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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 Mar 1, 2022 and updated Mar 6, 2024.

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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

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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

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Traveling Safely in Greece

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Visit the Temples of the Greek Gods and Goddesses

Santorini Map and Travel Guide

The Towns of Santorini: The Complete Guide

The Top 8 Greek Cities to Visit

How to Travel from Athens to Santorini by Ferry and Plane

Cyclades Islands Map and Travel Guide

• 3 Other destinations
• 4.1.1 First civilisations
• 4.1.2 Dark Ages
• 4.1.3 Classical Greece
• 4.1.4 Hellenistic and Roman eras
• 4.1.5 Arrival of Christianity and rise of Byzantine Empire
• 4.1.6 Medieval Greece
• 4.1.7 Ottoman rule
• 4.1.8 Enlightenment and revolution
• 4.1.9 19th to mid-20th century
• 4.1.10 Modern Greece
• 4.2 Climate
• 4.3 Holidays and festivals
• 4.4 Visitor information
• 6.1 Entry requirements
• 6.2 By plane
• 6.3 By train
• 6.6 By boat
• 7.2 By train
• 7.4 By rental car
• 7.5 By boat
• 7.6 By plane
• 7.7 By e-hailing
• 7.8 By taxi
• 7.9 By boat
• 8.1 Cultural heritage
• 8.2 Islands
• 8.3 Seaside resorts
• 10.1.1 ATMs
• 10.1.2 Cards
• 10.1.3 Money exchange
• 10.2.1 Arts and crafts
• 10.2.2 Bargaining
• 10.2.3 Business hours
• 10.2.4 Costs
• 10.2.5 Kiosks
• 10.2.6 Markets
• 10.2.7 Tipping
• 10.2.9 In general
• 11.1 Vegan and vegetarian
• 11.2 Popular local dishes
• 11.3 Cover fee
• 11.4 Fast food
• 12.4 Liquor
• 12.5 Coffee
• 12.6 Iced tea
• 14.1 Modern Greek courses
• 16.1 Crime and theft
• 16.3 Photography restrictions
• 16.4 Antiquities
• 16.6 Traffic
• 18.1 Health care
• 18.2 Sexually transmitted infections
• 18.3 Natural dangers
• 19.1 Social etiquette and breaches
• 19.2.1 National issues
• 19.3 Religion
• 19.4 Obscene gestures
• 19.5 Smoking
• 20.1.1 Mobile internet
• 20.1.2 Calling
• 20.2 Internet

Greece ( Greek : Ελλάς , Hellas or Ελλάδα , Ellada ) is a country with a captivating history and culture that has influenced the world for thousands of years.

Ancient Greece , home to one of Europe's first urban civilizations, was the origin of Western culture. Travelers from all over the world visit Greece to view its rich cultural past and magnificent natural settings, which include majestic mountains and beaches.

Greece offers everything, whether you're a history buff, a sun seeker, or just searching for an amazing trip.

Regions [ edit ]

Greece is both a mountainous and coastal country, with countless islands spread over the Ionian and Aegean seas.

Cities [ edit ]

Major cities include:

• 37.983972 23.727806 1 Athens (Αθήνα, Athína ) — the capital and largest city, known for the Parthenon
• 35.516667 24.016667 2 Chania (Χανιά) — surrounded by beaches and the Samaria National Park
• 35.316667 25.39 3 Chersonissos (Χερσόνησος) — party capital of Crete in the summer
• 35.333333 25.133333 4 Heraklion (Ηράκλειο, Irákleio ) — Crete's largest city and main hub with the archaeological site of Knossos
• 40.941 24.403 5 Kavala (Καβάλα) — romantic port city in East Macedonia with many sights and ferry port to the North Aegean Islands.
• 38.25 21.733333 6 Patras (Πάτρα) — third largest city in Greece, known for its wine production
• 36.433333 28.216667 7 Rhodes (Ρόδος, Ródos ) — impressive medieval structures, nightlife and beaches
• 40.65 22.9 8 Thessaloniki (Θεσσαλονίκη) — second largest city, the main city in the central Macedonia region
• 39.366667 22.933333 9 Volos (Βόλος) — coastal port with nice museums and architecture

Other destinations [ edit ]

• 35.309722 24.893333 1 Crete (Κρήτη) — the largest island in Greece
• 39.583333 19.866667 2 Corfu (Κέρκυρα, Kérkyra ) — large island with many attractions
• 38.4823 22.5013 3 Delphi (Δελφοί) — site of the famous oracle of Apollo, major archaeological site
• 39.714167 21.631111 4 Meteora (Μετέωρα) — hilltop monasteries
• 40.157222 24.326389 5 Mount Athos (Άθως, Áthos ) — semi-independent republic, home to many Orthodox monasteries (access restricted)
• 37.45 25.35 6 Mykonos (Μύκονος) — world famous, sophisticated holidays
• 37.638 21.63 7 Olympia (Ὀλυμπία) — sanctuary dedicated to Zeus, site of the ancient Olympics
• 36.166667 28 8 Rhodes (Ρόδος, Ródos ) — island with ancient monuments, as well as beaches
• 36.416667 25.433333 9 Santorini (Σαντορίνη or Θήρα, Thira ) — a volcanic island known for its beautiful views, towns and sunsets

See also the UNESCO World Heritage sites in Greece

Understand [ edit ]

Visitors are drawn to the country's beaches and reliable sunny summer weather, its nightlife, historical sites and natural beauty. In 2018, Greece received 33 million visitors, more than three visitors for each of the country's residents.

The majority of visitors come to Greece from other European countries, although tourists from other world regions have been increasing in number. The vast majority of visitors visit from April through to October. Peak season is between May and September when approximately 75% of all tourists arrive. Most of the tourists and tourism industry are concentrated in Crete , the Dodecanese , Cyclades , and Western Greek Islands , and to a lesser extent the Peloponnese and the Halkidiki peninsula in Macedonia . There are still many rewarding areas in the country free of large-scale tourism.

Many first-time visitors arrive in Greece with specific images in mind and are surprised to discover a country with such regional and architectural diversity. The famous whitewashed homes and charming blue-domed churches only characterise a specific region of the country (the Cyclades Islands). Architecture varies greatly from one region to the next depending on the local history. Visitors will find Neoclassical architecture in the cities of Ermoupolis and Nafplion , Ottoman-influenced buildings in Grevená and Kozáni, whitewashed Cycladic homes on the island of Paros , and pastel-coloured baroque homes and churches on Corfu . The nation's terrain is just as varied as its architectural heritage: idyllic beaches, towering mountain ranges, wine-producing valleys, vast stretches of olive orchards in the south, and lush forests in the north. Greece's historical sights are just as varied; the country is littered with just as many medieval churches and castles as classical ruins and temples.

It borders Albania , North Macedonia , Bulgaria , and Turkey .

History [ edit ]

Greece boasts a very long history, with the Greek language being spoken in the country and throughout the Mediterranean region for nearly 4000 years.

First civilisations [ edit ]

The country's first inhabitants are now referred to as the Pelasgians. Little is known about them, but it is believed that they were a primitive people. The first advanced civilisations in Greece are known as the Cycladic in the Cyclades Islands , and the Minoan in Crete and Santorini . The Minoans had a written language which remains undecipherable to archaeologists, which is one of the most interesting and profound historical mysteries.

Dark Ages [ edit ]

Greek-speaking Indo-European peoples arrived in the country from somewhere to the north, around 1700 BC, and slowly invaded the entire country from the north all the way to Crete , as well as the west coast of Asia Minor (now Turkey ), absorbing the native peoples. Their arrival may have been responsible for ending the Cycladic and Minoan civilisations and brought the country into what is now referred to as the Dark Age of ancient Greece; although it is now understood among historians that civilisation in Greece remained sophisticated and advanced during this time. The first Greek-speaking civilisation, Mycenean, was centred in the Peloponnese region. As they do today, many ancient Greeks made a living from the sea. They were accomplished fishers, sailors and traders and the sea has profoundly shaped Greek culture.

Classical Greece [ edit ]

The rise of the Greek city-states occurred in the period 1200 to 800 BC and heralded the Golden Age of Greece, which lasted many centuries and spurred several scientific, architectural, political, economic, artistic, and literary achievements. Athens , Sparta , Corinth , and Thebes were the most prominent of the city-states (with Athens being the most prestigious), but there were several other advanced city-states and colonies that had developed across the Aegean basin. Greek settlements were also established in southern Italy and other coastal areas of the Mediterranean colonised by Greeks. The legacy of Greek Civilisation from this time period made a major impact on the world and continues to influence us to this day with the development of democracy, philosophy and theatre.

Hellenistic and Roman eras [ edit ]

The epicentre of Greek Civilisation shifted, during the 4th century BC, from southern Greece to northern Greece. The northern Macedonian kingdom, under Alexander the Great , conquered all of Greece, and proceeded eastward, conquering all the way to South Asia with the intent of expanding the Greek empire. The empire broke up after Alexander's death, and Greece was eventually annexed by the growing Roman Empire . Although weakened politically, Greek culture continued to flourish under Roman rule and indeed heavily influenced Roman culture.

Arrival of Christianity and rise of Byzantine Empire [ edit ]

Christianity arrived in Greece with the preachings of St. Paul during the 1st century AD, and eventually spread throughout Greece and the Roman Empire. In the 4th century, Roman Emperor Constantine the Great legalised Christian worship and declared it the state religion of the empire. He moved the capital of the empire from Rome to Byzantium (present-day Istanbul), which he renamed Constantinople. Internal divisions eventually divided the Roman Empire into a western half (the West Roman Empire) and an eastern half (East Roman Empire.) The West was eventually invaded and sacked by invaders from northern Europe, while the East survived for another millennium as the Byzantine Empire with Constantinople as its capital.

Medieval Greece [ edit ]

Greece's medieval history is dominated by the Byzantine Empire which revolved around Christianity, Greek Language and Roman law. It was a powerful force in the Mediterranean basin for centuries, engaging in trade, politics, and the spread of Christianity. The empire collaborated with Rome during the Crusades against the Muslims. However, during the 13th century, the Crusaders turned on the Byzantine Empire itself and sacked Constantinople. With a weakened Byzantine Empire, Frankish and Latin invaders arrived and occupied various parts of Greece. Over the following centuries, the Byzantine Empire began to regain strength and reconquer lost territory, but received a final blow in the 15th century when a growing Ottoman Turkish Empire to the east captured Constantinople.

Ottoman rule [ edit ]

With the capture of Constantinople, Greece fell under Ottoman Turkish rule , but vigorously retained its Greek-speaking Christian culture. However, many Greeks fled the country, establishing Greek communities elsewhere in Europe; these communities would later influence the Greek Revolution.

Enlightenment and revolution [ edit ]

The Italian city-states of Genoa and Venice competed with the Ottoman Turks for control of various areas of Greece and managed to conquer various islands and coastal areas, bringing pan-European movements such as the Renaissance (and later the Enlightenment) to places in Greece such as Crete, Corfu, and parts of the Peloponnese region. In the 18th century, the Enlightenment, both in Venetian/Genoese-occupied areas of Greece and from Greek communities abroad, led to an awakening among prominent Greeks and gave birth to the goal of an independent, unified, and sovereign Greek state. The Greek Revolution finally broke out on the 25th of March, 1821, and led to a long war against the Ottomans for independence. The Greek Revolution gained attention across Europe, with Russia , Britain , and France sending military aid to assist Greece.

19th to mid-20th century [ edit ]

The nation finally achieved its independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1829. The newly-independent Greek State was briefly a republic, before becoming a monarchy at the will of major European powers. During the second half of the 19th century and the first half of the 20th century, Greece gradually annexed neighbouring islands and territories with Greek-speaking populations. However, its try at Asia Minor ended in defeat and a large-scale exodus from Turkey to Greece. The instability that followed led to a military coup, reinstatement of monarchy and an authoritarian rule. About 15,000 people were arrested and jailed or exiled for political reasons during the 4th of August Regime 1936–1941.

The country sided with the allies during World War I . Despite declaring neutrality during World War II , the country was invaded by Mussolini's forces on 28 October 1940. Greek forces victoriously pushed the Italians out of Greece, but the Germans then came to their aid, occupying the country until its liberation toward the end of the war. The resistance movement was one of the strongest in Nazi-occupied Europe, controlling much of the countryside, and the occupation brutal. Civil war broke out in 1946 between communist rebels and royalists, the former supported by Yugoslavia (until the Tito-Stalin rift of 1948) and the latter by the West. The communist rebels were defeated by the royalists in 1949. The second world war and the civil war that followed had left the country war-torn, forcing many people to flee the country in search of a better life abroad.

Greece joined NATO in 1952; rapid economic growth and social change followed. A right-wing military dictatorship staged a coup in 1967, disbanding all political parties, suspending political liberties and forcing many prominent Greeks into exile, including Communists, who played an active part in the Greek Parliament before and after the junta. King Constantine II and his family also fled the country. Democracy returned in 1974, and a national referendum abolished the monarchy, creating a parliamentary republic.

Modern Greece [ edit ]

Greece joined the European Community in 1981, which later became the European Union (EU) in 1992. The country's tourism industry – which had begun to take off during the 1960s – began to flourish, bringing 5 million annual visitors to the country in 1980 (a figure that eventually grew to over 17 million by 2007). The country suffered serious economic stagnation in the 1980s, but began to experience remarkable economic growth in the 1990s, fuelled by heavy investment, entrepreneurship, trade, and EU aid.

By the early 21st century, Greece had seemingly achieved stability and prosperity, with a high standard of living. An influx of immigrants began in the late 1980s, transforming Greece, once an immigrant-sender, into an immigrant-receiving country. Foreign-born residents, most of them undocumented and coming from various parts of the world (Eastern and Central Europe, Middle East, South and Southeast Asia, and Africa) are estimated to number at least 1 million, or equivalent to 10% of the population. In 2004, the nation stepped into the global spotlight as it successfully hosted the Summer Olympic Games in Athens, to the defiance of critics. Greece however, has borne the brunt of the late-2000s recession and related 2010 European sovereign debt crisis.

