travel advice on greece

13 things to know before you go to Greece and the Greek Islands

Mar 6, 2024 • 8 min read

These top planning tips can help you prep for a trip to Greece, from health and safety to local etiquette © EMS-FORSTER-PRODUCTIONS / Getty Images

Get out your bucket list; it’s time to cross off a major line item: Greece . 

The fabled land remains tops for culture , food, outdoor travel, art and, of course, beaches and islands . As part of the border-free Schengen Area, it’s also incredibly easy to visit for many travelers worldwide. From advance booking to local etiquette – and health and safety issues when you're there – here's everything you need to know to plan a memorable trip to Greece.

1. Choose your season wisely

Your experience in Greece will be wildly different depending on when you visit . Summer is tops for action, family fun, and swimming in the Mediterranean Sea, but prices are at their highest and pre-booking is necessary for everything since it’s all so popular.

The shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) are a delight – prices are lower, and rooms and resources are more readily available. Winter offers a moody and budget-friendly retreat, great for walking, hiking and sedate travels where you will often be the only visitor around. Bear in mind that some businesses will shut down completely during the low season.

2. Prioritize your wishlist and make a plan

Do you want a grand tour, taking in the not-to-be-missed highlights all over Greece, or would you prefer to focus your time on exploring your favorite islands  or regions, like the Peloponnese ?

The best way to choose from the dizzying array of options on offer is to focus on what is important to you – relaxing on beautiful beaches, learning more about Greece's fascinating history and culture , museums and archaeology, off-the-beaten-track wildlife, or partying until dawn – and plan accordingly.

3. Find the perfect island or region for you

Greece merits multiple trips as every island offers something different , and each of its regions is equally dazzling – you're never going to see everything on your first visit, and you'll ruin your trip if you pressure yourself to do just that. Also, don’t be fooled that the biggies are the only islands worthy of your attention. Though Mykonos , Santorini and the major names have plenty to offer, lesser-known islands (there are hundreds!) like Amorgos or Kythira are also a delight. They've also got the added bonus of smaller crowds and lower prices if that's a key consideration for you.

4. Athens isn't the only gateway to Greece

In many cases, you will find it useful to transit in or out of Greece via Athens , as its airport has connections with numerous international destinations, and the city itself is a gem . However, there are other international airports around the Greek mainland (such as in Thessaloniki ) and on some major islands (such as Mykonos , Santorini  and  Corfu ).

If you need any internal flights to get to your destination of choice, it's worth checking the price of these individually. Due to government subsidies, it can work out significantly cheaper to book each part of your Greek itinerary separately from your international flights.

5. Book everything in advance during peak season

In peak season , prices are high, and demand for car hire, accommodations and ferry tickets is even higher – this is not the time for ad hoc bookings on the fly. Greece is an incredibly popular summer destination, and the best options get snapped up well in advance.

6. Roads in Greece are for confident drivers

No one who has traveled on Greece’s roads will be surprised to hear that the country’s road fatality rate is one of the highest in Europe. Overtaking is listed as the greatest cause of accidents. Heart-stopping moments aside, your own car is a great way to explore off the beaten track if you are confident in your driving and keep a few key points in mind.

• The road network has improved enormously in recent years; many roads marked as dirt tracks on older maps have now been sealed, and a lot of the islands have very little traffic.
• There are regular (if costly) car-ferry services to almost all islands.
• Greece is not the best place to initiate yourself into motorcycling. If you're not confident on a motorbike, it may be best to park this option until you have more experience.
• All the big multinational car-rental companies are represented in Athens, and most have branches in major towns and popular tourist destinations. The majority of islands have at least one outlet.

7. Greece is not very wheelchair-friendly beyond Athens

Access for travelers with disabilities has improved somewhat in recent years, but the majority of accessible sights, hotels and restaurants tend to be located in Athens. While improvements are on the horizon for beach access,  much of the rest of Greece remains inaccessible to wheelchairs, and the abundance of stones, marble, slippery cobbles and stepped alleys create frustrating barriers for those with mobility issues. People who have visual or hearing impairments are also rarely catered for.

Careful planning before you go can make a world of difference. There are specific resources online that provide links to local articles, resorts and tour groups catering to tourists with physical disabilities.

8. Pack the right kinds of clothing

Athenians are well-dressed, and the younger crowd is trendy, so keep your smart clothes for the urban catwalk of clubs and bars. Nevertheless, in Athens and other metropolises such as Rhodes , Thessaloniki and Iraklio , everyday attire such as shorts or jeans and casual tops are just fine.

Bars or fashionable restaurants require more effort – the scene is stylish rather than dressy. Think tops and trousers rather than T-shirts and cut-offs. In out-of-the-way places, you can wear casual clothing, and in summer, the heat will make you want to wear the least amount of fabric you can get away with – bring quick-drying tank tops and cool dresses.

Sturdy walking shoes are a must for the cobbled roads, and proper hiking boots are key if you're exploring the countryside on foot . It's respectful to cover up before entering churches.

9. Learn some basic Greek phrases

Greek is a tough language to learn thoroughly, but mastering a few basic greetings and niceties will make a world of difference in how Greek speakers receive you. In touristed areas, many people speak English, so rest assured that you can get by as long as you know some key phrases.

10. Carry cash and don't rely on cards or ATMs

As part of the EU, Greece uses the euro. In restaurants, a service charge is normally included in the bill, and while a tip is not expected (as it is in North America), it is always appreciated. Taxi drivers normally expect you to round up the fare, while bellhops who help you carry your luggage to your hotel room or stewards on ferries who take you to your cabin normally expect a small gratuity of between €1 and €3.

ATMs are found in every town large enough to support a bank and in almost all the tourist areas. Be aware that ATMs on the islands can lose their connection for a day or two at a time, making it impossible for anyone (locals included) to withdraw money. It’s useful to keep some backup cash just in case this happens during your visit.

Credit cards are now an accepted part of the commercial scene in Greece, although they’re often not accepted on many of the smaller islands or in small villages. Don't rely on your cards alone, and check in advance when dining or drinking if it's your only option.

11. Make sure you have good travel insurance

Although medical training is of a high standard in Greece, the public health service is underfunded. Hospitals can be overcrowded, and relatives are expected to bring in food for the patient – often a problem for solo travelers. Conditions and treatment are much better in private hospitals, which are expensive. All this means that a comprehensive travel insurance policy is essential.

There is at least one doctor on every island, and larger islands have hospitals. Pharmacies can dispense medicines that are available only on prescription in most European countries. If the situation isn't critical, it's often best to consult a pharmacist first for minor ailments.

12. Stay hydrated and remember how powerful the sun can be

Tap water isn't safe to drink on many islands – if in doubt, ask. Keeping a supply of bottled water to hand is essential for hydration as well as safety; many tourists underestimate how hot it can get in Greece, and heatstroke and serious sunburn are common on beaches with little shade.

Break up your sun-drenched siestas with time in the shade getting hydrated, and pack plenty of high-factor sunscreen. Mosquitos are an irritant rather than a danger – packing insect repellant is recommended.

13. Pickpocketing and other petty crime is common in busy places

The major risks of theft in Greece are pickpockets in the large cities and theft of belongings when lounging on busy, popular beaches (leave passports behind in hotel safes). Never leave your belongings unattended, and don't leave your bags hanging from the back of your seat where you can't keep an eye on them. 

The tourist police work in cooperation with the regular Greek police. Each tourist police office has at least one member of staff who speaks English. If you need to report a theft or loss of passport, go to the tourist police first, and they will act as interpreters between you and the regular police.

Some unscrupulous taxi drivers will try to charge you extortionate rates from the airports to the city centers. Always make sure the meter is running or pre-negotiate and agree on the price before you get in.

This article was first published March 2022 and updated March 2024

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15 Essential Greece Travel Tips: Things to Know For Your First Visit

From golden sandy beaches and dazzling blue skies to mouth-watering food, Greece offers a plethora of charms and irresistible attractions all year long. 

What’s more, the country is filled with warm-hearted and hospitable people who will help you enjoy a fabulous escape from your overworked and hectic life. 

That said, we wanted to share some essential Greece travel tips with you to help ensure that your trip goes smoothly. We also don’t want you to miss out on any of the classic Greek experiences!

15 Essential Greece Travel Tips

Table of Contents

1. Don’t forget to buy Travel Insurance

With all that’s been going on in the world, we can’t stress enough how important it is to protect your trip and the money you spent on it. We do not travel without travel insurance.

There are a lot of options out there for insurance, but we use and stand by  Allianz Travel Insurance . Full disclosure, we receive financial compensation as ambassadors for their company.

That said, we’ve been purchasing plans through them for the past 7 years and they have never let us down. Canceled flights, delayed flights, lost luggage, and a global pandemic, they’ve been there for us.

We always renew their  AllTrips Premier  annual plan that covers all of our trips over a 12-month period. If you take more than 2 trips a year, it’s worth considering an annual plan.

For single trips, we recommend looking at their  OneTrip Prime  or  OneTrip Premier  plans.

2. Be prepared for the heat during Greece’s summer

Greece’s summer sun isn’t forgiving for tourists who don’t protect themselves against its scorching heat. Heatstroke and sunburns are common for tourists visiting Greece in the summer. As is dehydration, which commonly presents as a stomach bug.

In Greece, summer temperatures can go beyond 95 F (35 C). On some days, it even rises above 104 F (40 C). 

To protect yourself, always wear a wide-brim sun hat, and a pair of sunglasses. Bring a refillable water bottle, and drink frequently to help keep yourself hydrated on your sightseeing and beach trips in Greece. 

Sunblock is a must too, especially if you’re hitting the beaches and outdoor archaeological attractions in Greece. And, even if you’re wearing sunblock, try to avoid direct sunlight as often as possible. 

Wearing light-colored clothes is one of the most important Greece travel tips. Black is cool, but it’s not ideal in a place as sunny and warm as Greece in summer. Also, opt for skirts, or loose long wide pants, and wide, airy, and long sleeves. 

If you’re visiting ancient sites in Greece, do it as early as possible, to avoid walking under the heat of the sun. Afterward, you can stop by a couple of museums, and take advantage of their air-conditioning as the temperature gets hotter during midday. 

3. Consider visiting Greece in September or June 

June and September are truly the best months to visit Greece. With lower rates for accommodations and flights, these months are perfect for those who want to save some cash on their Greece vacation. 

Last-minute ferry tickets to the Greek islands are easier during these months, too. Don’t get me wrong, June and September are still part of the country’s peak season, but most Greece attractions and places have fewer crowds during these months. The weather is also less windy and cooler.  

4. Buy your ferry, airplane, and train passes in advance 

Greece is an extremely popular destination, especially in the summer months. And, that means you should expect tickets for ferries to be sold out weeks in advance, especially if you’re visiting Greece in June, July, August, and September. 

Try to plan as far in advance as you can and book all the needed tickets in advance. A lot of Europe travels during the summer holiday season, so it’s not just overseas tourists you’ll be up against when it comes to accommodation, ferries, tours, etc.

5. Spend more than a week in Greece 

Despite the country’s small size, it is packed with attractions and places to visit. I honestly think this is one of the most overlooked aspects of Greece travel.

People don’t do enough research and only realize once they are in the country that they don’t have the time they need for everything that interests them. Don’t make this mistake!

Also, don’t try to do too much in a short period of time. If you have less than a week to explore the country, focus on 3 destinations instead of trying to fit in 6 or 7 areas. Travel between the islands takes time and is often met with delays or even cancellations due to the wind.

For a first-time visit to Greece, we’d recommend 2 weeks if you can. This will give you time to visit Athens, a couple of sights on the mainland, and spend a week in the Greek Isles.

6. Learn a little Greek lingo 

Learning some Greek phrases will do wonders for your Greece vacation. To me, it’s one of the most important Greece travel tips we can offer. 

Not only will it make your vacation more immersive, but Greeks also love it when you can speak a few of their phrases or words. 

Since English is prevalent in Greece, learning their lingo isn’t exactly necessary. But, they will have a deeper level of respect for those who show effort in speaking their language. 

7. Check out the less explored beaches in Greece

The beaches on Greece’s most popular islands, like Santorini and Mykonos, can be extremely crowded. No matter when you visit.  

If you want to steer clear of the crowds, head to the more serene islands, like Astypalaia, Ithaca, Donoussa, Sikinos, Kimolos, Tinos, and Andros.

Furthermore, you can enjoy a road trip along Greece’s coast in South Crete, Evia, Chalkidiki, Pelion, Epirus, and Peloponnese. 

8. Consider visiting during an annual festival or event 

Some of the best and most exciting festivals in Greece take place in summer. The Athens Epidaurus Festival, for one, is one of Europe’s oldest performing arts festivals. 

Inaugurated in 1955, this festival features numerous shows of music, dance, and theater. Even better, this festival gives you the chance to enjoy the ancient Greek Epidaurus amphitheater, which is known for its acoustics and is fully operational. 

The amphitheater’s acoustics are so phenomenal that performers won’t need a microphone to be heard in the remotest tier. 

You can also experience Panyigiria (Greek folk festivals). These folk festivals are scattered throughout the country in summer and are fun social gatherings. 

9. Bring a refillable water bottle 

Luckily, tap water in Greece is, in general, safe to drink. So, bring a refillable and reusable water bottle to reduce plastic use and save money during your trip.

This practice goes a long way toward being a mindful traveler and engaging in the principles of Leave No Trace while you travel.  

10. Greece safety tips to be mindful about

Greece is generally a safe destination, even for female solo travelers. Violent attacks in Greece are a rarity. Still, there are a few important safety tips you should take note of. 

Pickpocketing is prevalent, specifically in Athens. Though Greek police have cracked down on some of these perpetrators, you should be aware of your surroundings, and hide your valuables when you’re in busy streets, markets, or using public transportation. 

11. Give Athens at least 3 days  

There’s no better place to start a Greece vacation than Athens. Not only is it the main international gateway to Greece, but it also has a host of fantastic, world-class attractions. 

You could spend an entire week in this city, hitting known attractions, such as the Ancient Agora and the Parthenon. 

Athens is also home to tons of first-rate museums. And, luckily, most of these attractions are air-conditioned, giving summer visitors a respite amid the scorching summer heat. 

If it feels too hot outside, step inside the National Historical Museum and the National Archaeological Museum of Greece. You may also stop at Monastiraki’s covered markets, and pick up some Greek souvenirs.

Spending 3 days gives the perfect balance to see the main sites, hit up a few museums, and slow down just enough to enjoy the cafe life.

12. Don’t miss the Greek Islands 

Greece is home to around 1,200 to 6,000 islands. And, these islands are divided into six island groups: the North Aegean, Saronic, the Cyclades, Ionian, Sporades, and the Dodecanese. 

No matter what your travel style or interests are, you’ll find a Greek island that suits you. Some islands offer tranquility, peace, and solitude, while others have raucous nightlife and a party ambiance. 

While Santorini and Mykonos are the typical poster children for the Greek Islands, and their beautiful, we also love Samos and Patmos for a quieter experience.

13. Eat Greek Salad

One of the most delicious things you can eat while in Greece is a Greek Salad. I am not exaggerating when I say that every time we set foot in Greece, we eat weight in these salads!

Made from plump ripe vine tomatoes, red onions, cucumbers, and green peppers, this salad is topped with a generous brick of Greek feta cheese. It is then sprinkled with a seasoning that contains a variety of herbs, salt, and pepper. It is then dressed with olive oil and vinegar.

It is not only refreshing but insanely delicious!

14. Try a Cappucino Freddo

Or as we like to call it, Greek rocket fuel. Coffee is a rite of passage, and with the heat of the summer months, it’s best to drink it ice cold. Enter the Freddo.

You can have it straight up or with milk – we prefer it with milk. They also offer it sweet or unsweet. But be warned, the sweet option is very sweet.

This national drink can be found pretty much anywhere and we suggest you try it in one of the charming street cafes you’ll find in Athens or on any of the Greek Islands.

15. Bring good shoes

Lastly, and in my opinion, most importantly, make sure you bring solid shoes with you to Greece! You’re going to be exploring ancient ruins and walking on cobblestone streets.

I can’t tell you how many people I saw wearing shoes with heels or slippery soles struggling to enjoy their time in Greece. Not to mention, bad footwear is dangerous and can lead to injury.

We both lived in our Chaco sandals while in Greece. They offer the coolness of a sandal but have an insanely good grip for exploring. They also have comfortable soles and give good support for long days of walking.

This article is sponsored by Allianz Travel Insurance. As ambassadors we receive financial compensation. However, all opinions, stories, advice, and insane love for Iceland are 100% ours, as always.

You might also like:

• The Only Europe Packing List You Need (For Any Season!)
• When is the Best Time to Visit Europe? (Not when you think!)
• 10 Cheapest Places to Travel in Europe
• Train Travel in Europe: Ultimate Eurail Pass Guide

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Greece Travel Tips: The Ultimate Guide For First-Timers

Greek Island Bucket List is an Amazon Associate and participant in other affiliate programmes. I earn from qualifying purchases. Please see my disclaimer for more information.

If you’re travelling to Greece for the first time you probably have all sorts of questions. Whether it’s how to travel within Greece or more to do with day-to-day etiquette and practicalities. I’ll answer some of the most common questions here and give you some essential Greece travel tips.

Note that this Greece travel guide for first-timers is HEFTY so pin it to refer back to.

When is the Best Time to Visit Greece?

If you’re going to the islands, the season runs from around April until November however it does vary a bit from place to place.

Best Time for Everything to Be in Full Swing

Mykonos, for example, has a shorter season and things are really packing up by mid-September. The season in Santorini runs for longer and activities are still being offered well into November.

In most other places I’d expect to see a distinct difference in what’s open after the 15th October.

The best time for everything to be open and the sea to be pleasant is from June to late September. Before and after that the weather can be changeable and fewer places are open so plan accordingly.

Although the sea in April and May can be cold, it holds its temperature through October and November.

Read about Paros and Santorini in October

Best Time for Hiking

If you’re interested in hiking the islands, the best months are April , May, the beginning of June and then September, October and the beginning of November.

Late spring and early summer are lovely times to go because you can generally expect good weather, blossoming bougainvillaea, warm seas and services that are up and running.

At the same time, you’ll avoid the blistering heat of July and August and the biggest onslaught on visitors.

What to expect in High Season

July and August are the peak months when you can expect summer crowds. In the first three weeks of August, Greek people flee the summer heat of Athens and head for the islands too.

The main tourist areas can be overwhelmingly busy so consider some of the smaller islands. July and August will be much busier than normal for them too. But it’s also when you’ll find sea taxis running to take you to some of the most beautiful places

Many Greek beaches are only accessible by boat, so you’ll have a hard time getting to them outside of July and August.

How Do I Decide Where to Go?

Since there are a number of different island groups it can be hard to decide which is the best option, especially for your first trip.

What Are You Looking for?

My advice is to start with what are the most important things to you. For example, are you looking for amazing beaches?

Perhaps you want somewhere with good hiking trails, masses of history, a great nightlife, particularly delicious food or that’s perfect for families.

Maybe you’re looking for the perfect place to hide away and relax, far from other tourists. Once you know what you’re looking for from your trip you can start to narrow down the best places for those things.

Then you can look at how to travel between those places or find alternatives that are closer to each other.

How Long Do You Have?

Another big consideration is how much time you’ve got. If you’re really limited and are spending time in Athens then hopping about the Saronic Islands might make the most sense.

Alternatively, if you’re besotted with social media pictures and videos from the Ionian Islands then just go ahead and book there and cross it off your bucket list!

What Temperatures Do You Want?

Be aware that like other European countries, Greece in the summer season gets HOT. The Peloponnese is renowned for its scorching temperatures. One of the reasons some of the islands are so popular is because of the winds that help keep the temperatures down.

Less is More

My biggest piece of advice though is not to try and cram too much in. Less is more when it comes to deciding on how much of the mainland to explore or how many islands to visit.

Ferry travel can take up a lot of time. And although it’s a quintessential part of Greek travel, you don’t want to be spending more time on a ship than at your destinations.

Although you might be keen to see as much as possible, make time to just absorb the Greek culture, sample local food and watch the world go by. You can always add places to your list to visit next time.

Should I Avoid the Main Tourist Destinations?

People will tell you that Santorini and Mykonos are overrated, touristy and not the real Greece. I can’t deny they are touristy and that there are many other islands to discover (not to mention mainland Greece).

Greece is a beautiful country and there are many popular destinations to choose from as well as off-the-beaten-track options.

But I can’t say that Santorini is overrated. It’s about the most popular tourist destination in Greece for a reason. The view of the caldera is truly spectacular and it’s something I think is worth seeing once.

Similarly, Mykonos is a rather unique and diverse place. I used to think it was a really tacky destination for package holidays from the UK.

But having been, there’s something about seeing all the wealth and the way other people live that always makes me want to up my game.

I think it’s fun, glamorous and inclusive and it does have beautiful beaches. The Unesco World Heritage Site of Delos next door is really special too.

I think it’s nice to go to Mykonos for a short time but include some other islands in the mix. Tinos right next door is a great place to combine with.

Should I Fly to the Greek Islands or Take the Ferry?

The most common way of getting to the islands is via ferry. I recommend it although I know it’s not the easiest way for everyone. If you have children then flying might be easier than the sensory overload and organised chaos that comes with getting the ferry in high season.

For more information about flying see the Best Greek Airlines For Island Hopping .

Things to keep in mind about flying:

• some of the large islands do have national or international airports but lots of islands don’t
• if you’re going to smaller islands like the Small Cyclades you could fly to Naxos and then get the boat from there
• Athens is a hub and most island flights radiate out on “spokes” so you’ll have to fly in and out of Athens to get from island to island
• there can be a few exceptions in peak times like flights directly between Santorini and Corfu
• leave enough time between arriving on an international flight and your departure time for the islands (about 3 hours)

If you decide to fly then I recommend Skyscanner to book your plane ticket. They show you all the flights to a particular location on the date you specify, or across the whole month.

If you’re booking connecting flights then they also offer you options to buy tickets through travel agents.

That can be helpful if you’re booking connecting flights as you’ll have more support if you’re delayed on the first leg and miss your connection. Note that Delta has partnered with SKY Express to offer tickets all the way through to your final destination.

What is the best website for Greek island hopping?

If you’re heading to the Greek islands then get on FerryHopper.com , I love it. It’s the easiest site I’ve found to search for dates and several “hops” at once.

Plus they send you an email with all your booking details filled out so it’s super easy to check in online with just a single click.

Once you check in they’ll send you e-tickets so you don’t have to go and collect paper copies. (There are a few exceptions to this but you can see when booking if e-tickets aren’t available.)

When Should I Book my Ferry Tickets?

If the ferry schedules are out, then the best time to book your tickets is probably as soon as you’ve booked your hotel. If the schedules for the month of your visit aren’t yet published then just keep checking back.

See: Greek Ferries Guide for People Who Don’t Know Where to Start

People will tell you it’s fine to get your tickets on the day of travel. And while I am a last-minute person I wouldn’t advise leaving this too late.

One, if you do need to collect paper tickets it’s better not to be rushing about trying to get them. And two, tickets do sell out. It doesn’t happen all the time, but in the summer season, I have seen sold-out trips.

Plus there are finite numbers of economy seats, cabins and pet cabins, so if you want any of those you need to book when they’re available.

What do I need to hire a car in Greece?

