musical study of bells) consider it one of the best bells in Europe.

36. From the base to the top of the Eiffel Tower, 1665 steps

The climb from the foot of the Eiffel Tower to its top is 1665 steps. The stairs from the second to the third floor are not accessible to the general public. So you wouldn't have to go through all of them.

To go up from the second floor, you need to use the Duolift elevators waiting for visitors on the upper platform of the second floor. By the way, to walk up one foot, you will need it in 10 minutes).

However, real athletes can climb the stairs from the ground to the top in less than 10 minutes! The Tower regularly hosts a "Vertical Race" race in which dozens of athletes from all over the world compete to climb the 1,665 steps to the top as quickly as possible.

The men's record belongs to Pole Piotr Lobodzinski, who climbed up in less than 8 minutes, and the women's record belongs to Australian Susie Walsham - less than 10 minutes!

37. Rue Des Degrés - the shortest street in Paris, its length is only 5.75 meters

It has a staircase leading to Rue Beauregard, just a few meters from the Porte Saint-Denis from Rue Clery. The shortest street in Paris, rue Degre, is only 5.75 meters long and 3.30 meters wide.

38. Disneyland is the second most visited attraction in Paris

Instead of the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, or the Arc de Triomphe, Disneyland is the second most visited place in Paris after Notre Dame Cathedral! Eleven million people visit the theme park in Paris every year. The most popular Disney characters, rides, events, and restaurants can be found at Disneyland Paris, which opened its doors in 1992.

39. It took 30 years to build the Arc de Triomphe

In 1806, Napoleon ordered the construction of the famous arch in honor of the Grand Army. After 30 years, in 1836, it was finally completed. If you have ever been to the Arc de Triomphe, you know it was worth the wait.

40. Paris is one of the most expensive cities to live in the world.

Anyone who wants to move to Paris should keep this in mind. Living in Paris is expensive, especially in the city center. Paris is consistently ranked as one of the most expensive cities in the world, along with centers such as New York, Hong Kong, and Singapore.

It is estimated that you will need a monthly salary of 1,500 euros to meet your basic needs. A one-bedroom apartment in Paris can cost between 1,000 and 3,000 euros per month, with costs per person reaching up to 1,000 euros, excluding rent.

41. There are 20 districts in the city

Paris is divided into 20 different arrondissements or "districts" as commonly known.

42. Becoming a taxi driver in Paris costs an average of 160,000 euros

There are two ways to get a driver's license in Paris. In a government agency, it's free. However, no one follows this path due to the long waiting period of more than 14 years.

The second option is to purchase a license from a taxi driver who has retired or stopped working for other reasons. That's where this incredible amount is now coming from. There is no predetermined selling price; instead, determine its value using current open market prices. In addition, the market price ranges from 160 to 200 thousand euros.

43. The city has the largest wholesale food market in the world.

This gourmet metropolis hosts the world's largest food market. Over two square kilometers of fresh produce is available at Rungis International Market.

Every day, 20,000 people buy fruits, vegetables, meat, cheese, and fish at the market. Usually, open only to companies, the market welcomes buyers on the second Friday of the month.

44. There are no stop signs on the roads of Paris.

Paris is now free of "STOP" signs (the city removed them in 2016). They have been replaced with traffic lights because too many of them exist!

45. The Eiffel Tower is the most valuable attraction in Europe

It is estimated at 435 billion euros.

Imagine a huge city whose population exceeds that of many small countries. Skyscrapers in the center, anthill houses in the suburbs, and sparkling futuristic skyscrapers are harmoniously combined with street kitchens, crowds of pedestrians, and other Asian flavors. Indeed, Beijing is an incredible city. Here, in the heart of an ancient country, Eastern culture and Western innovation meet and merge.

 

Interesting facts about Beijing

 

Interesting facts about Beijing is a great opportunity to learn more about Asian capitals. The city has huge popularity all over the world. Millions of tourists come here every year to look at local attractions and get acquainted with Chinese culture.

 

 

1. The city of Beijing is the capital of China. The giant capital of China is amazing.

 

2. Beijing is a huge metropolis, the political and historical center of China.

 

3.Beijing is such a huge city that its population exceeds that of many small countries.

 

4. Four times as many people live in Beijing than in the whole of Slovakia - about 22 million.

 

5. And the area of ​​Beijing is larger than the area of ​​Moscow by about 12 times.

 

6. The first cities on the site of the modern capital of China existed more than three thousand years ago.

 

7. And the history of Beijing has 3 thousand years. It's about as old as London.

 

8. In ancient times, there were 4 great capitals in China, and Beijing is one of them.

 

 

9. Beijing, which means "Northern Capital" is the sixteenth name given to this city.

 

10. Before the city received the name "Beijing" in 1403, it was also called Jicheng ("City of Ji"), Yanjing ("Yan Capital"), Nanjing ("Southern Capital"), Dadu ("Great Capital"), Peiping ("Central World") and others.

 

11. Beijing is the second largest city in China after Shanghai with a population of almost 22.5 million. Almost the same number of people live on the continent of Australia.

 

12. This ancient city is literally crowded with people, cars and motorcycles, everyone is in a hurry somewhere, and it seems that people here never sleep at all.

 

RAILWAY STATION IN BEIJING

 

13. Indeed, Beijing is an incredible city. Here, in the heart of an ancient country, Eastern culture and Western innovation meet and merge.

 

14. In China, they like to borrow what they like, so this city has entire blocks that are very reminiscent of European cities.

 

15. In Beijing, skyscrapers are located in the center, anthill houses in the suburbs. These sparkling futuristic skyscrapers blend in harmoniously with street kitchens, crowds of pedestrians and other Asian flavors.

 

16. Beijing drivers never give way to pedestrians on zebras. However, almost everywhere in Asia the situation is exactly the same.

 

17. Bicycles are very popular in this city due to their cheapness. There are a lot of bike paths, they are usually fenced off from the roadway and the pedestrian zone.

 

METRO IN BEIJING

 

18. The Beijing subway, consisting of 17 "branches", takes 2nd place on the planet in terms of the total length of lines. The championship is held by the Shanghai subway.