The main issues facing Greek society are a high and growing level of bureaucratic corruption, high unemployment, sluggish economic growth and widespread poverty. As a by-product of the ongoing economic depression, there has also been a rise in extremism. Particularly worrying is the rise in support for Golden Dawn, a violently xenophobic opposition party that has often been described as neo-Nazi, some of whose members of Parliament have been arrested for beating foreigners in the street, and which has reportedly gained a considerable degree of control over some Greek police forces. This is unlikely to affect most travellers, but if you could be mistaken for a refugee or illegal migrant to Greece, think twice about whether now is the right time to visit (also refer to § Stay safe ). As of 2020, this party has been declared a criminal organization, and has ceased to exist, with most of its important members found guilty in court and sentenced to prison.

Climate [ edit ]

Despite its small size, Greece has a varied climate.

Most of the country, including all coastal areas, enjoys a so-called Mediterranean climate, almost identical to much of California. Summers are hot and dry with a 7-month period of near-constant sunshine generally from April until November. The remainder of the year is characterised by a relatively cold, rainy period which generally starts sometime in November and lasts until late March or early April. Sporadic rains do occur during the dry season, but they tend to be rare, quick showers. The country’s Ionian Coast and Ionian Islands tend to receive more annual precipitation than the rest of the country. The islands in the southern Aegean and parts of the southeastern mainland are the driest areas of the country.

The most pleasant weather occurs in May–June and September–October. The warmest time of the year starts in mid-July and generally lasts until mid-August, when the annual meltémi winds from the north cool the country. Mid-July to mid-August is the height of summer, and the midday sun tends to get very strong; during this time, most Greeks avoid heavy physical activity outdoors between 13:00 and 17:00. It is best advised to get in tune with the local way of life by waking up early, doing all sightseeing and errands in the cool morning hours, and then spending the afternoon in the relaxing shade or at the beach. In fact, the bulk of tourists arrive in Greece during the height of summer, to do just that! For visitors from more northerly climates, the off season from November through February can be a rewarding time to see Greece. It will not be beach weather, but temperatures are mild. The much added bonus is that there will be very few other tourists and reduced prices.

Summer evenings tend to be very rewarding. As strong as the sun may get on a summer afternoon, the low levels of atmospheric humidity in most areas of the country prevent the air from trapping much heat, and temperatures tend to dip to very pleasant levels in the evenings. But even during midday, high temperatures actually tend to be quite comfortable as long as the time is not spent doing a lot of walking or other physical activity. (Athens, however, can still be uncomfortably warm during summer afternoons due to the predominance of concrete in the city, an effect similar to New York City.) Coastal areas near open waters (away from tightly-closed bays and gulfs), especially on many of the islands, tend to be quite breezy, and can be quite cold at night.

While the Mediterranean climate characterises most of the country, two other climate systems are present. One is the cool Alpine climate which is found on mountainous areas of the country's interior, including many high-altitude valleys. Another system is the Continental climate found on the interiors of north-central and northeastern Greece, which gives those areas very cold winters and warm, relatively humid summers.

Greek weather forecast given here

Holidays and festivals [ edit ]

The following are national public holidays:

• New Year's Day - 1 Jan
• Epiphany - 6 Jan
• Clean Monday (First day of Lent) - movable
• Independence Day and The Annunciation - 25 Mar
• Holy Friday - movable
• Pascha Sunday - movable
• Pascha Monday - movable
• May Day / Labour Day - 1 May
• Pentecost Sunday - movable
• Pentecost Monday - movable
• Dormition of the Theotokos - 15 Aug
• WWII Day / "OHI(no) Day" - 28 Oct
• Christmas - 25 Dec
• Boxing Day - 26 Dec

The nation's three most important holidays are Christmas, Pascha, and the Dormition. Christmas tends to be a private, family holiday, but lights and decorations adorn city squares across the country. Dormition is a major summer festival for many towns and islands. Pascha weekend is perhaps the most flamboyant of all holidays; religious processions on Holy Friday and the following Saturday evening culminate in exuberant fireworks at midnight, Easter morning.

Contrary to most national holidays in other countries, Independence Day in Greece is a very sober holiday. There is a school flag parade in every town and village and a big armed forces parade in Athens.

Although not an official holiday, pre-Lenten carnival - or apókries - is a major celebration in cities throughout the country, with Patras and Xanthi hosting the country's largest and most famous events. Carnival season comes to an extravagant ending the weekend before Lent begins, with costumes, float parades, and various regional traditions.

In addition to nation-wide holidays and celebrations, many towns and regions have their own regional festivals commemorating various historical events, local patron saints, or wine harvests.

The Greek Orthodox Church uses a different method to determine the date of Easter from the Roman Catholic Church and the Protestant churches. Therefore, Greek Orthodox Pascha and, derived from that, Holy Week and Pentecost usually fall one or two weeks later than their Roman Catholic and Protestant counterparts, but they do sometimes coincide (as in 2010, 2011, 2014, 2017 and 2025).

Visitor information [ edit ]

• Visit Greece

Talk [ edit ]

Greek is the official national language and is the native tongue of the vast majority of the population, although the English speaking visitor will encounter no significant language problem. English is the most widely studied and understood foreign language in Greece, followed by French , Italian , and German . Basic knowledge of English can be expected from almost all in the tourism industry and public transport services. Learning a few Greek terms, such as "hello" and "thank you" will be warmly received.

The Latin and Cyrillic alphabets were derived from the Greek alphabet and about half of Greek letters look like their Latin counterparts, and most Greek letters resemble their Cyrillic counterparts. With a bit of study it's not too hard to decipher written names. You'll find that place names on road signs throughout the country are often transliterated into Latin letters (some signs, especially on the newer roads, are even outright translated into English).

As true throughout Greece, you will find multiple spellings for the same place because of the transliteration from the Greek to Roman alphabet and because Greek grammar rules change the word's spelling depending on whether it is the subject or object of a verb, or to indicate possession (each of these also change the pronunciation), and because of the language reform in 1976. You will see road sign and place names on maps that spell the same place different ways. Sometimes a place will be spelled how it is pronounced, sometimes it will be spelled using Roman letter substitutions. So you will see Heraklion, Iraklion, Heraklio and Iraklio for Ηράκλειο and Rethymnon, Rethymno, Rethimnon and Rethimno for Ρέθυμνο.

Get in [ edit ]

Entry requirements [ edit ].

Greece is a member of the Schengen Agreement . See Travelling around the Schengen Area for more information on how the scheme works, which countries are members and what the requirements are for your nationality. In summary:

• There are normally no immigration controls between countries that have signed and implemented the treaty.
• There are usually identity checks before boarding international flights or boats entering the Schengen Area. Sometimes there are temporary border controls at land borders.
• A visa granted for any Schengen member is valid in all other countries that have signed and implemented the treaty.

Citizens of Antigua and Barbuda, the Bahamas, Barbados, Mauritius, Saint Kitts and Nevis and Seychelles are permitted to work in Greece without the need to obtain a visa or any further authorisation for the period of their 90 day visa-free stay. However, this ability to work visa-free does not necessarily extend to other Schengen countries.

For detailed regulations applied to your country, refer to the Greek Ministry for Foreign Affairs .

By plane [ edit ]

Athens' Elefthérios Venizélos International Airport , near the Athens suburb of Spáta, is the country's largest, busiest airport and main hub, handling over 28 million passengers annually as of 2023, with flights from all over Europe, the Middle East and, mostly during the summer, from Canada, the U.S., Australia and East Asia. Other major international airports in terms of passenger traffic are, in order of passengers served per year, Nikos Kazantzakis Airport (Heraklion), Macedonia Airport (Thessaloniki), Diagoras Airport (Rhodes) and Kapodistrias Airport (Corfu). There are a lot of airports in general in the country and almost every significant island has one. The bulk of international flights usually land in Athens, Thessaloniki and Crete but during the high season (April-November) there are abundant flights to a lot of islands and lesser-known airports on the mainland.

Aegean Airlines , is the largest greek airline and owns most of the domestic market, whilst also operating a lot of international routes from Greece. Sky Express is the second biggest airline in Greece and operates domestic routes and also international routes by request.

Athens is also well-served by airlines from all over Europe, the Middle East, North America, and Southeast Asia, with flights from their respective hubs.

The presence of low-cost carriers in Greece's international market has increased tenfold within the past decade, offering service to Athens and Thessaloníki from several other European locations, such as Easyjet, Transavia, Norwegian Air, Wizz Air, and Vueling. Ryanair in addition to regular services to central airports also offers service to smaller airports in Greece.

By train [ edit ]

As of 2022, there are no long-distance international passenger services to Greece. Before the Covid-19 pandemic, there used to be overnight trains from Belgrade , Bucharest and Sofia to Thessaloniki . International trains might be resumed but there is no confirmation on when. An exception to this is that from November 2022 a regional service between Florina and Bitola in North Macedonia will commence.

Travelers with an Interrail pass may obtain a discount on certain ferry crossings from Italy.

By car [ edit ]

Greece can be entered by car from any of its land neighbours. From Italy, ferries will transport cars and passengers to Greece (see by boat section). From western Europe, the most popular route to Greece was through Yugoslavia. Following the troubles in the former Yugoslavia during the 1990s, most motorists from western Europe came overland by Italy, and then took a trans-Adriatic ferry from there. Although the countries of the former Yugoslavia have since stabilized, and Hungary-Romania-Bulgaria form another, albeit a much longer, alternative, the overland route through Italy now remains the most popular option.

By bus [ edit ]

There is international bus service in Greece mostly from Thessaloniki, with some companies also having routes starting from Athens. All of the balkan countries (except Bosnia and Croatia ) can be reached from the Greece, along with Turkey , Hungary and Germany .

By boat [ edit ]

From Italy , main sea routes of the Adriatic connect the ports of Venice , Ancona , Bari and Brindisi of Italy to Patras and Igoumenitsa in mainland Greece. Several ferries also connect Italy to the Ionian Islands , though mostly during summer months. Trip duration varies from a minimum of about 8 hours Brindisi to Igoumenitsa, to a maximum 26 hours from Venice to Patras. Multiple ferries depart for Greece daily.

From Turkey there are ferries from Marmaris to Rhodes , from Çeşme (near Izmir ) to Chios , from Bodrum to Kos , from Kusadasi to Samos . From July 2019 a ferry sails overnight between Lavrio near Athens and Çeşme in Turkey, operated by Aegean Seaways [dead link] .

There are also ferries connecting Piraeus (Athens) and Rhodes to Alexandria ( Egypt ), Larnaca and Limassol ( Cyprus ), and Haifa ( Israel ).

When traveling with own boat, Greece can be a quite difficult country to visit:

• It's needed to pay a special boating tax (TEPAI). It should be paid the latest on the day of arrival to Greek waters. The fine for not having paid the TEPAI tax is quite high. The TEPAI can be paid through the URL. This fee should be paid for each calendar month one stays in Greece, so be careful not to arrive at the very end of a month.
• A boat with an EU-flag may need documentation that VAT is paid. As Polish flag-of-convenience has become common in the Mediterranean sea, boats with Polish flag will frequently be asked to produce such documentation.
• If the boat has an EU flag and is sailed directly from a Schengen country it's not needed with any check-in, but it's mandatory to have an updated crew list on board at all times.
• It's mandatory to have a good liability insurance, and some officials will demand that they explicitly states that the coverage is in accordance with Greek laws. It's apparently not possible to buy extra insurance in Greece, unless being a resident of Greece - so if you can't obtain insurance explicitly valid for Greece in your home country, you may end up stuck at some port, not being allowed to leave - even with insurance documents that already was approved in several harbours.
• Boats with flag from outside the EU needs to check-in in a valid port of entry, should buy a transit log and has it stamped by the port police in every harbour visited(!), both on entry and departure.

At the plus side, most officials have a pretty laid-back attitude, many harbours are for free or costs 10-15 EUR for a night even for a relatively big boat, particularly outside the season it can be easy and cheap to stay in a harbour.

Get around [ edit ]

A frequently asked question of travellers in Greece is whether they should rent a car. The primary advantage of having a car is that you can cover a lot more ground per day if you're travelling in rural areas or on the larger islands: you can get almost anywhere in Greece by bus, but some isolated villages may only have one or two buses per day, and having your own car means you don't have to wait in the summer heat for the bus to come. Almost all archaeological sites are accessible by bus, but at some of the more remote, less famous, sites, the bus may drop you off up to a mile away from the site, while with a car you can almost always get right to the site via at least a rough road.

On the other hand, going car-free in Greece is not only possible, but offers significant advantages, while driving involves a number of disadvantages. Though many people find driving in Greece easy and even pleasant, others are concerned by the high accident rate (one of the highest in Europe), the national reputation for risky driving, and the presence of many twisty mountainous roads, sometimes hugging the side of a cliff. Gas is as expensive as anywhere. (For more on driving conditions in Greece see below.) Driving in Athens and other big cities can be a frustrating, and sometimes hair-raising, experience, and finding parking can be very difficult. And having a car greatly restricts your flexibility when island-hopping, since only the larger, and usually slower, ferries offer car transport, which must be paid for in addition to your passenger ticket. Travelling by bus is not only cheaper but offers a greater chance of striking up conversations with both locals and other travellers than going by car. Language is not usually a problem for English speakers in using public transit: wherever there is significant tourism in Greece bus schedules are posted in English, and bus drivers and conductors, as well as taxi drivers, will understand at least enough English to answer your questions

Public transport can be supplemented by taxis (see below), which in many places, especially the islands, offer fixed rates to various beaches, which can be affordable especially if the price is shared among several people. And on many islands it's possible to get places by walking, which can be a pleasant experience in itself.

