It also conjures up images of thousands of islands scattered across the Aegean and Ionian seas, endless beaches stretching as far as the eye can see and landscapes, dotted with cypress groves, vineyards and olive trees set against rugged mountain ranges. Everywhere there are remains of the country's long and distinguished history - the Acropolis and Parthenon, the temples of Delphi, Byzantine churches, mediaeval castles and Turkish mosques. Whilst the modern world has been welcomed, old world charm still survives - so that pizza parlours stand next door to traditional tavernas and cocktail bars compete with ouzeries.
Tradition is still prevalent in Greek cuisine and most restaurants rely on fresh produce.
Usually veal, lamb and chicken dishes are served whilst, near the coast, fish and other seafood form an important part of the menu. Most meals are accompanied by salads dressed with inventive combinations of herbs and olive oil. For shoppers, jewellery, enamelware, pottery, silver filigree, onyx items, rugs and leather are all excellent buys. Antiques, too, can be good bargains - although genuine objects from the Greek, Roman and Byzantine times require an export licence. Winter does not offer quite the same spectrum of delights for the holiday-maker and some hotels do not operate.