 

19. Climatic conditions in Beijing are not simple: in summer the temperature can rise above + 42°C, while in winter the thermometer can drop to -27°C. The best months to visit Beijing are April, May, September and October.

 

BEIJING AIRPORT

 

20. Beijing Airport is the second busiest in the world: more than 100 million travelers pass through its terminals every year.

 

21. In Beijing, a new airport is under construction - when it is completed, Daxing should become the largest air harbor in the world. The complex is scheduled to open in 2025.

 

22. The most impressive historical sights of China are located in Beijing.

 

23. The center of the city is the famous Tiananmen Square. Until 1989, mass gatherings and political protests took place on the square, until access to the square was restricted and meetings were banned. Now only ceremonial events are allowed here.

 

TIANANMEN SQUARE, BEIJING

 

24. Tiananmen Square is surrounded by four monumental buildings: the Tiananmen Gate of the Imperial City in the north, the Great Hall of the People in the West, the Mao Zedong Mausoleum in the south, and the National Museum of China in the east.

 

25. Tiananmen Square in the center of Beijing, with a size of 440 thousand square meters, was the largest in the world until the 20th century.

 

26. In January 2011, an eight-meter statue of Confucius was installed on the square, but just a few months later, someone dismantled it under cover of night and took it away in an unknown direction.

 

27. Residents of China call their capital not Beijing, but Beijing, however, in Russian and many other languages, the outdated pronunciation of the city's name has been fixed.

 

28. One of the world's five mausoleums of socialist leaders, Mao Zedong, is located in Beijing.

 

MAUSOLEUM OF MAO ZEDONG

 

29. Mao Zedong, one of the founders of the Communist Party of China, rests in a huge memorial complex with 44 granite columns and 10 halls.

 

30. The most famous modern attraction in Beijing is the Olympic Park. As soon as Beijing was chosen to host the 2008 Summer Olympics, the entire country embarked on a plan to impress the world.

 

31. In total, 30 Olympic buildings were built and reconstructed. The main venues are located along the lake, such as the National Stadium - a masterpiece of the world-famous architects Herzog and de Meuron. Because of its bizarre shape, people call it the "Bird's Nest".

 

THE OLYMPIC PARK

 

32. In 2008, Beijing hosted the Summer Olympics, which cost the Chinese government about $44 billion to prepare.

 

33. Many citizens here wear medical masks on their faces, trying in this way to protect themselves from smog, exhaust gases and dust.

 

34. Air pollution in Beijing exceeds European standards by more than 5 times. Emissions from transport and industrial enterprises prevent citizens from breathing deeply.

 

35. And here, due to global climate change, for several decades, fierce sandstorms have often fallen on Beijing, capable of paralyzing the life of the metropolis.

 

36. Local ladies often walk with umbrellas to escape the sun. In Beijing, as in all of China, it is believed that the whiter the skin, the more beautiful the person, so everyone is afraid of sunburn.

 

37. School students in Beijing wear a uniform that is very reminiscent of tracksuits. The color of the uniform depends on the particular school.

 

38. In local parks, someone is constantly playing sports. Especially a lot of pensioners.

 

39. Many Beijingers here always carry thermoses with them, into which they pour tea or compote.

 

40. In many shopping centers, train stations and airports, you can see free vending machines for pouring boiling water. There are also regular fountains with drinking water.

 

41. There are also a lot of public toilets in Beijing, and they are all free.

 

42. Even in the city center, turning from a wide street into an alley, you can see how local residents cook food, dry clothes and do other household chores right on the street.

 

BEIJING CENTRAL STREET

 

43. Peking duck is one of the most famous Chinese delicacies. It takes about 2 days to prepare the poultry and fry it in a special oven on special wood.

 

44. Outside the tourist area of ​​Beijing, locals are very fond of taking pictures with foreigners.

 

45. Most Beijing residents do not speak English at all. So it will not be easy for a tourist without knowledge of Chinese.

 

ON THE STREETS OF BEIJING

 

46. ​​There are a lot of police in Beijing, passers-by often check documents. At the same time, everyone is calm, everyone understands that this is safety, and no one gets annoyed.

 

47. Beijing is a safe city. Even in poor areas, theft and especially robbery are extremely rare.

 

48. The first hotels and hotels for foreigners began to be built here only in the 70s of the last century.

 

49. The longest traffic jam in the world was recorded in Beijing: it lasted more than 9 days.

 

50. Beijing is a huge and incredible city. This is the very charm of Beijing - if some foreigners are shocked by the hectic atmosphere, then others find this never-ceasing seething of life attractive in its own way.

 

 

The Indian city of Delhi, the noisy multinational capital of this country, is able to shock an unaccustomed tourist. It is often referred to as New Delhi, although in fact only one of the city's districts bears this name. However, New Delhi can be called one of the most decent areas of the capital. It is noticeably cleaner and quieter here, while the typical Indian flavor is more than enough here.

 

Delhi's long and colorful history begins around the 6th century BC, and since then it has been repeatedly attacked, occupied, sacked, and rebuilt over the centuries. The medieval period was especially turbulent, and throughout its history, it has been the capital of many different empires.

 

Interesting facts about Delhi

 

 

1. The Indian capital of Delhi is one of the oldest cities in the world

 

2. It is not known exactly when the city of Delhi was founded. It is believed that this happened about 5000 years ago.

 

3. When founded, this city was called Indraprastha.

 

4. Delhi is not only the capital of India, but also the second largest city in the country after Mumbai (former Bombay).

 

5. During the history of its existence, this city has seen the rise and fall of several civilizations.

 

6. In the past, Delhi managed to visit the center of various states of antiquity, and the Indians themselves romantically call this city “the capital of seven empires”.

 

7. The city is located at the foot of the Aravali ridge - in the northwestern part of the country, on the banks of the tributary of the Ganges.

 

8. This is a large densely populated metropolis, in which different nationalities and cultures are mixed in a bizarre way. The urban agglomeration of Delhi is the third largest in the world in terms of population after the agglomerations of Tokyo and Mumbai.

 

9. The name of the city comes from the Persian "dakhliz", which means "border" in translation. According to an alternative version, the name comes from the name of Raja Dilli, who founded his capital here.