Intercity buses are a very popular option for domestic travel. KTEL is the national government-subsidized network of independent businesses which cooperate together to form a dense route system serving almost the entire country. The system is efficient, reliable, and relatively inexpensive. It serves both long and short distances, including routes from major cities to islands near the mainland, such as Corfu and Cephalonia (in such cases, the ferry crossing is included in the price of the bus ticket).

As KTEL companies operate independently, the quality of information available online greatly varies between each one. Most companies now support online booking, at least for routes between major cities.

The railway system in Greece is very underdeveloped compared to other European countries and most of the rail traffic is in the Athens - Thessaloniki corridor and in the suburban railways of these cities. The three other lines (Thessaloniki - Florina, Lamia - Trikala and Thessaloniki - Serres) usually have one or two trains running per day and are non-electrified with low speeds, so it is usually better to take a bus than a train. There are however multiple projects underway to greatly improve the country's railways scheduled to complete in phases from 2025 to 2027. Tickets can be booked via the Hellenic Train [1] website.

Exploring the country by car can be an extremely rewarding experience, allowing you to explore the incredibly scenic and varied terrain of the country's coastlines, interior, and islands, at your convenience. Roads are usually well-marked and well-maintained, and billions of euros are being poured into expanding the nation's network of multi-lane freeways. Because of the rapid expansion and improvement of the nation's road system, it is advised to have the most updated road map(s) possible. Many of the newer motorways are toll roads, and fees can be expensive. Road signs in Greek are usually repeated with a transliterated version in the Latin alphabet.

Drivers who do not hold an EU driving licence must carry an international driver's permit obtained in their home country. This may not be required when renting a car, but will certainly be required if the driver is involved in an accident or pulled over by the police for a traffic citation. Insurance policies may be void if the driver is a non-EU driver without an international permit.

Petrol prices are steep, but relatively inexpensive in comparison with many other EU countries.

For those used to driving in North America, driving in Greece can be a challenge. To them Greek (and other European) drivers might appear aggressive. Also the nation's topographic reality poses challenges by forcing many narrow roads in mountainous regions to take several twists and turns. Roads in towns and villages can be surprisingly narrow as well. If cars meet on a narrow stretch of road it is customary for one driver to find a spot to pull over and let the other driver pass. At times, one driver will need to back up for the other. Adherence to this practice is expected and failure to do so will bring the ire of your fellow drivers. Drive slowly through villages and small towns, because there are often pedestrians in the roadway. Another major difference between driving in North America and Greece is the range of speeds at which vehicles travel, particularly on the highways. While speed limits are as high as 120 km/h (75 mph), some vehicles will be travelling as slowly as 60 km/h (40 mph). Other vehicles will travel at speeds well in excess of the posted limits and can come up from behind very quickly.

By rental car [ edit ]

Car rental offices are present throughout Greece, especially in major cities and in highly touristed areas. About 90% of rental cars are manual, for automatics it is advised to reserve one in advance. Some companies use vehicle classification scale from A to Z instead of the four-letter SIPP/ ACRISS codes. Often rental terms restrict taking the vehicle on ferries.

Larger car rental companies in addition to well known names like Avis/Budget, Europcar, Hertz/Firefly, Enterprise and SixT include Abbycar , AutoUnion , Kosmo Car Rental and Caldera .

Cheaper companies such as Greennmotion achieve lower cost by not having a real rental desk at airport, lesser trained and knowledgeable staff, instead having sign-and-greet, then a shuttle bus to bring customers to their "airport office" which is some distance away, so their lower prices are not without drawbacks. And online reviews have noted some companies' propensity to deceive customers thru bait and switch, hidden and/or inflated charges.

Shoulder season starts from June 1, peaking at July. The rental companies' ratings on broker sites such as Rentalcars.com, Autoeurope.com are not necessarily indicative of their quality of service.

So beware of unreasonable rental conditions and unscrupulous agencies trying to attribute existing damages to new renters and inflating repair costs, make sure to do your due diligence, read terms and conditions and inspect the cars very carefully and note down the smallest irregularities before signing, as it is in their interest to not fully inform you of hidden damages.

The frequency, reliability and availability of Greek ferries are largely dependent upon the time of year. For instance, during the winter off-season (January to March), the weather on the Aegean can be extremely rough and boats are often kept in port for days at a time. This type of delay is extremely unpredictable (it is not a decision of the ferry companies, but rather, that of the port authority) and determining when a boat in harbour will actually set sail is near impossible. Therefore, travellers in off-season should build some flexibility into their schedule and not plan on departing an island in the morning and catching a flight home in the afternoon. On the opposite end of the spectrum, ferries in August fill up due to the National Holiday (15 Aug), so travellers should plan ahead. If you would like to track your ferry and get information such as live estimated times of arrival you can download the NISEA app [dead link] which provides all that information for free.

As for routes, during high-season there are extensive connections from Athens and quite a few in-between islands for "hopping." Again, in the winter, some of these ferries run once, maybe twice a week.

Visitors to Greece planning to travel by ferry should be aware of some potential complications. First, it can't be assumed that you can get from any given island to any other island every day of the week. The Greek ferry system is basically a hub-and-spoke system, with the spokes radiating from Piraeus out to the various island groups. As a result, boats within the groups are fairly frequent, but less so between the groups. Sometime islands which are geographically close together are in different groups: for instance, the Western Cyclades ( Serifos , Sifnos , Milos ) look very close on a map to the Central Cyclades ( Naxos , Paros , Mykonos ,) but these groups are on different spokes, meaning you can usually in summer get from one island to another in the same group on any day, but boats between the groups, e.g. Naxos to Sifnos , may be significantly less frequent. Second, trying to find advance information on ferry schedules can be frustrating: unfortunately there exists no single official comprehensive source for Greek ferry schedules either in print or on line, though there are a number private sites run by travel agents or other businesses which claim to give comprehensive schedules, and many of the individual ferry companies have web sites giving their schedules, in some cases offering the ability to book and pay for tickets on line. Ferry schedules are also always posted at the boat ticket offices in departure ports. Next, though getting a ticket usually isn't a problem, some boats to the most popular destinations, especially those leaving at the most convenient times, do sell out in high season or on holiday weekends. Finally, though ferries nowadays usually run on schedule, weather, strikes, and mechanical breakdowns still can occasionally delay them. None of these problems are insuperable, but they do mean you shouldn't try to micromanage your ferry itinerary too strictly in advance: be flexible, and always have a backup plan. And it's always a good idea not to count on taking a ferry from the islands to get back to Athens the same day your plane leaves, even if boat schedules theoretically should enable you to do this: this will probably work, but there's enough of a chance it won't to make it prudent to plan on getting back to Athens at least one day before your flight.

There are three ports in Athens: the main port Piraeus and outlying Rafina and Lavrio port. These serve all islands, but central Cyclades islands such as Tinos and Mykonos , it is often better to leave from Rafina .

Ferries are about the one thing in Greece that leave on time so be prompt . New "fast ferries" are cutting distance times in half but prices are slightly more expensive. Sometimes, it is more practical to fly, especially to Crete or Rhodes . However, flights are usually more expensive. Santorini is 8 hour slow boat from Athens but the entrance view from the boat is spectacular.

The major ferry companies operating in Greece include:

• Aegean Speed Lines (Cyclades)
• ANEK Lines (Crete and international)
• Blue Star Ferries (Italy-Greece and Aegean Islands and Crete)
• Hellenic Seaways (Cyclades, Argosaronic, North Aegean, Sporades)
• ANES Ferries (Saronic, Sporades, Rodos Symi Line)
• Saronic Ferries (Saronic Gulf)
• Seajets (Aegean Islands)
• Minoan Lines (Italy-Greece and Crete)
• SAOS Ferries (Aegean Islands and northern mailand)
• Superfast Ferries (Italy-Greece)
• Ventouris Ferries (Italy-Greece)
• Zante Ferries (Cyclades)
• Golden star Ferries (Cyclades, Sporades)
• Levante Ferries [dead link] (Ionian Islands)
• Kefalonian Lines (Ionian Islands)

Schedules and web sites for some very local ferry services may be found on the destination pages for the relevant islands or ports, or you can also decide to rent a sailing boat, motor boat, catamaran or a gulet and explore Greece from a deep blue sea.

Due to the limited train routes and lengthy travel times using the bus or ferries, flying is worth a consideration for travel between the mainland and the islands, as well as the far reaching major destinations at or near the mainland such as Corfu , Thessaloniki , Kalamata , Patras , and Kavala . In fact, should you book your tickets far in advance, these can cost similar to or even cheaper than the ferries! Most of Greece are reachable within an hour's flight from Athens or Thessaloniki.

The nation's domestic air travel industry is dominated by Olympic Air , Sky Express , Aegean Airlines and low-cost carrier Ryanair . These airlines offer an extensive route network within the country, including services connecting several islands and the mainland.

By e-hailing [ edit ]

Most commonly used are Uber and Bolt . ( updated May 2024 )

By taxi [ edit ]

There are many taxis in Greece. Over ten years ago, getting one could be quite a challenge, but not any more. You hail taxis on the street like in any other large city.

Transport from the airport to the center of Athens is fixed cost from the taxi line that is outside exit 3 in the arrivals level. Day time fare from 05:00–00:00 cost €38 Night time fare from 00:00–05:00 cost €54

If you need a taxi from the ferry at night from Piraeus, it might not be easy. The drivers who wait outside sometimes are looking to take at least three different individuals going in the same direction so they can charge three fares! If you are two or three people, only one person should hail the cab and then if the driver agrees to take you, have the other(s) jump in. In Greece you don't pay "per capita", unless of course the other passengers are strangers to you and you just happened to stop the same taxi. In this case you pay separately -for example you, your wife and you pay one fare, and the others pay also one fare (one fare for each "group", no matter how many there are in the same company). If you are 4 friends, you pay one fare.

The taxi situation has improved since the debt crisis in Greece, but being a tourist might make you vulnerable to "extra" charges (see also the section about the cost of living).

Many major cruise ships visit the islands and there is also the option of hiring your own boat from any main harbour such as Athens, Kos and Lefkas.

For those sailors with experience, the Greek Islands provide an idyllic sailing experience with mostly moderate winds and calm waters. An exceptional sailing opportunity with a chance to visit many places in one go. Be aware of the "Meltemi" phenomena though, strong winds coming with little warning.

There are several yacht charter companies where one can rent a boat skippered or not.

See [ edit ]

Few countries can pride themselves on a heritage as important to Western civilization as Greece. A range of first class historic landmarks remind one of the days when the great Greek emperors and writers made their mark on the development of science, literature and democracy. No less than 17 of those monuments are listed as World Heritage Sites . However, the many charming little islands, sandy beaches and picturesque whitewashed coastal towns are at least as much a reason to come for the millions of tourists that this Mediterranean country receives each year.

Apart from that Greece offers a distinct and wonderful flora and fauna, with the odd tortoise appearing on the side of the road more often than you would expect.

Cultural heritage [ edit ]

World famous are the iconic Parthenon in the bustling capital Athens and the splendid site of Delphi , where the mighty emperors sought the prophecies of the most prominent oracle in the ancient Greek world. There's the temple of Apollo at Bassae and the gorgeous old city of Rhodes , once overlooked by the Colossus of Rhodes. The archaeological site of Olympia is the birthplace of our modern Olympic Games and the place from where the Olympic flame is sent around the world. The many Eastern Orthodox monasteries of Meteora are just stunning to look at, built high on natural sandstone rock pillars. At the small town of Vergina the ancient site of Aigai was found, and many valuable artifacts were discovered in several untouched tombs, one of them being the tomb of Philip II of Macedon, father of Alexander the Great. Proudly situated on Mt. Taygetos is the ancient town of Mystras , close to (and often mistaken for) ancient Sparta . Another great site is the island of Delos , not far from the popular holiday destination Mykonos . According to myths, this is where Apollo and Artemis were born. The island used to be the main Panhellenic sanctuary and is now dotted with archaeological remains.

Some major sights are nicely located on one of the beautiful Greek islands, allowing for a delightful combination of sightseeing and relaxing on one of the many fine beaches. Patmos is a lovely example, boasting the historic centre Chora , the Monastery of Saint John the Theologian and the Cave of the Apocalypse , but also some pleasant sea side restaurants with pretty views. Corfu has the same characteristics, being a popular holiday destination with good beaches and an impressive historic town centre. The beach towns of Samos , just a stone's throw away from the Turkish mainland, are a good place to try the islands local wines (famous in the ancient world!). On the island are also the World Heritage Temple of Hera , the remains of the fortified port of Pythagoreion and the famous Tunnel of Eupalinos , a 1 km long subterranean aqueduct built in the 6th century BC. Although not an island, the ancient Mount Athos is in the north of Greece, on the peninsula of Chalkidiki . It's one of the country's most popular tourist regions with excellent beaches, numerous other ancient sites and many charming villages.

If you still want more of the historic stuff, admire the massive Sanctuary of Asklepios at Epidaurus or the Archaeological Sites of Mycenae and Tiryns . The Monasteries of Daphni ( Athens ), Hosios Loukas (Beotia) and Nea Moni (on the island of Chios ) complete the World Heritage listings for Greece.

Islands [ edit ]

When it comes to Greece's famously gorgeous islands, it's hard to take your pick out of the 6000 options you have, 227 of them being inhabited. Their rocky coast lines, sandy beaches, charming villages, sheltered bays and many yacht harbours make them extremely popular among all kinds of travellers. The large island of Crete is a highly popular tourist destination, with landscapes varying from great sandy palm beaches to snow-covered high peaks and stunning river gorges and a good deal of night life in its main tourist towns. If you're looking to party at night, lovely Mykonos or Ios are good options too. The volcanic island of Santorini is one of the most romantic picks and offers some spectacular views. Its whitewashed capital of Fira is dramatically situated on the edge of a 400m high cliff, overlooking a beautiful blue lagoon. Other popular ones are Lesbos , Paros , Lefkada and Kos . The National Marine Park on Zakynthos is the primary nesting ground for loggerhead sea turtles in the Mediterranean. The rugged, green hills and valleys of Kefalonia boast a number of vineyards, and the island's cliffs and beautiful beaches make it a tourist hotspot. For a slightly more authentic and less touristy experience, try Syros , Amorgos or any of the other small and less developed islands. But if you want to live the way of life in Cyclades , Andros is one of the most original places to visit.

