Greek Gods willing - we plan to finish a week cruise in Athens on May 1st. Orthodox Easter in Sunday May 2nd. We have 5 nights to spend in Greece before we start the next portion of a 10 week exploration (hopefully - Portugal, France & back to Greece).
We are 2 seniors - pretty active - love to relax, people watch, wander historic spots/sites, "do" museums and really love all food Greek! We have learned that 3 to 4 nights is a wonderful amount of time to get to be comfortable in a town/area and try to avoid 1 night stands. Have already done most of the major checklist locations near Athens (done a "port day", 12 day mainland group tour, and 3 other multi day visits). Later, mid June, we will return with our nephew (& wife + 2 teenage girls) for 2+ weeks. Their first international trip - and the girls chose Greece over Paris. I see lots of family trips in their future.
SO - I'm looking for somewhere a bit away from the normal US tourist locations - accessible from Piraeus port (where cruise ends) to spend 4 nights (5th probably near airport). Train, ferry or bus transport are fine. We might rent a car for local exploration but would rather not drive from the port.
?? is - where might be a good, laid back location to have a feel for this important holiday ?? My ideas are possibly - Aegina, Andros or Chalkida (huge island - not certain where to stay on).
Any input would be great (locations - hotels - tavernas) !!
All will give me something to do with all my spare research time. It has been so interesting to read back through the forum for ideas to start the "book learning" and route planning.