I’ve answered all your Greece car hire questions here and tell you everything you need to know about driving in Greece here. Depending on where you’re coming from you probably won’t need an International Drivers Permit now but do check.

For many islands, it can be good to hire a car to really explore. But it depends on how long you’re staying and how comfortable you are about driving in Greece whether it’s worth it.

People can find driving on the islands a unique experience and sometimes one that’s more stressful than it’s worth.

Think twice (or three times) before hiring an ATV /quad bike. They’re really not safe and there are tons of accidents each year (many fatal).

See Do I Need a Car in Naxos?

Using buses on the islands

Bus facilities on the islands vary greatly. Places like Paros and Syros have good frequent buses around their islands. Mykonos has good transport to the various popular beaches there.

Where I stayed in Tinos there were only buses on Mondays. But the more popular parts for tourists had pretty regular routes. I’ve included bus information as part of many of the island guides.

During July and August, there are usually a lot more buses serving popular routes. Outwith these months buses can be cut right down or entire routes stopped altogether. If there are a few of you travelling together it can often work out cheaper to get a taxi.

Often there’s a small bus stop/shelter on one side of the road where you can wait for the bus. If you need to travel in the other direction just wait opposite it if there’s no obvious sign of a stop on the other side.

Luggage on Buses

In Greece, you put your luggage or any big or bulky items in the storage areas under the bus. If there are handles on the doors just open them up and put your suitcase in yourself. If there are no handles then the driver will open them up from the dashboard.

Keep valuables with you but I’ve always felt comfortable leaving the rest of my stuff under the bus. It was the same in Spain when I lived there.

Don’t try and take your stuff onto the bus with you. You can’t take up a seat for your bags and there’s not much space to put them anywhere else.

Paying your fare

On some buses, you pay the driver directly. On others, you take a seat and a conductor comes round and takes your money. I’ve seen both options on the same route too, sometimes. It’s usually ok to pay with notes if you don’t have change.

All About the Money

How can i exchange dollars or access euros in greece, euro only in greece.

Just to clarify, Greece uses the Euro. I’ve seen a surprising number of people ask if it’s possible to pay in US dollars when you get here. The answer is no.

However, if you’ve been travelling in Turkey, I can understand why you might think you can use alternative currency.

Exchanging money at the airports

You can exchange money at Athens airport. If you fly directly to an island then this is also possible in some places like Rhodes, Crete and Mykonos.

However, it’s always likely to be more expensive than if you were to exchange money with your bank at home before travelling.

Withdrawing foreign currency from the cashpoint/ATM

As I fly by the seat of my pants a bit, I tend to withdraw money from the cashpoint when I arrive. You get charged a fee each time but I don’t think it’s more than what you would pay to an exchange place.

Because of the fee, make sure that during your stay you pull money out in chunks rather than frequent, small withdrawals. The ATM will usually ask if you want the conversion to be in Euros or your home currency converted.

My bank won’t let me do this, but if you can choose the Euros option for calculating the amount.

(Side note: same when you’re paying by card. Sometimes the card terminal will ask if you want to be charged in Euros or your home currency like Dollars or Sterling. Choose the Euro option as it’s pretty much guaranteed to be cheaper for you.)

Have Cash When You Arrive

It’s probably sensible to have at least a bit of cash on you when you arrive in Greece. Many taxis won’t take cards. So at least if you have some physical money on you, you can get to your hotel. (Assuming you haven’t already organised some kind of transfer.)

The airports have ATMs but from time to time these things don’t work and the smaller airports won’t have a lot of options.

Having said that, I’ve asked taxi drivers to stop at ATMs on the way to where we’re going plenty of times (because I’m highly disorganised at times). Although, perhaps it’s not ideal for a female traveller, especially if you’re travelling at night in an unfamiliar area.

Avoid Euronet ATMs

Look for a normal bank ATM rather than these yellow and blue convenience ATMs. They’re installed in smaller, touristy areas, often next to tourist supermarkets. Usually, they’re seasonal too and only operate from April to October.

The exchange rates aren’t good and they charge a much bigger one-off fee to use them. They’re ok if you’re stuck – hence paying more for convenience – but I’d advise against using them regularly.

Paying by card in Greece

I use my contactless bank card for most things in Greece. However, I heard that a lot of US credit cards don’t have this facility. You can still use chip and pin or you may be asked to sign the receipt.

A lot of taxi drivers won’t accept cards and some smaller shops and restaurants may not either. Of those that do, American Express and Diners Club are probably less widely accepted than others.

As I mentioned above, if you get the option on the PDQ machine, it’s usually the most cost-effective to pay in local currency. I.e. choose the option to pay in euros rather than in dollars or pounds or whatever you’re home currency is.

How Does Tipping Work?

Tipping is different to what you’re used to if you’re from the USA. It’s normally just to round up your bill after a meal and just leave the change. Otherwise leaving 1 or 2 euros in the dish when you leave the table is normal.

For tour guides and private drivers, you can leave more but all of it is up to you and the type of service you received. People won’t be expecting the type of tips you might leave in the US but they will appreciate anything you do give them.

What to Pack and Wear

My first piece of advice here is to pack light. If you’re going in the winter months that’s a bit easier said than done. And if you’re hiring a car and exploring only on the mainland then it’s less of a worry how much you take. You can chuck everything in the car and off you go.

But if you’re going to the islands in the summer months then I’d really aim to only take hand luggage. It’s the best way to do things since you’ll encounter lots of steps, uneven pavements, dirt roads and the like.

Having said that, if you’re arranging transfers everywhere to your hotels and someone else is taking care of your luggage, it’s less of a concern.

Just tip well if someone’s traipsing up and down the caldera steps in Santorini with loads of heavy luggage. And don’t make the donkeys do that work either.

Pack things that:

• will help keep you cool
• are suitable options on particularly windy days
• can be washed and dried easily
• that work well together so you can make a number of outfits from the same pieces

See What To Wear In Santorini Greece For A Happy Trip, and if you’re travelling in the summer the Ultimate Summer Greece Packing List: What to Pack for the Greek Islands

You’ll also want:

• some cooling shorts to stop your thighs chaffing
• comfortable flat shoes/sandals – you’ll walk miles round ancient ruins and archaeological sites not to mention village steps
• skirt/sarong that covers the knees or that you can use for your shoulders to enter monasteries and churches
• light jumper or jacket for the evening in the shoulder season

On The Beach

Are you imagining yourself on a beautiful golden sand beach by the Ionian Sea, or maybe the Aegean Sea? If so, here are a couple of things you might want to know about Greek beaches.

See also: 11 Top Black Sand Beaches In Santorini for a relaxing day read up on the 10 Best Beach Clubs In Santorini For A Luxurious Day and for golden beaches near Santorini Anafi Island: Beautiful Beaches A Hop From Santorini

Organised and unorganised beaches

These are the categories that Greeks split their beaches into. Unorganised means it’s a normal beach with no beds/umbrellas etc. There may or not be facilities nearby to get drinks or snacks.

An organised beach is one where you’ll find sunbeds and umbrellas and often a beach bar of some kind. Sometimes that’s a little hut and sometimes it’s a full-on restaurant or beach club .

They’re normally a cost involved in taking a bed. It’s either a set charge for a bed and umbrella and prices can be set differently for each row, i.e. you’ll pay more for a front-row spot next to the sea.

Or, you can use the sunbeds if you buy food or drink from the bar. Prices can vary wildly depending on the island.

Usually, there’s some space on the organised beaches where you can lay down a towel so you can go without having to pay for a bed.

Nudist Beaches

Technically these don’t exist in Greece although you might find some on Google Maps. People go topless or fully nude on some of the tucked-away beaches or at the far end of some more popular ones.

Solo Travellers at the Beach

As a solo traveller , I always leave my belongings unguarded on the beach. There are waterproof pouches you can get to take things with you while you’re swimming, but I worry more that I’ll lose everything in the sea.

Make up your own mind about what you’re comfortable doing but know that it’s common for people to do this without a thought. You can always leave your valuables in your hotel room safe.

Dogs on the Beach

Unless it’s a Blue Flag Beach, dogs are allowed on Greek beaches so be aware of that.

Getting Around

There is an Uber app in Athens but it will just call you a normal yellow taxi. I haven’t used it but have used the Free Now app many times which is the same sort of thing.

See also the 15 Best Apps For Greece Travel In Athens & The Islands If you’re heading to Santorini this is a must-read Santorini: How To Get Around By Car, Quad, Bus & Taxi As is this if Mykonos is on the agenda Get Around Mykonos Easily: Travel the Famous Island |

Public transportation in Athens is good with an easy-to-use Metro system , train travel, a tram network and many buses. On the islands, the quality of public transport really varies, particularly on the small islands. Check my island guides for getting around before you go.

Do I Need to Be Concerned About Petty Crime?

Like all big cities, Athens does see some petty and opportunistic crime, particularly in touristy areas. When you’re in the city centre wherever you’re visiting be sensible with your belongings.

I’ve heard of a lot of tourists from the United States who like to use a money belt under their clothes. I haven’t done that, but I do tend to keep my valuables zipped away in an internal pocket in my bag.

Keep your bag close if you’re enjoying a meal at a Greek restaurant in tourist area or when you’re around tourist sites. Don’t make it easy for someone to grab your stuff.

Also, keep your wits about you on the Metro and around the city in general. Some groups have scams where they’ll divert attention and then pickpocket.

In rural areas like on the islands, things are very laid back. It can be one of the best things about them! You might be asked to leave the keys under the mat in your rental car when you go.

Or if you arrive at your hotel late at night, they’ll just leave the key in the door for you.

Accommodation FAQs

Why am i being asked for my passport number.

It’s quite common in Greece to give your passport number for things so don’t be alarmed. It’s not about recording you, it’s about the recipient allocating payment for tax purposes.

Hotels will normally take a copy of your passport when you check-in. That’s normal in many countries.

Every Airbnb needs to take your name and passport number to be recorded for tax. I’ve also had to give my passport or Greek ID when I’ve booked a car through an app (using iMove in Mykonos, for example) or other private transfer.

What is the city tax I’m being charged?

City tax is a compulsory charge that you often have to pay in cash at your accommodation even if you’ve paid for your room online. Sometimes, it’s included if you’ve paid upfront on booking.com or similar.

The listing will tell you when you book whether the city tax is included or not.

If you need to pay it when you leave, it’s usually around 50 cents per night, although I think Santorini’s is a bit higher. You need to pay your city tax in cash.

Why am I being asked to pay by wire transfer?

In the UK and Europe, it’s not at all unusual to pay friends or sometimes businesses by bank transfer. That might be different to what you’re used to if you’re from the US. But don’t immediately think you’re being scammed.

Even established hotels might ask for you to pay this way. I’ve noticed that a lot of businesses in Greece use a Facebook page as their website. So many simply don’t have the facilities set up to take payments online.

If you feel uneasy about any transaction, then go with your gut. But just be aware it’s not necessarily an unusual request. I saw a thread in a travel group on Facebook where someone asked about this and all the advice was that it must be dodgy and to stay well clear.

People were saying this particularly because the accompanying email was written in less-than-perfect English. Understand that the culture is different in different countries.

Also, be aware that if someone is responding to you in a second or third language, their English is unlikely to be perfect. It doesn’t mean there’s an issue.

Day-to-Day Practicalities

When are greek public holidays.

You can see upcoming  Greek public holiday dates  here. Shops and businesses are normally closed although tavernas remain open. During the summer season, touristy places will run on.

Orthodox Easter  is usually end of April/beginning of May and can be a busy time for accommodation and ferries.

15th August Holiday  (called the Fifteenth of August!) is also a huge day in Greece. The islands can be ferry crowded as Greeks are usually on holiday with their families at that time anyway. Tinos is mobbed on this holiday.

Do shops/Stores close on Sundays?

Sundays are also public holidays,  but touristy places during the summer season will open all week. In the off-season, you might find some mini-markets / small stores that are also open on Sundays.

Chemists/pharmacies on the islands are usually closed at the weekend, although it varies. When I lived on Paros, they were open on Saturdays, but that wasn’t the case when I lived on Naxos. There are phone numbers on the door for each weekend though, that will tell you which pharmacy is on call for emergencies.

Main supermarkets are usually closed on Sundays.

Are the opening hours on Google Maps accurate?

Be aware that many businesses are seasonal. Often they put in their opening hours for summer and then leave them year-round. Probably they don’t expect people to be looking in the off-season.

If you’re travelling in the winter, you can see if the business has updated its hours recently. (You can see if there’s a message from Google saying the hours have been updated X number of days or weeks ago by the business).

If there’s no message and you’re making a special trip, then call before you go. Other restaurants and tavernas are really helpful and mark themselves as temporarily closed.

What are afternoon quiet hours?

Quiet hours are like Spanish siesta times. They change with the season but are usually around 3/3:30pm – 5-6pm.

Because it gets so hot in summer Greeks stay up late to take advantage of the cooler air and then sleep in the hottest part of the day. You’ll see whole families, including toddlers, going for a walk or a meal at 10pm.

Business hours for shops are usually along the lines of Monday and Wednesday 9am – 3pm and Tuesday/Thursday/Saturday 9 – 2pm and 5:30pm – 9pm . It can vary a bit and some places don’t open again on Saturday evenings. Department stores and supermarkets tend to stay open all the way through.

The quiet hours between 2/3pm and 5:30pm are taken seriously. You aren’t allowed to blare music from your car radio, talk loudly outside etc and builders can’t usually work through quiet hours. It’s like breach of the peace after 11pm in the UK would be.

Please be respectful of quiet hours. In island villages, holiday accommodation is often mixed in with residential accommodation and in very close proximity.

Be aware that people in the apartments around you might be sleeping in the afternoon. They usually have to get up early after being up late so they need the extra nap time.

Power Sockets, Plugs and Voltage

The plugs, sockets and voltage in Greece are different to many areas of the world. Unless you’re coming from somewhere with European appliances you’ll need a travel adapter for your device plugs. You might also need a converter so that your items work on the Greek voltage and electrical frequency.

See also: Power In Greece

Where can I do laundry/washing?

If you just want to do a little bit of handwashing during your stay, don’t bother bringing travel wash. Pick up a small box of powder from the shop. It’s really cheap, I think it’s more effective, and many places will provide a small washing bowl in your room

Chuck everything in overnight, rinse it and hang it out to dry in the morning.

For a mid-stay load make sure you book at least a night or two in an apartment with a washing machine. Or head to the local laundry/laundrette.

Note that not every island will have a laundry, and many that do literally are laundries, not self-service laundrettes. I’ve used a few in different places, and the turnaround time has been about 2 hours.

On average, I’ve paid between 5 euro for wash up to 15 euro (Santorini) for wash and dry. Although I think one place in Mykonos was something ridiculous, like 18 euro. If you don’t want them to use fabric softener you need to really insist that they don’t.

I usually just get my stuff washed and I dry it where I’m staying as I think that’s much nicer to dry it outside. However, it will depend on the size and facilities of your accommodation plus the time of year you visit.

Easywash is a brand of self-service laundrettes and you can see all their locations here . You can also use Google Maps to find laundries in the area you’re visiting. This post on 15 Best Apps For Greece Travel might be helpful.

How do I open the windows/doors?

Ok, this sounds like a random one. But I know from my experience in the hospitality industry, and now in Greece, that windows and doors can flummox visitors in different countries!

The type of window below is quite common in Greece (and Europe), and the same design is used for doors too.

If you’re playing around with the handle to see how it works, you can get a fright when the door angles back from the top. The first time I encountered a door like this in the UK, I thought the whole thing was falling on me!

Close the window with the handle down

Turn it 180 degrees, and it opens at the top only (secure but lets air in)

Turn it 90 degrees, and it opens normally

How do I get hot water?

Solar-heated water is common in Greece. You’ll have water when the sun has had a chance to heat the tank. In that case, you might not have water first thing.

Once the water’s heated, it could cool down in the evening if it’s not hot enough outside to keep it warm. So, you may need to be strategic about when you have a shower.

Some water tanks are heated electrically, like an immersion heater. More than likely, the switch on the fuse board will be kept off until you need it.

If you’re staying in an apartment or villa, this might be the case. If so, you’ll need to flip the switch for about 20 minutes to let the tank heat up.

Make sure you turn off the switch before you get in the shower.  Water and electricity don’t mix, and standards of installation might not be as high as you’re used to.

Can I drink the tap water?

The general answer you’ll find on the islands is no, however, there are exceptions. Like on Paros . But don’t worry, you don’t necessarily need to buy single-use plastic bottles for your whole stay.

The Greek water supply is subject to the same levels of cleanliness as the rest of the EU. Unless you’re somewhere remote you’re getting water from the mains.

So cleanliness isn’t really the issue. It’s more that seawater can mix with the mains water. Many islands don’t have desalination plants and don’t remove any of the excess minerals/salts that the water contains.

@bucketlistmylife Don’t drink the tap water here! Walk with me… #greekislandlife #bucketlisters #over40andloveit #housesitter #naxos ♬ From Now On – Hugh Jackman & The Greatest Showman Ensemble

If you’re in cities like Athens, it’s ok to drink the water from the kitchen tap. However, on most islands, you’ll be told not to do that. The villages have public taps in the street but check locally whether this is good to drink.

In some places, I understand they’re supplied by a spring, and it’s fine to drink. In other places I’ve stayed, the public taps in the village were the same as the kitchen tap water, and I was told it was not a good idea to drink from.

10 litres of water for 10 – 20c in Syros and Paros, Free in Andros

In the supermarket, a 1.5l bottle of water will cost about 30c. Although there’s a  big awareness campaign on Paros  to show people the water is safe to drink, you might still prefer filtered. In which case you’re in luck.

Syros and Paros both have big units in several points across the islands where you can get 10l of water for 10c (Paros) or 20c (Syros). You’ll obviously need a few bottles to fill, or ideally a 10l container. Find out more about the locations in Paros here .

In Syros, I’ve seen them on the road to Vari (just before the village, travelling from town) and on the big roundabout along from the Lidl and the bus station, where the taxis stop. Ask about them at your accommodation.

In  Andros ,  these machines are free to use.

Is it true I can’t flush the toilet paper ?

Yes, it is. Greece was ahead of its time and invited toilets before toilet paper was a thing. Therefore, the pipes used were really narrow. As things changed, it didn’t make sense to overall the entire country’s plumbing system so the same tiny pipes are still used today.

You’ll find a small bin in the toilets where you throw your toilet paper (and anything else you need to dispose of).

The bin bags get thrown out with the normal rubbish when they’re full. If you’re staying in a hotel or serviced apartment, housekeeping will come in regularly to remove and replace your bin bags.

I hate it, and as a rule, I take the bin bag out myself. What a horrible job for someone else to have to do for me. If that’s not practical, I always tie the top to try and make it marginally less unpleasant.

Are public toilets easy to find?

It’s generally quite acceptable to pop into the nearest taverna and ask to use their loo. I always think it’s polite to buy a drink to take away, but I’m not sure it’s expected.

You will find public toilets on the more popular islands, but the state of them can’t be guaranteed. I’d recommend always having some tissues in your bag. Oh, and they’ll likely be holes in the ground with a porcelain plate to stand on.

There’s often   a toilet at the port of the larger islands. In my experience, they’re generally not awful during the peak season.

Alternatively, petrol stations usually have public toilets. The larger chains like BP mostly keep them in good condition. Local ones might ask you to wait a moment while they clean it for you!

Supermarkets are another option you can ask in. AB Supermarkets always seem to have a decent customer toilet.

Travel Insurance

All I have to say about this is make sure you get some for Greece travel adventure. Get something that repatriates you to your home country if you have an accident or get ill with something like COVID.

Historically I’ve been really rubbish with this because a lot of my travel was within the EU while the UK was part of it. But I’ve heard a lot of horror stories recently about people travelling without insurance. (Globally, that is, not necessarily in Greece.)

Insurance will cover you if there’s an issue with your flights or baggage (check the terms carefully) as well as medical issues. So it can really save your vacation if things go awry.

Animal Welfare

It’s really common to see stray cats all over Greece . They’re supposed to be cared for by the local Municipality (council) who should provide water and dry food.

But often, the responsibility is, wrongly left to animal welfare associations. These are usually set up by foreigners.

You can help by taking a cat to the vet to get neutered; perhaps talk to the welfare association first. A clip in the ear means that a cat has already been sterilised.

If you’re self-catering for any part of your trip and are eating anything from a tin can, please crush it before binning it. Many cats live in and around the bins, and they will scavenge anything.

If there is the tiniest bit of food in a can, they’ll get their head in to eat it. The problem is, they can’t always get their head back out again.  So please crush your cans .

Although there used to be an issue with packs of stray dogs, over the last 10 years, that’s really changed. At least on the islands. On the mainland, particularly in the north, I’m aware that you might still encounter packs of dogs.

However, you will still see stray dogs on the road. Sometimes it’s hard to know whether they really are stray. Many Greek owners let their dogs run about on the road. If a dog has a collar on then that usually means it belongs to someone.

If you see a dog in a bad way, regardless of whether it has a collar, report it to the island’s animal welfare association.

Farm animals

Many Greek farmers are using modern farming techniques and treat their productive animals well. But something you might see is hobbling, where horses, goats, sheep and cows have their front and back legs tied together with rope or wire.

This is illegal and you can report it to the local police. You need to take pictures but  there are guidelines you can read here

Visiting Greece in Winter

A lot of the travel tips I’ve given above hold true whatever time of year you visit the Greek isles. But if you’re thinking of visiting Greece in winter, there are things to know.

Greek Islands in Winter – Do they Close?

This is such a common question. The answer is that no Greek island “closes” in winter . People live on the islands all year round.

But, in terms of what’s available from a tourist point of view, many of the restaurants, shops, services, hotels and tours provided for them do close down over the winter.

If you want to visit the islands between October/November and April, then be aware you’re going to have a different experience than in the summer.

Here’s what it’s like in Santorini in October and November and Paros in October .

You can still enjoy Greek culture and indulge in Greek cuisine. The incredible beaches are still there. But unless you’re a hardened cold-water swimmer, you’re not going to be doing anything other than going for a bracing walk along the sand.

If you want to visit Greece in the winter, you’re best doing a city break in Athens or exploring the mainland.

Here’s what to expect from Greece in November , and Christmas time in Athens .

Island-hopping is still possible if you stick to a particular ferry route. For example, Paros, Naxos, Ios, Santorini. But you’ll be going for the views, hiking and food and not beaches, boat trips and partying.

Important Greece Travel Tips for Winter

• staying in island accommodation that’s designed for the summer isn’t fun in winter. A lot of homes are drafty, damp, have no heating and only have hot water if the sun shines for long enough.
• most touristy tours and trips don’t run in winter. For example, if you visit Mykonos after October/November there’s no way to get over to Delos to see the ancient ruins
• local public transport routes can reduce after the peak season
• ferry routes and flight options vastly reduce after October and sea journey times can be much longer than in summer
• generally, it doesn’t snow on the islands although it can. Mostly, it’s rainy and windy, although it can vary between the island groups
• If you’re particularly looking for snow and cosy cabins, then head to the mainland for ski resorts and mountainous destinations

Do I Need a Visa?

Currently, citizens from the UK, USA, Australia and the EU do not need a visa to enter Greece for a period of up to 90 days within a rolling 180-day period.

From 2025, you still won’t need a visa, but third-party nationals from countries like the US, UK and Australia will need an ETIAS. This is a visa waiver and is required before travel. You apply online and once approved, the ETIAS is valid for three years.