 

LAKSMI NARAYAN TEMPLE IN DELHI

 

10. Although there is no consensus on the number of settlements on the territory of the Indian capital, according to one theory, 16 successive cities existed here. The first of them - Indraprastha - was founded as early as 3000 BC. The Indian capital received its modern name after the construction of the city of Dhillika.

 

11. Often this city is called New Delhi, although in fact this name is only one of the urban areas.

 

12. By the way, New Delhi can be called one of the most decent areas of the capital. It is noticeably cleaner and quieter here, although there is enough typical Indian flavor here.

 

DISTRICT OF NEW DELHI

 

13. All metropolitan functions here are concentrated in the New Delhi area.

 

14. About one and a half times more people live in Delhi than in Moscow, and this is only according to official statistics, but the real number is higher - no one simply counts the inhabitants of the slums.

 

15. Including the suburbs, Delhi has about 27 million people, about 5 times more than in Finland or Slovakia.

 

16. Since India's independence from Great Britain, the population of Delhi has increased by more than 10 times. The population density in Delhi exceeds 11 thousand people per square kilometer.

 

17. Delhi has long been in the top 5 most populous cities in the world. In all of India, this city is second only to Mumbai in terms of population, but fewer people live there.

 

18. The area of ​​Delhi reaches 1483 km². This is approximately 660 times the area of ​​the Principality of Monaco.

 

19. Delhi is considered one of the centers of world tourism, which is not surprising - there are 60 thousand monuments with a thousand-year history, and some of them are over 2000 years old.

 

TEMPLE COMPLEX AKSHARDHAM

 

20. Temple complex Akshardham Hindu culture in Delhi is one of the most visited attractions, included in the Guinness Book as the largest Hindu temple in the world.

 

21. Since about 20% of the population of Delhi is illiterate, signs here often use not only words, but also drawings, which can be used to understand what exactly is being advertised.

 

22. In just 60 years, the population of Delhi has increased tenfold. This increase is due to migration that occurred after the declaration of independence in India.

 

23. Everyone rushed to the capital in search of work, and such overpopulation provoked many social problems in the city, in particular, slums, in which, according to statistics, several million people live, most often unemployed.

 

24. Slums are a serious social problem of this metropolis, because people live in conditions of complete unsanitary conditions and an increased crime situation. There are practically no modern communications there.

 

IRON COLUMN IN DELHI

 

25. Delhi's unique and mysterious attraction is the Iron Pillar, which is a pillar weighing 6 tons, 99.7% iron. According to some reports, the column is more than 2 thousand years old, and there are no signs of corrosion on it, its secret has not yet been unraveled.

 

26. There is a belief that one who wants to be happy should clasp the pillar with his hands, leaning his back against it, so that the tourists in their perseverance polished the metal to a shine.

 

27. The most densely populated area of ​​Delhi is the Old City. Here the population density is several tens of thousands of people per 1 square kilometer.

 

28. About 80% of the inhabitants of Delhi are Hindus, 10% are Muslims, and another 10% are all the rest, mostly Christians, Buddhists and Sikhs.

 

29. In different states of India, different languages ​​​​have official status, and Hindi and English are official for the whole country.

 

30. In Delhi, the Punjabi and Urdu languages ​​also enjoy similar status.

 

31. The local population communicates in Hindi, but more than 20 spoken languages ​​are in use. In writing, English prevails, and few people use it in oral speech.

 

32. On the streets of Delhi, a variety of outfits are mixed, from barefoot hermits and ladies in national saris to office workers in suits and foreign tourists in shorts and flip flops.

 

33. There are many more men in Delhi than women, as many of them come here from all over India in search of work.

 

34. In Delhi, there is a special female taxi, with female drivers. It only serves women and couples, not single men. This is due to the high risk of rape in India.

 

MINARET QUTUB MINAR IN DELHI

 

35. The Delhi Qutub Minar is the tallest brick minaret in the world.

 

36. The heat record in Delhi is +48.8 °C, and during the daytime temperatures here usually fluctuate between 30 and 40 °C depending on the season of the year. And once there was even recorded a temperature below 0 ° C! More precisely, -0.8 °C.

 

37. In December-January, the average daily temperature in Delhi usually drops to 8-9 degrees Celsius, so it's not always hot here. Cold air comes from the Himalayas, and the whole of Delhi is plunged into a thick fog.

 

38. The ecological situation here leaves much to be desired. A huge amount of transport emits a lot of pollutants into the atmosphere, and a hat of smog often hangs over Delhi.

 

39. In Delhi, rickshaw cabs are prohibited, which carry customers, harnessing themselves to the carriage.

 

40. Traffic jams on Delhi roads are very big. Moreover, a brand new Mercedes and a horse-drawn cart can stand nearby.

 

41. The most popular and common transport here is tuk-tuk, (auto rickshaw, or three-wheeled motorcycle taxi). But tuk-tuks and cycle rickshaws are not allowed to enter the city center.

 

42. According to the results of the latest census, almost 20% of the inhabitants of the Indian capital are not literate.

 

SLUMS IN DELHI

 

 

43. A significant part of the population of Delhi lives without access to running water, sewerage and electricity.

 

44. In Delhi, only 54% of the population is known to have access to purified piped water. The rest are forced to use private and public artesian wells, which cannot but lower the level of groundwater.

 

45. In Delhi, you can try any dish of Indian cuisine - Punjabi, Muggle, Rajasthani, Mararashtran, Hyderabad and others.

 

46. ​​The Indian city of Delhi, the noisy multinational capital of this country, is able to shock an unaccustomed tourist.

 

47. Unfortunately, despite the large army of policemen, Delhi still retains a leading position among the country's most criminal metropolitan areas.

 

48. Everything is here - sparkling skyscrapers, and luxurious villas, and ancient temples, and an eerie-looking slum.

 

49. Among the sister cities of Delhi, major cities of the world are Chicago, London, Seoul, Sydney, Tokyo, Moscow, St. Petersburg and others.

 

50. Many tourists say that you can see the "real India" in the old parts of the city, where there are many bazaars, ancient temples and other things. And New Delhi is a quite respectable business center.

 

 

Prague is a storehouse of everything interesting and unusual. As befits a modern city with a rich past, it knows how to surprise not only tourists but also local residents.