Seaside resorts [ edit ]

Greece measures 16,000 kms of its coastline within the waters of the Mediterranean basin. Its seaside resorts include coastal scenery, sandy beaches and a variety of stone-built villages.

Do [ edit ]

Greece offers not only well-known beach and water sports activities but also highly rewarding hiking areas and opportunities for religious and archaeological tourism.

Beaches : In addition to the numerous islands, particularly Crete , Rhodes , Corfu , and Kos , the most famous mainland beaches can be found in Chalkidiki , Epirus , and the Peloponnese . For nude beaches in Greece, see here. The most popular islands for naturist (nudist) beaches include Crete, Zakynthos, Rhodes, Gavdos, and Antiparos.

Archaeological Tourism : The most renowned archaeological sites are located in Attica (Athens), the Peloponnese, and the islands of Samos, Delos, and Crete.

Religious Tourism : The centers of religious tourism are Mount Athos and the sites that the Apostle Paul visited during his travels, especially Philippi . The Via Egnatia in northern Greece is part of the pilgrimage route to Jerusalem.

Hiking : The most popular hiking areas are Mount Olympus , the gorges in Crete , the national parks in Epirus , and the less-known Rhodope Mountains .

Sailing : With its more than 1400 islands, Greece is one of the most attractive sailing destinations in the world. You can find countless secluded coves, cozy fishing villages with small ports, or lively promenades in larger harbor towns for evening entertainment, shopping, or making necessary repairs. There are marinas and berths along the coasts, which are still relatively inexpensive compared to France, Italy, or Croatia. While there are only a few marinas, there are small town harbors on the islands that often charge very reasonable fees. However, they do not offer services like showers, toilets, or washing machines. Water and fuel are available in most harbors, but you have to take care of it yourself by inquiring around the harbor. Power connections are almost never available in the small harbors. The harbors are usually situated in the town centers, allowing you to stroll through the streets in the evening or enjoy Greek specialties in local restaurants. The most popular sailing areas in Greece include the Ionian Islands , the Cyclades , the Saronic Gulf Islands , the Dodecanese , and the Sporades . The North Aegean Islands are less known, but the distances between islands are greater, which means fewer boats are typically present, making it easier to find anchorages. The Ionian Islands are ideal for novice sailors due to mild winds and short distances. The best times for sailing in the Aegean are spring and autumn, as July and August can bring strong Meltemi winds, reaching up to 8 Beauforts, which are more suitable for experienced skippers.

Buy [ edit ]

Money [ edit ].

Greece uses the euro , like several other European countries . One euro is divided into 100 cents. The official symbol for the euro is €, and its ISO code is EUR. There is no official symbol for the cent.

All banknotes and coins of this common currency are legal tender within all the countries, except that low-denomination coins (one and two cent) are phased out in some of them. The banknotes look the same across countries, while coins have a standard common design on the reverse, expressing the value, and a national country-specific design on the obverse. The obverse is also used for different designs of commemorative coins. The design of the obverse does not affect the coin's acceptability.

The euro replaced the drachma in January 2002.

ATMs [ edit ]

ATMs are present almost everywhere, with MasterCard/Cirrus and Visa/Plus being the most widely accepted cards. Many ATM machines may not accept 5-digit pin numbers; ATM card-users with 5-digit pins are advised to change their pin to 4 digits before leaving home.

ATMs usually charge €2.50–3 in addition to what your bank demands. This is added to the withdrawn amount and invoiced to your bank, but not dispensed. Thus, the larger the amount withdrawn, the less the fee percentage-wise.

Cards [ edit ]

You may get better exchange rates by using credit or debit cards directly, instead of exchanging cash. MasterCard, Visa, Maestro and Eurocard are widely accepted across the country in retail stores, hotels, and travel/transportation agencies (including ferry, airline, and car rental agencies), but are not accepted in some restaurants. Local souvenir shops usually require a minimum purchase before allowing you to use your card and may not accept it for special sales or deeply discounted items.

Money exchange [ edit ]

Common particularly in larger cities and in any touristed area. In addition to hard currency, they also accept traveller's cheques. There are also automated currency exchange machines in some areas of the country, particularly in Athens airport. Most banks will also exchange euros for some currencies—such as US dollars and UK pounds —often at better rates than currency exchanges. Banks' commission fees for these exchanges are usually structured so that it's more economical to change larger sums than smaller. Usually, only the larger, international-standard hotels will exchange money for their guests.

Branches of the Greek bank Alphabank will exchange Euro American Express Travellers Cheques and US$ American Express Travellers Cheques into euros at their usual bank rates without fee or commission.

When changing money in large amounts at a bank or currency exchange, it's a good idea to ask for mostly smaller notes, and nothing larger than a €50. Many businesses are reluctant to accept notes of larger than €50, partly because of a scarcity of change, partly because larger notes have a history of being counterfeited.

Shopping [ edit ]

Arts and crafts [ edit ].

Artisan craftsmanship has a millennia-old tradition, but it is advisable to leave the beaten track and drive especially in the islands a few kilometres into the interior to get good goods at good prices.

Bargaining [ edit ]

One can bargain on many things, especially on clothing, souvenirs etc. You can also try different spots for what you are interested in buying and see the different prices that the specific item is sold, and pick the cheapest.

Business hours [ edit ]

Greece is in the Eurozone. Outside the tourist resorts and apart from the large supermarkets, a long lunch break is usually from about 14:00 to 17:00 . Then the shops open again until 20:00 and sometimes even longer.

Costs [ edit ]

Prices are horrendous relative to wages. Petro l cost €1.8-2.1/litre as of May 2023. A packet of cigarettes about €4-5. A loaf of bread cost about €1. A coffee in a bar €3-5, a bottle of beer in a small bar about €4-5, a shot of spirits about €4-8. You can buy much cheaper water, cheese, milk, ham, fruits, soaps, health care products, et al. in a supermarket such as Lidl, but bread is cheaper in bakeries.

Public transport ticket is €1.20 for a ticket that's valid for 90 minutes irrespective of number of transfers in the metro area and €5 or more for destinations out of Athens (for distances greater than 20-30 km). The buses and trains in the cities stop at night; then you need a taxi, ride hailing apps are Beat and TAXI 18300 . The minimum charge was €3 and €0.80/km, double at night and also double when your destination is outside the city limits. Since June 2022 Beat also adds an additional €1.2 charge for calling a taxi through the app. There is an extra charge of €3 if you get a taxi from the airport -ask to see the official card with the specific costs for baggages etc. that all the taxis must have. You can eat cheap if you eat "souvlaki" (pork or chicken pieces) for €2 each stick but usually one person needs two of them. Taverna s are much cheaper then restaurants to get lunch or dinner -you can eat in a taverna spending €12-20 per person. The main dish usually costs €7-12, the salad €7, the coke €2, the "cover charge" depending on the area. If you need clothing , bath suit or shoes, bags, tea shirts etc., the cheapest shops (but by no means the best) are the Chinese which you can find almost in every block in the cities. A ticket to a cinema costs around €8 per person, with €5-8 for a drink or snack in the intermission. Seashores are usually free but around Athens many of them charge €4-5 per person. Sometimes in free beaches you pay extra (if you want) in order to use the umbrella or other facilities. Tipping is usually an extra 10%, but if you get a €3 coffee in a bar, you shouldn't leave 0.20 because it will be considered an insult. Greeks in this case leave either nothing or at least 0.40-0.50 for a €2 charge. If you like Greece and decide to rent an apartment, don't say you are a tourist, because they will ask you for more -they'll think you don't know the prices. Find a Greek to trust and let them negotiate on your behalf. Greeks pay for two rooms €250-400 in middle class areas, up to €700 for expensive areas (rarely) or down to €180 (also rarely) in areas you don't really want to live in. Electricity costs about €60-100 a month. For a single person who doesn't work and keep the air conditioning or the heat on all day long, and uses washing machine once a week, cooks every day and needs hot water on daily base, he gets to pay €80-100 a month. Tap water is about €7-10 a month. Internet and phone at home costs about €25-40 a month. An acceptable pair of shoes, about €40 (although there are shoes that cost €15 or €300), trousers €20-80. Hairdressers cost €8-40, usually around €20 if you want to leave satisfied. If you cook at home, potatoes cost €1-2/kg, olive oil €4.5-6/litre, cooking oil for frying €4/litre, tomatoes €1-3 (depending on the season), meat €5-12/kg, fresh fishes €10-20/kg in the fish market (the frozen meats and fishes are much cheaper), and the fruits (also depending on the season) €1-5. (All prices in this section as of Feb 2019)

Kiosks [ edit ]

There are newsstands (períptero) in every corner of the city, where newspapers, magazines, chilled drinks, confectionery, snacks, tobacco and ice cream can all be bought.

Markets [ edit ]

Greece farmers markets (Laikí Agorá) take place at least once a week in every town. Here agricultural products of the region but also the things of daily life are offered. They have a very special flair that you should not miss. Standowners in the big markets are vociferously promoting their products, while the small rural markets are comparatively quiet. One is rarely addressed by the sellers. But there are many other things to discover in the markets. For example olives. Stalls offer the wide selection of pickled olives. It‘s allowed to taste before you buy what you like most. Also very nice are the stalls that offer nuts. A very wide selection of nibbles, you can buy here. Again, tasting is allowed. Of course, there is also a part that offers clothes, shoes, fabrics and jewellery. Here you get the known plagiarism, but also products from Greece.

Supermarket chains are Skvalenitis , Masoutis , AB Vasilopoulos , Market In and Economy Market , smaller mini marts include OK Market .

Tipping [ edit ]

Traditionally tipping in restaurants is not customary in Greece. Rounding of the bill used to work both ways, up or down to the nearest note amount. A tip was considered insulting, and the best way to show appreciation was to come back. In touristy areas this has almost completely vanished, but off the beaten track it is still alive.

Tipping is certainly not based on a predetermined percentage. Customers usually leave a tip on the table, varying from a few coins to large amounts of money, according to how satisfied they are by the service, but usually something like €1-2. Tipping taxi drivers is uncommon.

Many restaurants bring you a bottle of water and charge you without your having ordered it. Thus, if you do not like this approach, kindly refuse the bottle of water if it is a fresh and newly opened one. Tap water is generally free.

VAT [ edit ]

Value Added Tax is charged on most items, usually included in the item's price but some shops offer "Tax Free" shopping to non-EU residents. This means that non-EU residents can ask for a VAT refund at their port of exit in the EU. Ask for your voucher before leaving the shop and show that along with your items to the customs officer upon departure from the EU.

In general [ edit ]

Things you might buy at home but are (usually) fresh in Greece include olive oil, fruits (watermelon, cantaloupe, peaches, grapes, strawberries, etc.), feta cheese , and some breads and sweets that are local (see the "Eat" section). As for drinks, "Retsina" and "Tsipouro" are also local, but the first has a peculiar taste and the second is really strong, like "ouzo" and "raki". Don't mix those four with other drinks if you buy some for back home. It's nice to buy small statues and miniatures of ancient Greek art, but search for the cheap ones in various shops - you can almost always find them in half the price. Shops that cater to tourists are always more expensive - a local you can trust could be of great use. Buy definitely a hat for the sun if it's summer and sunblock (see the "Natural dangers" section).

Eat [ edit ]

Greek cuisine is a blend of indigenous traditions and foreign influences. Neighbouring Italy and Turkey have left a major impact on Greek cuisine, and there are shared dishes with both of these nations. The traditional Greek diet is very Mediterranean, espousing vegetables, herbs, and grains native to the Mediterranean biome. Being a highly maritime nation, the Greeks incorporate plenty of seafood into their diet. Greece is also a major producer and consumer of lamb; beef, pork, and especially chicken are also popular. Olive oil is a staple in Greek cooking, and lemon and tomatoes are common ingredients. Bread and wine are always served at the dinner table.

The cuisine in Greece can be radically different from what is offered in Greek restaurants around the world. Greek restaurants abroad tend to cater more to customer expectations rather than offer a truly authentic Greek dining experience. One example is the famous gyros (yee-ros), a common item on Greek menus outside Greece. While it is a popular fast-food item in Greece today, it is a foreign import adapted from the Turkish döner kebap after World War II. It is considered by Greeks as junk food. It is never served in the home and is generally not found on the menus of non-fast-food restaurants.

Greeks live to eat, and eating out is Greece's national pastime and a rewarding experience for visitors; however, not knowing where to go or what to do can dampen the experience. In the past, restaurants that catered mostly to tourists were generally disappointing. Thankfully, the nation's restaurant industry has grown in sophistication over the past decade, and it is now possible to find excellent restaurants in highly-touristed areas, particularly areas that are popular with Greek tourists as well. Thus, it remains a good idea to dine where Greeks dine (Go search them at the times Greeks dine: 21:00-23:00). The best restaurants will offer not only authentic traditional Greek cuisine (along with regional specialities) but Greece's latest culinary trends as well.

A good sign of authenticity is when you get a small free dessert when you ask for the bill. Bad signs are when desserts are listed on the menu, large posters depicting food are seen outside or when a waiter is standing outside yelling for clients to come in or taking your plates away while you are still sitting at the table (traditionally everything is left on the table until the customer is gone, even if there is hardly any space left).

Restaurants serving international cuisine have also made a presence in the country, offering various options such as Chinese, French, Italian, and international contemporary.