Suzie Young

Suzie writes informative posts for solo, nervous or first-time travellers to Greece, Turkey and other countries on her 50-before-50 bucket list. She became a Greek resident in 2020 and intends to visit every inhabited island (13 down!).

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Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Athens International Airport Guide

Cities to Visit

Neighborhoods to Explore

Day Trips from Athens

48 Hours in Athens

Top Things to Do

Top Temple Sites

Best Beaches

Mount Olympus

Ancient Greek Theaters

Foods to Try

Top Restaurants in Athens

Best Bars in Athens

Your Trip to the Greece: The Complete Guide

Your Trip to Greece: The Complete Guide

A visit to Greece can be a dream vacation as long as you know what your dream really is and plan for it. The country's beautiful beaches and world-famous archaeological sites are just two (of many!) reasons to visit Greece . But whatever your reason, use this guide to learn more about the various regions of Greece, how to travel around the country and what to expect of Greece's food, culture, and sights.

Planning Your Trip

Best Time to Visit : Spring and early fall are the best times to visit when there are fewer tourists but the sea is still warm and the weather fine for outdoor activities.

Language: Greek  . English is spoken in the cities and areas popular with visitors.

Currency: Euro (€)  .

Getting Around: Train service in Greece is limited. An exception is the InterCity Network run by TrainOSE that connects Athens to Thessaloniki and several other cities. Buses, including both local and intercity services, are run by regional cooperatives known as KTEL. The services are not nationally coordinated, so you need to look up KTEL for the region you plan to visit. This KTEL Macedonia website (covering the area around Thessaloniki) is typical. Athens and Thessaloniki have local and suburban public transportation systems. Athen's Metro (expanded for the Olympics) is particularly good, cheap, and clean. Hundreds of ferries connect the mainland to the islands and mainland coastal ports to each other. Private companies run the ferries, and there is no nationwide timetable. Save time and money by using the services of a Greek travel agent to book ferries and for information about buses and trains. Greek websites on these subjects are not well developed for international travelers, but agents are common in ports and city centers.

Travel Tip: Driving in Greece is not for the faint-hearted. Even though many of the highways have been improved in recent years, mountain roads can be hair raising. That, coupled with Greek driving habits, means that the country has a much higher accident rate than elsewhere in Europe.

Things to Do

Eighty percent of Greece is covered in mountains, divided into many peninsulas, and separated by canals  . There are also about 6,000 islands, 227 of them inhabited, and thousands of miles of coast. Getting from one part of the country to another can be complicated so it's important to know, in advance, what you want to do and where to find it:

• Two major cities, Athens , the center of Classical Greece, and Thessaloniki , the heart of Byzantine Greece, are hubs of culture, museums, fashion, nightlife, shopping, dining, and festivals. Both are good bases for touring.
• Fragrant woodlands, dramatic mountains, olive groves and sacred sites dedicated ancient oracles and gods cover mainland Greece. Byzantine fortresses and remote monasteries perch between deep, folded mountain valleys.
• Wherever you go in Greece you'll find thousands of years of history, from the earliest signs of democracy to the temples and theaters of the ancient world as well as the remnants of the Romans and the Byzantines. The Parthenon, the Acropolis , and the Temple of Apollo at Delphi are among the most popular sites.
• The thousands of Greek islands and beaches are an essential part of Greece and Greek culture and are surprisingly easy to reach by plane or ferry. Islands like Crete , Santorini , and Kefalonia are worth a trip on their own.

What to Eat and Drink

Though the foodie scene in the cities is becoming pan-European and international, the best things to eat in Greece are still fresh and local. Octopus and kalamari (fried rings of squid) are popular taverna fare. Fresh Greek salads with feta or local cheeses, a squeeze of lemon and tangy olive oil, are part of every meal. Look for sweets flavored with mastic, a gum from evergreen trees. You may be welcomed to your hotel with a spoonful of cherry or apricot jam and a glass of water.

Take some time to stop at a kafenio (cafe) for coffee and honey-soaked Greek pastries, like baklava and kataifi , or the custard pie known as galaktoboureko . A popular outdoor coffee drink, apparently invented accidentally in Thessaloniki, is frappé. It's made of instant coffee, ice water, and sugar beaten with an electric whisk to form a foam.

The Greeks these days are producing outstanding red and white wines from vineyards in Crete and Santorini. Ouzo, flavored with aniseed, is similar to French pastis drinks. It is sweet and robust and, when added to water, turns white. It packs a lethal punch. If you have a taste for firewater, try the raw spirit made from the byproducts of winemaking. It's called raki in Crete and Tsipouro or Tsikoudia everywhere else. As far as local beers are concerned, microbreweries have caught on, and there are excellent craft beer makers. Look for Red Donkey, a fruity amber ale from Santorini.

Learn more about what to eat and drink in Greece, including the top 10 dishes to try in Greece and the best restaurants in Athens .

Where to Stay

Accommodations in Greece range from quirky Athens boutiques in bohemian neighborhoods like Psirri to corporate giants, like the Athens Hilton in the city center or the luxury Hotel Grande Bretagne in Syntagma Square. The area immediately west of Syntagma Square and into Monastiraki has a concentration of moderately priced three and four-star hotels.

Learn more about the best hotels in Athens, as well as top neighborhoods to visit in Athens .

Getting There

The main international airport for Greece is Athens International Airport , with connecting flights to Thessaloniki, Kalamata , and several of the islands, including Crete and Santorini. Athens Airport is on a main highway and is about 20 minutes from the city center by car or taxi (taxi fares are set by law). Car rental, pick up and drop off, is easiest to arrange at the airport. The cheapest and fastest way to get to the airport from Athens is by Metro Line 3. The airport Metro station is well marked. There are also bus services from the airport to the ports of Piraeus, Rafina, and Lavrio.

To find out more about getting to Greece, explore the best ways to get to Athens Airport , how to take the ferry from Athens to Santorini and how to avoid taxi scams in Greece .

Culture and Customs

Outside of the big cities and major tourist resorts, Greece is a relatively conservative country. In small towns and rural areas, women should dress modestly, avoiding bare shoulders, exposed bosoms, tight or very short skirts or shorts. Even in the cities, cover up before entering Greek Orthodox churches. And, if you are visiting monasteries like the ones at Meteora, don't wear trousers. If you do, the monks will give you wrap around skirts to put on over pants.

Nude and topless bathing is tolerated in many parts of Greece, and on some of the islands, like Crete and Spetses, a short walk beyond the end of a popular beach will take you to a nude beach area. But check with your hotel or a local taverna first. Nude bathing is still technically illegal. On the small islands and in more rural places, Greek families from the small mountain villages visit the beach on weekends with their families. Nude bathing that may be tolerated during the week is not allowed on weekends and school holidays.

Check out everything you need to know about nude bathing in Greece and discover Crete's best nude beach.

Money-Saving Tips

• Travel in the off-season: The most popular time to visit, with the highest prices from June to September. Visit in May or October, and the weather is reliably warm, but prices are much lower.
• Consider self-catering: That's what Europeans call vacation rentals. Efficiency apartments and small villas are usually cheaper than hotel accommodation, and you can save quite a bit by cooking some of your meals yourself.
• Rent an electric bicycle or moped: They're cheaper than rental cars and popular for getting around on islands and in coastal resorts. Just be careful. They are very noisy, and you may not be aware of traffic coming up behind you.
• Take advantage of what's free: Most museums and historical attractions have free admission on certain days or for certain groups of travelers. Look up the site you're interested in on the Greek Ministry of Culture & Sports website . In the left column of your attraction's listing, click on "Information," and you'll find all the free days.

Greek National Tourism Organisation . "General Info."

Greek National Tourism Organisation . "Geography."

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'Mamma Mia!' Filming Locations: The Complete Guide

48 Hours in Athens: The Perfect Itinerary

Traveling Safely in Greece

Don't Make These 8 Common Tourist Mistakes in Greece

Top 18 Things to Do in Athens, Greece

The Towns of Santorini: The Complete Guide

Cheap Flights to Athens

The Top 20 Things to Do in Greece

How to Travel from Athens to Santorini by Ferry and Plane

Cyclades Islands Map and Travel Guide

Santorini Map and Travel Guide

A Complete Guide to Visiting Mount Olympus

The Top 8 Greek Cities to Visit

The Greek Ferry System

Travel Tips

Planning a trip to greece, health & safety issues.

• the Social Security Institute Health Units (polyclinics) or doctor’s offices in the region
• Regional clinics (former rural clinics) or the Health Centres of the National Health System
• the outpatients’ departments of the hospitals.

Emergency  Numbers

• FIRST AID NATIONAL CENTER (Ambulances): 166
• SOS DOCTORS : 1016
• EUROPEAN EMERGENCY NUMBER: 112
• POISONING PHONE CENTER: 210 77 93 777
• FIRE AUTHORITY: 199
• POLICE: 100
• TOURIST POLICE: 1571
• PET HOSPITAL: 210 6038023- 24 -28 (Attica Region).

Travel documents, Passport & Visa

In order to visit greece you need to have the following travel documents:, use of electronic devices.

We wish you safe Travels,

The Visit Greece team

Update April 12, 2024

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Greece Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 26, 2023, greece - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in Greece.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Greece.

If you decide to travel to Greece: 

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Greece.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

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Greece Travel Guide

Last Updated: March 12, 2024

It’s also super affordable.

You can travel around Greece for a fraction of what you’d spend in Western Europe, which is just one of the many reasons why I absolutely love visiting Greece.

I’ve been to Greece four times and have spent months exploring this country. I cannot say enough good things about it.

Visiting Greece is always the highlight of my summer European travels. There’s just something magical about this country. There’s an energy in the air and you can’t help but think, “Maybe I should never leave?” It sucks you in.

And, while the Greek islands get the most attention, the interior of the country — with its small towns, historic ruins, and mountain hikes — is too often overlooked and underappreciated.

So, while you may have a strong desire to stick to the islands, try to get to some of the places in the interior if you can. You won’t regret it.

This Greece travel guide combines all my knowledge and experience to help you plan an epic, affordable trip!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Greece

Click Here for Island and City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in greece.

1. Visit the Acropolis

Located in Athens , this magnificent hilltop complex from the 5th century BCE includes ancient buildings and ruins like the temple to Athena and the famous Parthenon. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is an excellent place to learn about the city’s history. You’ll also get to enjoy an expansive view of the skyline and the nearby ruins. During the summer, it’s swarming with tourists so get there early. Admission is 20 EUR, or for 30 EUR you can get a 5-day combined ticket that includes many other archaeological sites in Athens. For a guided tour, Athens Walking Tours runs guided tours for around 50 EUR (including admission) that skip the line.

2. Discover historic Crete

Crete has a long, long history. It was once home to the ancient Minoan civilization (which predated Greek civilization), and you can still visit the Bronze Age ruins of Knossos, the ancient capital of the Minoan empire (also considered the oldest city in Europe). The island is the largest in all of Greece and has beautiful beaches (including a beach with pink sand), plentiful hiking, quaint towns, and delicious food and wine. It’s affordable and because of the island’s size, you can still escape the summer crowds. Don’t skip this island!

3. Hike up Mount Olympus

Mount Olympus is the legendary home of the Greek gods. Any climb to Mount Olympus starts from the town of Litochoro, 150 kilometers (93 miles) south of Thessaloniki. At 2,917 meters (9,570 feet) high, it’s the tallest mountain in Greece. The hike up is both strenuous and mystical. As you climb, it becomes abundantly clear why Greeks thought it was this mountain from which the gods ruled!

4. See Meteora’s monasteries

Meteora is famous for its monasteries that sit atop sheer rock mountains . They are a stunning sight to see and worth the steep trek up to the top. The monasteries date back to the 9th-10th centuries when Orthodox Christian hermit monks isolated themselves on the cliffs and in the many caves in the area. In the 12th century, the monastic community became more organized and in the 14th century the Great Meteoron Monastery was constructed (one of the ones that you can visit today). Although more than twenty monasteries used to perch on these sandstone cliffs, only six remain today. They are still active, with around 50 nuns and 17 monks living here. It’s a 3 EUR entrance fee per monastery.

5. Explore the islands

Other things to see and do in greece, 1. learn some history.

Greece is where western civilization began and everywhere you turn you’ll find ruins that are thousands of years old. Start in Athens with the museums, the Acropolis and surrounding ruins in the Agora, and then set off to explore the ruins of Delphi, Sparta , Corinth, and Crete . There are also great archaeological museums everywhere to see artifacts up close and learn even more. This country is a history lover’s dream!

2. Explore Sparta

Sparta was the ancient rival of Athens and known for its fierce warriors (the entertaining but historically-inaccurate film 300 was based on the Spartans). The city has a long history and plenty of ruins to explore. There is no shortage of things to do , museums to visit, excursions to take, and places to eat when you visit the city. It’s an often-overlooked city even though it’s only a 2.5-hour drive southwest of Athens. It’s a great place to learn some history without the crowds.

3. Attend the Athens Epidaurus Festival

Every summer, the Athens Epidaurus Festival hosts concerts and performance theater, including reenactments of famous Greek plays. Started in 1955, it’s one of the country’s top cultural events and runs for the whole summer (May-October). If it coincides with your visit, you’ll see just how proud the Greeks are of their past. Tickets for each performance cost as little as 10 EUR.

4. Soak up the sun in Corfu

The Cyclades Islands may get all the press but sunny Corfu on Greece’s west coast is also a good place to enjoy the beach too. It’s a popular destination for young backpackers, but once you get out of the main town, you can avoid them and their partying ways and get the island to yourself! There are plenty of quiet beaches, ancient ruins, and beautiful villages to explore. You’re just a stone’s throw away from Albania too.

5. Explore the Delphi Ruins

Delphi was a place of spiritual significance to the ancient Greeks. Located around 2.5 hours northwest of Athens, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is where the omniscient Oracle would contact the god Apollo and give his advice to those seeking good fortune. Although the eternal flame no longer burns inside the temple, a visit to the Temple of Apollo is obligatory if you’re nearby. Admission is 12 EUR and includes entry to the museum as well as the archaeological site itself (which includes far more than just the Temple of Apollo).

6. Explore Melissani Cave

This otherworldly cave grotto can be accessed by a short yet postcard-worthy boat tour. Located on the island of Kefalonia on the western side of Greece, here you can admire the seemingly magical ultramarine waters and the monumental walls that envelope you as you make your way through this hidden underground landscape. Admission is 8 EUR and includes the boat ride.

7. Hike the Samaria Gorge

Samaria Gorge in beautiful Crete is one of Greece’s National Parks and a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. For outdoor enthusiasts, this is considered one of the best hikes in Greece. While it isn’t the shortest or easiest trek (it’s 16 kilometers/10 miles), the gorge does promise beautiful landscapes, fantastic photo opportunities, and a great workout. Make sure you bring water, sunscreen, and a hat as the heat can be overwhelming. The views are worth it though!

8. Experience the Patras Carnival

Every year in mid-January, the city of Patras (located 2.5 hours west of Athens) hosts what is basically a month-and-a-half-long party that starts on January 17th and runs to the beginning of Lent. There’s a slew of events both major and minor, increasingly crazy weekends, treasure hunts, and various costume parades (which even feature floats). It’s a lively time and as the largest such festival in Greece, attracting tons of revelers. If you want to attend, it’s a good idea to make hotel reservations well in advance as things fill up.

9. Tour the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion

The number one attraction in Crete , this museum also happens to be Greece’s second-largest archaeological museum (the museum in Athens is the largest). There is a stunning collection here that highlights the Cretan civilization (dating back from Neolithic times through to the Roman empire), with ancient pottery, jewelry, sarcophagi, colorful frescoes from Knossos, and more. Its Minoan collection is the most extensive in the world. You could easily spend hours here — especially if you love history like me. Admission is 12 EUR in the summer and 6 EUR in the winter.

10. Party on Ios

Ios has the wildest nightlife out of all the Greek islands. It is the summer party island where days are spent hungover on the beach and the nights are spent eating cheap food and drinking. If you don’t want to do that but still want to see Ios, it’s best to go to the eastern part of the island where it’s quieter. Don’t let Ios’ party reputation deter you from visiting though, it’s a beautiful, rugged island (and home to the grave of Homer, who wrote The Iliad and The Odyssey). It’s only busy from June-August so you can visit in the shoulder season to escape the party crowd.

11. Visit Thessaloniki

With more than 1 million inhabitants, Thessaloniki is Greece’s second-largest city after Athens. Although it dates back to 315 BCE, a lot of the city was destroyed by fire in 1917 and then by bombing during World War II. The result is a combination of more modern European city urban planning alongside Early Christian, Roman, and Byzantine monuments. In fact, Thessaloniki has more UNESCO World Heritage Sites (15!) than any other city in Europe. Be sure to visit the White Tower, the Rotunda, the Arch of Galerius, and Galerius Palace as well as the many churches (such as the Hagia Sofia and Hagios Demetrios). There are also several great museums here, including the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Byzantine Culture, the Jewish Museum, and the Olympic Museum.

12. Go to Zakynthos

Just south of Kefalonia in the Ionian Sea is Zakynthos , one of Greece’s most popular islands. With its soft, sandy beaches and charming villages, it’s easy to see why this island is a fan favorite. It can be busy, particularly in the summer, so head away from the main tourist area (go north, west or inland) or visit in the off-season to escape the crowds. Zakynthos is also a breeding area for loggerhead turtles and you can see them on Lagana Beach or on Turtle Island but take care to do so responsibly. Other activities include seeing the Blue Caves, Marathonisi Islet, and Shipwreck Beach (you’ll need to take a boat tour to get there). There are also tons of churches, monasteries, and ruins to check out too.

13. Visit Monemvasia

Monemvasia is a medieval castle town in Laconia, around 90 kilometers (56 miles) southeast of Sparta . It’s a spectacular island to visit as it is built into the side of a huge rock! Monemvasia’s a quiet town perfect for relaxing on the beach before dining under the stars at seaside taverns or on cobbled streets in the town. If you’re into hiking, there are some trails that will take you past chapels and settlements up to hilltops to admire the view or down to secluded beaches.

14. Explore Ioannina

Next to Lake Pamvotida in northwestern Greece, Ioannina is a castle town that is bursting with museums. Don’t miss the Byzantine Museum, the Ethnographic Museum, the Archaeological Museum, and the Silversmithing Museum (the area is well-known for its beautiful jewelry). Head to the castle at sunset for a peaceful end to your day. You can use the town as a base for exploring the nearby Pindus National Park, the Tzoumerka mountain chain, the Cave of Perama, and the Byzantine town of Arta as well. You won’t need more than a couple of days here but it is well worth stopping if you are passing through.

15. Go wine tasting

While Greece isn’t as internationally renowned for wine as other European countries such as France or Spain, it should be. The Greek wine-making tradition goes back at least 6,500 years and is still going strong. Wine regions are spread across the country, but Crete has one of the oldest wine-making traditions (and over 30 wineries to visit around the island), while the wineries of Santorini make for an interesting tour due to the way that grape vines must be grown here (to protect against harsh winds). Wine tours generally are around 85-125 EUR for a full-day tour.

16. Take a cooking class

Greek food is legendary. If you’re a foodie like me and want to learn more about the cuisine and culture behind it, try a cooking class . Bring a taste of your trip home by learning how to make some traditional recipes (including favorites like tzatziki and moussaka) while learning about the importance of each dish directly from a local chef. Cooking classes generally last 3-4 hours and cost 90-120 EUR.

17. Take a boat tour

A boat tour is one of the best ways to see the islands, especially as some beaches are only accessible by water. Most tours also have stops for snorkeling and lounging on the beach, and many include drinks and lunch. Half-day tours start at 50 EUR, while full-day tours are around 100 EUR.

18. Go diving

Diving has become increasingly popular in the Greek Islands. On Mykonos , Paradise Reef has a large variety of marine life, including sponges, barracuda, octopus, and starfish. Ios is popular with beginners due to its crystal-clear waters and relatively calm waves. On the other hand, Santorini has less marine life but tons of shipwrecks. Shore dives are generally 40-50 EUR, while a two-tank dive on a boat is 90-120 EUR. You can also take a beginner discovery course for 55 EUR or a variety of PADI courses starting at 280 EUR.

19. Tour an olive oil farm

  For more information on specific destinations in Greece, check out these guides:

• Athens Travel Guide
• Corfu Travel Guide
• Crete Travel Guide
• Ios Travel Guide
• Mykonos Travel Guide
• Naxos Travel Guide
• Santorini Travel Guide
• Sparta Travel Guide

Greece Travel Costs

A room in a budget hotel that sleeps two can be found for 40-60 EUR (expect much higher prices — up to 50% higher — during the summer). Amenities at these hotels typically include free Wi-Fi, TV, a private bathroom, AC, and sometimes breakfast as well.

On Airbnb, you can find private rooms for 25-45 EUR in many cities and entire homes (including studio apartments) start at around 70 EUR per night.

Food – Greece is known for its food. Think seasonal vegetables (like olives), seafood, grilled meats, bread, feta cheese, and yogurt — all the staples of a fresh Mediterranean diet. To eat cheap, stick with eating gyros, souvlaki, and kebabs. These cost 2-5 EUR and easily fill you up. If you’re on a budget, you can live off these for as little as 10 EUR per day.

At a casual restaurant that serves traditional cuisine, expect to pay around 8-12 EUR for a main dish like moussaka and about 2-4 EUR for a glass of wine. A Greek salad costs between 6-8 EUR. Fish is more expensive, costing around 17-22 EUR for the catch-of-the-day.

Most restaurants charge for bread. The price is between .50-1.50 EUR. A bottle of water is about 2 EUR.

Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 7 EUR for a combo meal. A large pizza costs 8-10 EUR while Indian/Middle Eastern/Chinese food can be found for around 6 EUR for a main dish.

If you’re going out for dinner at a traditional taverna, expect to spend between 12-20 EUR depending on how much food you get. After that, the prices go up depending on how fancy the restaurant is!

Beer is 2-4 EUR while a latte/cappuccino is 3-4 EUR. Bottled water from the supermarket is 0.50 EUR.

If you cook your meals, expect to pay 30-50 EUR per week for groceries including pasta, vegetables, chicken, and other basic staples. It’s easy to eat on the cheap in Greece.

Backpacking Greece Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Greece, my suggested budget is 40-60 EUR per day. This assumes you’re staying in a hostel, eating cheap food, cooking some of your meals, doing only free activities like hiking and relaxing on the beach, limiting your drinking, and using local transportation to get around. If you’re visiting the Greek islands or traveling during peak season, expect to spend on the higher amount of that. If you plan on drinking, add 5-15 EUR per day to your budget.

On a mid-range budget of 100-130 EUR per day, you can visit some museums and ruins, stay at a private hostel room or Airbnb, eat out more, enjoy some drinks, take the occasional taxi, and rent a bike or scooter to get around.

If you keep your drinking and costly activities down, you can easily do this closer to 100 EUR per day. On the other hand, if you’re staying on one of the more expensive islands like Mykonos or Santorini and drinking a lot, expect to spend closer to 150-180 EUR.

On a “luxury” budget of 235 EUR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink as much as you want, do paid tours and more expensive activities (like diving), rent a car to get around, and generally enjoy the finer things in life! This is just the ground floor for luxury though. Expect to pay upwards of 50 EUR more per day on the islands.