 

The population of Prague is 1.3 million people and at the moment it closes the twenty largest cities in Europe, and in Eastern Europe, it ranks 8th (after Moscow, St. Petersburg, Kyiv, Minsk, Budapest, Kharkiv, Bucharest, and Warsaw). The official date of the foundation of Prague is 880, so the age of Prague is 1138 years.

 

We have prepared a list of 45 little-known facts about Prague that we found interesting. So let's go!

 

Interesting facts about Prague

 

 

1. Prague is the capital of the Czech Republic and one of the most visited cities by tourists.

 

2. Amazing and charming ancient city of Prague. Many cities in different countries are similar to each other, but here you can feel the atmosphere that is not found anywhere else.

 

3. This is a truly unique city. And it is unique in that it has retained its historical appearance, having passed through the centuries.

 

4. By the way, the modern authorities carefully take care that Prague does not turn into another faceless metropolis. If you remove cars and advertising from the Prague streets, you can be transported 200 years ago, once there.

 

5. The city of Prague is the world capital of Gothic architecture. This traditional architecture, Gothic cathedrals, stone-paved squares - all this is found here in absolutely amazing combinations.

 

6. Prague was founded in 880, and the settlements of the Slavs on its territory have been known since about the 6th century.

 

7.Prague has been the capital of the Czech state since the 10th century, since 1526 the main city of Bohemia, since 1918 the capital of Czechoslovakia and since 1993 the capital of the Czech Republic.

 

 

8. There are about a thousand towers and turrets in Prague, if you count municipal buildings, ancient fortresses, and private houses. Therefore, it uses the unofficial title of the "city of towers".

 

9. But the virtues of Prague do not end with architecture alone. In Prague, you can find not only a huge number of palaces, churches, parks and squares, but also taste delicious Czech beer and food, as this city is famous for its huge number of cafes and restaurants with delicious national cuisine.

 

10. Prague's Allegro restaurant at the Four Seasons Hotel was the first in post-communist Eastern Europe to be awarded a Michelin star. This happened not so long ago - in 2008.

 

11. Prague owes its recognizable appearance to a number of laws designed to preserve the appearance of the city. So, it is forbidden to install satellite dishes on the roofs and facades of houses here.

 

12. It is also forbidden to install modern PVC windows on facades instead of classic wooden ones.

 

13. More than half of the houses in Prague (56%) are below 10 meters. Of these, 60% are two-story. The passage between some of the houses in Prague is approximately 70-80 centimeters wide.

 

14. Traffic lights are installed on the roads of the city, but not to regulate the movement of cars, but to coordinate the walks of pedestrians.

 

METRO IN PRAGUE

 

15. The Prague metro station Náměstí Míru is the deepest station in the EU. It is located at a depth of 53 meters, and the escalator that connects it to the surface is 87 meters long. And the longest escalator in the world is located in Russia - St. Petersburg, at the Admiralteyskaya station - 137 meters.

 

16. The metro in Prague was built according to the technologies developed in the USSR and with the involvement of Soviet specialists.

 

17. The length of the longest street in Prague (Strakonická) is 15.5 kilometers, and the shortest (Jiřího Červeného) is only 27 meters.

 

18. The city has the narrowest house in the world, only 225 centimeters wide. You can find it on Anezka Street.

 

TV TOWER IN PRAGUE

 

19. Prague TV Tower is the tallest building in the whole country. Many Czechs also call it the ugliest building.

 

20. Under the reign of Charles IV, King of Bohemia and Holy Roman Emperor, Prague was the most powerful city in Europe.

 

21. The oldest Czech glass factory is located in Prague. It was built in 1414, it is still working and continues to produce the best examples in the world.

 

22. The highest natural point in Prague is the Teleček hill, 399 meters above sea level.

 

23. The main water artery of Prague - the Vltava River makes a significant contribution to the picturesque panorama of the city, but often brings a lot of trouble to its inhabitants.

 

24. Quite large floods occur regularly in Prague. In 2002, Prague suffered the worst flooding in 500 years due to the massive flooding of the Vltava River.

 

25. It is curious that it was in Prague that the world's first sobering-up station appeared. This happened in 1951. The first client of the Prague sobering-up station was a drunken Soviet sailor.

 

26. Prague clearly knows how to make long-term architectural projects. The Cathedral of St. Vitus located here was built almost 6 centuries.

 

ST. VITUS CATHEDRAL

 

27. St. Vitus Cathedral is one of the most unusual buildings in Prague.

 

28. On the day of the summer solstice during sunset, you can see an interesting phenomenon - the sun sets behind St. Vitus Cathedral and the last ray touches the part of the cathedral where the relics of the saint are buried.

 

29. Near the Gergeta brick factory in Prague, the so-called pissing statues are installed, jets of water do not just pour out of them, but under the guidance of special computers, quotes from the inhabitants of Prague are written on the walls.

 

30. Pneumatic mail operated in Prague for more than a century. It was put into operation in 1899 and consisted of 26 lines with a total length of 55 kilometers.

 

CHARLES BRIDGE IN PRAGUE

 

31. Prague pneumatic post - the world's last surviving urban system for moving postal items under the action of rarefied or compressed air. It was damaged in 2002, but they want to restore it again.

 

32. The status of the planet Pluto was deprived by the International Astronomical Union during a conference held in Prague in 2006.

 

33. Approximately 40% of couples who come on vacation to Prague also play a wedding there.

 

HOUSE OF FAUST

 

34. There is a legendary house in Prague, in which, according to legend, the famous warlock Faust lived. Tourist excursions are willingly led here. In fact, a house is like a house, there is nothing special about it.

 

35. It was here that the very first biography of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was published. It was published in 1798 by a friend of the great composer 7 years after his death.

 

36. František Xavier Nemeček, Professor of Philosophy and Pedagogy at Charles University, published a book entitled "The Life of Imperial-Royal Kapellmeister Wolfgang Gottlieb Mozart".

 

37. It is known that Prague women visit libraries two and a half times more often than men.

 

38. Every year, each resident of Prague drinks an average of 155 liters of beer, which is the largest per capita in the world.

 

39. There is a version that Adolf Hitler was so impressed by the beauty of Prague that during the Second World War he forbade bombing it.