Vegan and vegetarian [ edit ]

Restaurants catering strictly to vegans and vegetarians are practically non-existent outside of Athens. However, there are many vegan and vegetarian dishes in Greek cuisine. As a vegan, you'll probably end up ordering fava every time you go to a taverna but do ask the waiter if there are other vegan dishes on the menu or if the chef could make a vegan-friendly version of a particular dish. In cases when someone is not familiar with the concept of veganism, you may ask if the food you're ordering is νηστίσιμο (nistisimo), i.e. appropriate for people who fast for religious reasons. Such food may still contain honey or even seafood, so make sure to ask.

A number of vegan restaurants have opened in and around Athens. Falafel places are also becoming quite popular. There are also many shops with healthy food and a vegan shop , all in addition to ubiquitous fruit and veg shops.

But also do not miss the numerous stalls on the side of the road selling delicious local fruits, vegetables and produces.

Popular local dishes [ edit ]

The traditional fast foods are gyros (γύρος, "GHEER-ohs", not "GY-rohs" as in "gyroscope"), roast pork or chicken (and rarely beef) and fixings wrapped in a fried pita; souvlaki (σουβλάκι, "soov-LAH-kee"), grilled meat on a skewer; Greek dips such as tzatziki (τζατζίκι), made of strained yoghurt, olive oil, garlic and finely chopped cucumbers and dill or mint; and skordhalia (σκορδαλιά), a garlic mashed potato dip which is usually served with deep fried salted cod.

With its extensive coastline and islands, Greece has excellent seafood. Try the grilled octopus and the achinosalata (sea-urchin eggs in lemon and olive oil). By law, frozen seafood must be marked as such on the menu. Fresh fish, sold by the kilogram, can be very expensive; if you're watching your budget, be sure to ask how much your particular portion will cost before ordering it.

Greek salad (called "country salad" locally, "horiatiki"), a mix of tomatoes, cucumber, feta cheese and onion – all sliced – plus some olives, and occasionally green bell pepper or other vegetables, usually garnished with oregano. Traditionally it is dressed only with olive oil; vinaigrette or lettuce are added only in the most tourist-oriented restaurants. It is the typical summer salad.

Also consider:

• moussaka , a rich oven-baked dish of eggplant, minced meat, tomato and white sauce
• pastitsio , a variety of lasagna
• stifado , pieces of meat and onion in a wine and cinnamon stew
• spetzofai , braised sausage with pepper and tomatoes, a hearty dish from the Mt. Pelion region
• sahanaki , fried semi-hard cheese
• paidakia , grilled lamb chops, are also popular. (They tend to have a gamier taste and chewier texture than North American lamb chops, which you may or may not like.)
• creamy peppered cheese , eggplant salad or fried zucchini
• fasolada , dry beans stew, sometimes considered Greece's national dish. A variety with a larger bean cultivar is known as "Gigantes".

Fried potatoes (often listed on menus as chips ) are a naturalized Greek dish, found almost everywhere. They can be very good when freshly made and served still hot. Tzatziki is usually a good dip for them, though they are still good on their own.

For dessert, ask for baklava , tissue-thin layers of pastry with honey, cinnamon and chopped walnuts; or galaktoboureko , a custard pie similar to mille feuille. Other pastries are also worth tasting. Another must-try is yoghurt with honey: yoghurts in Greece are really different from what you used to see at Danone stores: to start with, genuine yoghurt in Greece has 10% of fat. Fruit such as watermelon is also a common summertime treat.

For breakfast , head to local bakeries ( fourno ) and try fresh tiropita , cheese pie; spanakopita , spinach pie; or bougatsa , custard filled pie, or even a ""horiatiko psomi", a traditional, crusty village type bread that is a household staple, and very tasty on its own too. All are delicious and popular among Greeks for quick breakfast eats. Each bakery does own rendition and you are never disappointed. Go to the next Kafeneion with them and have it there with a Greek coffee to be local.

A popular drink is a frappe made with instant Nescafé, water, sugar, and sometimes milk. It is frothed and served over ice.

Cover fee [ edit ]

It's common to charge a cover fee in restaurants officially (i.e. stating it in a receipt), such as €0.30 to €2 per person, but if it's tending towards €2 you should really consider eating somewhere else.

Fast food [ edit ]

McDonald's and Domino's pizza have made a significant presence in Greece over the past 15 years. However, they face strong competition from the popular local chains and they are not really popular with natives, especially outside Athens.

Goody's [dead link] is the most popular fast-food chain in the country, offering a large variety of fast food meals, with numerous outlets throughout the country. A hamburger with Coke costs €3-5. Everest is a chain which specialises in hand-held snacks. Also in Thessaloniki you can find Subito . Flocafé is gaining popularity through its coffee and dessert items. There are also many independently-owned fast food businesses that offer typical fast food items, such as gyros. Many of these small businesses tend to be open late at night, and are popular with younger crowds on their way home from a night out.

Drink [ edit ]

Those wishing to booze in Greece would be well advised to stick to the traditional domestic Greek products discussed below, which are freely available, mostly cheap by European standards, and usually of good quality. Any imported, non-Greek alcoholic beverages are likely to be very expensive if genuine and, if cheap, may well be "bomba," a locally distilled alcohol with flavourings which sometimes, especially in island bars catering to young people, masquerade as whisky, gin, etc. If you drink it, you'll be very sorry. Drink in respectable places where you can see the bartender mix your drink.

Water [ edit ]

A glass of water is traditionally served with any drink you order; one glass for each drink, especially with any form of coffee. Sometimes you even get a glass of water first and then you are asked what you want to drink. Sometimes you might as well get a bottle instead of just a glass. In touristy areas you might have to ask for a glass of water if you want one. If you don't get water with a coffee you just stepped into a tourist-trap. Also, if you did not explicitly ask for a bottle instead of a glass, and they try to charge you for it you should refuse.

Tap water in most places a tourist would visit is drinkable; if in doubt, ask your hotel. But often though drinkable it doesn't taste very good, especially on some small islands (as it is imported in and heavily chlorinated), and many visitors, like many Greeks, prefer bottled water. By law, water prices in shops must remain within acceptable limits, making it much cheaper than in Anglosphere nations. A half litre of bottled water costs (July 2022) €0.50 if you buy it on the street, and €0.15 if you buy it from the supermarket.

Wines [ edit ]

To be able to purchase or drink alcohol in Greece, by law, you must be 17 and photographic ID will be asked for infrequently, especially in venues that sell food (many independent fast food outlets will serve alcohol).

Greece, an ancient wine producing country, offers a wide variety of local wines, from indigenous and imported grape varieties, including fortified and even sparkling wines. Greek wines are generally not available on the international market, as production is relatively small, costs are quite high and little remains for export. However, in the past decade Greek wines have won many international prizes, with the rise of a new generation of wineries. Exports are rising as well.

Wine ( Krasi : κρασί / oenos : οίνος) is most Greeks' drink of choice.

Almost every taverna has "barrel wine," usually local, which is usually of good quality and a bargain (€6-8/litre, but check this before ordering when you are in a touristy area.).

If they have it, try also the Imiglyko (Half-Sweet) red, even if sweet wine is usually not your preference, it is different from anything you know.

Retsina is a "resinated wine" with a strong, distinctive taste that can take some getting used to; the flavour comes from pine resin, which was once employed as a sealant for wine flasks and bottles. The most well-known and cheap-n-dirty is "Kourtaki Retsina".

Bottled wines have gotten increasingly more expensive; some that the beginner may find worth trying are whites from Santorini and reds from Naoussa and Drama. All wines and alcoholic beverages are cheaper in the super markets, but then you can't consume them in a bar, unless you keep them hidden in small bottles and use them very discretely.

Beer [ edit ]

Even if beer ( bira : μπύρα) is consumed all around the country, don't come to Greece for the beer. The only local varieties widely available are Mythos and Alpha, but Greeks drink mostly Northern European beers produced under license in Greece like Heineken and Amstel. Heineken is affectionately known as "green"; order it by saying "Mia Prasini."

On the quality front, there is also a microbrewery/restaurant called Craft (2 litre jug also available in large supermarkets), and new organic beer producers like Piraiki Zythopoiia.

Liquor [ edit ]

The most famous indigenous Greek liquor is ouzo (ούζο), an anise-flavored strong spirit (37.5%), which is transparent by itself but turns milky white when mixed with water. Mainlanders do not drink ouzo with ice, but tourists and Greek islanders generally do. A 200 ml bottle can be under €2 in supermarkets and rarely goes above €8 even in expensive restaurants. Mytilene (Lesbos) is particularly famous for its ouzo. A few to try are "Mini" and "Number 12," two of the most popular made in a middle-of-the-road style, "Sans Rival," one of the most strongly anise-flavored ones, "Arvanitis," much lighter, and the potent "Barba Yianni" and "Aphrodite," more expensive and much appreciated by connoisseurs.

Raki or tsikoudia is the Greek equivalent of the Italian grappa , produced by boiling the remains of the grapes after the wine has been squeezed off. It is quite strong (35-40% of alcohol) and in the summer months it is served cold. It costs very little when one buys it in supermarkets or village stores. The raki producing process has become a male event, as usually men are gathering to produce the raki and get drunk by constantly trying the raki as it comes out warm from the distillery. One raki distillery in working order is exhibited in Ippikos Omilos Irakleiou in Heraklion , but they can be found in most large villages. In northern Greece it is also called tsipouro (τσίπουρο). In Crete, raki is traditionally considered an after-dinner drink and is often served with fruit as dessert.

Coffee [ edit ]

Coffee (kafes: καφές) is an important part of Greek culture.

The country is littered with kafetéries ( kafetéria singular) which are cafes that serve as popular hangouts for Greeks, especially among the under-35s. They tend to be pretty trendy -yet relaxed- and serve a variety of beverages from coffee, to wine, beer, spirits, as well as snacks, desserts, and ice cream. In the pleasant months of spring, summer, and fall, all kafetéries provide outdoor tables/seating and they are busiest with customers in the late afternoon and evening hours. Several kafetéries also double as bars.

Kafeneia (coffee houses) are ubiquitous, found even in the smallest village, where they traditionally served a function similar to that of the village pub in Ireland. Their clientele tends to be overwhelmingly men over 50, however everyone is welcome, male or female, young or old, Greek or foreigner; and you will be treated extremely courteously. However, if you're not interested in cultural immersion to this extent, you may find the kafeneia pretty boring.

Traditionally, coffee is prepared with the grounds left in. It is actually a somewhat lighter version of Turkish coffee but in Greece it's only known as Greek coffee - " ellinikós kafés " or simply " ellinikós ." Despite being slightly lighter than the original Turkish coffee, it remains a thick, strong black coffee, served in a small cup either sweetened or unsweetened. If you don't specify, the coffee is usually served moderately sweet. Greek coffee traditionally was made by boiling the grounds and water on a stove in a special small pot called a "briki." More and more now days it's made by simply shooting steam from an espresso machine into the water/coffee mixture in the briki, resulting in an inferior drink. If you find a place that still actually uses a stove burner to make their coffee, you can be sure it's a traditional cafe.

During the hot summer months, one of the most popular coffees at the kafetéries is frappé (φραπέ): shaken iced instant coffee. This is actually an original Greek coffee and can be really refreshing, ordered with or without milk, sweetened or unsweetened.

Coffee can also be made espresso-style, French press (mainly at hotels), and with modern filter technology. The latter is sometimes known as Γαλλικός: gallikos ("French") which can lead to some confusion with the press method. It is best to ask for φίλτρου: filtrou , which refers unambiguously to filter coffee. It is best not to ask for black coffee , as it is unlikely that anyone will understand what you are asking for.

Espresso freddo or cappuccino freddo have gained much popularity the last decade, and these are the most popular coffees throughout Greece. Espresso freddo is simply espresso + ice; cappuccino freddo refers to espresso + ice + chill milk foam. They may be served from mousse containers, not prepared to order; be careful to check.

Iced tea [ edit ]

In mass-sector taverns and cafe, iced tea typically means instant; ask twice if you prefer brewed ice tea.

Sleep [ edit ]

If you enjoy the local traditions and charm, unhurried rhythm of living, small, family-run pensions are the best way to enrich your experience. Owners and personnel there are friendly and open-minded, compared to the impersonal service you normally encounter in large hotels.

If you have a bigger budget, renting a villa is a luxurious and splendid idea. They are normally near or on the beach and provide more space and a great view.

In Greece hotels, especially in the islands but also even in Athens and other big cities, tend to be simple establishments. Rooms are typically small, and bathrooms smaller, with the shower often a hand-held sprayer; if there is a bath-tub, it's often a sit-bath. Sometimes in the most basic places shower curtains are lacking. Closets are often inadequate, and sometimes there is only a wardrobe. On the plus side, such hotels typically have a balcony (though sometimes tiny) or veranda, either private or a large one shared by all the rooms (but these are usually spacious enough not to feel cramped.) Standards of cleanliness are usually good, even in the simpler places. Those who want more luxurious accommodation can usually find it in cities and on the more popular islands but should check the hotel's quality in reliable sources to be sure of what they're getting.

Most Greek hotels now, even the smaller ones, have websites and will take bookings by email, though sometimes fax is a more reliable way to communicate. There are also numerous Greek and international hotel booking services which will make bookings, and sometimes these are cheaper, or have rooms available when the hotel itself says it's sold out. If you're not really particular about choosing a hotel, you can usually find a place on a walk-in basis without too much trouble on all but the most crowded islands, where rooms can be difficult to find at the peak of the season, and even in the shoulder season on weekends and major holidays. If you do get stuck for a room, try a local travel agency (preferably one endorsed by a reputable guidebook) or alternatively, ask at a cafe whether the owner knows of any rooms for rent; often they do.

