Greece is known for well preserved archaeological sites in Athens, Mycenae, and Thessaloniki and others on its mainland and for more than 200 islands offering beaches, bays, resorts, picturesque towns, and stunning landscapes. The Cyclades, in the Aegean Sea, offer sandy shores, traditional Greek lifestyle, and beautiful blue and white architecture. The Dodecanese islands in the southeast Aegean are home to castles, archaeological sites, medieval monuments, and stunning beaches.