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Greece Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Greece is affordable. Sure, islands like Santorini and Mykonos are expensive but, for the most part, if you are “keeping it local” you aren’t going to spend a lot of money here. Here are my favorite ways to save money when you travel to Greece:

• Use the Greek salad/bread rule – If the bread cover is .50 EUR or a Greek salad is less than 7 EUR, the restaurant is cheap. If the cover is around 1 EUR and a salad is 7-8.50 EUR, the prices are average. Anything more than that and the place is expensive. use this rule to figure out how to eat at cheap restaurants.
• Eat super cheap – Gyros and other street snacks only cost a few euros and can keep you full for 10 EUR per day if you’re on a tight budget.
• Rent a moped – It’s cheaper than a car and a fun way to see the various towns and cities — especially on the islands. You can usually rent a moped for around 15 EUR per day. Just drive carefully as Greek drivers tend to be aggressive.
• Get off the beaten path – Greece is a cheap country and even cheaper when you get away from the touristy islands or popular destinations. Head off the beaten path and you usually see prices drop by 30% or more.
• Book overnight ferries – Greece’s inter-island ferries can get expensive if you are visiting a lot of islands. Taking the overnight ferries can save you up to half off the normal price. Plus, it saves you a night of accommodation. Moreover, if you book the ferries around two months in advance, you can save up to 25% off the cost of your ticket.
• Get a ferry pass – Eurail has a ferry pass that has 4- and 6-trip options. The only caveat is that you can only take Blue Star and Hellenic Seaways ferries. Those tend to be the larger, slower ferries and, depending on the islands, might require you to connect somewhere. You’ll need to research routes in advance to see if the pass is worth it. I would search routes on FerryHopper to see if it works for you. You can purchase your pass on Eurail (non-EU residents) or Interrail (EU residents).
• Take public transportation – Buses, while sometimes running on inconvenient schedules, are the best way to get around Greece. Taxis are very expensive so minimize their use whenever you can and stick with the buses.
• Visit in the off-season – July and August are the most expensive months, so skip the middle of summer if you’re on a budget. Prices will be significantly cheaper.
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing is a great way to get a free place to stay and meet locals. There are a ton of hosts throughout the country (I stayed with one in Athens) and it’s my favorite way to get to know the “real” Greece.
• Buy wine at the store – You can buy a great bottle of wine for around 4 EUR at the store. It’s a lot cheaper than drinking at the bar.
• Have an ISIC Card – To save on the cost of admission to museums and other tourist attractions, be sure to present a valid student card. The ISIC is typically accepted in places where a foreign student ID is not.
• Go to museums on their free admission days – Most museums have some days when admission is free. Check the Odysseus Culture website for details as they vary from museum to museum.
• Get combined tickets – Historical attractions in Greece are often priced so that it’s always a better deal to buy a combined ticket. If the sites you are going to offer one, buy it. It will save you money.
• Use points if you can – If you have points that can be used for cash, using them to book accommodation can save you a ton of money. This post has more information on how to start collecting and using points and miles
• Rent a car – Car rentals can be incredibly cheap in Greece. Prices start at just 20 EUR per day when booked in advance. Drivers need to be at least 21 and have had their license for one year. An International Driving Permit is also required.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is generally safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Greece

Greece has something for everything and you can often find small family-run operations on the islands. It’s not hard to even find budget accommodations with nice extra like pools either! Here are my suggested places to stay in Greece:

• Selina (Athens)
• Athens Hawks Hostel (Athens)
• BedBox (Athens)
• Athens Hub (Athens)
• Studio Eleni (Mykonos)
• Caveland (Santorini)
• Fira’s Backpacker Place (Santorini)
• Bedspot Hostel (Santorini)
• Asterolithos Hotel (Santorini)
• Youth Hostel Plakias (Crete)
• Rethymno Youth Hostel (Crete)
• Cocoon City (Crete)
• Intra Muros (Crete)
• The Pink Palace (Corfu)
• Angelica’s Backpacker’s Hostel (Corfu)
• Francesco’s (Ios)
• FarOut Beach Club (Ios)
• FarOut Camping (Ios)
• Castle View Camping and Bungalows (Sparta)
• Lakonia Hotel (Sparta)

How to Get Around Greece

Buses – KTEL is the main bus operator in Greece. You can look up schedules and prices online, but their website is pretty outdated and you’re better off booking tickets at the actual bus station. Getting from Athens to Sparta takes around 3.5 hours and costs around 20 EUR, while Athens to Thessaloniki takes around 5.5 hours and costs around 35 EUR. Thessaloniki to Ioannina takes 3.5 hours and is just 13 EUR.

Trains – Train travel in Greece isn’t great. Trains are unreliable and slow and there are only a few routes in the country between Athens and other major cities, like Thessaloniki and Patras. You’re better off driving or taking the bus. However, if you do get the train, a trip from Athens to Thessaloniki takes about 4.5 hours and costs at least 20 EUR.

Ferries – Because Greece has a lot of islands, you have to deal with taking ferries to get around. Expect to spend an average of 35 EUR per trip, though you could spend as little as 12 EUR if the islands are really close together. From Athens, most ferries to the Cyclades cost around 70 EUR.

Taking the overnight ferries can save you up to half off the normal price plus save you a night of accommodation so if you’re not in a rush, book those!

There are many different ferry companies, and most are created equal. High speed ferries or catamarans cost a lot more (book in advance). You can research routes and ticket prices using FerryHopper and gtp.gr .

If you’re ok traveling on the slower ferries and your routes match the available routes, the Eurail/Interrail ferry pass is worth considering as you’ll get discounts with this pass. Search routes on FerryHopper to see if it works for you.

Flying – Flying is a quick and affordable way to get around Greece and between islands (though not all islands have airports). A one-way flight from Athens to Santorini or Mykonos takes less than one hour and costs around 25-35 EUR. Flights can dip to as little as 10 EUR when booked in advance.

Scooter/Quad rentals – Renting a scooter or ATV is a really popular way to discover many parts of Greece, particularly the islands. It lets you explore at your own pace and is quite affordable. Scooter rentals cost between 15-25 EUR per day depending on the location and if it is peak season or off-season. ATVs cost around 30-45 EUR per day.

Car rental – Car rentals here are super affordable, starting at just 20 EUR per day for a multi-day rental. Expect manual transmissions. Drivers need an International Driving Permit before renting as well and need to be at least 21 years old. For the best rental car deals, use Discover Cars

When to Go to Greece

Peak season in Greece is from June-August. Temperatures hover around 33°C (92°F) and popular destinations like Santorini and Mykonos experience a huge influx of visitors. Prices increase during this time as well. But the overall atmosphere and weather are great during this time, so it’s still worth visiting during peak season.

Personally, I think the best time to visit Greece is shoulder season (March-May and September-October). It’s still warm during these times but there aren’t as many crowds and prices are cheaper. It’s also easier to meet locals during this time. Overall, it’s a particularly great time to hang out in the Mediterranean.

Winter is from November to February. It gets cold and tourist crowds thin out considerably. Temperatures vary quite a bit from north to south, with it sometimes dropping to 11°C (52°F) in some places (Athens sometimes gets snow). Many of the islands — particularly Santorini and Mykonos — almost shut down entirely during the off-season. In short, I’d skip a winter visit unless you’re only planning to visit museums.

How to Stay Safe in Greece

Greece is very safe for backpacking and solo travel. Violent attacks are uncommon. Petty crime is about the worst that could happen to you, specifically pickpocketing in Athens, where it is prevalent. Fortunately, Greek police have really cracked down on perpetrators. Nevertheless, be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables out of sight when you’re in markets, on busy streets, or when using public transportation.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

You won’t find a lot of travel scams in the country but read this article on common travel scams to avoid if you’re worried about getting ripped off.

If you go out hiking, always check the weather first. Bring sunscreen, water, and a hat. It can get incredibly hot here!

Be careful when driving as Greek drivers tend to be on the aggressive side and some of the roads aren’t very well maintained.

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Greece Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• Ferry Hopper – If you’re looking to book your ferries, this website is an easy way to search the various companies, piece together routes, and book your tickets.
• Take Walks – This walking tour company provides inside access to attractions and places you can’t get elsewhere. Their guides rock and they have some of the best and most insightful tours in all of Greece.

Greece Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Greece travel and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Athens

The 6 Best Hostels in Athens

Where to Stay in Athens: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The Best Walking Tours in Athens

Traveling Greece: How Much Does It Cost?

Fulfilling Childhood Dreams in Crete

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11 things I wish I knew before visiting Greece

As the travel industry reopens following COVID-19 shutdowns, TPG suggests that you talk to your doctor, follow health officials' guidance and research local travel restrictions before booking that next trip. We will be here to help you prepare, whether it is next month or next year.

When it comes to deciding where to go next, Greece is a usually a slam dunk. Whether it's a beachy island getaway you're after or an Athens (or perhaps Thessaloniki) city break that blends sightseeing by day with ouzo gulping by night, the mythic Mediterranean country ticks all the right boxes for classic holidays but wait -- there's more. Lots more.

Landing in Athens is the easy bit, but once you're on terra firma you'll find yourself immersed in both an epic history and some rather iconic landscapes, too. How you navigate this richness is largely up to you, but the more you know before you go, the more capably you can decode all those big fat Greek travel mysteries. Keep the following things in mind to help you steer clear of the cliches and make the most out of your experiences in Greece.

1. Don't just make the Acropolis in Athens your priority

Making the Acropolis the focus of a jaunt to Athens is like making a trip to Paris about visiting the Eiffel Tower -- so don't do it. Instead, do like the Athenians do and drink in views of the sacred rock from any number of rooftop bars and restaurants in the vicinity, or better yet wake up to a view of it from your hotel room . And the best views of Athens as a whole are actually from the top of Mount Lycavittos anyway (take the funicular in the Kolonaki neighborhood to the top).

Dodge the tourist crowds marching up to the Parthenon and instead inspect the arguably more evocative ruins at the foot of the Acropolis in the ancient agora area. I'd also suggest skipping the Acropolis Museum and diverting your cultural hours to the National Archaeological Museum across town. It's a bit fusty but still the best museum in Greece. Essential smaller museums include the Benaki Museum and Museum of Cycladic Art, both of which blend ancient artifacts with excellent contemporary exhibitions. If you fancy a Picasso or Van Gogh fix, the brand-new Goulandris museum is a must.

2. Don't just feast on gyro

I've seen this over and over (and over) again: tourists who enjoy a hearty international-style buffet breakfast at their hotel and then opt for a gyro or souvlaki platter for lunch and then again for dinner. Don't get me wrong, authentic Greek gyros are pretty scrumptious and at about three euros each are fiscally attractive dining options too. But Greek gastronomy is more diverse than that and experiencing at least some of it can be a highlight of your trip.

To savor a Greek breakfast staple you'll almost never find at a hotel buffet, try strapatsada, a delectable dish made with eggs (usually scrambled), feta cheese, fresh tomato sauce and a dash of olive oil. One of the best is served at the restaurant of the Acropolis Museum (you don't have to pay for museum admission to eat at the restaurant). For the best seafood, shun the touristy tavernas around the Plaka and head instead to Piraeus, where the seafood is generally cheaper, fresher and comes with sea views, too. Vegan restaurants are also taking off, particularly in Athens.

3. Find your nearest laiki

The spirit of ancient Greece lives on in the weekly laiki, or outdoor fruit and vegetable market that takes place rain or shine throughout the year on Fridays. A visit to a laiki is a great way to get an eyeful and taste of nature's bounty for which Greece is justly famous for. Every neighborhood in Athens has its own laiki and some are bigger and better than others. One of the best is in Pagrati, on Archimidous Street right behind the Panathenaic Stadium (the world's only stadium built entirely of marble). Besides organic produce you'll find plenty of traditional comestibles like extra-virgin olive oil, halva and honey for sale.

4. Greece isn't just for the summer months

One of the greatest Greek myths is that the many islands are strictly for summertime escapes, but that's far from the case. True, many islands rock their Greek summer vibes best in the peak months of July and August (the months that also pull the most crowds), but swimming season heats up as early as May and in many places doesn't wind down until November. Little islands near Athens like Hydra and Spetses are worth visiting even in winter and big islands like Crete have plenty of cultural attractions and historic sites to keep you busy throughout the year.

5. Don't take a three-island day cruise

When you are in the Piraeus port you'll see many advertisements for three-island cruises that promise you a mini-odyssey to a trio of islands close to Athens. Generally these are Aegina, Hydra and Poros. Focus on one island instead. Packing three islands into a single day trip is something that Greeks themselves would never do, it diminishes both the quantity and quality of your time. If you are really into ancient ruins, spend time on Aegina. For dramatic scenery, Hydra's the spot. Among all the islands within an easy ferry journey from Athens/Piraeus, Poros easily qualifies as the quiet charmer where you could linger for hours over Greek coffees and delightful harbor views.

6. Greek islands aren't just for hitting the beach

Greece has some 6,000 islands, of which about 227 are inhabited. That represents a lot of geographical diversity. Some islands have gorgeous beaches -- think Mykonos, Kefalonia and Corfu -- while others have a mix of decent beaches and landscapes that offer up the possibility of more varied activities. Kalymnos is the place for rock climbing and bouldering, Paros is ideal for windsurfing and kite surfing, Sifnos and Tinos (and to a certain extent Santorini) are much favored by foodies and so forth. The shoulder season, April to June and also October, is often ideal for these beyond-the-beach pursuits.

7.  Skipping Santorini is not a sin

Two essential Santorini travel facts: the first is that yes, it's a geologically unique island and the second is that yes, you should probably also skip it. How dare I? Well, due to far too many cruise ships disgorging way too many people onto such a small place, the wisp of an island has degenerated into a sort of hyper-sanitized Selfie Island and really, how much fun is that? The views over the volcanic caldera are cool as are the Minoan ruins at Akrotiri but the beaches aren't great and the good hotels and restaurants tend to be overpriced.

So check it out if you must but make sure you avoid the months of June, July, August and now all of September too. Other Aegean islands beckon with their own brand of gorgeousness, whether that be breezy Andros, volcanic Milos and myriad others.

Read more: Which European countries don't use the euro currency and why?

8. You should visit Greece during Easter

Greeks celebrate Easter with a fervor most Europeans reserve for Christmas -- and the enthusiasm has a distinctly noncommercial flavor at that. The Greek Orthodox Church still holds sway over many aspects of contemporary Greek life and Easter week is when some of the more celebratory aspects really kick in, with all manner of feasts and public processions that begin on Palm Sunday and vary from location to location but that are particularly colorful on islands like Corfu.

9. Think of Crete as a separate country

Because in many respects it is. Starting with size: Crete is 160 miles from one end to the other and is the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. That means it's difficult to see it all in a single take, nor should you try. The landscapes are stunningly varied and unlike the more stereotypical Greek island getaways the Cretan economy is not wholly dependent on tourism: historic cities like Heraklion and Chania also have a youthful vibrancy that's hard to resist.

There are numerous nonstop flights from Crete's two major airports in Heraklion and Chania in the peak summer season and year-round connections from Athens. From Athens/Piraeus there are also daily ferry departures, they typically leave around 9 p.m. and arrive in Crete at 6 a.m. While these ferries resemble small cruise ships with plenty of seating options (including cabins), a flight on Aegean will you get from Athens to Crete in just about an hour.

10. Remember the mainland

Greece is more than Athens and the islands. The region of which Athens is a part, Attica, is home to some of the most important sites in antiquity from Marathon to Cape Sounio and the Temple of Poseidon. South and east of the Greek capital, the Peloponnese offers a dramatically chiseled coastline and plenty of historical gems too, like the city of Nafplion -- the first capital of Greece -- and the remarkable fortress isle of Monemvasia. The northern city of Thessaloniki, named after Alexander the Great's half-sister, is worth a detour for its history, museums and excellent restaurants.

11. You needn't spend a fortune to have a blast in Mykonos

Stick around Greece for any length of time and you're bound to hear Greeks bemoan how Mykonos has become an enclave affordable only for the likes of Arab princes and their consorts (who may or may not include Lindsay Lohan). While there is some truth to that, don't let it put you off a visit because the cosmopolitan Mykonos vibe is something you won't find anywhere else. The small Cycladic island has some of the best beaches, restaurants, hotels and nightclubs in the Mediterranean. July and August are the months to avoid, but if you can manage to hit Mykonos in June or September, you'll probably have a great time and without necessarily breaking the bank.

Bottom line

Greece is a country with attractions that are so iconic everybody thinks they already know the place and to varying degrees maybe they do, but not unlike Madonna, there is a lot more to her than meets the eye. It's when you avoid insisting on the cliches -- you probably don't need a whole day to snap selfies at the Acropolis or an overpriced seafood lunch in the touristy center of Mykonos town -- that the colors of Greece really begin to reveal themselves. And if you can avoid those peak crowded months of July (especially the second half) and August you'll very likely have a better holiday experience in Greece overall.

Greece Travel Tips: 15 Things to Know Before Traveling to Greece

Key Takeaways

• One of the most useful Greece travel tips is to plan your itinerary in advance , especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure you can visit the places you're interested in and secure accommodations.
• The peak tourist season is from June to August , when temperatures are high, while spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) offer milder weather and fewer crowds.
• While credit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, it's a good idea to carry some cash , especially in smaller towns or when visiting local markets.
• It's always wise to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost belongings.

There is no denying the magnificence of Greece . The warm climate, exotic islands, endless beaches, and sprightly spirit cannot be compared. This is why Greece is a popular choice for travelers. Regardless of its popularity, there are things to know before you book your trip.

From sinkhole warnings to plenty of sunshine, get the inside scoop on traveling to Greece here by reading below our Greece travel tips: 15 things to know before traveling to Greece .  

Tip no.1 for traveling to Greece: Pack your sunscreen!

Everyone lusts after a golden summer tan. In order to achieve it, however, it takes some finessing. Surviving the blazing summer sun of Greece is easier said than done. You may think that exposing yourself as much as humanly possible to the sun will help you achieve the dream of being a bronze goddess/god, but this is not exactly right. 

In order to save yourselves from 3rd-degree burns, you have to make your no.1 priority to lather yourself with plenty of sunscreen. We highly recommend you start off with an SPF of 50 and work your way down to an SPF30 or SPF20 as the days go by and you’ve got some color on you.

If you skip sunscreen or use low SPF sunscreen, all you’re going to achieve is a raging burn -that is unless you visit Greece in February . You will turn the color of lobster red and have skin peeling off of you for days. With tanning, as with anything, you need to be patient and trust the process!  

Be Sure To Plan Ahead

There is a Greek saying that goes ‘a good man cooks before he gets hungry’. In other words, planning ahead is the key to a successful trip. And since we’re experts on planning, here is what we suggest you do:

Before rushing to a single destination, write down two - three or more destinations that you think fit your travel goal and start studying. With all the Greek islands and cities and villages, you’ll have a rather hard time deciding where you want to go.

For better or worse, your final decision will be judged by finding accommodation. Do a quick internet search and find accommodations or trust your trips on the hand of experts and check out our recommendations here.

It is important in the organization of your trip to find the accommodation that suits your budget but also to pay attention to the area where it is located. You want to explore the place, but not exhaust yourself going from one place to another.

Do the same with the tickets. Check all the companies to get an idea of ​​the prices, the itineraries , and the duration of the trip. Do research on the sights, beaches, museums and parks you want to visit, but also the most special beauties of each place, as well as the activities and excursions that you can do there.

What’s most, list the restaurants and cafes based on the reviews, so that you can decide when you see them up close, what is best for you. 

Greece Has Amazing Ancient Ruins

Counting thousands of years of history, it is no wonder that Greece boasts some of the most fascinating ancient ruins in the world. The country’s fascinating archaeological sites will help you gain insight into the local culture. They will also make your itinerary a lot more interesting.

No matter where you decide to go, whether it is a Greek island or a region of the Greek mainland, chances are you’ll have the opportunity to marvel at thousand-year-old exhibits that will leave you in awe.

The Acropolis rock with the famous Parthenon in Athens , the Temple of Poseidon in Sounio , the archaeological site of Delphi , the archaeological site of Olympia in the Peloponnese, the archaeological site of Akrotiri in Santorini , the ancient royal city of Aiges in Macedonia, the island of Delos in the Cyclades, and the Knossos Palace in Crete are only some of the most fascinating Greek ruins .

Don’t leave the country without visiting at least a couple; you will be introduced to a world of ancient magic.  

No One Does Hospitality Like the Greeks

Since antiquity, the Greeks have the reputation of being one of the most hospitable populations in the world. The Greeks love the country’s visitors and try their hardest for them to feel welcomed. Their main goal is to make everyone fall in love with Greece the way they have.

For that reason, no matter what you need, all you have to do is ask a local for it. Whether it’s directions, recommendations, or useful tips and tricks, all you have to do is stop a passer-by and ask them anything you want. 

Not only will you receive the information you need, but also a great smile and probably an invitation for coffee or a drink. Greek people are loud -sometimes obnoxious- but most of all they are incredibly friendly. If you’re lucky you may make friends with the locals in a traditional tavern.

There, you will get to hear amazing stories accompanied by indigenous wine, ouzo, and small bites. It may sound like a dream scenario, in Greece; however , it is very much possible. 

The Greek Beaches are Gorgeous

And anybody who claims otherwise is flat-out lying. Endless sandy shores, turquoise water so clear you can see both your reflection and the bottom of the sea. The Greek beaches make Greece the paradise destination it is.

Despite popular belief, the Greek islands are not the only ones that boast incredible beaches. You can find wonderful waters enclosed by striking landscapes even on the mainland.

Some of the best beaches in Greece include Falasarna , Balos , and Elafonisi in Crete , Myrtos in Kefalonia , Mylopotas in Ios , Sarakiniko in Milos , Porto Katsiki in Lefkada , Plaka in Naxos , Navagio or ‘Shipwreck’ in Zakynthos , and Voidokilia in Messinia.

Whether you want serenity or day-long parties on the beach, in Greece, you’re bound to find it. Most of the aforementioned beaches are organized, offering you the opportunity to enjoy the service of the beach bars while sunbathing on your luxurious sun lounge.

But even those that are not organized will offer you seclusion and a relaxing ambiance you’ve never experienced before. 

Enjoy the Greek Cuisine and Wine!

Greece has gained worldwide recognition for its delicious and nutritious cuisine. Greek cuisine has a variety of dishes that satisfy foodies from around the world. For example, the well-known ‘souvlaki’ finds fans in all lengths and breadths of the earth. Homey recipes such as ‘pastitsio’ and ‘moussaka,’ ‘yemista’ and ‘papoutsakia,’ ‘dolmades,’ and ‘gigantes’ are some of the basic dishes that reveal the riches of Greek cuisine .

At the same time, fresh ingredients offer an endless journey of flavors. Fresh fish, seafood, seasonal fruits, and vegetables all offer rich flavors that evoke memories and create memories for a lifetime. These are complete experiences for all the senses and not just for taste. That is why so many travelers long to try Greek cuisine and always return to it.

Moreover, Greece is known across the world for its rich wine production since antiquity. With the island of Santorini and the region of Nemea in the Peloponnese having the leading role, there are incredible Greek wine varieties that will satisfy even the most demanding of wine lovers.

If you want to try as many local varieties as possible, accompanied by local delicacies that will tease your senses, a food tour or a wine-tasting tour in Greece is exactly what you’re looking for!