On some islands, though this varies from place to place, the owners of accommodations will meet arriving ferries to offer rooms. Often they'll have a van there to transport you from the port, and will have brochures to show you. These places are perfectly legitimate, they're sometimes among the best value places. You can negotiate prices, especially when there are a lot of them trying to fill their rooms, and prices in the range of €20-25 for a room or even a studio is not uncommon in mid-season. But they could be anywhere from a few steps away from the port to a mile out of town, so before accepting such an offer it's best to be sure you get a good idea of its location.

Places listed in the guide books tend to be booked up in advance and usually get more expensive as soon as they know they are in there!

Greek rooms typically have air conditioning nowadays. If this is important to you, ask before booking. Some rooms in old traditional buildings with thick stone walls may not need it. Televisions are also common, though the picture may be too fuzzy to be much use, and if you get the set to work you may find it receives programs only in Greek. Room phones are rare in the less expensive places.

The main problem you're likely to encounter with a Greek hotel room is noise. Anything on a road is likely to suffer from traffic noise, and even at hotels not on a major road you may find that that "footpath" outside is used as a superhighway by Greece's notoriously loud motorbikes. And tavernas and clubs nearby can be loud. If you're concerned about noise, it makes sense to choose your hotel's location carefully. The quietest ones are likely to be in an old part of the town or village accessible only by stairs which counter the prevailing "if I can drive it there I will drive it there" car and motorbike philosophy.

In addition to hotels, almost every popular Greek destination offers self-catering accommodations called studios or sometimes apartments —the terms are pretty much interchangeable. Often these are run by hotels: a hotel may include some self-catering units, or the managers of a hotel may also run a separate building of self-catering apartments. Though not listed very often in travel guides, these studios are most certainly a viable option for many travellers. Typically, a studio consists of one large room, usually larger than a hotel room (though sometimes there are multiple rooms,) with a sink, small refrigerator, and two-burner hot-plate. They usually have a private balcony or veranda, a television, and air conditioning, though rarely a room phone and almost never internet access. In contrast to a hotel, they lack a front desk, there is no breakfast or other food service, and there may be maid service only once every two or three days. Studios are often in quieter and more scenic locations than hotels. For those who don't require the full services of a hotel, studios can be an attractive alternative offering better accommodation for the money, and the chance to economize on food by preparing some meals yourself.

Learn [ edit ]

Being the cradle of Western civilisation, Greeks take education very seriously. Many of the world's greatest minds (e.g. Aristotle, Pythagoras, Plato, Democritus) were from Greece, many Greeks have university degrees, and the country sends many students to universities all over the world.

Although this all sounds impressive, Greece isn't a popular destination for foreign students yet. The Greek government is trying to change that, however. Greek universities charge low tuition fees for all students, including international students.

The Greek educational system is known for being notoriously difficult, competitive, and painstaking; Greek parents often complain that children get too much homework, and the national Panhellenic exams (known as Apolytirion and are akin to A-Levels in the United Kingdom ) are widely criticised for being extremely difficult and gruelling.

If there's one thing that attracts students to Greece, it's the affordable cost of living. Costs in Greece are much lower compared to other European countries. Athens is remarkably cheaper to live in than say, Oslo in Norway .

The most prestigious univeristies in the country are as follows: The Aristotle University of Thessaloniki , National Technical University of Athens , and the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens .

Students from EU countries may enter many sites for free. Students from other countries have their entrance fees reduced. So take your International Student Identity Card with you.

Modern Greek courses [ edit ]

For those interested in learning modern Greek , there are several schools offering courses in language instruction for foreigners. Most of these are designed for English speakers, but some schools have courses for people with other first languages. Some schools are in Athens, some in Thessaloniki (among them the very good school of Modern Greek language in the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki) while others have centers in the islands offering a residential program that combines language study with a vacation. Some offer individual tutoring in addition to classes. Some well established programs are The Hellenic Culture Centre [dead link] (an associate of The Ikarian Centre,) and The Athens Centre .

Work [ edit ]

Citizens of European Union or EFTA member countries work in Greece without any restrictions, while citizens of non-EU/EFTA countries, including the United Kingdom, need a work permit to work in Greece.

Finding a job in Greece can be a difficult endeavour. There are not enough jobs for people (the unemployment rate in Greece is quite high) and many Greeks have moved abroad for employment opportunities.

Despite being a developed country, wages in Greece are rather low.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Crime and theft [ edit ].

Violent crime and theft rates are low; public disorder is rare, and public drunkenness is generally frowned upon. Visitors should rest assured that this is a safe and friendly destination, but it is always advisable for foreign tourists to exercise basic precautionary measures just as they would at home. There has been a spike in theft (or at least a perceived one), which some locals will not hesitate to blame on the influx of immigrants.

The places where the visitor is most likely to encounter crime and theft are overcrowded and popular with tourists. This includes the metro in Athens and tourist resorts thronged with younger foreigners. The more notorious of such places include Faliraki in Rhodes (calmed down since a new tough mayor was elected), Kavos in Corfu , Malia on Crete , and Ios (though this last is said to have quieted down a bit.) Most visitors to these places return home safely, but there have been increasing reports from them of theft, public indecency, sexual assault, and alcohol-fueled violence; both the perpetrators and victims are usually young foreigners, though sometimes locals are involved. Authorities have stepped up the police presence in such areas to crack down on these activities. Still, visitors to these places would do well to avoid anything that looks like trouble, especially late at night, and to remember that their own overindulgence in alcohol increases their chance of attracting trouble themselves.

Scams [ edit ]

The most commonly reported major scam against travellers is the Greek version of the old clip joint routine. This is reported primarily from central Athens, but also occasionally from other cities and even the larger island towns. A single male traveller will be approached, usually at night in a neighborhood where there are a lot of bars, by a friendly Greek who will strike up a conversation leading to an invitation to go to "this really cool bar I know" for a drink. Once at the bar, they are joined by a couple of winsome ladies who immediately begin ordering drinks, often champagne, until, at the end of the evening, the mark is presented with an astronomical bill, payment of which is enforced by the sudden appearance of a pair of glowering thugs. The reason this scam works is because most Greeks have a tradition of being friendly to visitors, and almost all Greeks who strike up a conversation with you will have no ulterior motives. But if you're a single male traveller approached by a Greek in the circumstances described above, it's safest to politely but firmly decline any invitations.

Also don't accept to change your money on the street and if someone asks you if you could change a €20 or €50 note, refuse (you might get a counterfeit note).

Photography restrictions [ edit ]

It is strictly forbidden to take photos of military installations or other strategic locations. Authorities will take violations quite seriously. Obey signs prohibiting photography. In fact, it would be best not to take photographs of anything of military significance, including Greek navy ships, or of airports or any aircraft, even civilian ones: Greek authorities can be very sensitive about such things. Many museums prohibit photography without a permit; some prohibit only flash or tripod photography, and many ask visitors not to take photos of objects (statues, etc.) which include people standing by them, as this is considered disrespectful. Officials at museums will rush over to yell at you if they see a camera or even a cell phone in your hand.

Antiquities [ edit ]

Greece also has very strict laws concerning the export of antiquities, which can include not only ancient objects but also coins, icons, folk art, and random pieces of stone from archeological sites. Before buying anything which could conceivably be considered an antiquity, you should become familiar with the current laws regarding what can be taken out of the country. Briefly, all objects made before 1830 are considered antiquities and are protected by the Ministry. Do not ever think to export or buy any piece of archeological value because it will be either be a fake or you will be arrested promptly at the airport for trafficking of goods of archeological value.

Drugs [ edit ]

Greece has some of the strictest, and most strictly enforced, drug laws in Europe, and tourists are not exempt. No matter what anyone tells you, it is most definitely not cool to do drugs in Greece, including marijuana. Furthermore, such a behaviour is strongly rejected by most locals and will almost certainly cause someone to call the Police and have you arrested. Even a very small quantity is enough to get you in serious trouble. Don't even think of offering even the smallest amount of drug to someone else. You risk being prosecuted with charges of drug dealing, leading to several years of imprisonment!

Traffic [ edit ]

The greatest danger to travellers in Greece is probably in the simple process of crossing the street: traffic can be bad even in smaller towns and horrendous in Athens and other Greek cities, and accident rates are high. Caution should be exercised by pedestrians, even when crossing with a walk light. Traffic fatalies were cut by 60% in the ten years leading up to 2018, but in that year 709 people were killed on Greek roads — 64 per million people, which is higher than the average of 49 in the rest of the European Union. Drivers often weave between lanes while speeding. Stay safe.

Cope [ edit ]

Toilets in public spaces such as restaurants and bars sometimes lack seats over the porcelain, so to avoid direct contact with the toilet's porcelain, you may want to bring disposable toilet seat covers.

Stay healthy [ edit ]

Health care [ edit ].

The government's austerity program in the 2010s led to a "meltdown" of Greece's previously admired health care system, as the budgets of state-run hospitals have been cut by up to 50%. Many citizens prefer private health care for longer-term hospital stays. Hospitals face shortages of doctors, nurses and basic supplies. However, public health care is free and universal for all citizens, and for all EU nationals upon presentation of an EHIC card (formerly the E111 form). For non-EU nationals, only emergency care is provided for free.

A network of helicopter ambulances serves the islands, transporting patients who need immediate attention to the nearest island or city with a major hospital.

The country's pharmacies and medications are of top quality, and pharmacists are highly trained experts in their field. Many medications that need a prescription in the UK and US can be purchased without a prescription in Greece. When sick with a simple, common illness, a visit to the pharmacist will provide you with the medication you need. If you are looking for a specific medication, be sure to know its generic name, as brand names might be different. Most pharmacies close on Sundays, but a sign will be posted on the door indicating the nearest pharmacies that are open.

Healthcare provision is different to Anglosphere nations in that many specialists are in the community. GPs are replaced by community pathologists. Hotels and tourist agencies can provide advice on where to go if you are ill.

Sexually transmitted infections [ edit ]

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) exist in Greece as elsewhere, and travellers who may engage in sexual activity while visiting Greece should remember that even if one is on vacation and one's sexual partner is also a traveller, perhaps from one's own country, neither of these facts suspend the laws of biology. According to reports in the Greek and British media, unprotected sex among visitors to Greece, with a consequent rise in STIs and unplanned pregnancies, is especially common at the party resorts favoured by younger people, such as Ios , Malia , Kavos , and Faliraki . Condoms are available at any pharmacy and at many kiosks.

Natural dangers [ edit ]

Sun and heat pose risks that summer visitors should take precautions for. Take a good, light sun hat and sun glasses, and drink plenty of water.

In late spring and summer, the government runs public service announcements on television reminding Greeks to wear their sunblock at the beach. The Mediterranean sun tends to get quite strong, and can burn skin that has not been exposed to the sun for a long time. Any excessive daily sun exposure can also cause long-term damage to skin. Sunblock and sunscreen are widely available throughout Greece at supermarkets, grocery stores, pharmacies, and special stores selling beach-related items, though they tend to be expensive, and the higher SPF factor blocks can be hard to find.

During the hottest months, while visiting archaeological sites, wear tank tops, carry umbrellas, and carry water. Daily high temperatures stay at about 95-100°F (35-38°C). The sun is merciless. Athens has been subject to periodic summer heat waves where the temperature can reach above 100°F (38°C), posing a risk of respiratory problems and heat stroke for some people. Many islands, especially in the Cyclades , have very little shade to ameliorate the summer heat; if hiking around such islands, including going by foot to distant beaches, it's especially important in hot weather to wear a hat and sunscreen, to take water, and to avoid being caught walking during the hottest part of the day.

Jellyfish periodically infest some beaches and their stings can be severe. The red ones are particularly dangerous. Sea urchins are common along the Greek coast, usually clinging to underwater flat surfaces such as smooth rocks and sea walls. They usually inhabit shallow water so they're easy to see. Care should be taken not to step on them, since their spines can be painful.

Don't hike cross country in Greece alone: even in popular places, the countryside can be surprisingly deserted, and if you get in trouble while you're out of sight of any houses or roads, it could be a long time before anyone notices you.

Lifeguards are rare at Greek beaches, though most of them where people congregate to swim are locally considered safe. Some beaches have shallow water a long way from the shore; others suddenly shelve steeply. If in doubt about safe swimming conditions, ask locally.

There are no required inoculations for Greece and the water is almost everywhere safe (see above under Drink.) Look for 'Blue Flags' at beaches for the highest quality water (which tend to also have good sand and facilities)

Respect [ edit ]

Greeks rate politeness with a person's behaviour and not their words. Furthermore, there is an air of informality; everybody is treated like a cousin. They use their hands to gesture a lot. Have fun with this. Sometimes over-emphasizing politeness in spoken language will only make the person dealing with you think you are pretentious. It's nice to learn basic words like "thank you" (Ευχαριστώ: ef-khah-rees-TOH) or "please" (Παρακαλώ: pah-rah-kah-LOH).

Greeks generally consider it proper etiquette to let the stranger make the first move. You may find that on entering a cafe or passing a group on the street you feel that you're being ignored, but if you take the initiative by saying hello first, you're likely to find that people suddenly turn friendly. In the countryside it is not uncommon that total strangers will greet you, greet them back in kind. Greeks like to smalltalk, and when they get carried away smalltalking, they might even forget what they were doing to begin with, ending up drinking raki with you.

Greeks are often incorrectly stereotyped as "lazy". In actuality, Greeks take leisure very seriously. Don't take perceived laziness or rudeness harshly. Keep in mind that Greeks have a strong work ethic.

Dress codes for churches sometimes include covered shoulders for women and knees covered for both sexes, but generally they don't mind about your clothes as long as they are not very provocative. This tends to be lightly enforced during the height of the summer tourist season, simply due to sheer volume! In any case, appropriate clothing is usually available at the entrance of churches and monasteries, especially the ones receiving most tourist traffic. Just pick it up going in and drop it off on the way out.

Nudism : Regulary tourists are annoying the locals, because too much skin is shown at the beaches. Nudity is not so common in the Greek public. Also topless is not accepted outside the tourist areas. Nevertheless there are on all shores of the mainland and on most of the islands nudist beaches where nudism is tolerated and even nudist hotels in Crete , Rhodes , Kefalonia , and Zakynthos .