 

40. For a quarter of a century, two funiculars existed in Prague at the same time.

 

PRAGUE CASTLE

 

41. Prague Castle is the largest castle in the world.

 

42. Some of the episodes of the world famous children's cartoon "Tom and Jerry" were drawn in the cartoon studio "Brothers in Tricks" in Prague.

 

43. In one of the buildings of the Prague complex "Clementinum" is the oldest weather station in the Czech Republic. It was discovered in 1752, and since 1755 it has been conducting regular and continuous observations, which is a world record.

 

44. In the list of the most visited European cities by Russian tourists, Prague ranks fourth, following Rome, Barcelona and Paris

 

45. Prague is the city that is worth visiting at least once in a lifetime.

 

Sunny Greece is a picturesque land created by the gods for the rest of the soul and body. The islands of Kos, Santorini, the western part of Rhodes, the Halkidiki peninsula, and the eastern part of the Peloponnese are washed by the Aegean Sea. The east coast of Rhodes and the northern and southern beaches of Crete caress the waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

 

The Ionian Sea will help you enjoy a holiday in western Crete, eastern Corfu, and the western part of the Peloponnese. Lovers of invigorating swimming will enjoy the refreshing Adriatic Sea on Corfu's western and northern shores.

 

Top places to stay in Greece 

 

From May to October, you will get an incredible relaxation on all the seas, sunbathing on the comfortable beaches and enjoying the gentle turquoise waters of the sea. Many resorts in Greece by the sea offer tourists to see the ancient attractions, immerse themselves in the dizzying atmosphere of the nightlife and enjoy the taste of the local cuisine, and you can choose where to relax.

 

1. Crete

In the necklace of the Greek islands, the legendary homeland of Zeus, Crete, stands out as the most fabulous pearl. It hosts the southernmost resorts in the country, where it enjoys almost 340 days a year of sunny weather: beautiful mountain scenery, sandy beach areas, and beautiful inns for romantic and family vacations.

 

Among the many resorts, an unforgettable holiday on the sandy shores surrounded by picturesque nature will be provided by Agios Nikolaos, Elounda, Rethymno, Chania, Heraklion, and Hersonissos, Malia, Lassithi. If you prefer more comfort, staying in the eastern part of Crete, on Lassithi, with sandy beaches in the Gulf of Mirabella and "star" hotels, is better.

 

In the northern region, the resort of Rethymno has gained popularity with a coast dotted with a mixture of sand and pebbles, a gentle descent into the water, and a freshwater lake with its beach. There are many hotels on the first line in the city. It is pleasant to walk around, enjoying the picturesque combination of Venetian and Oriental architecture.

 

The Heraklion coast stretches along the central part. It is a lively resort for young people, with water parks and an aquarium. Moving to the west coast of Crete, you are in the most exotic resort - Chania, surrounded by lush exotic vegetation, famous for the best sandy beaches, architectural monuments, and Venetian-style mansions. Those who are just interested in spending time on the beach can safely choose Elafonisi, the red beach in Matale, the Vapay beach on Lassithi, and the wild Balos beach with luxurious white sand.

 

2. Rhodes

Rhodes will satisfy the most demanding tourists with its natural beauty, all-encompassing tourist infrastructure, and fantastic weather. There are beaches on the island for all tastes: sandy and pebble, comfortable and wild, picturesque and relaxing bays, and open to all winds.

 

All beaches are accessible. Fans of a versatile beach holiday, sightseeing, and active nightlife should choose the capital - Rhodes, located in the north. Here, on the spit, there are beaches from two nearby seas - the Mediterranean Sea and the Aegean Sea, which differ in terms of water temperature and the presence of sea waves.

 

It is preferable to rest with the children, heading south, where peace reigns. A famous beach - Ellie with white sand overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and excellent infrastructure. The sandy pebble beach of Paropoul and the pebble beaches of Ixia and Ialyssos, which stretch along the rolling shores of the Aegean Sea, are suitable for extreme sports fans.

 

Several unique beaches in Kallithea, nestled in cozy little bays, are famous for their Roman hot springs. Among the Mediterranean resorts, Faliraki stands out with its clean, golden sand beaches of almost 4 kilometers, followed by Anthony Quinn Beach, located in a bay surrounded by cliffs.

 

Among the Mediterranean beaches awarded with "Blue Flags," we would like to mention Kolimbia and Afandou, the comfortable sandy beaches of Tsambika, Stegna, and Agati. In Rhodes, spending time on the beach goes well with visiting medieval forts, Byzantine and Catholic churches, museums, old Lindos with its acropolis, and visiting Rodini Park, the Butterfly Valley, and the ostrich farm.

 

3. Kos

Kos Island offers many pleasant moments, surrounded by picturesque nature and stunning beaches with resorts and attractions. Its gravel-dominated coastline is washed away by the crystal clear waters of the Aegean Sea. In the central city - Kos, the beaches are too crowded.

 

Tourists intending to combine sea bathing and sunbathing on the beach with hiking in historic sites should head to Kamari and Kefalos with their quiet sea and well-equipped beaches separated by a bay. Near Kefalos, there is a cozy sandy beach with paradise, surprising with water bubbles near the coast coming from the volcanic gases emitted.

 

Kardamena Resort, located in the southwest, has hotels with beautiful beaches and the ancient temple of Apollo. In the northern part of Kos, there are unique black sand beaches that have settled on the shores of the volcanic eruption and Lake Aliko with flamingos.

 

Psalidi, with its gravel coastline, is a favorite among windsurfing enthusiasts. The wide white sandy beach of Maskhari, with a slight slope in the sea, is perfect for families. Terma Beach, famous for its hot springs, is located 10 kilometers from the capital.

 

There are many ancient attractions on Kos - the ancient city of Paleo Pili, the castle of Animachia, the site of the Asclepius sanatorium, the old Roman Odeon, and many medieval temples.

 

4. Corfu

Immersed in greenery, Corfu is located 2 kilometers from mainland Greece in the northern part of the Ionian Sea. Several resort complexes with cozy hotels and cozy pebble beaches stretch along its coast.

 

A paradise hidden among small bays and bays is called Paleokastritsa Protected, located in the northwestern part of Corfu. Here sunbathing on the beach, swimming in the sea, and diving is complemented by plenty of entertainment options.