These tours will take you around the best eateries and bars in the country, which only the locals know about. Hidden from the curious eyes of the tourists, you will get to experience the authentic face of Greece away from the tourist traps. 

What to Pack for Greece?

Packing for your trip requires having decided the best time to visit Greece . The weather in Greece is one of its best characteristics, especially if we're talking about the weather in Greece in March and the following months of spring, summer, and early fall. Regardless, summertime in Greece can prove to be too much for those who are not used to a warmer climate.

You can learn more about the heat of the summer months by reading about the weather in Greece in July .

In the dead of summer, the temperature can climb up to 40℃. As a result, packing with you your lightest clothes is the best idea. Additionally, try bringing breathable fabrics, such as cotton, as they will minimize sweating.

As much as you want to get half the wardrobe, because it is "necessary", be content with the basics even if you're preparing for the weather in Greece in May that is not as extreme as the summer months. Make a list of sets for each day, and at the end choose your most important and favorite. Don’t forget to bring as many swimsuits as you own, a couple of beach towels, and as much sunscreen as you can. Of course, even if you forget anything you can buy it in Greece. Regardless, coming prepared is always a good idea. 

We can’t be talking about travel planning and leave out the gadgets! Prepare your camera and cell phone. Choose your favorite travel gadgets and prepare them for their big mission. Empty your memory cards or get a new one and charge all of your electronics. Please don’t forget to take with you all your chargers, extra batteries and to fill your mobile phone with useful applications. 

Make Sure You Have Cash On You

Plastic money is not as popular in Greece as in other countries, although things are becoming progressively better in that respect. Although nowadays, most shops and eating establishments accept credit cards, there is a high chance that if you visit small shops, mini markets, and most establishments in the countryside, they will require cash. 

Not to mention that cash is the best choice for tipping in Greece .

For that reason, it is the wisest choice to keep some cash on you in case of an emergency. Of course, you should try to avoid having a large amount of cash in one place.

Instead, you can spread them out across different wallets and take with you only a small amount that you think will be necessary. In other words, make sure to have cash with you at all times, but don’t make the job of potential robbers easy! 

Everything is Closed on a Sunday

Unlike most countries, Sundays in Greece are reserved for rest and repose. As a result, everything is closed on a Sunday, including supermarkets. Of course, there are exceptions to the rule.

The shops remain open the first Sunday at the beginning of each regular discount period, the two Sundays before Christmas, the Poor Sunday, and the last Sunday of each year.

Even if you’re not visiting during those times, you can find some supermarkets and pharmacies open on a Sunday if you search hard enough. There are certain establishments in each neighborhood that remain open in order to serve the needs of the citizens. Ask around and the locals will provide you with all the information you might need. 

Eating Habits – Much Later Meal Times 

We’re not quite sure why, but the Greeks enjoy their meals much later than most. Maybe it has to do with the fact that Greece is a county that never sleeps and staying up until 4 in the morning is a common occurrence for most.

Breakfast is usually served at 9-10 am, lunch at 3-4 pm, and dinner from 9 pm at night until midnight. If they go at night for drinks, it is most likely that an additional meal will be added at the time of their return, most likely from a street food cantine nearby.

What’s more, in addition to the bizarre eating times, the eating etiquette is also much more informal than one might think. Greeks love sharing food, so everything they order is to be shared. It is very common for Greeks to order the whole menu but not order a main dish for themselves.

Additionally, unless you’re in a high-end restaurant, you are free to eat with your hands. Now, be reasonable; we don’t mean you can eating pasta with your hands, but if a pork chop is difficult to get around with your utensils, nobody will judge you if you use your hands.

Sailing the Greek Islands

If you want to feel on top of the world, there is no more effective way to do so than by sailing the Greek islands . Imagine lying on the deck, letting the sun warm your skin and the salty breeze ease the heat.

All you have to do in order to achieve this dream is join a sailing adventure across the Greek islands. You can sail across the different island complexes, like the Cyclades, the island of the Saronic gulf, and the Dodecanese, or you can just start from Athens and sail towards your end destination with joyful breaks in between to admire the Greek islands on your way there. 

By doing so, you will get to solve another major problem: you will be able to combine a visit to more than two Greek islands with ease while enjoying the journey from one destination to the other. Sailing might be one of the slowest but most beautiful and luxurious ways to indulge in a Greek island-hopping exploit. 

Driving Can Be Difficult

Nobody’s perfect, and Greece’s flaw is its driving culture. Overtaking from the right, ignoring the safe distance between the vehicles on the road, a lot of rude gesturing, cursing, and pointless honking are common occurrences on the Greek streets . The Greeks are known for being over the top, and when it comes to driving, that doesn’t go away. 

Of course, it’s not all bad. Most times it’s the knee-jerk reaction of Greeks to become defensive on the street, but they tend to be open for people to talk some sense into them. Especially if they realize that you’re tourists, they are more than likely to change their demeanor and help you find your way to your destination. In any case, the spirited mentality of the Greeks is something you should keep in mind while driving in the county. 

Greece Isn’t the Most Disability-Friendly

Another major flaw (there are very little compared to the assets, we promise) is that Greece is not the most disability-friendly country in the world. Not even close, unfortunately. There is poor infrastructure for the specially-abled citizens and visitors which is frustrating, to say the least.

Frankly, the country is inhospitable to people with disabilities. A simple walk through the eyes of a person with mobility difficulties will convince you: The sidewalks are broken and are not suitable for canes or wheelchairs. Ramps that exist on one sidewalk do not exist on the next. 

And this is only the scenario that concerns the person with mobility difficulties -and the reality of the elderly and the parents with wheelchairs, too. When we talk about visually impaired people, then you should know that they are called to face the same problems and even more.

If you dare to follow the specially-designed strip of sidewalk that is meant for those who suffer from their vision, you are sure to bump into a flowerbed, or even word, a column! In the special lanes for visually impaired people, on their way, one encounters many things. You can fall on a pillar. Or on a tree. You can, much more often, fall on a dining table that belongs to a local tavern. 

By All Means Drink, But Behave

We understand that the free spirit of Greece is intoxicating. So are its delicious drinks. However, you need to keep in mind that although during your vacation you can let your hair down and drink to your heart’s content, you need to maintain some self-control and act civilized.

After all, retching and having a raging hangover the next day -or more- can potentially ruin your exotic vacations, which is not ideal.

The most popular tourist destination in Greece makes the news each year for the uncontrollable situation the tourists find themselves in after hours of careless drinking. We’re all about partying.

We recommend and applaud it. However, you need to drink within reason and behave yourselves like you would in your own country. Bottoms up, people!  

The Roads Can Be Crazy

If you have no sense of directions, the Greek streets will give you a wild ride. The signs are not too clear, and unless you take the advice of a map or a local, the chances of successfully reaching your desired destination are slim to none.

What’s more, you might come upon dangerously narrow streets that hang from cliffs in the Greek island or the countryside, where the road network is not as refined as in the big cities. 

The problems faced by the country's road network can be many and great, but great is also the progress that has been made with the completion of major roads.

Many of these highways have been opened to traffic in the last five years, creating a network of roads that can be used to move quickly, within the framework of the Traffic Code, and - most importantly - safely, crossing the whole country. A network that greatly facilitates the transport of goods and passengers.

Some advice for our first-time visitors

If you’ve never been to Greece before, there are a couple of things you should keep in mind to make your time here as enjoyable as possible and your travel smooth as silk.

Of course, everyone talks about the magnificent warm weather of summer in Greece. However, this perfect weather comes with some downfalls. Namely, the bright sun that tends to burn light-skinned people and the heat that exhausts those who are not used to it.

For that reason, we would highly recommend you bring lots of sunscreen bottles and don’t forget to lather on sunscreen before every outing. Additionally, it is extremely helpful always to wear a hat and have water on you.

Another thing to be aware of is the tourist traps that can be found in the most popular spots of each destination. As a rule of thumb, we would recommend avoiding eating in eateries that frequent central tourist spots and have any reference to Zorba -the name, a picture, the world-renowned song from the famous movie. Anything with Zorba in it, steer clear from; it reeks of a tourist trap!

Your best bet before taking any major decision on your trip to Greece would be to ask the locals. Yes, no matter how awkward it may sound, asking the locals is the way to go! From the reception of your hotel to random strangers on the street, they will have the best input to offer and will be more than eager to do so; we are not known for our hospitality by accident!

Last but not least, when it comes to transporting around Greece for the first time, you need to know that grabbing a random taxi from the cabstand is not the safest or cheapest option. If you want to avoid public transport, we would highly recommend you book private transfers, or at least download a local app for taxis that will keep a tab of your driver for your safety.

In all honesty, I am jealous of you; seeing Greece for the first time must be a magical experience!

Final Thoughts

We guarantee you that choosing Greece as your holiday destination is a decision you will never regret. Everyone and their dog have Greece as the ultimate country to enjoy carefree vacations, and there is literally no way for them to not be successful.

However, there are certain tips and tricks that will make your life a lot easier and will help you get the most out of your Greek experience. Read our Greece travel tips above, check out our Greece itineraries , and come to Greece well-prepared to have the time of your life!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it necessary to learn basic greek phrases before traveling to greece.

While many Greeks in tourist areas speak English, learning basic Greek phrases is appreciated and can enhance your travel experience. Locals often respond warmly to visitors attempting to speak their language.

Do I Need to Tip in Restaurants and Cafés in Greece?

Tipping is customary in Greece. It's common to leave a tip of around 5-10% in restaurants, and rounding up the bill is also appreciated. In cafes, rounding up or leaving small change is customary.

What's the Best Way to Get Around in Greece?

Greece has a well-connected transportation system. Ferries are common for island hopping, and buses or rental cars are ideal for mainland travel. In cities, taxis and public transportation are convenient options.

Is Greece Safe for Solo Travelers?

Greece is generally considered safe for solo travelers. Exercise standard safety precautions, be aware of your surroundings, and take care of your belongings. Crime rates are relatively low, making it a popular destination for solo adventurers.

What's the Best Time of Year to Visit Greece?

The best time to visit Greece depends on your preferences. Spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) offer mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer (July to August) is the high season with hot temperatures and vibrant nightlife. Winter (November to March) is ideal for cultural exploration and fewer tourists.

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How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Athens, Greece, According to Travel Experts Like Rick Steves

The ancient Greek city delivers one memorable vacation.

Cavan Images/Getty Images

There’s not much that hasn’t been written about the perks of visiting Athens, Greece. The ancient city has long been a popular travel destination, thanks to its bountiful historical sites, distinct architecture, and oh-so fantastic food. But just because it’s all been said doesn’t mean it isn’t worth repeating. So, we’ll say it one more time: Athens is, without question, one of the world’s greatest travel destinations, especially for those famed attractions. And we’re not the only ones who share this sentiment. 

“The Acropolis, one of the most important ancient sites in the Western world, is crowned by an architectural masterpiece: the mighty Parthenon,” Rick Steves told Travel + Leisure . “I visit in the cool of the early evening, when the crowds are gone and the setting sun turns the marble golden.”

But Athens' appeal goes far beyond its history lessons. “Athens has a vibe. The restaurants and bars feel intimate, and visitors can either indulge in the city's vibrant nightlife scene or simply go for a stroll at night — the city is second to none during the evening,” Alys Colayera, the lead travel expert for Greece at Black Tomato, shared with T+L. Colayera also called out the city's shopping scene, noting, "The boutique shops have tons of local artisans selling high-quality Greek crafts, jewelry, and clothing.”

Ready to start plotting your own Athens adventure? Here’s how to plan the perfect trip. 

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Don't miss Greece's most recognizable landmark — the Acropolis. Get there early to experience it with fewer crowds.
• Spend a night at the Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens, T+L readers' favorite hotel in 2023 World's Best Awards.
• Head to Syntagma Square to watch the official changing of the guard every hour on the hour.
• Grab a souvenir or a snack in the famed Plaka neighborhood.
• Order a coffee at Minu, arguably the coolest cafe in Greece, and then sit in its garden or take it to go to explore the antique shops nearby.

Courtesy of The Four Seasons

Best Hotels and Resorts 

Four seasons astir palace hotel athens.

The Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens — a T+L reader favorite in 2023 — holds a prime location along the Athens Riviera, providing ocean views while remaining just a short drive from all the city's major attractions. It also sits on 75 private acres, making it an ideal spot for those looking for a bit of solitude. 

Hotel Grande Bretagne, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Athens

“My all-time favorite [hotel] is the Grande Bretagne , a landmark right in the heart of the city that celebrates 150 years of history this year,” said Christos Stergiou , a T+L A-List Advisor and founder of TrueTrips . “From its rooftop restaurant to its elegant lobby and rooms, it epitomizes class and culture.” Plus, it doesn’t hurt that this property is consistently a top choice in T+L’s World’s Best Awards, coming in second for our readers’ favorite hotels in Athens in 2023. 

Gatsby Athens

For a truly central stay in the city, there's no better place than the Gatsy Athens . Located right outside the Plaka neighborhood, the property makes for a fantastic home base for those looking to walk just about everywhere in the city. Inside, guests will find a playful space filled with art deco touches and a fantastic food and beverage program. Just don’t miss the guest-only rooftop, which provides spectacular views of the city. 

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

Best Things to Do 

Visit the acropolis..

As Steves alluded to, no trip to Athens is complete without a visit to the Acropolis . And it’s a sentiment Colayera agrees with. “The Acropolis is the epitome of ancient Greek architecture and a symbol of Athens. It houses several ancient buildings of great architectural and historic significance, the most famous being the Parthenon,” said Colayera. The best time to go is early morning or late evening, when the crowds are thinner, though you should always expect other tourists hanging around. Want to make the most of your visit? Colayera also suggested checking out the Acropolis Museum, home to a collection of artifacts discovered during archaeological excavations of the Acropolis. “The exhibits offer insights into the daily life, rituals, and artistry of the people who lived in Athens during different periods,” Colayera added. 

See Hadrian’s Library.

Another fantastic historic landmark to visit while in Athens is Hadrian's Library. The building, built in 132 A.D., was used as an entertainment space, lecture hall, and, yes, an actual library. Today, just a few columns and sections remain, but visitors are welcome to walk through and imagine what used to be. Tickets are only $3 or can be purchased as a combination with the Acropolis. 

Watch the changing of the guard at Syntagma Square.

Looking for a fun free activity in the city? Visitors to Athens can watch the changing of the guard in front of the Parliament building at Syntagma Square every hour on the hour. And every Sunday at 11 a.m., the official event takes place in full regalia. Just plan to arrive a little early to snag a front-row seat. 

Visit the National Museum of Contemporary Art.

For something a little more new school, head to the National Museum of Contemporary Art . The museum’s mission is to preserve contemporary works by Greek and international artists across disciplines. It includes both permanent and rotating collections, so check its website before going to know what to expect. 

Ken Welsh/Education Images/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Best Shopping 

It’s hard to ignore the Plaka neighborhood of Athens. It is, after all, at the base of the Acropolis. But really, there’s no need to ignore it, especially if you want to go home with a memorable souvenir or two. Explore the area by simply allowing yourself to wander its streets, popping into any shop that catches your eye and perhaps grabbing a frappe along the way on a hot day, too. 

Find yourself in one of the city’s most colorful neighborhoods with a visit to Psirri. Located about a 15-minute walk from Plaka, Psirri offers travelers the chance to admire some of the best street art in the world ( book a tour with Kalliopi for the ultimate insider experience), peruse unique stores, step into a few third-wave coffee shops, and eat plenty of local Greek cuisine. 

Anthologist

For those seeking an all-around shop, where you can pick up everything from high-end goods to more affordable trinkets curated from around the globe, look no further than Anthologist . The store, owned by travel tastemaker Andria Mitsakos, is a visual paradise, filled with goodies you’ll want to stuff in your suitcase. 

RUBEN RAMOS/Getty Images

Best Restaurants 

Begin a day in Athens by mixing fantastic food with shopping at Minu , a third-wave coffee shop and boutique. The space is gorgeous — find a back corner to settle into, go all the way up to its loft area, or sit outside on the patio when the weather is right. Order a coffee and a bite to eat (menu items include smoothie bowls, avocado toast, and more).

Enjoy another delicious alfresco meal in Athens at Soil , a sustainably focused, Michelin-starred restaurant. The ingredients here are grown in the chef’s private garden, providing flavors you can’t taste anywhere else. Book a table (preferably outside) and don’t even worry about ordering, as you can opt for the seasonal tasting menu and enjoy every bite. 

Don’t leave Athens without digging into some tasty Greek desserts. When I was a child, my Greek grandmother would make loukoumades , so it’s a personal favorite, and in Athens, you can get a taste of the same at Lukumades . Smothered in honey and cinnamon, the dough balls are small enough to pop in your mouth one after another — and you won't be able to stop at just one.

Starcevic/Getty Images

Best Time To Visit

There's no bad time to visit Athens, but according to Steves, the spring shoulder season is particularly lovely. “I was last in Athens in April 2022, and it was a great time to visit. The weather was cool and pleasant, and the city wasn’t crowded,” he said. “It just felt good.” Indeed, both the spring shoulder season (April to mid-June) and the fall (September through October) offer visitors the chance to explore the city in milder weather. Summer is the peak period, and with it comes sweltering temperatures . So, if you don’t tolerate heat (or crowds) well, try to book your stay outside of July and August.  

How to Get There

By Air: Travelers from around the world can make their way to Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos). It’s serviced by every major airline, including Delta and American, which offers direct flights from the U.S. 

By Sea: Athens is an ultra-popular port for cruises, including MSC Cruises , Crystal Cruises , Seabourn , Royal Caribbean , and more.  

How to Get Around

By Rental Car: Rental cars are readily available in the city, at the airport, and at the ferry terminal. Just make sure to book an automatic as early as possible if you can’t drive a manual, as they tend to be in short supply.  

By Taxi: Both yellow cabs and Ubers are plentiful around Athens. Simply open the app or hail the next one you see. Prices are about €1 per kilometer .

By Metro: Athens has a robust metro system to get you around the city with ease. There's also a metro line directly to and from the airport. Pick up a rechargeable Ath.ena ticket , which starts at €1.20. 

By Foot: Athens is a walkable city. If you enjoy slowly taking in the sights and popping in and out of shops and cafes, this is the way to go. You never know what you may find along the way.

Travel Guide Greece

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The tour to Greece was a pleasant surprise for me! Perfect organisation, pleasant team, amazing landscapes and cultural sites!

Greece remains a premier-league travel destination despite the battering its economy has received in recent years. Visit Greece and you’ll discover a country with incredible historic sites spanning four millennia, encompassing both the legendary and the obscure.

Greece travel facts

Where to go in greece, best time to go to greece.

• How to get to Greece

How to get around Greece

7 best places to visit in greece, itineraries for greece, accommodation in greece, food and drink in greece, things to do in greece, divine inspiration.

The Greek coastline is punctuated by superb beaches , while its mountainous interior urges you to dust off your hiking boots and explore. Yet perhaps its greatest riches are the Greek islands, ranging from backwaters where the boat calls twice a week to resorts like Santorini and Mykonos .

For anyone with a cultural bone in their body, Greece travel cannot fail to inspire. But the call to cultural duty will never be too overwhelming on a Greek holiday. The simple pleasures – swimming in balmy seas at dusk, talking and drinking under the stars, eating fresh, uncomplicated food – are just as appealing. Also, the genuine welcome you receive at the simplest taverna is enough to get you booking next year’s break as soon as you get home.

We published our first Rough Guide to Greece almost 40 years ago, but we’ll never tire of travelling there. Here’s our guide to a country that offers surprises and a sense of discovery to even the most demanding traveller (and head here for our top 15 general tips for travelling in Greece).

• Language : Greek (spoken by 99% of the population)
• Unit of currency : Euro (EUR)
• Population : 11.3 million. Nearly one-tenth are immigrants, half of whom are from Albania.
• Tourist numbers : 29 million in 2016.
• Politics : Greece is a democractic republic, where the Prime Minister is the head of government and the President is the head of state.
• Geography : Greece shares land borders with Albania, Bulgaria, Turkey and the Republic of Macedonia and comprises almost 132 square kilometers.
• UNESCO World Heritage sites : as of 2020, Greece has an impressive 18. Our favourites are the ancient site of Delphi, Rhodes Old Town and the mighty Acropolis.

If you’re travelling around Greece as part of a bigger trip, Athens is a necessary stop. Home to a third of the population and the magnificent Acropolis, the Greek capital is a true metropolis.

Further north, Thessaloniki gives the capital a run for its money, with sophisticated restaurants, a buzzing nightlife and its own culture scene.

Don’t think the Greek islands hold the country’s only beautiful beaches: the long, sandy stretches of the Peloponnese are well worth a visit and easily accessible from the mainland.

Take the tourist road less travelled with a trip around the Central Mainland or Northern Mainland , with brilliant mountain hiking and trekking opportunities as well as tonnes of history and the all-important spectacular beaches.

The islands are really the jewel in Greece’s crown, though and a must when you visit Greece. Depending on how much time you have, it’s best to pick one group of islands to explore (or to sit back and relax on). The Argo-Saronic Islands , just a stone’s throw from Athens, are the perfect destination for multi-stop holiday.

Over on the west coast, you’ll find some of Greece’s most famous spots in the lush green Ionian islands , including Corfu and Kefalonia .

For easy island hopping, you can’t beat the beauty of the Cyclades . The size and close proximity of Santorini, Mykonos and co are ideal for a short stay on each.

Further north, the Sporades are easily navigable, with Skiathos an easy starting point thanks to its international airport. For a more authentic Greek atmosphere, the islands of the East and North Aegan are worth visiting.

Further southeast in the Aegean sea, you’ll find the Dodecanese islands . Here, Rhodes and Kos , two of Greece’s largest and most-visited islands, are the stars of the show.

If you don’t have time to spare, a stay on Crete just might give you everything you could want in a Greek island and more, with its top notch beaches, remote spots and friendly people.

Ancient Delphi © elgreko/Shutterstock

Discover more places in Greece

• The Cyclades Travel Guide
• The Dodecanese Travel Guide
• The East and North Aegean Travel Guide
• The Ionian Islands Travel Guide
• The northern mainland Travel Guide
• The Peloponnese Travel Guide
• The Sporades and Évvia Travel Guide

As hoards of holiday makers can attest, Greek summers are hot, hot, hot. Travel to Greece in the mid-July to August peak season and you’ll find temperatures soaring into the mid 30s, along with crowds of tourists and domestic Greek holiday makers.

For the best weather without the crowds it attracts, June and September are lovely times to visit. May and October are worth a trip for the lower prices and Crete and the Cyclades are arguably at their best in May. Generally, though, you’ll find the weather less predictable and you might encounter some storms in October, particularly in the west or in the mountains.

From December to March during winter, you’ll find many amenities shut down, especially in resorts and on the islands. In the cities, of course, that isn’t an issue, while Rhodes and south eastern Crete are the warmest spots for some winter sun.

Find out more about the best time to travel to Greece .

Flying is the easiest way to get to Greece, with the country boasting no fewer than 15 international airports.

The most cost effective route is usually via the UK or other northern European hub such as Amsterdam or Frankfurt. If you’re starting in the US, there are direct flights to Athens from New York and Philadelphia.

If you’re travelling to one of the islands, taking a flight to Athens and catching the bus or ferry can be a cheaper route than flying direct. During winter it may be your only option, as direct flights to some islands only operate during the summer months.