Social etiquette and breaches [ edit ]

Respect for elders is very important in Greece. Greeks place a high emphasis on family values and it is common for Greek parents to be intimately involved in the lives of their children. Try to act in a mature, sensible fashion around someone older than you and try not do anything that would make an older person or other authority figure feel challenged.

Greeks value transparency and loyalty . Don't say something if you don't mean it. Don't say "next time" if there isn't going to be a "next time".

It's common for Greeks to ask you personal questions . It's completely normal for them to ask about your family life, about your vocation, and the like. It may, however, be crass to discuss someone's religious convictions or their salary, matters which are normally considered private in many parts of the world.

Greeks are hospitable and will go to any length to make you feel comfortable. If you've been offered food by your Greek host(s), sample everything on your plate .

Never say or imply that a Greek person is untrustworthy or unreliable; this is considered insulting.

Sensitive issues [ edit ]

Avoid saying that Greece is part of Eastern Europe . Greece is generally considered part of Southern Europe .

Avoid saying that Greece is a Balkan country ; Greeks generally dislike this label.

Avoid making strong comments about Greek history in general; Greeks take pride in their country's history and are proud of what their country has given to the world.

Discussing politics is not a social faux pas in Greece; in fact, the Greeks may delight you with conversations about how frustrated they are with their government. As is the case in any foreign country, foreign criticism of Greece's government and politicians is seldom appreciated.

National issues [ edit ]

Given Greece's history of enduring turbulent events, the Greeks exhibit sensitivity towards various historical occurrences.

You should avoid discussing the following topics as they can quickly unsettle people:

• The Macedonian issue : Greeks consider that the name "Macedonia" is stolen from them and used by Tito's partisans in southern Yugoslavia to address the country created after World War II as a new constituent republic within Yugoslavia by Tito. The Greeks refer to it as "FYRoM" or the "Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia" when dealing with foreigners and as Skopia (The Greek name of the Macedonian capital Skopje) among themselves. In February 2019, the country was officially renamed the Republic of North Macedonia in order to settle the dispute.
• The military junta of the late 1960s to mid 1970s: some groups suffered severe repression and view its leaders with utter resentment.
• Avoid making strong comments about the Greek debt crisis – during the crisis many Greeks lost a great deal of purchasing power, lost their jobs, and moved abroad in search of better opportunities. Never say or imply that the Greeks "deserved" their economic demise; remember there is a clear distinction between Greek people and the Greek government.
• Greece's relationship with Turkey – after centuries of Ottoman occupation and domination, there's still some resentment towards Turkey . If you happen to be the most ardent Turkophile in the world, avoid being overly enthusiastic about Turkey in front of Greeks as it can easily arouse strong emotions.
• In some circles, Greece being under Ottoman rule and the Greek genocide can very easily incite fierce, passionate, emotional debates.

Religion [ edit ]

The Greek Orthodox Church , part of the Eastern Orthodox communion, is the state religion, and nominally adhered to by over 80% of Greeks. However, freedom of religion is also constitutionally guaranteed, and contemporary Greek society is in practice rather secular. Most Greeks do not attend church regularly every Sunday, but instead only show up for important occasions such as Christmas and Easter. That said, the Greek Orthodox Church is still an important part of the Greek national identity, and many Greeks see it as integral to being Greek, so try not to criticise it unless you know your listener well.

Obscene gestures [ edit ]

Holding up your palm with your fingers extended outwards is rude in Greece, and is akin to giving someone the middle finger. This gesture, known as Mountza , is thought to originate from the days of the Byzantine Empire.

Smoking [ edit ]

Greeks smoke tremendously, and they see cigarettes as a birthright. Smoking is prohibited by law in all public places like restaurants and cafeterias. A hotline (1142) can be used to report people and establishments breaking the smoking ban, and Greeks have not been shy about using it. You will rarely, if ever, see people smoking in such places and it is best to step outside when you want to smoke.

Greece is subject to frequent forest fires during the dry summer season, so definitely avoid smoking in forested areas! The penalties for this can be especially severe.

Connect [ edit ]

Phone [ edit ], mobile internet [ edit ].

There are no Internet roaming charges for EU citizens , so you can surf the Internet in Greece as normal with your local sim card. For Non-EU citizens , you can either buy a Greek sim card or use a virtual sim cards where you can buy the GB you want as credit at home and then surf the internet anywhere in Greece until the credit is used up. This is easier than buying a Greek sim card.

There are at least three mobile carriers, Cosmote, Wind and Vodafone all of which require by law presenting some form of identification in order to activate your prepaid plan. Choose whichever has better reception in your area; GSM 900, GSM 1800 and UMTS 2100 bands are supported. Data usage is cheap. Ask the mobile carrier for more information. Mobile phone carriers support data roaming with 2G, 3G, 4G and LTE technologies.

Calling [ edit ]

The cheapest way to call someone abroad – and this is really cheap – is to use a pre-paid calling card and call from a land line anywhere (also from your hotel room). Pre-paid calling cards are sold in many shops and kiosks. The calling card is not much more than a phone number and a pin code, which you dial prior to dialling the usual phone number. If you want to call internationally, ask for an international calling card. For €1 you can call for about 45 minutes, so buy a card in the cheapest value (which is about €3). Calling someone for half an hour is cheaper than sending one email from an internet café. Cards expire usually 90 days after first use. You can also use this pre-paid calling card at public phone boxes, which are widely available.

Mobile phones are prevalent in Greek's communication, and if you need to talk with your fellow travellers it is advised that you buy a local prepaid plan instead of using roaming, as it is far cheaper.

Internet [ edit ]

Internet access is widely available throughout the country. Almost all hotels provide internet access, either free or paid. Local coffee shops usually offer free Wi-Fi access, as many other public places do. Feel free to ask for the password, if the network is locked.

News [ edit ]

You can have an update from various news agencies that provide Greek news in English like the official Athenian-Macedonian news agency and Reuters , ΕΡΤ Greek Edition (the public broadcaster) [dead link] , IN (the oldest news active Greek news site) or Kathimerini English Edition (a daily newspaper published in Athens and distributed exclusively with the International New York Times in Greece and Cyprus) but it's always safer to keep in touch with locals (for example in the case of a fire in a nearby location that you planned to visit).

Go next [ edit ]

The land border can be crossed to Turkey , Bulgaria , North Macedonia and Albania .

Greece has ultra-low-cost flights to many European countries, Jordan , Israel , Georgia and to the United Arab Emirates .

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Greece Travel Guide

Last Updated: June 6, 2024

It’s also one of the more affordable countries on the Euro.

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

I’ve been to Greece many 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 55 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. Be sure to check out the King Leonidas statue, visit the Archeological Museum, and explore the Diros Caves. I especially enjoyed the Museum of the Olive and Olive Oil, which takes you through how olives have become a staple of everyday life in Greece. 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. There are operas, indie musicians, dance performances, lectures, and more. It’s a unique celebration of the performing arts in all their forms and worth your time if you’re in the city when it’s happening. 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 5 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. I especially recommend checking out the Achilleion a palace from 1890 as well as Nymfes Village, historic Corfu Town, and the incredible views from Angelokastro Castle. 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). There are a lot of day trips to Delphi from Athens starting around 48 EUR.

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. I love how you can see the lush forest and trees just above the cave walls. It’s totally surreal and the water is so clear that it looks like the boats are floating on glass. Admission is 7 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. Along the way, you’ll see the White Mountains and the trek ends at the lovely beach town of Agia Roumeli. The whole trek takes 5-7 hours to complete so 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). The artifacts here cover more than 5,500 years of history. One of my favorite pieces was a game board that dates all the way back to 1600 BC. The stunning collection here 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 on the coast of the Peloponnese, 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 was founded by the Byzantines in the 6th century and is a quiet town perfect for relaxing on the beach before dining under the stars at seaside taverns or on cobbled streets in the town. There are ruins to explore and a mosque from the 16th century now houses the towns Archaeological Museum. You can also walk out to the lighthouse for incredible sea views. If you’re into hiking, there are some trails that will take you past chapels and settlements up to hilltops to admire the views 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 start around 50 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 70-100 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. You can find these on most of the islands and they’ll take you to incredible places you can’t get to by car. Most tours also have stops for snorkeling and lounging on the beach, and many include drinks and lunch. Half-day tours start at 20 EUR, while full-day tours are around 30 EUR. Prices can vary greatly depending on where you’re taking the tour from.

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 start around 50 EUR, while a two-tank dive on a boat starts around 70 EUR. You can also take a beginner discovery course for around 70 EUR or a variety of PADI courses starting at 65 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 50 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 3-6 EUR and easily fill you up. If you’re on a budget, you can live off these for as little as 15 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 3-6 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 9 EUR for a combo meal. A large pizza costs 8-11 EUR while Indian/Middle Eastern/Chinese food can be found for around 7-8 EUR for a main dish.

If you’re going out for dinner at a traditional taverna, expect to spend between 12-25 EUR depending on how much food you get. After that, the prices go up depending on how fancy the restaurant is!

Beer is 3-5 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 35-50 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.

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 around 15 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.
• 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 5 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 for accommodations – If you have credit card points that can be used for cash, using them to book accommodation can save you a ton of money. This post has more information to help you with the basics so you can start collecting points now and use them on your trip .
• 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. Discover Cars is an excellent place to find a car for your trip.
• 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! The specific destination guides have more places but here are some my suggested places to stay in Greece:

• Selina (Athens)
• Athens Hawks Hostel (Athens)
• BedBox (Athens)
• Studio Eleni (Mykonos)
• Caveland (Santorini)
• Bedspot Hostel (Santorini)
• Asterolithos Hotel (Santorini)
• Rethymno Youth Hostel (Crete)
• Intra Muros (Crete)
• The Pink Palace (Corfu)
• Francesco’s (Ios)
• FarOut Beach Club (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 42 EUR. Thessaloniki to Ioannina takes 3.5 hours and is 24 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 10 EUR if the islands are really close together. From Athens, most ferries to the Cyclades Islands start around 40 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 20 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 38-50 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. There is more rain during this time of year, so pack for that. 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. There’s quite a bit of rain and 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 safety precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). For specific information about a place, check out one of the many incredible solo female travel blogs on the web. They’ll give you tips and advice that I can’t.

You won’t find a lot of travel scams in the country but read this article on common travel scams to avoid so you know what to avoid.

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.

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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Info & Facts

The famous Acropolis of Athens

Oia in Santorini, the most famous village of Greece

The amazing beach of Plaka in Naxos

Famous for its ancient civilization and magical natural landscape, Greece , this small Mediterranean country, has countless hidden gems to offer!

Boasting a well-established tourist industry, Greece ( Ελλάδα in Greek, Ellada ) is widely known for its friendly atmosphere and the genuine hospitality of its people, making numerous visitors fall in love with it and return every year for one more vacation. No matter how many times you visit, new layers of its rich culture and beauty will be unfolding every time. Greece, after all, has rightfully earned its place in the list of the world's top 20 tourist holiday destinations.

A trip to Greece and more specifically, its islands , is on the bucket list of millions of travelers from all around the world. Over the decades, jet-setters such as politicians, musicians, actors, artists, influencers, and other celebrities have visited Greece and continue to do so, contributing to its popularity.

Below, you will find useful information on almost every aspect of authentic Greek life, including its scenery, history, culture, destinations, politics, economy, and more!

Get ready to discover Greece with us !

This section offers information regarding various historical periods in the Greek mainland and the islands, from the Bronze Age until Modernity. Dating back to the prehistoric years, Greek culture has significantly contributed to the civilization of Europe. With a quick reading, you will be able to get a better understanding of Greek history, while you will also have the opportunity to see photos of major archaeological sites and find more information about historic locations, listed as UNESCO World Heritage Monuments . In addition, a smaller section is dedicated to important Greek people from the ancient or modern world, as well as their most famous quotes & sayings.

The entire country of Greece is a peninsula and for the most part it is mountainous. It is located on the eastern side of the Mediterranean Sea and it borders with other Balkan countries to the north, as well as Turkey to the east. With a total area of 130.800 km2 and a land area of 130,647 km2, the country is surrounded by the sea on three sides. Greece has the longest coastline in Europe and the 5th longest coastline in the world, while it also has the 10th place in the list of countries with the most islands. The population of Greece is approximately 11 million, while Athens, the country's capital city, is its most densely populated area, with around 4 million residents. The largest cities after Athens are Thessaloniki and Patras. For a better understanding of the country's geography, as well as its regions units, don't forget to check out our maps . Mountains, valleys, gorges, peninsulas, coves and even volcanoes are all part of the impressive natural landscape of Greece!

From superstitions to peculiar traditions and celebration customs, the culture of Greece promises some quite interesting discoveries! Greeks are generally proud of their cultural heritage, which shapes their identity and creates a sense of belonging. The unique culture of Greece is seen in various aspects of modern everyday life, from religious practices, to language, folk music and gastronomy. In order to get a better understanding of life in Greece, it is a great idea to get some additional information on Greek culture, which dates to the past but continues to shape the image of modern Greece.

Over the years, we have managed to create a huge collection of photos (+200.000) from various destinations in every corner of the Greek mainland and the islands. Scrolling down our album, you will discover photos taken by our team of professional photographers, as well as contributions by members of our Online community . By joining the community, you will have the opportunity to upload your own holiday pictures from Greece, participate in ou annual photo contest , rate or comment on photos posted by other members and share your best moments in Greece with us! Don't forget to come back, since new photos are uploaded on a daily basis!