 

No less attractive for young people in the town of Kavos, located in the southeastern part of Corfu, famous for its active nightlife. For mature tourists and families, the southern resorts of Moraitika and Mesongi could not be found better. The settlement of Lefkimi will ensure an atmosphere of solitude and tranquility.

 

The deep warm shores of the sea, the clean beaches, and the daily comfort attract families with children here. The resort towns in northeast Dasia, Bourbaki, Nissaki, and Kontokali are also in good condition. Glyfada will appeal to those who like to combine an active daytime life with evening entertainment in restaurants and entertainment venues.

 

The young audience likes to gather in the northern resort of Sidari, famous for the legendary Love Channel, in Kassiopi, Rhoda, and Acharavi, with a high level of comfort and many entertainment options. Kommeno resort is preferred with luxury hotels, villas, expensive restaurants, and nightlife entertainment for the elite tourist category. There are many unique attractions on the island - 4 cities, several medieval churches, Achilleion Palace and Pontikonissi Island.

 

5. Cassandra

In the geographical trident of Halkidiki, the Kassandra Peninsula, named in honor of the king, who was the son-in-law of Alexander the Great, stands out. It is connected to the mainland by the beautiful Nea Potidea bridge. Kassandra is only 15 kilometers wide but stretches along the Aegean coast for 50 kilometers.

 

Young people go to lively and crowded resorts with a wide range of nightlife: Eriopigu, Kallithea, and Hanioti. Tourists with children prefer to relax in Nea and Sani. A delightful bay in the village of Nea Fokia, next to the beach strip, draws near the Byzantine tower by the sea, from which the sermons of the apostle Paul were read.

 

The golf course leads to a healing spring and a chapel. The comfortable location of Nea Potidea is famous for its magnificent beaches, covered with sand and fragments of an ancient fortress. The golden sand-covered Pevkohori coast is a paradise for lovers of solitude, surrounded by mountains, pine forests, and a gentle sea.

 

For those looking for privacy, do not hesitate to stay alive in the city of Nea Moudania. The peninsula is famous for its cozy sandy beaches, many of which have been awarded the Blue Flags of the European Union and have water parks.

 

On the beaches of Nea Fokea, it is good to snorkel at Glarokavas, where the depth is excellent, and lovers of boat trips and yachts like it. On the golden coast of Haiti, on the shores of the fine sand, both young people and families with children like to sunbathe and swim.

 

6. Sithonia

The second peak of Poseidon's trident - the Khalidiki peninsula - was Sithonia. Conquer with stunning scenery in a combination of mountainous terrain, clean pine trees, and coastlines, washed west by the waters of Kassandra Bay, east - by Singitimos Bay. The diversity of the coast, with fishing villages, comfortable bays, picturesque harbors, and clean unobstructed beaches, makes it possible to choose a safe place to relax for lovers of independent tourism.

 

Accommodation in Sithonia will not be a problem. The most prominent tourist center is Neos Marmaras, with two stunning beach areas on both sides of the town. Spend a wonderful holiday on the beautiful coastline of Parthenonas, with luxury hotels and a 17th-century temple. In the center, it is worth visiting the resorts: Kriaritsi, Marafias, Azapiko, Kalamtiko, Tristi Paradiso, and Caracas.

 

On the opposite side is the stunning mountain village of Sykia, with lovely terraces, the towns of Vourvourou and Sarti, and the breathtaking beauty of the Panagia Bay coast. Relaxing on the sandy shores of Porto Koufo Bay will attract families with children. The azure sea and numerous taverns with seafood delicacies offer an opportunity to eliminate the daily hustle and bustle.

 

7. Athos

The Athos Peninsula, where the sacred mountain rises, is part of Halkidiki. It is known that only men can visit Athos Monastery, so a joint venture or family should come to the peninsula to settle in Ouranoupoli, the nearest resort town of Athos, with developed tourist infrastructure.

 

You can stay here at relatively affordable prices even in the city center in a hotel with a pool, a little more expensive - in an apartment. But for lovers of luxury, it is also not difficult to find a hotel with a private beach. The city's main attractions are the 14th-century Byzantine tower and the Frankish castle.

 

The coast near Mount Athos is covered with pebbles and sand. The beach areas are equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay. For travelers who want to take in the sights and sounds of a Campsite, it is fashionable to stay at a campsite near Ouranoupoli on Komitsa Beach with bars, cafes, and shops.

 

On the peninsula of Athos is interesting the city of Stagira, where the famous philosopher Aristotle was born, whose statue is in the city park. For anyone who wants to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of local traditions, we recommend visiting the city of Ierissos, with the ruins of an ancient settlement and several Byzantine temples.

 

8. Amoliani

Near the Halkidiki Peninsula, there is a beautiful Amoliani, which fascinates tourists at first sight. It has become a paradise for all those who prefer a secluded vacation. The landscapes with picturesque bays and sandy beaches, surrounded by olive groves on the hills, provoke an indescribable delight and the desire to stay here for a long time.

 

The guests' comfort is created by perfectly equipped beaches and comfortable hotels, of which there are more than 40 nightclubs and taverns with excellent seafood dishes. For lovers of active entertainment, there is everything for water sports. It is undeniable that the main asset in favor of the trip is the ecologically clean sandy beaches caressed by the warm azure sea.

 

In terms of their popularity, Alykes awarded the Blue Flag, is in the lead. The golden sandy shore, surrounded by lush vegetation, with a convenient entrance to the sea, attracts families with children. For couples in love, more secluded corners of the beach are suitable: Agias Georgios, Megali Amos, Karagatsi, Zaska, Faka, Nisakia, where there are fewer people, but all the equipment for the beach, swimming, and water activities are available.

 

The small island does not have a lot of attractions. Still, a relaxed life surrounded by flowery Mediterranean nature and authentic local houses will make you feel like a natural paradise.

 

9. Thassos

The northernmost and greenest Greek island in the Aegean Sea. It is covered with forests, oaks, chestnuts, and banana plantations. It has such a small surface that it is not difficult to move around it in a day. The ancient capital of Thassos has long been considered the city of Limenas, surrounded by old city walls, behind which there are many ancient shrines and altars.