For a more sustainable option, it’s possible to take the train to Greece from the UK. The journey takes around 2 days from London to Athens, or you could combine it with a bigger trip as part of an InterRail or Eurail pass.

Here’s all you need to know about getting to Greece .

Buses are plentiful all over Greece, and they’ll get you around all the primary routes on the mainland, with a more basic operation on the islands. To explore a bit further, you’ll need to hire a scooter, motorbike or car.

Driving in Greece can be a joy, thanks to spectacular mountain scenery and picturesque coastal roads – just remember to drive on the right. The train system, meanwhile, is limited and is often a slower option than taking the bus.

Island hopping means boat trips, though it’s sometimes worth forking out for internal flights to get you from Athens to a starting point on the group of islands you want to explore. Athens to Rhodes is just a two-hour flight, for example, but 28 hours by boat.

Here’s our full guide to getting around Greece .

Sunset at Oia on Santorini island © DigitalHand Studio/Shutterstock

The Ancient Greeks considered Delphi to be the centre of the earth — and upon visiting, it’s not hard to see why. Located in an unbeatable natural setting at the foot of Mount Parnassos in the Central Mainland, this ancient site has retained its mystique through the centuries. It’s even more stunning in spring, when wild flowers bloom all over the valley.

Watching the sunset across Santorini’s famous caldera is up there on most lists of things to do before you die. Most tourists make for Oia, but the sunset views from Akrotiri on the island’s southwestern tip are better and far less crowded.

You can’t visit Zakynthos without paying a visit to the beach that’s become the poster child for the whole of Greece. Navagio, better known as Shipwreck Bay, has a spectacular cliff drop, white sands, turquoise waters and – you guessed it – its very own shipwreck. Beaches don’t get much prettier than this.

If you’ve got basic hiking skills, put them to good use when you visit Greece with a trek up Mount Olympus , mythical abode of the Gods, in the Northern Mainland. To make the most of the mountain, allow two to three days hiking. The small town of Lithoro on the east of the mountain is by far the best place to base yourself.

Billed as the Greek Tuscany, the Pelion Peninsula in the Central Mainland has it all: lush countryside, excellent beaches, cute villages and good trekking. You’ll find the best walking seasons are late April to early June and early September to October.

The magnificent Acropolis looms over Athens, dominating almost every view. Of course, you must get your Classical Greek fix with visits to the Parthenon and Athens Archeological Museum. But don’t miss out on modern Athens: take some time to explore the city’s neighbourhoods and you’ll escape the crowds and experience the Athens that modern Athenians know and love.

Shelve your ideals of a peaceful Greek holiday and join in the fun on Mykonos, where the beaches are lovely and lively and the nightlife is second to none. Don’t forget to get lost in Mykonos Town, where the maze of narrow streets form the quintessential image of the Cyclades.

Navagio, or Shipwreck bay, Zakynthos © Michail Makarov/Shutterstock

There are countless ways to travel Greece. To help you narrow it down, we’ve put together four possible routes which should each last around two weeks.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Greece, created by local experts

10 days  / from 2632 USD

The Historical and Mythological Cyclades islands

The Cyclades islands include two of the most famous Greek Islands: Mykonos and Santorini. Visit these and some of the smaller, quieter, islands. With white washed houses, narrow cobbled streets, blue domed roofs and stunning beaches, they are what Greece is all about.

9 days  / from 2226 USD

A secluded villa stay on Mainland Greece

Stay in a secluded private villa with magnificent views to the sea and explore this beautiful corner of Mainland Greece with your own rental car. Under the impressive Mt Taygetos in Southern Peloponnese, the region of Mani will give you a snapshot of authentic Greece.

10 days  / from 2012 USD

Along the Coast of Crete: from Heraklion to Platanias

As Greece's largest island, Crete's culture and atmosphere is distinctly different from mainland Greece. Thousands of years of unique culture and rich history complement the island's untamed natural beauty. Explore Crete at your own pace with this unique self-drive trip!

There’s Classical Greece, where each stop will reveal something new about one of the world’s greatest civilisations. Or stick to the beaches with Island-Hopping in the Cyclades, the best group of islands to travel between thanks to quick and frequent ferry links.

Stay (mostly) on dry land with Cretan Odyssey to experience Crete beyond the beach resorts. And for a completely different look at Greece, take The Road Less Travelled, a journey through northern and central Greece that rarely appears on travel agents’ radars.

There’s an itinerary to suit you, whatever you want from your Greece trip. Take a look at all our Greek itineraries here .

You’ll find accommodation in Greece to fit whatever budget you’re on, though prices will vary depending on the time of year you travel. High season in July and August and during Easter are the busiest times, when you’ll definitely need to pre-book a place to stay.

As well as the usual offering of hotels, hostels, apartments, villas and private rooms, a few nights in a monastery or convent is not out of the question. Here’s our full guide to accommodation in Greece , including an explanation of the different hotel categories and our pick of some of the best places to stay in Greece.

Sampling the local cuisine is a highlight of any trip, but in Greece especially so. Greek food is wide-ranging and delicious and restaurants ( tavernas ) are straightforward and good value.

Can’t decide where to dine? Go where the Greeks go. Mezedhes like tzatzíki and souvláki and chops are always reliable choices, while seafood can be one of the highlights of a trip to Greece. A proper Greek gyros pitta, stuffed with lamb, tomatoes, onion, salad and a few fries, may just be the greatest fast food ever invented.

Ouzo is synonymous with Greece, but Greek tipples go beyond the anise-flavoured aperitif. Many of the islands, including Santorini and Rhodes, are wine producers, so you’ll have a chance to sample local bottlings (and tour a vineyard or two if you like). And don’t miss out on a cup of strong, sweet Greek coffee at a kafenío , a traditional Greek coffee-house.

If that’s whet your appetite, read more about food and drink in Greec e.

Mykonos © Ella Hanochi/Shutterstock

Watersports

The Greek seashore offers endless scope for watersports, from waterskiing and parasailing to yachting and windsurfing. Waterski boats spend most of their time towing people around on inflatables, though you usually can waterski or wakeboard as well, while parasailing is also on offer at all the big resorts. Jet skis can be rented in many places, too.

Windsurfing

Windsurfing is hugely popular around Greece. The country’s bays and coves are ideal for beginners, with a few spectacularly windy spots for experts. Renting a board isn’t too pricey, while instructors are usually available.

Some of the best windsurfing spots including Vassiliki in Lefkada, Santa Maria in Paros, Prassonissi in Rhodes, Kokkari in Samos, Kouremenos in eastern Crete and Karathonas in the Peloponnese.

A combination of steady winds, beautiful seascapes and many natural harbours make Greece a tremendous place for sailing. All sorts of bareboat and flotilla yacht trips are on offer, while dinghies, small cats and motor boats can be rented at many resorts.

For yachting, spring and autumn are the most pleasant seasons. Winds can make for nauseous sailing in July and August, when you’ll also find far higher prices and crowded moorings.

Our sailing picks? Explore the Sporades from Skiathos; set out from Athens for the Argo-Saronic islands and north Peloponnese coast; or sail around Corfu and the Ionian.

Scuba diving

You’ll find some dive centres across the mainland, Dodecanese, Ionians, Cyclades and Crete. Generally, though, diving is pretty restricted because of the potential for stealing submerged antiquities. There’s not a huge amount of aquatic life, but you do get wonderfully clear water, while the rocky coast offers plenty of caves and hidden nooks to explore.

If you have the time and stamina, walking is probably the single best way to see the remote Greek backcountry, with plenty of options from gentle strolls to long-distance mountain paths through one of Europe’s most impressive mountain terrains. Spring and autumn, when its cooler, are great for walking.

Cycling is less popular with Greeks, but in an increasing number of resorts you can hire mountain bikes, and many of the rental places lead organized rides. They vary from easy jaunts around the countryside to serious rides up proper mountains. Summer heat can be fierce, but spring and autumn offer great riding conditions.

Travel advice for Greece

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Greece

• Culture and Etiquette in Greece
• Eating and drinking in Greece
• Getting around Greece: Transportation Tips
• Travel Tips Greece for planning and on the go
• Best time to visit Greece
• Crete Itinerary - how to spend 5, 7, 10 or 14 days in Crete
• How to get from Athens to Crete

Whether you’re the kind of person who likes to be well prepared for every eventuality, or you’re more of a turn-up-and-see-what-happens kind of traveller, our guide to Greece travel essentials is well worth a browse. It will give you an idea of what things will cost while you’re in Greece, what entrance fees you can expect to pay to tourist sites, where you’ll find all the embassies, useful Greek phone numbers and lots more.

Travel visa requirements for Greece

UK and all other EU nationals need only a valid passport to enter Greece. US, Australian, New Zealand, Canadian and most non-EU Europeans can stay, as tourists, for ninety days in any six-month period.

Non-EU nationals arriving by plane or boat from another EU state not party to the Schengen Agreement might not routinely have their passport stamped at minor Greek ports, so make sure this is done in order to avoid unpleasantness on exit. Your passport must be valid for three months after your arrival date.

Visitors from non-EU countries are currently not, in practice, being given extensions to tourist visas. You must leave not just Greece but the entire Schengen Group and stay out until the maximum 90-days-in-180 rule is satisfied.

If you overstay your time and then leave under your own power – ie are not deported – you'll be hit with a huge fine upon departure, and possibly be banned from re-entering for a period of time; no excuses will be entertained except (just maybe) a doctor's certificate stating you were immobilized in hospital. It cannot be overemphasized just how exigent Greek immigration officials have become on this issue.

Entry requirements can change, so always check with your local embassy/consulate for the most up-to-date information before travel.

Top image: The Parthenon on The Acropolis, Athens © Lucky-photographer/Shutterstock

A high proportion of the ancient sites still seen in Greece today were built as shrines and temples to the gods , primarily the twelve who lived on Mount Olympus. Zeus , the lord of the heavens and supreme power; Hera , his wife and sister, goddess of fertility; Athena , the goddess of wisdom, patron of crafts and fearless warrior; Apollo , the god of music, of prophecy and the arts; his sister Artemis , the virgin huntress and goddess of childbirth; Poseidon , the god of the sea; beautiful Aphrodite , goddess of love and desire; Hermes , the messenger who leads the souls of the dead to the underworld; Hephaestus , the god of craftsmen; Ares , the god of war; Demeter , the goddess of crops and female fertility; and Dionysus , god of wine and intoxication. Worshipped, feared and admired, they formed the basis for the ancient Greek religion until paganism was banned by the Romans in AD 391.

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written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 19.05.2021

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Exercise normal safety precautions in Greece. 

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Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies, advice levels.

Exercise normal safety precautions in Greece.

• Extreme temperatures are affecting many areas of Greece, and more wildfires are possible throughout the summer months. Contact your travel provider and monitor the media for the latest updates. Read our advice on what to do if you're overseas and  there's a bushfire near you . 
• Strikes, protests and demonstrations take place regularly and can turn violent. Rioting can break out with little warning. Violent clashes have occurred between supporters of rival football teams. Avoid affected areas, monitor media and follow the advice of local authorities.
• Petty crime and theft are serious issues in tourist areas and on buses and trains. Pickpocketing, bag snatching, and slashing luggage to steal belongings are common. Pay close attention to your belongings.
• Terrorist attacks have occurred at or near popular tourist areas in central Athens. Always be alert. Take official warnings seriously.

Full travel advice: Safety

• Heatwaves are becoming more frequent over the summer months. Drink plenty of water, wear light clothing, stay in air conditioning or shaded areas, and follow the advice of local authorities.
• Medications such as codeine are subject to special rules. Carry a prescription and a letter from your doctor.
• Measles is common in Greece. Make sure your vaccinations are up to date.
• The standard of medical care varies. Public hospitals are short on medical supplies and provide limited nursing care. Family or friends usually provide care. 

Full travel advice: Health

• Always carry an ID, such as a photocopy of your passport.
• It's illegal to take photos of military sites and personnel. It's also illegal to smoke indoors.
• You may have to do military service if you're a male dual national. If you're of Greek descent and born outside of Greece, even if you don't think you're a Greek citizen, get advice from the nearest Greek  Embassy or Consulate  before you travel.
• Same-sex relationships are legal in Greece, though attitudes vary throughout the country. Avoid public displays of affection, especially in rural areas. Attitudes are generally more accepting on Greek islands such as Mykonos, Santorini and Ios.

Full travel advice: Local laws

• Greece is a part of the  Schengen area . This allows you to enter without a visa in some cases. Get an entry stamp in your passport from border control when you first enter the Schengen area.
• Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest  Greek embassy or Consulate  for enquiries about your ability to enter Greece from your departure country.

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

• The Consular Services Charter details what we can and can't do to help you overseas.
• For consular help, contact the Australian Embassy  in Athens.
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the Embassy’s social media accounts.

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

Petty crime

Petty crime is a serious issue in tourist areas, including Monastiraki and Syntagma Square in central Athens. It also occurs on public transport and in accommodation, including short-term rentals.

Theft, including pickpocketing, bag snatching and slashing luggage, is common on buses and trains to and from the Athens airport.

Organised groups of thieves often use distraction techniques, such as crowding and pushing at metro stop exits.

To reduce the risk of theft:

• stay in physical contact with your belongings, particularly on public transport and on buses and trains to and from the airport
• be alert at tourist spots in central Athens and on the islands
• don't leave bags on the back of chairs or the floor in cafés or restaurants
• carry your day bag with one strap across your body and carry small backpacks at the front of your body
• if driving on holiday, keep your valuables with you, always lock your vehicle, and park in a well-lit area or a secure car park.

Tourist scams

Tourist scams exist in Greece, including taxis, hotels, restaurants, and vehicle hire services. If you've been the victim of a scam, report your claims to the nearest Police station and be prepared to support your claim with evidence.

Under Greek law, all suppliers of goods and services must issue you a receipt. 

Physical and sexual assault

Serious  physical  and  sexual assaults  occur  in Athens and on islands such as Mykonos, Santorini and Ios. There's also a risk of drink spiking with the intention of sexual assault.

Racially motivated and homophobic attacks have occurred.

To protect yourself:

• don't walk alone in isolated areas at night, especially in the Athens suburb of Omonia and at the railway and bus stations of Larissa and Peloponissos
• save the location of your accommodation on the maps app on your phone for easy access
• keep an eye on your drink and don't accept drinks from strangers or leave drinks unattended.
• create a shared communication chat with your fellow travellers to stay in touch if separated.

Before you travel, read our guidance on  reducing the risk of sexual assault . We also have an  advice page  on what to do immediately after a sexual assault, reporting a sexual assault overseas, and available counselling.

More information:

• Partying safety

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Terrorism occurs in Europe. Targets across Europe have included:

• public transport
• transport hubs
• public places popular with tourists

European security services have disrupted some planned attacks in recent years.

Radical groups have staged attacks, mainly in Athens. Attackers have previously used bombs or guns. People have been injured but rarely killed. Substantial damage to buildings and vehicles can occur.

Terrorist targets have included:

• government institutions
• former government ministers
• the offices of members of parliament
• foreign diplomatic missions

Terrorists haven't targeted tourists. But some attacks have happened near popular tourist areas in central Athens, such as Syntagma Square.

To protect yourself from terrorism:

• be alert to possible threats, especially in public places
• take care around areas terrorists tend to target
• monitor the media for new threats
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the advice of local authorities

Report suspicious activity or items to the police.

If there's an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe. Avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Civil unrest and political tension

Protests and riots

Public protests, strikes, demonstrations and events that draw large groups of people occur regularly and often with little notice, mainly in central Athens around Syntagma Square, Omonia Square and Exarchia. They can also occur in major cities, including Thessaloniki around Aristotelous Square, Egnatia Street, the Arch of Galerius and the campus of Aristotle University. These protests can disrupt public transport and roads. Protesters and police could also clash. Sometimes petrol bombs and fireworks are thrown by protesters, and police deploy tear gas. 

Civil unrest is more likely on days of national or commemorative significance, including:

• 1 May — Labour Day
• 17 November — the anniversary of the 1973 student riots
• 6 December — the anniversary of the 2008 riots

Violent clashes can occur between supporters of rival football teams. Molotov cocktails and stones have been thrown and people have been killed.

To protect yourself during periods of unrest:

• avoid public protests
• monitor local media for possible unrest or strikes
• keep a low profile
• plan to avoid areas known for unrest on days of national significance
• change your travel plans if disruptions arise

Road closures

Road closures are common in Athens. Officials don't always announce them in advance.

Contact your airline, travel agent or insurer for help with transport disruptions. 

Monitor the media for news on strikes that may cause road closures.

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Adventure activities

Transport and tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards.

If you plan to do an adventure activity :

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Climate and natural disasters

Greece experiences  natural disasters  and  severe weather .

Information on national disaster incidents and severe weather is posted by local authorities and @112Greece (in Greek) on social media. Alert messages (in Greek) may be sent by local authorities to mobile numbers advising of critical incidents. For updated information on natural disasters, see  civilprotection.gov.gr .

Heavy rainfall can lead to flooding in some regions, with road closures and interruptions to power and other services. Seek shelter, monitor the media and follow the advice of local authorities.  

Bush and forest fires occur during the summer months, from June to September. Fires can start close to cities and tourist locations with little warning and travel quickly. Fatalities have occurred. 

Expect travel disruptions if you're due to travel to an area that might be affected by wildfires. Monitor the media and contact your travel provider for the latest updates. The air quality during these periods may deteriorate due to heavy smoke. Forest fires are highly dangerous and unpredictable. 

• Floods and fires
• There's a bushfire

Earthquakes and volcanoes

Greece is in an active seismic zone and experiences  earthquakes  and  volcanic activity .

Get updates from the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System .

Natural disasters

If a natural disaster or severe weather happens:

• monitor local media and other sources
• keep informed about possible safety risks
• Travel insurance

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away.

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Greece. Take enough legal medicine for your trip in its original packaging. The name on the prescription should match the name on your passport.

Carry a copy of your prescription and a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medicine is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Codeine and other prescription opiates can only be issued with a prescription from an accredited Greek medical professional.

For more information, contact the Greek National Organization of Medicines:

· By telephone: 0030 213 2040 395 / 285 / 225 / 000

· By email:  [email protected]  /  [email protected]  

• Australian Embassy in Athens

Health risks

Heatwaves are becoming more frequent over the summer months. They can cause heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Drink water, wear a hat and light clothing and stay in air conditioned buildings or shaded areas. 

Many major tourist sites have little shade. At peak tourist periods, queues at major attractions can involve waiting over an hour in the sun. Plan your visit to these sites, keep an eye on the weather forecast, and follow the advice of local authorities.  

Measles  is common in Greece. The country is experiencing an increase in measles cases.

Make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel.

• Department of Health and Aged Care Measles Outbreaks 2019
• Department of Health and Aged Care Measles Immunisation Service

Insect-borne diseases

Cases of  West Nile virus (WNV)  have been reported in Greece. There's no vaccine to prevent it.

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
• Infectious diseases
• Hellenic Center for Disease Control and Prevention

Foodborne diseases

Outbreaks of foodborne diseases, including  brucellosis , sometimes happen.

To protect yourself from illness, avoid:

• uncooked and under-cooked food
• unpasteurised dairy products

See a doctor immediately if you suspect food poisoning or have a fever or diarrhoea.

Medical care

Medical facilities.

Services provided by hospitals and medical centres aren't free, and payment is required before you leave the facility. Sometimes, the medical provider may ask you for payment before you receive treatment.

The standard of medical facilities and care vary in quality. Public hospitals in Greece are below the standard in Australia. Considerable delays may be encountered with non-urgent surgeries and other medical treatments at public hospitals.

Public hospitals can have shortages of medical supplies, including essential medication. They also have limited nursing care. You may be asked to pay a minor fee for medical treatment at a hospital or medical centre. Friends and relatives are usually required to give around-the-clock care.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you may need evacuation. This is more likely if you're in a remote area or on a Greek island. You might be moved to Athens or another place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

Public ambulances can be slow to respond to emergencies and vary in quality. Private hospitals operate their own ambulances and provide better quality service.

Private hospital costs are high.

You're subject to local laws and penalties, including those that appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling, especially for an extended stay.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail. 

Breaking the law can lead to severe penalties, large fines and jail.

Penalties for drug possession, use or trafficking, even small amounts, include heavy fines and prison sentences.

• Carrying or using drugs

Commercial surrogacy is illegal in Greece.

• Going overseas for international surrogacy

In Greece, it's illegal to:

• not carry a photo ID, such as a clear photocopy of your passport
• carry weapons of any type (including pocketknives and pepper spray) 
• smoke in indoor public places. The penalty is a fine of up to 500 euros.
• engage in sexual conduct with a person aged under 18
• breach customs rules about the export of Greek antiquities

It's also illegal to take photos of:

• military installations
• military personnel
• places with signs banning photography

Recreational and commercial flying of drones is regulated. Drones must be registered for use across the European Union. 

Non-compliance may lead to fines and drone confiscation. 

Useful links

• Information for visitors concerning drones  - Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA)
• Civil drones  - European Union Aviation Safety Agency

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognised in Greece.

Greek males aged 19 and above have military service obligations. You may have to do military service if you're a male Australian-Greek dual national. This can apply if you are of Greek descent and were born outside of Greece, even if you don't think you have Greek citizenship.

There are penalties if you don't comply, and you may be prevented from leaving Greece.

Get advice from the nearest Greek  embassy or consulate  before you travel if you:

• have Greek citizenship
• may be eligible for Greek citizenship

Local customs

Dress codes are relaxed in tourist areas and resorts. Dress modestly in places such as churches and religious buildings.

Take care not to offend. If in doubt, seek local advice.

Avoid public displays of affection, especially in rural areas.

Same-sex sexual activity is legal but isn't widely accepted.

Advice for LGBTI people

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Greece is a part of the  Schengen area . This allows you to enter without a visa in some cases. Get an entry stamp in your passport from border control when you first enter the Schengen area. 

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice, and you'll need a visa in some situations. Contact the nearest Greek  Embassy or Consulate  for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

• Visit Greece
• Embassy of Greece

Entry into Greece

Contact the nearest Greek Embassy or Consulate for the latest entry requirements.

Other formalities

Recognition of nationality.

If you were born in Greece, you might have problems entering if the place of birth stated on your Australian passport is no longer officially recognised by Greece.

Officials may deny entry, especially if you're entering Greece from the Republic of North Macedonia.

We can't intervene on your behalf if Greek officials refuse you entry to Greece.

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport .

Always carry your passport when crossing borders, even within the Schengen area .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier 

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

LGBTI travellers  

The official currency of Greece is the Euro.

You must declare amounts over 10,000 euros or equivalent if you're travelling between Greece and any non-European Union (EU) country. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

You don't need to declare it if you're travelling to or from another EU country.

You'll be fined if you don't declare it or declare the wrong amount when entering or leaving Greece.

Greece has daily ATM withdrawal limits. However, they don't apply to most major foreign debit and credit cards.

If you have Greek citizenship, you can only take up to 10,000 euros when leaving Greece.

Local travel

Extension of stays

Extension of stays in Greece beyond the allowed 90 days isn't automatic. Requests for extension with the relevant local authority should be lodged at least 4 weeks before your visa-free period expires. Present your request to the office of the Greek police on aliens issues.

Driving permit

Australian driver's licences are officially recognised as valid for use in Greece. If you plan on driving in Greece, you may not need an International Driving Permit. Contact the  Greek Embassy or Consulate  for more information on your licence type.