 

The beach and swimming will be fun in the resort of Potos, and in the evening it is fun to relax in the entertainment facilities. Theologos mountain village, notable for the ruins of an ancient city, has a beautiful, well-kept beach, especially suitable for surfers. In the historic town of Alik, apart from the beautiful beach and nature area, the fragments of an ancient temple with inscriptions are impressive.

 

For 115 kilometers, a luxurious beach stretches along the island, where the beaches of San Antonio, Paradise, Psili Amos, Makrimos, Glymoferi, and Marble shine with shining pearls, many of which have received the international Blue Flag rating. Tourists are ready to accept more than 180 hotels at affordable prices, both for standard accommodation and through the "all-inclusive" system.

 

See here the TOP 20 white sand beaches in Greece for summer 2022.

 

10. Skiathos

Charming little sunny Skiathos, with its luxurious nature, is washed by the emerald waters of the Aegean Sea. It offers its guests a wide range of marine pleasures and entertainment. To enjoy its charms in full force, you need to spend more than a week on Skiathos. Along the 44-kilometer coastline, towns and villages with excellent resort infrastructure and areas—well-kept beaches covered with fine and delicate sand.

 

The only difficulty for tourists is choosing a beach, of which there are 60. They have crystal clear water, sandy shores, and many water activities everywhere. Tourists are advised to sunbathe and swim at Little and Big Banana, the picturesque Vromolimnos. On the secluded beaches of Nikotsara, Castro, and Lalaria, which it is impossible to reach on foot, boats leave the port every day and take everyone to town in the evening.

 

It is the ideal destination for yachts. Little Chersonesos will conquer with the romance of the fortress Burtzi and a beautiful port. Skiathos will delight you with the ruins of the medieval Castro fortress, 17th-18th-century monasteries, and excellent hotel services and entertainment facilities. Excellent transport links are a perfect opportunity to get around the most beautiful places inside and out.

 

11. Lefkada

It is part of the Ionian Archipelago. Its name, "white" in Greek, comes from the white rocks that flank the west coast. The resorts of Lefkada are buried in dense vegetation, and the comfortable bays are beautiful places, with excellent beach infrastructure, lots of entertainment, and comfortable hotels of different stars.

 

The main tourist center is the picturesque town of Lefkada, which delights guests with colorful mosaic houses. Everyone calls the main wealth of Lefkada resorts its excellent beaches, which are firmly rooted in the ranking of the best in the world. On the southeast coast is Porto Katsiki, with its purest soft sand, azure waters, and luxurious natural surroundings.

 

If you are traveling to the southwest, it is impossible not to fall in love with the cozy and secluded beach corner - of Egremni. The lovely sandy beaches of Kathisma and Nydri, surrounded by pine forests, cypresses, and olive groves, are loved by tourists who prefer a comfortable and relaxing holiday. The leisure time of the island's guests will be diversified through its historical and cultural monuments.

 

12. Cephalonia

A small sunny island in the Ionian Sea, with picturesque beaches, which has recently become a resort. The capital is Argostolion, with a population of 40,000. Nature has generously endowed the resorts of Poros, Skala, Spartia, Lassi, and Svaronata with a quiet coastline, beautiful mountains, and the purest ecology.

 

Among the most picturesque and comfortable beaches will be in the village of Assos, with a gravel coast and a sandy coast of Kaminia, with a shallow entrance to the sea, which is excellent for families with children. Well-maintained blue flag beaches: white sandy-pearl-covered Myrtos with white pebbles and white gravel Antisamos surrounded by lush hills, shallow water near the coast, which is good for the health of adults and children.

 

Fans of the taming of the waves will enjoy a stretch of miles of the coastal strip called Petani, with high cliffs, a deep transparent sea, a strong waves. Kefalonia offers guests almost 800 accommodation options in hotels with different statuses, apartments, and villas. There is an airport and in any tourist town, nightclubs, cafes and a cinema.

 

13. Ithaca

The tiny island, which became the birthplace of the legendary Odyssey, belongs to the administrative district of Kefalonia. This is a little-visited Greek resort, mainly due to the inconvenient transport connections from the mainland. But tourists visiting Ithaca notice the extraordinary charm of its comfortable bay and natural landscapes.

 

The most populous city - Vati, is considered the capital of Ithaca, so it is better to start getting to know the resorts here. The city conquers with its buildings, built in the Venetian traditions of architecture, historical monuments, and a natural harbor, the largest in the world. Holidays in Ithaca enjoy coasts mostly covered with small pebbles, clear waters, and low tourist density.

 

The comfortable Filiatro Beach, which stretches into a bay between a mountain range near Watu, is considered the best on the island. Poli Beach, located next to the Stavros settlement, is not inferior in its beauty and range of services. Wild beaches - Agios Ioannis with beautiful views, Piso Aetos - yacht and other rental boats, Gidaki and Dexa - great for snorkeling.

 

The only stretch of sand on the Mnimat coast, surrounded by olive groves, is popular with tourists and offers services. Finding accommodation in Ithaca will not be a problem. You can rent a decent room with a sea view or an apartment during the tourist season.

 

14. Zakynthos

The Ionian island of dreams attracts tourists with beautiful scenery, golden beaches, warm turquoise sea, the healing scent of emerald coniferous forests, and attractions covered with exciting legends. No wonder it has been granted the status of an international nature reserve with unique creations of nature: Navagio Bay, the Blue Caves, the addition of relict turtles, and the Axos stone park.

 

The capital - the city of Zakynthos, is notable for its historical monuments and the charming beach area of ​​nearby Kalamaki. Many comfortable hotels have recently been built on the east coast, and restaurants with traditional Mediterranean cuisine and bars have been opened.

 

The eastern towns of the island are recommended as magnificent resorts with sandy beaches: Alykes, Argassi, Vasilikos, Agios Nikolaos, Gerakas, and Laganas. The beautiful Porto Limnionas is hidden in a bay surrounded by cliffs to the west. The coastline surrounds the island for 120 kilometers, on which there are more than a hundred beaches, which stand out for their perfect cleanliness. All the beaches are lovely. Regardless of the choice of resort, you will be assured of many vivid impressions.