Your licence must be valid for the type of vehicle you'll drive, including quad bikes, motorbikes, mopeds, motor scooters and other similar vehicles.

You could face a large fine if you don't have the correct licence. Your insurance won't cover you if you have an accident.

Road travel

Driving is hazardous due to aggressive driving and poor-quality roads and vehicles.

Traffic police sometimes direct traffic at major intersections. If the traffic lights conflict with police directions, follow the directions of the traffic police.

During peak season, severe traffic congestion occurs in the main cities and on the islands. 

Drivers and motorcyclists often ignore traffic signals. They rarely give way to pedestrians.

Take care when crossing the road, including at pedestrian crossings, controlled intersections, and footpaths. Drivers often don't stop at pedestrian crossings.

Footpaths in Greece are very narrow and often blocked.

Check your insurance covers car hire and the use of quad bikes, motorbikes or jet skis. Get advice on any gaps. Your insurance may have conditions such as holding the correct licence for vehicles. Make sure you're covered. Check what additional fees may apply for any damage to hire vehicles.

Driving while intoxicated or under the influence of any illegal substance is illegal. Insurers won't cover accidents when drivers are under the influence of alcohol.

Driving offences may also attract heavy penalties.

• Driving or riding
• Driving in Greece - European Commission

Quad bikes and motorcycles

Quad bike and motorcycle accidents cause serious injuries and deaths every summer on the Greek islands. Operating or riding quad bikes and motorcycles while intoxicated is illegal.

Always wear a helmet. It's illegal not to wear one. It may also invalidate your travel insurance if you have an accident.

If you experience any issues with the operation of the bike, it's recommended that you return the bike as soon as possible to the rental company.

Only use licensed taxis. Always ensure the driver uses the meter. Be careful when using credit cards to pay fares. Ask for and check your receipt.

Ferries and large catamarans carry the bulk of visitors to the Greek islands. Some services do not provide suitable access for people with disabilities.

During the tourist season, from May to October, be prepared for high temperatures and large crowds at popular seaports.

Usually, there are only one or two brief announcements on ferries before arrival or departure.

In most cases, you'll need to carry your luggage up and down stairs. Help with luggage is usually unavailable unless you've booked a private cabin in advance.  

On some Greek islands, such as Santorini, smaller boats or tenders transport cruise ship passengers to and from shore. Passengers using tenders may have difficulty getting up and down stairs.

Arrange for a coach or taxi to collect you in advance, or you may find it difficult to get transport.

Make sure your insurance covers the following:

• any existing health condition
• your planned activities
• travel on ferry and cruise ships

Australian-flagged sailboats or yachts sailing in the Mediterranean may be subject to Greek and EU taxes and duties. Seek advice from the Hellenic Coast Guard or the nearest  embassy or consulate   of Greece before you travel. If you've been involved in a maritime accident, the Greek Coast Guard may request under its regulations to inspect your vessel to confirm it is seaworthy.

• Going on a cruise
• Travelling by boat

To find out about flight delays at Athens International Airport, check their  website  or phone (+30 210) 353 0000.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  Greece's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

For non-urgent criminal issues, contact local police at the nearest police station.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Tourist police

Are available 24/7 and can be contacted on 171.

The Tourist Police help with non-serious crimes and can provide police reports and certificates for theft of personal items and lost travel documents.

There are tourist police offices across Greece, including on major islands.

The main office is at 4 Dragatsaniou Street, Klafthmonos Square, in Central Athens and is open all year. Call (+30 210) 322 2230 or (+30 210) 322 2232.

Consular contacts

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular help, contact:

Australian Embassy, Athens

5 Hatziyianni Mexi Street

Athens 115 28, Greece

Phone: (+30 210) 870 4000

Website: greece.embassy.gov.au

Facebook: Australia in Greece

Twitter: @AusAmbAthens

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to Greece?

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Getting help

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Greece

Telephone: 112 (ambulance, fire, police)

Calling 999 from a UK mobile in Greece will automatically transfer you to the Greek emergency services.

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans , including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding English-speaking  lawyers ,  funeral directors  and  translators and interpreters  in Greece
• dealing with a  death in Greece
• being  arrested in Greece
• getting help if you’re a  victim of crime
• what to do if you’re  in hospital
• if you are affected by a crisis , such as a terrorist attack

Contacting FCDO

Follow and contact FCDO travel on X , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.

Help abroad in an emergency

If you are in Greece and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the British embassy Athens or one of our consulates .

You can also contact FCDO online .

FCDO in London

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

Find out about call charges

Risk information for British companies

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.

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The latest Foreign Office travel advice for Greece, Spain and Turkey tourists

The latest travel advice from the Foreign Office has been issued for anyone planning a trip to Turkey, Greece or Spain.

With the weather still gloomy and wet, many of us are dreaming of our summer holidays in search of some guaranteed sunshine.

However, as climate change continues to have an impact, extreme weather is affecting many of our favourite holiday spots.

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) provides travel advice for UK citizens travelling to all countries. They have lots of important information for people heading to Greece, Spain and Turkey to help them stay safe.

We've put together the information below. Remember, most trips to these countries go smoothly, but it's still worth knowing the current advice, reports Wales Online .

Known as the birthplace of democracy and home to some of the most beautiful islands in Europe, Greece is a top destination for Welsh visitors. Here are all the things you need to know before you go:.

If you're travelling to EU countries, remember that you can't bring meat, milk or products containing them. There are a few exceptions for medical reasons, like certain amounts of powdered infant milk, baby food, or pet food needed for health reasons.

You can check the rules about taking food and drink into the EU on the European Commission website.

In Greece, due to events in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, security has been increased at some popular places, including tourist sites. Always be aware of what's happening around you, stay away from protests and follow the advice of local authorities.

Strikes and protests happen regularly in Greece, sometimes with little warning. These can disrupt public transport (including flights and ports), roads and borders.

Try to avoid protests if you can and follow the advice of the local authorities. Some protests in the past have turned violent.

If you find yourself unexpectedly near a protest, move away to the last safe place you know. Security forces often use tear gas to break up protests, which can affect your breathing and vision.

Protests often happen around the main squares in central Athens, especially Syntagma Square. Right now, there's a higher chance of protests, mainly in central Athens, due to events in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories.

Strikes and protests can happen anytime across the country and might disrupt travel by road, air, or sea. They could also cause delays or changes at border crossings.

Protests can happen without much warning, and usually occur on 1 May, 17 November and 6 December.

Passports, wallets and handbags are often stolen on the metro and in busy tourist spots, particularly in central Athens. Don't keep all your valuables in one place, and remember to keep a photocopy or scanned copy of your passport somewhere safe.

Keep as safe as you would in the UK.

When driving on holiday, keep your valuables hidden and always lock your vehicle. Always park in a well-lit area or secure car park.

Be aware of car crime.

Sexual assaults and personal attacks can happen in Greece. This includes attacks on foreign visitors in tourist areas and cities.

The FCO recommend that all travellers follow this advice:.

If you see anything that doesn't feel right, report it straight away to local authorities or hospitality management.

Always carry a copy of your passport or other photo ID which proves you're British, as this is a legal requirement.

While most visitors have a trouble-free stay, there have been some race-related attacks, especially in city centres.

The Greek police won't tolerate rowdy or indecent behaviour, particularly if it involves too much alcohol. This could lead to arrests and the courts may impose hefty fines or jail terms for indecent behaviour.

Some fancy dress outfits might be seen as offensive and against decency laws. Remember, your travel insurance might not cover you if you've been drinking.

Smoking is banned in all indoor public places. If you break this law, you could be fined up to 500 euros.

Even having small amounts of illegal drugs can result in a long jail term.

Nitrous oxide is illegal to buy or sell for fun in Greece. If you're caught with it, you could be arrested or fined.

Same-sex relationships are legal in Greece and same-sex couples have been able to have civil unions since 2015. The age of consent in Greece is 15, for both same-sex and opposite-sex partners.

Transgender people can change their legal gender. Laws against discrimination and hate speech apply to gender identity.

However, public attitudes towards same-sex relationships can vary across the country.

People in Athens and many Greek islands, like Lesvos, Mykonos and Skiathos, are usually very friendly.

Remember, it's against the law to take photos or videos of military places, vehicles or buildings. If you do this, the Greek police might arrest you and you could go to court.

Some areas near the border are also sensitive. You can visit these places, but don't take any pictures or videos.

If you're thinking about driving in Greece, make sure to read up on driving abroad and check out the RAC guide.

Check that any car you hire is safe and that you have insurance. If you rent mopeds or quad bikes, the insurance from the rental company usually only covers damage to other vehicles.

If the rental vehicle gets damaged, you might have to pay for it. If you don't pay and the rental company decides to press charges, you could be arrested.

Traffic can be busy, fast and a bit crazy, especially in the big cities. Be careful when crossing roads.

People should use crossings to cross roads. Cars don't always stop, even though they should.

Sometimes, the green pedestrian signal lets cars turn right onto the crossing, so be careful when crossing.

If you drive after drinking too much alcohol, you could get a big fine or go to prison.

If you're off to Greece, watch out for floods and fires that are causing trouble in some places. The weather can change fast, so keep an eye on "112 Greece" on X (it used to be called Twitter) for the latest news.

Be super careful because starting a fire, even if you didn't mean to, is a big no-no in Greece. If you spot a fire, ring 112 right away.

Greece sometimes gets shakes and trembles from earthquakes. Make sure you know what to do just in case.

Turkey is a fab place for folks who love history and soaking up the sun. But before you jet off, there's stuff you need to know:

Terror attacks may happen in Turkey, so stay sharp.

Most of these scary things happen in southeast Turkey, Ankara, and Istanbul. Keep your eyes peeled, listen to what the local news says, and follow any advice from the people in charge.

These bad things could happen anywhere, even in spots where tourists like to go. There have been some scary events in Istanbul recently.

Extremist groups based in Syria, including Daesh and Al-Qaeda linked groups, have the ability to carry out attacks in nearby countries, including Turkey. Daesh has previously targeted border crossings and nearby locations on the Syrian side of the border.

Sometimes, there can be demonstrations in cities that may turn violent. Police have used tear gas and water cannon to break up protests.

Events in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories have led to increased tensions in the region and demonstrations are ongoing in places across Turkey. Large demonstrations have been reported outside diplomatic missions connected to the conflict in big cities, particularly Israeli diplomatic missions in Ankara and Istanbul.

Stay away from all demonstrations and leave the area if one starts. Local transport routes may be disrupted.

Street robbery and pick-pocketing are common in the major tourist areas of Istanbul. Be aware of your personal belongings and make sure they are always secure.

Buy your own drinks and always keep sight of them so they are not spiked. Be wary of strangers approaching you offering food and drink (which may be drugged), to change money, or to take you to a restaurant or nightclub.

In a few cases, fake alcohol has caused deaths of tourists. If you have any concerns, seek advice from your tour operator or the Turkish authorities.

In 2023, there were 42 reported cases of sexual assault, including rape, to British consular staff in Turkey. Most of these cases happened during summer holidays in coastal tourist areas.

Many assaults happened at night by someone the victim met during the day, including hotel workers. There have also been attacks on children visiting toilet facilities alone.

Be extra careful in these situations.

You must always carry some form of photo ID in Turkey. Always have your passport or residence permit with you.

In busy areas like Istanbul, authorities may stop people for ID checks. There are also several police checkpoints on main roads across Turkey.

Cooperate with officials conducting checks.

If you're visiting a mosque or a religious shrine, dress modestly to avoid causing offence.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences.

Turkey has strict laws against using, possessing and trafficking illegal drugs. You could get a fine or prison sentence of 4 to 24 years.

Most towns and cities have stray dogs. Packs gather in parks and wastelands and can be aggressive.

Be careful and do not approach stray dogs. If you're bitten, seek medical advice immediately.

Rabies and other animal borne diseases are present in Turkey.

Buying and selling old items is against the law. If you do this, you could be fined and go to prison for 5 to 12 years.

Some old things found at local markets and in antique shops can be sold within Turkey but are illegal to take out of the country. Make sure you know the rules before buying or taking such items out of the country.

Don't take photos near military or official buildings. Always ask people if you can take their photo first.

Being gay is legal in Turkey. However, in more rural areas, people may stare at public displays of affection.

It's against the law to say bad things about the Turkish nation, state or the national flag, or to ruin Turkish money. These laws also apply to comments or pictures online wherever they were posted.

If you break these laws in Turkey, you could go to prison for between 6 months and 3 years.

If you're planning to drive in Turkey, look up information on driving abroad. You must have a green card in Turkey.

Be careful when travelling by road, especially at night. Drive slowly towards checkpoints and follow what the security staff tell you to do.

Roads between big cities are usually in very good condition, but can be bad in remote, rural areas. Accidents happen often and are mostly because of bad or reckless driving.

Riding motorcycles and mopeds without a helmet is against the law. If you're caught, you could face a hefty fine.

Forest fires are common in Turkey during the summer. Be careful if you're visiting or driving through woodland areas.

Starting any kind of fire in prohibited areas can lead to fines or even jail time. This includes barbecues and throwing away cigarette butts in the woods.

If there's a forest fire near you, local authorities might ask you to leave your accommodation. Always follow their instructions.

If you spot a forest fire, dial 112 to reach emergency services.

Heavy rainstorms can cause flooding and landslides across Turkey. Roads might become blocked and bridges could be damaged, making travel difficult and disrupting essential services.

Earthquakes and tremors are frequent in many parts of Turkey. They can be quite strong, damaging buildings and posing a risk to people's safety.

In February 2023, a 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck Gaziantep and neighbouring provinces in south-east Turkey. The area is still heavily damaged and could experience more strong earthquakes.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises against all travel within 10km of the border with Syria.

The FCDO also advises against all but essential travel to the city of Sirnak and Hakkari province.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises against all but essential travel to Hakkari province in Turkey.

Spain is a favourite holiday destination for many people from the UK. Whether you're looking to party, relax or soak up some culture, Spain has something for everyone.

But there are a few things you should be aware of.

There's a risk that terrorists might try to carry out attacks in Spain.

These attacks could happen anywhere and might include places where tourists go. It's important to stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local news reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

Sometimes, political demonstrations, gatherings or marches can happen without much warning, especially in cities. Always follow the advice of the police and local authorities.

While most demonstrations are peaceful, there's always a chance that they could turn violent. If you find yourself near a demonstration, pay attention to what's happening around you and move away if it looks like things might get out of hand.

Most visits to Spain are trouble-free, but it's always a good idea to be alert to street crime. Thieves often use distraction techniques and sometimes work in groups.

Be careful with your passports, money and personal belongings, especially when you're collecting or checking in luggage at the airport, and when you're arranging car hire.

Try not to carry all your valuables in one place. It's also a good idea to keep a photocopy or scanned copy of your passport somewhere safe.

Make sure your holiday home is safe. Always lock all doors and windows when you go to bed or leave the house.

If you're worried about how safe your place is, have a chat with your travel company or the person who owns the property.

Watch out for 'highway pirates' who like to pick on cars from other countries and hire cars, especially if they're pulling caravans. They might try to make you stop by saying something's wrong with your car or that you've damaged theirs.

If you decide to stop to check your car, make sure it's in a well-lit public place like a service station. Be careful of anyone offering help.

When you're driving, be careful if someone pretending to be a police officer comes up to you. They might not be wearing a uniform and could be in a car without any police signs.

Real police officers will usually wear uniforms for anything to do with traffic. All police officers, even those not in uniform, will have an official ID.

Cars used by the police that don't have any police signs will have a flashing electronic sign on the back window that says Police ('Policia') or Civil Guard ('Guardia Civil'), and they might use blue flashing lights. Real police officers will only ask to see your documents and won't ask for your bag or wallet.

If there's an emergency, call 112. Attacks, including ones that are sexual, don't happen often but they can do.

Stay with your pals, don't leave your drinks alone and don't wander off with strangers. Save the location of your hotel on your phone's map so you can find it easily.

Check out TravelAware's 'Stick with your mates' for more tips.

Be careful about 'date rape' drugs like GHB and liquid ecstasy. Buy your own drinks and keep an eye on them to stop them from being spiked.

Booze and drugs can make you less alert and in control. If you're drinking, know your limit.

Drinks in Spanish bars are often stronger than those back home in the UK.

Some thieves pretend to be police officers and ask to see your wallet, saying they need it for ID. Real police officers will ask for ID, but they won't ask for your wallet or purse.

If a police officer asks you for photo ID, you have to show it. This includes the Guardia Civil and national, regional and local police.

The police can take you to the station until they've checked who you are.

If you ignore what a police officer tells you to do, it can be seen as 'disobedience', which is against the law.

Hotels, tourist places and car hire companies have to write down passport details of tourists when they check-in or pick up a car.

When you arrive at your hotel, make sure the staff have taken down your passport details or made a copy of it. Don't leave your passport at the reception to pick up later.

If you're buying something with a credit or debit card, you might need to show some ID. You could use your driving licence or a copy of your passport, but sometimes they might ask to see your actual passport.

In some parts of Spain, you're not allowed to drink alcohol in the street. If you do, you could get a fine straight away.

There are also strict rules about drinking and doing things like kissing in public places, including on beaches.

In the Balearic Islands, there are local laws that limit when and where you can buy and drink alcohol. This includes some holiday resorts on the islands of Mallorca, Magaluf (in Calvia), Playa de Palma, Ibiza, and San Antonio (or San Antoni de Portmany in Spanish).

These laws mean you can't have happy hours. Hotels and other places have to kick out any customers who act dangerously on balconies.

Both the customer and the place can be fined for this.

Even if you only have a small amount of illegal drugs, you could be arrested and kept in custody. If you have a lot of drugs, you'll probably be taken to court and could end up in prison.

In some parts of Spain, it's not allowed to walk around in just your swimming costume or with no shirt on. If you're caught wearing your swimsuit on the promenade or nearby streets, you might have to pay a fine.

For safety reasons, some places in Spain don't let people wear burkas or niqabs inside their buildings. If you go into a town council building wearing a burka or niqab, they might ask you to take it off while you're inside.

When you need to change money, always use official places like banks or money exchange offices. Unofficial money changers might give you fake money.

Having or using fake money is a very serious crime in Spain and you could be taken to court.

Spain is usually a friendly and forward-thinking place for LGBT+ visitors. There are active LGBT+ groups and places to go, especially in big cities.

People of the same sex have been able to get married in Spain since 2005. Since 2007, transgender people can choose their gender on official documents like birth certificates, ID cards and passports without having to have surgery first.

Spain doesn't recognise a third gender.

There have been lots of very serious accidents (some where people have died) because of falls from high places, like balconies. Many of these accidents have involved British people, and have had a terrible effect on them and their families.

Don't take unnecessary risks around balconies or other high places, especially if you've had a drink or taken drugs. If your room has a balcony, follow the safety advice and look out for friends who might be at risk.

In some areas, you could be fined or kicked out of your hotel if you're caught behaving irresponsibly around balconies. Your travel insurance might not cover you for incidents that happen on a balcony or if you were drunk or on drugs when the incident occurred.

Only use official registered or licensed taxis, or transport companies you know are reputable. Licensing rules vary across Spain and in some cities you need to pre-book.

Passengers found using unlicensed taxi services can be fined up to 600 Euros. Make sure you book your taxi or airport transfer with a licensed company.

In Spain, drivers use the right-hand side of the road. Driving rules and customs are different from those in the UK.

You must have two red warning triangles which, if you have an accident or breakdown, should be placed in front of and behind the vehicle. They should be at least 50 metres away from the vehicle in each direction.

You must have a spare wheel and the tools to change it. If you get out of your vehicle during an accident or breakdown, or while waiting for the emergency services, you must wear a reflective vest or you could be fined.

In Spain, drink driving laws are very strict. The police often stop drivers to check for alcohol and drugs.

If you break these rules, you could be fined, lose your licence or even go to jail.

The police can give you an on-the-spot fine if they catch you breaking the speed limit or other driving rules. If you pay the fine within 20 days, it will be cut by half.

Everyone in the car must wear a seat belt, whether they're in the front or back seats. Kids under 12 years old or shorter than 1.35m have to use a special child safety seat and sit in the back.

They can only sit in the front if the back seats are full of other kids or if there are no back seats. When you book your hire car, tell them if you need a child seat.

If you don't fit the child seat properly or don't wear a seat belt, you could get a big fine.

If you're riding a motorbike, moped or quad, you must wear a safety helmet and protective clothes. If you don't, you could get a fine.

You're not allowed to use your mobile phone while driving, even if you've pulled over. You have to be completely off the road.

It's also against the law to use an earpiece. You can only use hands-free kits.

Forest fires are common in Spain, including its islands, during the hot summer months when temperatures often soar above 40oC. If you're visiting or driving through woodland areas, be mindful of your surroundings.

You can check the Spanish Meteorological Office (AEMET) for information on forest fire risks.

Starting a forest fire, even by accident, is a serious crime in Spain. Make sure to properly put out cigarette ends, avoid lighting barbecues and don't leave empty bottles behind.

Not following rules against outdoor barbecues in forest areas can result in hefty fines. So, if you're thinking about having a barbecue, make sure you know the rules.

For advice on what to do if a forest fire occurs, visit the Civil Protection website (only available in Spanish). If you spot a fire, report it immediately to the emergency services by dialling 112.

Wildfires can escalate quickly, so it's important to stay informed with official advice.

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Greece Announces New Plan to Protect Some of Its Pristine Beaches

The government has pledged to crack down on rapid development, and on seaside businesses seeking to take advantage of a tourist boom. But some residents and conservationists are unimpressed.

By Niki Kitsantonis

Reporting from Athens

The Greek government on Friday published a list of 198 “untrodden beaches” that it said are now off limits to bars, restaurants and large public gatherings in its latest attempt to contain development and address the backlash to the throngs of tourists that descend on the country’s coastlines each year.

The move comes amid growing frustration among residents of Greek islands and parts of the coastal mainland that are popular with foreign visitors. Protests ballooned into a nationwide “beach towel movement” last summer as disgruntled locals complained that they were being pushed off their own beaches by businesses seeking to take advantage of a tourist boom that brought more than 32 million foreign visitors to Greece last year .

On the country’s Cycladic islands, local residents joined forces with the authorities to push back against a wave of construction .

Greece’s conservative government has pledged to crack down on the development, and on seaside businesses that violate regulations. In February it passed a law aimed at regulating the use of the country’s coastline, imposing penalties of up to 60,000 euros for businesses occupying more than 50 percent of Greek beaches with umbrellas and sun beds.

Critics said the law did not go far enough to curb the problem, with some claiming that the government was perpetuating the issue by not tackling illegal land use more comprehensively.

The list of “untrodden beaches,” unveiled in a joint agreement between Greece’s finance and environment ministers, is part of a broader effort to restore balance, the government said. “The main goal is to combine environmental protection with sustainable development,” Kostis Hatzidakis, the economy and finance minister, said on Friday.

“The environment is a valuable component of the Greek tourist product,” he said.

Under the new initiative, the government was putting public assets “under a strict framework of rules, penalties and obligations,” Mr. Hatzidakis said. Inspections and transparency would be increased, as would “the enforcement of the law,” he added.

The beaches on the list are in areas included in the European Union’s Natura program, a network of vulnerable habitats across Europe that are protected under European law. Among the beaches listed on Friday are spots on popular islands such as Milos, Naxos, Lesbos, Samothrace and in the southern Peloponnese peninsula.

The islands were selected based on the advice of the country’s Natural Environment and Climate Change Agency and are all “areas of high ecological importance,” Theodoros Skylakakis, the environment and energy minister, said on Friday.

Under the new initiative, no section of those beaches can be auctioned off for commercial use, and the presence of sun-loungers and umbrellas will be prohibited, as will the organization of public events involving more than 10 people.

Another initiative being introduced by the government is a new app called “MyCoast,” on which people can report violations.

Some environmentalists in Greece were not impressed by Friday’s announcement. Eleni Andrianopoulou, a resident of Naxos and a member of a local “Save the beaches” group, said the government’s original plan had been for more than 1,000 beaches nationwide to be covered, adding that Natura areas require “real protection.”

“From the beginning we had stressed that this reform for untrodden beaches was a fraud.”

Demetre Karavellas, director of the World Wildlife Fund Greece, said the authorities were jumping the gun with their list of pristine beaches, noting that there are more than 100 marine and coastal areas in Greece that are recognized by the Natura program but have yet to be effectively managed or conserved.

“The government should start by complying with its basic legal obligations before creating new vague categories of protection,” he said.

Niki Kitsantonis is a freelance correspondent for The Times based in Athens. She has been writing about Greece for 20 years, including more than a decade of coverage for The Times. More about Niki Kitsantonis

Canary Islands, Greece and Turkey latest travel advice from Foreign Office as protests hit

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has plenty of important information to people travelling to Greece, Spain and Turkey to help them keep themselves safe

• 10:28, 25 APR 2024
• Updated 14:05, 25 APR 2024

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With the seemingly never-ending wet weather the desire to go abroad and get some sun is stronger than ever. But while there are some great destinations out there a quick flight away from Wales as the UK man-made climate change continues to bite, the extreme weather is also affecting many of our holiday mainstays.

The countries that we like to holiday in to escape our problems often have problems of their own. The popular Canary Islands were recently beset with protests where tens of thousands of campaigners took to the streets of Tenerife, calling for a temporary limit to the number of tourists visiting the Spanish island.

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) advises UK citizens on travel to all countries and has plenty of important information to people travelling to Greece, Spain and Turkey to help them keep themselves and their families safe. We have put together the information below. It is important to bear in mind that the vast majority of trips to these countries are issue-free but it is still worth familiarising yourself with current advice.

Read more: Supermarket recalls butter that is 'not safe to eat'

Read more: New Canary Islands possible rules for Brits after 'overtourism' protests and anti-visitor graffiti

Canary Islands

The protests on the Canary Islands have been making headlines in recent weeks.

The phrase CanariasTieneUneLimit - translated to the Canary islands have a limit - was widely seen on protestors' placards and other signs. Clips of thousands of protestors chanting "si vivimos del turismo por qué no somos ricos?” (if we are living from tourism then why are we not rich?) were also shared on social media platforms.

Tenerife is one of the most popular destinations in Spain for tourists - more than 5.8million foreign and domestic visitors flocked to the island in 2022. Overall, the Canary Islands, which has a population of about 2.2 million, welcomed more than 12 million visitors in 2022.

According to research by the Spanish financial services company CaixaBank, the Canary Islands is highly dependent on the tourism industry. In 2023 foreign tourists spent more than £17.4 billion in the region, which accounted for about 19 per cent of their total spending throughout Spain and contributed some 25 per cent to the Canary Islands' GDP.

As the islands are owned by Spain the FCO hasn't issued specific advice for them. However you can see the full Spainish advice that applies to them below.

Terrorism in Spain

Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Spain.

Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

Recent terrorist attacks in Spain include:

• in January 2023, one person was killed and others injured in a machete attack at 2 churches in Cadiz
• in 2017, 14 people were killed and over 100 injured across 2 incidents where vehicles were driven into pedestrians in Barcelona and Cambrils

Political situation

• Demonstrations, political gatherings or marches can take place with little or no warning, particularly in cities. Follow the advice of police and local authorities.
• While most demonstrations are peaceful, there is a risk of unrest or violence. If you’re in and around areas where demonstrations are taking place, be aware of what is happening around you and move away if there are signs of disorder.

Protecting your belongings

Most visits to Spain are trouble-free, but be alert to street crime. Thieves use distraction techniques, and often work in teams. Take care of your passports, money and personal belongings, particularly when collecting or checking in luggage at the airport, and while arranging car hire.

Do not carry all your valuables in one place. Keep a photocopy or scanned copy of your passport somewhere safe.

Make sure your accommodation has adequate security. Lock all doors and windows at night, or when out. If concerned about the security of your accommodation, speak to your travel operator or the property owner.

Vehicle crime

‘Highway pirates’ target foreign-registered and hire cars, especially those towing caravans. They may (forcefully) try to make you stop, claiming there is something wrong with your car or that you have damaged theirs. If you decide to stop to check the condition of a vehicle, stop in a public area with lights, such as a service station. Be wary of anyone offering help.

When driving, be wary of approaches by people posing as police officers in plain clothes travelling in unmarked cars. In all traffic-related matters, police officers will usually be in uniform. All police officers, including those in plain clothes, carry official ID. Unmarked police vehicles have a flashing electronic sign on the rear window which reads Police (‘Policía’) or Civil Guard (‘Guardia Civil’), and may use blue flashing lights. Genuine police officers will only ask you to show them your documents and will not ask for your bag or wallet.

Attacks and sexual assault

Attacks, including sexual assaults, are rare but do occur. See Get help if you are a victim of crime abroad.

Avoid splitting up from your friends, do not leave drinks unattended and do not go off with people you do not know. Save the location of your accommodation on your maps app, so it’s easy to find. See TravelAware ‘Stick with your mates’ for tips and advice.

Drink and food spiking

Be alert to the possible use of ‘date rape’ and other drugs including GHB and liquid ecstasy.

Buy your own drinks and always keep them in sight to avoid them being spiked. Alcohol and drugs can reduce your vigilance, making you less in control. If you drink, know your limit. Drinks served in bars in Spain are often stronger than those in the UK.

Thieves posing as police officers may ask to see your wallet, claiming they need to see it for identification. Genuine police officers will ask to see ID, but will not ask for wallets or purses.

Personal ID

You must provide photo ID if requested by a police officer. This includes the Guardia Civil and national, regional and local police forces. The police have the right to hold you at a police station until they have confirmed your identity. Ignoring direct requests of a police officer can be considered as ‘disobedience’, which is a criminal offence.

Hotels, tourist accommodation and car rental companies have a legal duty to register passport details of tourists when they check-in or collect a vehicle.

When checking-in to your accommodation, wait until hotel staff have registered your passport details, or taken a photocopy of your passport. Do not leave your passport at reception to collect later.

You may need to show ID when buying goods with credit or debit cards. Your driving licence or a photocopy of your passport may be accepted, but they may need you to show your original passport.

Alcohol laws and bans

You cannot drink alcohol in the street in some areas of Spain. You can be given an on-the-spot fine. There are strict controls on drinking and sexual activity in public places, including on beaches.

Alcohol laws in the Balearic Islands

Local laws limit the sale and availability of alcohol in areas of some resorts on the islands of:

• Magaluf (Calvià)
• Playa de Palma
• San Antonio (San Antoni de Portmany)

This prohibits:

• happy hours
• open bars (such as all you can drink in 1-hour offers)
• the sale of alcohol from vending machines
• self-service alcohol dispensers
• the organising of pub-crawls and party boat trips
• ‘off-licence’ sales between 9:30pm and 8am

Hotels and other establishments are obliged to evict customers who behave dangerously on balconies. Both the customer and the establishment can be fined for such behaviour.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

Possession of even a small quantity of drugs can lead to arrest and detention. Possession of large quantities will usually result in prosecution and a prison sentence.

Illegal commercial parties in villas and private homes

There have been a number of serious accidents involving people attending illegal commercially promoted parties in villas and private homes on the islands of Ibiza and Mallorca.

In some parts of Spain it’s against the law to be in the street wearing only a bikini or swimming shorts. Being bare-chested is also illegal in some areas in Spain. You may be fined if you’re caught wearing swimwear on the seafront promenade or adjacent streets.

For security reasons, some public authorities in Spain do not allow the burka or niqab to be worn in their buildings. If you visit town council buildings wearing a burka or niqab, you may be asked to remove it while inside.

Spain is a generally tolerant and progressive place for LGBT+ travellers. There are active LGBT+ communities and social venues, particularly in big cities. Same-sex marriage has been legal in Spain since 2005. Since 2007, transgender people are able to register under their preferred sex in public documents such as birth certificates, identity cards and passports without undergoing prior gender reassignment surgery. Spain does not recognise a third gender.

Falls from height

There have been a number of very serious accidents (some fatal) as a result of falls from height, including balconies. Many accidents have involved British nationals, and have had a devastating impact on those involved and their loved ones.

Do not take unnecessary risks around balconies or other high places, particularly if you’re under the influence of drink or drugs. If you are staying in a room with a balcony, follow the safety advice and watch out for friends who may be at risk.

In some regions you may be fined or evicted from your hotel if you are found to be behaving irresponsibly around balconies. Your travel insurance may not cover you for incidents that take place on a balcony or if you were under the influence of drink or drugs when the incident happened.

Only use official registered or licensed taxis, or reputable transport companies you recognise. Licensing regulations differ across Spain and in certain cities pre-booking is required.

Passengers caught using unlicensed taxi services are liable for fines of up to 600 Euros. Make sure you book your taxi or airport transfer through a licensed firm.

Road travel

In 2021 there were 1,508 road deaths in Spain (source: Department for Transport). This equates to 32 road deaths per million population and compares to the UK average of 24 road deaths per million population in 2021.

Licences and permits

To drive a car or a motorcycle over 125cc in Spain you must be 18 years of age or above, and at least 16 years old to ride a motorcycle up to 125cc. You must carry a valid driving licence and ID at all times.

If visiting Spain, you can drive on your full UK driving licence. Provisional licences are not valid for driving in Spain.

If you are using UK insurance, always carry your certificate with you in case you are stopped. Check that your UK insurance will cover you to drive in Spain, and for how long. This certificate is generally only valid for a stay of less than 3 months.

Driving a British car abroad

You may need a UK sticker to drive your car outside the UK. In 2021 UK stickers replaced GB stickers. Check the GOV.UK Displaying number plates website for more information on what to do if you are driving outside the UK.

Driving regulations

Motorists drive on the right-hand side of the road in Spain. Driving rules and customs are different from those in the UK.

You must carry 2 red warning triangles which, in the event of an accident or breakdown should be placed in front of and behind the vehicle. They should be at least 50 metres away from the vehicle in each direction. You must have a spare wheel and the tools to change it. If you get out of your vehicle during an accident or breakdown, or while waiting for the arrival of the emergency services, you must wear a reflective vest or you may face a fine.

Spain has strict drink driving laws. Police regularly carry out roadside checks for alcohol and drugs. Penalties include fines, loss of licence and imprisonment.

You can be given an on-the-spot fines from the police for a variety of driving offences including speeding. If you accept the fine and pay within 20 days, it will be reduced by 50%. More information on how to pay is available on the Spanish driving agency website.

It is illegal to use a mobile phone when driving, even if you have pulled over to the side of the road. You must be completely away from the road. Using an earpiece is also illegal. Only completely hands-free units are allowed to be used.

Low emission zones

Some inner city areas in Spain have introduced permanent low emission zones (‘Zonas de bajas emisiones’ – ZBE) where only vehicles that meet specific exhaust emission standards and display an air pollution sticker can enter. While air pollution stickers cannot be issued to vehicles with foreign registration plates, some cities do require you to register your vehicle in advance of travel if you wish to enter a low emission zone (e.g. Barcelona). You should check with local authorities in advance of travel for information on local regulations and the requirements for vehicles registered outside of Spain.

Extreme temperatures

Extreme temperatures can affect many areas of Spain over the summer months. For severe weather warnings and updates, visit the Spanish Meteorological Office (AEMET) and European Meteorological Services website.

The birthplace of democracy and boasting some of the most beautiful islands in Europe, Greece is one of the top destinations for Welsh visitors. These are all the issues you need to be aware of before you travel:

Terrorism in Greece

Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Greece. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by foreigners.

There have been several attacks involving explosives and automatic weapons against Greek institutions, shopping malls, banks, media offices, diplomatic premises and the police. British nationals aren’t normally considered a specific target, but attacks could happen in places visited by foreigners.

Political demonstrations

Greek authorities have increased security at some prominent locations, including tourist sites, due to events in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories. Stay aware of your surroundings, stay away from demonstrations and follow the advice of local authorities.

Strikes and demonstrations

There are regular strikes, sometimes called at short notice that can cause disruption to public transport (including air travel and ports), as well as road networks and borders. Political demonstrations can also occur frequently.

Avoid demonstrations wherever possible and follow the advice of the local authorities. Some demonstrations in the past have turned violent. If you do find yourself unexpectedly near a demonstration, move away to the last known safe place. Security forces often use tear gas to break up demonstrations, which can harm your breathing and vision.

Demonstrations take place regularly around major squares in central Athens, in particular Syntagma Square. There is currently a heightened risk of demonstrations, particularly in central Athens, related to events in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories. Nationwide strikes and protests can occur at any time and may disrupt road, air, sea travel and cause delays or diversions at border crossings.

Demonstrations may happen at short notice, and have traditionally happened on 1 May, 17 November and 6 December.

Theft of passports, wallets and handbags are common on the metro and in crowded tourist places, particularly in central Athens. Don’t carry all your valuables in one place, and remember to keep a photocopy or scanned copy of your passport somewhere safe. Maintain the same level of personal security awareness as in the UK.

When driving on holiday, keep your valuables out of sight and lock your vehicle at all times. Always park in a well-lit area or secure car park. Be alert to car crime.

Sexual assault

Sexual assaults and personal attacks may occur in Greece. This includes attacks on foreign visitors in tourist areas and cities.

The FCO recommends that all travellers follow this advice:

• save the location of your accommodation on your maps app, so it’s easier to find at the end of the night
• set up a WhatsApp group to keep in touch with others in your group
• keep an eye on each other’s drinks to make sure they don’t get spiked
• don’t let a friend walk back to their hotel alone
• don’t give a drunk person more alcohol

You should immediately report anything you see that doesn’t feel right to local authorities or hospitality management.

Carry a copy of your passport or other photographic ID which confirms British nationality at all times, this is a legal requirement.

The majority of visitors experience no difficulties related to race, but there have been some racially motivated attacks, particularly in inner-city areas.

Public offences

The Greek police won’t accept behaviour they find rowdy or indecent, especially where excessive drinking is involved, this behaviour may be illegal. The police will make arrests and the courts are likely to give heavy fines or prison sentences if you behave indecently.

Some fancy dress costumes may be regarded as offensive and therefore against decency laws. Your travel insurance may not cover you after drinking.

Possession of even small quantities of illegal drugs can lead to a long prison sentence. Alcohol, drugs and use of nitrous oxide can make you less alert, less in control and less aware of your environment.

Nitrous oxide is illegal to buy or sell for recreational use in Greece. You can be arrested or fined if found in possession.

Public transport

It’s sometimes necessary to time stamp or validate your ticket on public transport for it to be valid. Check with local providers.

LGBT+ travellers

Same-sex sexual relations are legal in Greece and civil unions between same-sex couples have been legal since 2015 and same sex marriage was legalised in February 2024. The age of consent in Greece is 15, this applies to partners of both the same sex and opposite sex. Transgender people are able to change their legal gender. Anti-discrimination and hate speech laws apply to gender identity.

Public attitudes towards same-sex sexual activity vary throughout the country; showing affection in public by same-sex couples may be frowned upon, especially in rural areas.

Attitudes are generally much more welcoming in Athens and on many Greek islands, particularly on Lesvos, Mykonos and Skiathos.

Using cameras or approaching sensitive locations

It is illegal to approach or take photos or videos of military installations, vehicles or buildings at any time. The Greek authorities will arrest and possibly prosecute anyone doing so. Certain border areas are also militarily sensitive. Although you can visit these areas, you should avoid taking photos or video footage.

If you are planning to drive in Greece, see information on driving abroad and read the RAC guide.

Make sure any vehicle you hire is in good condition and check that you’re insured. When renting mopeds or quad bikes, insurance sold by the hire company usually only provides third party insurance, which only covers the cost of damage to another vehicle. Any damage sustained to the rental vehicle in many cases may need to be paid for by you, or you may face arrest if you do not pay and the hire company decide to press charges.

Traffic can be busy, fast and chaotic, especially in the larger cities. Take care when crossing roads. Pedestrians should cross roads using a crossing. Drivers don’t always stop, even though they are required to. The green pedestrian crossing signal sometimes also allows cars to turn right onto the crossing, so cross with caution.

Adverse weather conditions, including floods, are affecting some regions. The situation can change quickly. Follow “112 Greece” on X (formerly known as Twitter ) for official updates

Forest fires

There are active wildfires across Greece, including in populated areas on the mainland and a number of islands.

Wildfires are highly dangerous and unpredictable. The situation can change quickly. Follow “112 Greece” on X (formerly known as Twitter) for official updates.

You should:

• take care when visiting or driving through woodland areas
• make sure cigarette ends are properly extinguished
• not light barbecues

Causing a forest fire is treated as a criminal offence in Greece even if unintentional. If you see a forest fire, call the emergency services on 112.

Earthquakes

Greece can experience earthquakes and earth tremors. You should:

• familiarise yourself with safety procedures in the event of an earthquake
• follow advice given by the local authorities
• call the Greek Emergency Services on 112 if you are in immediate danger

A must for history buffs and sun worshippers alike, Turkey is a popular destination. These are all the things you should be aware of before you travel:

Terrorism in Turkey

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Turkey. Most terrorist attacks have occurred in southeast Turkey, Ankara and Istanbul. You should remain aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

Attacks could be indiscriminate including in places visited by foreigners, such as:

• public buildings
• places of worship
• large public gatherings (including major events, public holidays, religious occasions)

There have been a number of recent significant attacks in Istanbul:

• In February 2024, one person was killed in an armed attack on the Çağlayan courthouse by the terrorist group DHKP/C
• In January 2024, one person was killed by two gunmen in the Santa Maria Catholic Church in Sariyer, in an attack claimed by Daesh
• In 2022, six people were killed in an explosion in central Istanbul.

Extremist groups based in Syria, including Daesh and Al-Qaeda linked groups, have the capacity to carry out attacks in neighbouring countries, including Turkey. Daesh has previously targeted border crossings and nearby locations on the Syrian side of the border.

Occasional demonstrations can occur in cities and may become violent. Police have used tear gas and water cannon to disperse protests.

Events in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories have led to heightened tensions in the region and demonstrations are ongoing in locations across Turkey. Large demonstrations have been reported outside diplomatic missions connected to the conflict in major cities, particularly Israeli diplomatic missions in Ankara and Istanbul.

Avoid all demonstrations and leave the area if one develops. Local transport routes may be disrupted.

Street robbery and pickpocketing

Street robbery and pick-pocketing are common in the major tourist areas of Istanbul. Be aware of your personal belongings and make sure they are always secure.

Buy your own drinks and always keep sight of them so they are not spiked. Be wary of strangers approaching you offering food and drink (which may be drugged), to change money, or to take you to a restaurant or nightclub.

Counterfeit alcohol

In a small number of cases, counterfeit alcohol has caused deaths of tourists. If you have any concerns, seek advice from your tour operator or the Turkish authorities.

In 2023, 42 cases of sexual assault, including rape, were reported to British consular staff in Turkey. Most sexual assault cases reported to British consular staff in Turkey have happened during summer holidays in coastal tourist areas. Many were committed at night by someone the victim met during the day, including hotel workers. There have also been sexual attacks on minors visiting toilet facilities alone. Be extra vigilant in these situations.

Vehicle safety

Accepting lifts from strangers can be dangerous. Find a registered taxi and note the registration number before entering.

It is illegal not to carry some form of photographic ID in Turkey. Always carry your passport or residence permit. In some busy areas, especially Istanbul, the authorities may stop people for ID checks. There are also several police checkpoints on main roads across Turkey. Cooperate with officials conducting checks.

Dress visiting mosques

Dress modestly if you’re visiting a mosque or a religious shrine to avoid causing offence.

Personal injury claims

There are reports of tourists being encouraged to submit a claim for personal injury if they have experienced gastric illness in Turkey. Find out what you can do if you have suffered a personal injury on the Citizens Advice website. Only make a claim if you have genuinely suffered from injury or illness. If you make a false or fraudulent claim, you may face legal proceedings in the UK or Turkey.

Smoking bans

Smoking is illegal on public transport and in all indoor workplaces and public places. Smoking is restricted in some outdoor areas where cultural, artistic, sports or entertainment activities are held.

Turkey has strict laws against the use, possession and trafficking of illegal drugs. You may receive a fine or prison sentence of 4 to 24 years.

Most towns and cities have stray dogs. Packs congregate in parks and wastelands and can be aggressive. Take care and do not approach stray dogs. If you’re bitten, get medical advice immediately. Rabies and other animal borne diseases are present in Turkey.

Sale of antiquities

The possession, sale and export of antiquities is illegal. You could be fined and receive a prison sentence of 5 to 12 years. Some historical items found at local markets and in antique shops can be sold within Turkey but are illegal to export. Confirm the legal requirements before purchasing or exporting such items.

Using cameras

Do not take photographs near military or official installations. Ask for permission before photographing people.

Homosexuality is legal in Turkey. However, many parts of Turkey are socially conservative and showing affection in public could result in unwelcome attention. Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Comments about the nation and flag

It is illegal to insult the Turkish nation, state or the national flag, or to deface Turkish currency. These laws can also apply to comments or images online wherever they were uploaded. Offences under these laws carry a penalty in Turkey of a prison sentence of between 6 months and 3 years.

If you are planning to drive in Turkey, see information on driving abroad. You must carry a green card in Turkey.

Take care when travelling by road, particularly at night. Approach checkpoints slowly and follow the instructions of security personnel. Roads between major cities are generally in excellent condition, but can be poor in remote, rural areas. Accidents are common and mainly due to poor or reckless driving.

It is illegal not to wear a helmet on motorcycles and mopeds. You may get a large fine if you do not wear a helmet.

Do not drink and drive. The police fine drunk drivers and your licence could be confiscated for 6 months.

Forest fires happen frequently in Turkey during summer. Take care when visiting or driving through woodland areas.

You could get a fine or prison sentence for lighting a fire of any kind in forbidden areas. This includes barbeques and discarding cigarette butts in the woods.

If there is a forest fire in your area, local authorities may tell you to leave your accommodation. Follow the directions of local authorities. If you see a forest fire, call emergency services on 112.

Severe rainstorms can cause flooding and landslides across Turkey. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged, making it difficult to travel and reducing essential services.

If you’re in an affected area:

• monitor local media
• follow instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders

Many parts of Turkey regularly experience earthquakes and tremors. These can be a high magnitude, cause damage to infrastructure, and pose a risk to life.

A 7.8 magnitude earthquake hit Gaziantep and neighbouring provinces in the south-east of Turkey in February 2023. Strong earthquakes may continue to affect the region and it remains heavily damaged.

Areas where FCDO advises against travel

Border with Syria

FCDO advises against all travel within 10km of the border with Syria.

Sirnak (city)

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Sirnak (city).

Hakkari province

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Hakkari province.

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