 

15. Tyra

The most romantic Greek island, stretching like a crescent through the waters of the Aegean Sea. On the tops of its majestic cliffs are islands of white towns with stunning Cycladic architecture and views of the volcano's warming. The unforgettable charm of the landscapes, the relaxation at sea, and the tasting of the cuisine and wine of Santorini will remain in your memory with sweet memories.

 

The compact territory of Santorini is dotted with resorts with a wide selection of hotels of various categories, excellent infrastructure, and many beaches with volcanic sand. The main resort town is the capital - Fira, which is located on rock terraces, decorated with heavenly domes of churches, streets of snow-white houses, and scaffolding (cave houses).

 

There are plenty of hotels, bars, and restaurants here. The main beach area is Kamari, with a coastline of a mixture of pebbles and dark sand and several hotels and bars that stretch along the coastline. The quiet resort of Perissa, located at the foot of Mount Mesa Vouna, is not inferior to Kamari. A comfortable tan and marine activities await you on the shores covered with volcanic sand.

 

16. Evia

They are listed as the largest islands in the Aegean Sea. There are seven municipalities with over 200 thousand inhabitants. Larger cities are located along the coast, and small settlements are located on bays, mountains, and river valleys. The mountains divide the island into north, central, and south.

 

Each of them has all the conditions for receiving tourists in hotels, private cottages, various houses at affordable prices, and loyal services. On Euboea, the beach areas stretch for 680 kilometers, located in crowded resorts and isolated bays. At sea, the bottom is covered with cracks and underwater caves. The constant wind attracts surfers.

 

However, the wind does not catch up with the big waves, and tourists who prefer passive fun can sunbathe and swim safely. The most popular resorts are located mainly on the west coast, near the mainland: Edeps, Politics, and Eretria. Among the objectives of interest are several ancient monasteries and the remains of fortifications.

 

17. Peloponnese

The country's southern peninsula is connected to the Balkans by the Isthmus of Corinth. It is divided into seven regions, where each has created a wide range of services for tourists. You can stay in a simple two-star hotel or a luxury five-star hotel in any coastal resort. Most of the beaches in the Peloponnese are sandy, remarkable for landscaping.

 

For a family vacation, it is best to head to the shores of the Achaea region, where cheap hotels or places between Kastoria and Corinth attract the magnificent bays and beaches of Loutraki and Xylokastro, and the pebbled coastline of Sykia is marked for the purity of the sea. Blue flag. " In the south, you should pay attention to Laconia for tourists who prefer secluded coastal places surrounded by cliffs. In Arcadia, there is a beautiful city Leonidion.

 

When choosing the Argolis region, you can't go wrong with Porto Heli, Plepi, and Tolo, where you will find both sandy and gravel beaches. In addition to being on the sea, the Peloponnese will impress with the monuments of the history of ancient Greece. As you rest, you will see the legendary palaces of Agamemnon, the famous Olympia with the ruins of the temple of Zeus, beautiful ancient temples, and medieval castles.

 

18. Lesbo

The third-largest Greek island has become a popular resort in the northeastern part of the Aegean Sea. Glorified by ancient poets, he gained the ambiguous fame of a place where the cult of same-sex love flourished. The capital Lesvos is the port city of Mytilene, with two ports located in the southeast.

 

The best beach in Mytilene with hotels, sports fields, and restaurants is called Vatera. It stretches along the seafront for 8 kilometers. In the north of Lesvos, the Molyvos beach area is attractive, offering comfortable conditions for the beach, swimming, and entertainment. The beach area of ​​Petra, 5 km from Molyvos, is the best place for families with children.

 

Going west, you will find the stunningly beautiful beach area of ​​Skala Press, which has been repeatedly marked with the "Blue Flag" and the nearby hot springs. The island has a wide range of hotels and apartments. The history of the world includes the sights of Lesvos: the castle-fortress of Mytilene, the monastery of Archangel Michael, the Church of Panagia Glykofilus, and the Gulf of Calloni. The healing air of the resorts, saturated with pine aroma, will boost vivacity for the whole year.

 

19. Mykonos

The landscape consists of white windmills, white and blue streets, famous luxury villas, stunning sandy beaches, and an azure sea. In Mykonos, called Chora by the townspeople, there are many expensiVIPsVIP and luxury hotels and restaurants where you can meet celebrities from shows and movie actors.

 

Most resorts are located in the south, where there is less wind. You can spend a good holiday in Agios Iannis, Platis-Yalos, Psarou, Ornos, Azrari, Elia and Paraidaz. Nudists favor Paranga and Paradise, and Super Paradise traditionally attracts homosexuals and noisy parties.

 

Several cozy beach areas with yellow sand and clear sea are popular: Elia beach, Patis Yialos, and Super Paradise beach. People who prefer solitude should go to the coast of Agios Sostis. The marine rest is completed by visiting the tourist objectives: the Church of Our Lady of Paraportiani, the monastery of the Virgin from the 18th century, and the archeological and ethnographic museum.

 

20. Volos

The Aegean town on the Gulf of Pagasitikos has about 100,000 inhabitants. But at the same time, it is the third most important port in the country and a favorite location for tourists. Despite its industrial importance, the city has a well-developed infrastructure for a comfortable stay for many guests.

 

Walking along the embankment, you will find many attractions: various monuments and sculptures, architectural structures, a vast number of beautiful palm trees, the Orthodox Church of Saints Constantine and Helen, taverns, restaurants, and cafes where you can taste Greek national cuisine or enjoy the familiar taste of traditional European dishes.

 

No matter what interests him, every tourist will find his free time among the attractions of Volos: the Brick Museum, the richest Archaeological Museum, the castle of Volos, built in the sixth century, many cathedrals, and temples. And in the vicinity of Volos, tourists will find exciting trips to the site of the ancient cities of Dimitriada and Diminios, the old European settlement Sesklos, a copy of the legendary ship "Argo," anchored forever on the outskirts of the town.

 

According to tourists, Volos is a picturesque place where you can experience Greek hospitality, immerse yourself in ancient history, enjoy the gastronomic pleasure of Greek national cuisine, and learn more about the culture of one of the oldest civilizations.

 

See here the TOP 20 white sand beaches in Greece for summer 2022.