Popular Beaches

Without doubt, in Greece you will find some of the most beautiful and most visited beaches of the world! Depending on the location, there are many kinds of seashores, sandy or pebbled, organized or secluded, which are ideal for all tastes. The most impressive beaches in Greece are location on its islands, and more specifically the Ionian islands (Myrtos Beach in Kefalonia, Navagio Beach in Zakynthos, Porto Katsiki Beach in Lefkada) or the Cyclades (Super Paradise Beach in Mykonos and Red Beach in Santorini). In addition to the islands, the coastline of the main is full of wonderful options, and so is the region near Athens. Every year, numerous Greek beaches earn Blue Flags and other awards and make it to the top of lists with the world's cleanest and most beautiful seashores.

Popular Villages

Even though Greece is mostly known for its beautiful beaches, the traditional villages on the mainland or the islands will surely steal your heart. No matter which part of Greece you choose to visit, there will be authentic villages with a picturesque atmosphere to discover. Depending on the location, architectural styles vary in every place. For instance, the Cycladic islands are famous for their whitewashed cubic houses, while the Dodecanese islands have a medieval style and the Ionian islands a Venetian one. Many seaside villages are characterized by the neoclassical type of architecture, while mountainous ones are full of stone-built houses with tiled roofs and blend into the earthy background. Check out the top 10 villages in Greece and don't miss the chance to visit at least one of them during your vacation!

The official name of Greece is Hellas or Hellenic Republic. As far as its political regime is concerned, the country is a Parliamentary Republic, with the President of the Hellenic Republic being the Head of the State and a 300-person legislature. Elections in Greece usually take place once every 4 years. Check out the relevant section for more information on the politics of Greece!

Greece joined the eurozone in 2001, although it has been part of the European Union since 1981. Before that, the official currency of Greece used to be the drachma . One of the most important events that altered the economy of Greece was the financial crisis of 2008 that lasted approximately a decade. The tourism industry has a significant role in the economy of Greece and it is one of the top sectors that have helped the country deal with the financial crisis. Service and industry sectors represent 85% and 12% of the country's total output respectively, while merchant shipping contributes greatly to the economy as well. 12% of the workforce is currently employed in agriculture.

Ancient Myths

The mythology of Ancient Greece has been one of the most significant parts of the ancient civilization. The fables and tales usually involved gods, goddesses and other metaphysical entities, in an attempt to explain the world and the natural phenomena, to teach moral lessons or to provide entertainment. In this section, you will find the most popular ancient myths, as well as a few that are not so widely known, to get a better understanding of the old religion and the ancient folklore. You will probably notice that many of them have been revived through more recent works of art, cinematography, literature or even appear in pop culture.

Although most Greeks turn to the Internet to get information and read the news, traditional press still holds an important place in Greek society. In fact, Greece produces the largest number of newspapers compared to any other country in Europe. There are 18 daily newspapers in Athens, representing different voices. Although most press is in Greek, press in other languages and foreign newspapers can easily be found at kiosks in large cities and popular islands. Online versions of the most popular Greek newspapers may also be available in English.

The natural landscape of Greece is surprisingly diverse, especially if you consider the country's relatively small size. The largest part of the country is mountainous, although there are several forests and valleys as well, especially in the central and the northern parts of the country. Each part of the country houses different kinds of wildlife, including plants, animals, birds and sea creatures. The seaside locations are much different from the mountainous side of the country and on the mainland of Greece you will also discover lakes, rivers and caves. Vacation in Greece is ideal for all nature lovers, and plenty of opportunities for hiking, extreme sports and bird watching are also offered. This section will allow you to discover more details about the different aspects of nature in Greece: Canyons, Caves, Farms, Fauna, Flora, Forests, Lakes, Mountains, Rivers and Volcanoes are some of the categories you can browse through.

Electricity

Plug types C and F are used in Greece, with a 230V supply voltage and a frequency of 50Hz. Round 2 pin plugs are used. North American visitors will need a converter and British visitors an adaptor. Some hotels may be able to provide these adaptors, otherwise you can buy them at the airport or electrical supply stores.

Greece has only one time zone and uses the Eastern European Time (EET) UTC+02:00 . Similarly to most European countries, daylight saving time is enabled from the last Sunday of March to the last Sunday of October, moving the clocks forward by 1 hour (GMT+3). When the daylight saving time period is over, clocks move again backwards by 1 hour to EET (GMT+2).

Working hour

Banks and Public Services operate from 08:00 to 14:00, Monday to Friday. The shops are usually open Monday-Wednesday- Saturday from 09:00 to 15.:0 and Tuesday-Thursday-Friday from 09:00 to 14:00 and 17:00 to 20:00. On these three days of the week, shops close for the siesta at noon and open again in the afternoon. In the touristy areas, during the high season, most shops stay open all day long, from early morning till late evening. City malls also remain open until the late evening hours. A small number of 24-hour shops are also available in the big cities and islands.

DISCOVER MORE ABOUT GREECE

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19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Greece

Written by Michael Law and Jane Foster Updated Sep 29, 2023

Home to some of the world's most important historical sites, along with some 6,000 islands, Greece is known for its natural beauty and fascinating culture. Ancient archaeological sites, cliffs tumbling into sparkling blue water, sand and pebble beaches, and a balmy Mediterranean climate make Greece one of Europe's prime places to visit for tourists .

Besides Athens, some of the top things to see on the mainland include Ancient Delphi and the monasteries of Meteora. But most people come here to catch a ferry or a flight to the islands: Santorini, Mykonos, Zakynthos, Corfu, and Crete are the most popular. Plan your trip with our list of the top attractions in Greece.

1. Acropolis, Athens

2. acropolis museum, athens, 3. santorini, 6. the towns and beaches of crete, 8. metéora monasteries, 9. rhodes town, 10. zákynthos, 11. samaria gorge, 12. nafplio, 13. thessaloniki, 14. corinth canal, 15. mount olympus, 16. palace of knossos, 17. mycenae, 21. víkos gorge.

Considered the symbol of Athens and Greece, and indeed of Western civilization, the Acropolis is a rocky mound rising in the heart of modern Athens, crowned by three magnificent temples dating from the 5th century BC. The best known and most distinctive is the Parthenon , originally made up of 58 columns supporting a roof and decorated by ornate pediments and a frieze.

Although the Parthenon steals the show, other highlights on the Acropolis hilltop are also spectacular. The ornate Temple of Athena Nike, the Porch of the Caryatids, and the Propylaea are not to be missed. Tear yourself away from the historic sights and wander over to the edge, panoramic views of the seven historical hills of Athens and the city are laid out below you.

Skirting the foot of the Acropolis and connecting it to the city's other major ancient attractions — the Ancient Agora , the Roman Forum , Kerameikos , and the Temple of Olympian Zeus — is a 2.5-kilometer walking path known as the Archaeological Promenade .

Author's Tips: For a fantastic nighttime view of the Acropolis, make your way to one of the rooftop restaurant patios on the pedestrian-only Apostolou Pavlou . Plan on getting to the Acropolis early to avoid ticket lineups, bus tours, crowds, and the heat if you are visiting in summer.

• Visiting the Acropolis in Athens: The Essential Guide
• Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Athens

The Acropolis Museum is one of Athens' most-visited tourist attractions. Designed by Swiss architect Bernard Tschumi, it is an ultra-modern glass and steel structure with light and airy exhibition spaces, built specifically to display ancient finds from the Acropolis.

Top things to see here include the 6th-century-BC Moschophoros (statue of a young man carrying a calf on his shoulders), the Caryatids (sculptures of female figures that held up the Erechtheion), and the highly controversial Parthenon marbles . From the museum's cafe-restaurant terrace, you can enjoy amazing views of the Acropolis itself.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Athens

Stunning Santorini is the most dramatic of all the Greek isles. It is best known for the west coast cliff-top towns of Fira and Oia , which appear to hang over a deep, blue sea-filled caldera. Made up of typical Cycladic whitewashed cubic buildings, many of which have been converted into boutique hotels with infinity pools, both Fira and Oia are considered romantic destinations, popular for weddings and honeymoons.

Things to do in Santorini include sunbathing and swimming at the black volcanic-sand beaches on the south and east coasts and visiting the archaeological site of Akrotiri , an Ancient Minoan settlement buried below lava following the volcanic eruption that created the caldera, some 3,600 years ago. The island has an airport and is served by ferries and catamarans from Athens' port, Piraeus.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions on Santorini

Many people consider Greece's most glamorous island destination to be Mykonos. After-dark activities center on Mykonos Town, noted for its chic boutique hotels, classy seafood restaurants, and live music venues. Other attractions include Paraportiani (a whitewashed church in Mykonos Town) and numerous sandy beaches along the island's south coast (served both by bus and taxi-boat from Mykonos Town).

The island is particularly popular with international celebrities. Mykonos has an airport and is connected by ferry and catamaran to Athens' port, Piraeus, and Rafina.

On the Greek mainland, Delphi is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Built on the lower slopes of Mount Parnassus, overlooking a dramatic ravine, the site was sacred to the ancients, who came here on pilgrimages to worship Apollo (god of light, prophecy, music, and healing) and to ask advice from the mythical Oracle.

It is made up of the crumbling ruins of numerous temples, a theater, and a stadium, dating from between the 8th century BC and the 2nd century AD. Nearby, stands the Delphi Archaeological Museum , displaying an impressive collection of finds from the site. Delphi lies 180 kilometers northwest of Athens.

Delphi is about a 2.5-hour drive from Athens. It can easily be done as an overnight trip from the city, or even a day trip if you don't mind a long day.

• Read More: Visiting Delphi from Athens: Highlights, Tips & Tours

The massive island of Crete is one of the most popular vacation destinations in Greece. Blessed with some of the best beaches in Greece , the island draws visitors from around the world. Some of the most popular beaches on Crete range from small arcs of sand backed by restaurants and promenades to wide-open natural stretches lapped by incredibly clear waters and endless views across the sea.

But Crete is not all about beaches. It has its fair share of notable archeological sites, including the impressive Palace of Knossos, located near the pleasant city of Heraklion . The historical city of Chania and the laid-back town of Agios Nikolaos have wonderful old waterfront areas perfect for spending long afternoons on a café terrace getting lost in the views.

Get away from the bigger communities, and head to smaller towns like Plakias or Matala on Crete's south coast to find more remote beaches and beautiful mountainous backdrops.

If archeological sites, beaches, and historical towns weren't enough, the island has one of the most impressive hikes in the world : the Samaria Gorge.

One of Greece's top tourist destinations, Corfu sits in the Ionian Sea off the west coast of the mainland. The capital, Corfu Town , is a UNESCO World Heritage site, thanks to its elegant Italianate architecture — it was ruled by the Venetians for several centuries. Explore its romantic pedestrian-only streets to discover two 16th-century fortresses and the arcaded Liston, lined by old-fashioned cafes.

Away from the main town, the island is lushly beautiful, with rugged limestone rocks tumbling into the sea in its north and velvety green hills in its south. The most popular beach area is Paleokastritsa , on the west coast, about 25 kilometers from Corfu Town. Here, you'll find a collection of deep, curving bays sheltering sand and pebble beaches stretching into a clear blue sea. Corfu is served by an airport and ferries from Igoumenitsa and Patras on the Greek mainland. In summer, ferries sailing from Ancona and Venice also stop here.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do on Corfu Island

One of the most unusual things to see in Greece has to be the Thessaly Plain, where bizarre rocky outcrops are capped by the centuries-old monasteries of Metéora. On the UNESCO World Heritage list, six of the monasteries are open to the public. You need to climb up several flights of stone steps carved into the rocks to reach each monastery, and inside, you'll find flickering candles, religious icons, Byzantine frescoes, and burning incense.

Opening hours vary, and to see all six monasteries, you need to spend at least one day in the area. The nearest town is Kalambaka . Consider staying here, as it's a pleasant and relaxed place to visit, with small hotels and family-run restaurants serving traditional fare.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Metéora

Lying on the Aegean Sea, close to Turkey, Rhodes is the largest of the Dodecanese islands. Its capital, UNESCO-listed Rhodes Town, is one of Greece's top tourist destinations. It is enclosed by an impressive fortification system, including monumental towers and gates built by the Knights of St. John after they took control of the island in the 14th century.

The car-free cobbled streets of the old town are a joy to explore on foot. Nearby attractions include the pretty hillside coastal town of Lindos, and Marmaris on the Turkish coast, which can be visited by excursion boat. Rhodes is served by an airport, as well as regular ferries from Athens' port, Piraeus.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Rhodes Town

Home to gorgeous scenery both above and under the sea surrounding it, Zákynthos (Zante) island is another top tourist destination in Greece. It is also easy to access, located just 16 kilometers off Peloponnese's west coast in the Ionian Sea.

Two of the biggest boasts on this geographically intriguing island are its pebble and sand beaches — Shipwreck Beach is the most famous — and stunning sea caves like the Blue Caves , off the island's northern tip. Inside, the sparkling water reflects the color of the blue sky on the cave walls to create a magical glow. The Blue Caves are only one of the many watery attractions around this island. There is also excellent snorkeling and scuba diving.

• Read More: Top Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Zakynthos

On the island of Crete, the Samaria Gorge is a top attraction for lovers of the great outdoors. Measuring 16 kilometers in length and, at its narrowest point, only four meters wide, it runs from Omalos (1,250 meters) in the White Mountains down to Agia Roumeli , on the Libyan Sea.

Depending on your level of fitness, it will take five to seven hours to walk. It is steep in parts and rocky, so you should wear good hiking shoes and carry plenty of water. The gorge lies within the Samaria National Park , and is on the UNESCO tentative list. Through summer, organized tours depart from Chania and Réthymnon .

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Chania

Often cited as Greece's most beautiful city, Nafplio is a popular weekend destination for wealthy Athenians. Built on a small peninsular on the east coast of the Peloponnese, it became the first capital of modern Greece in 1828 before Athens took over in 1834.

Take an afternoon or a day to wander through the old town, this car-free area is filled with Neoclassical mansions and proud churches and overlooked by the 18th-century Palamidi Fortress . Nearby attractions include Tiryns , Epidaurus Theater , and Ancient Corinth .

Thessaloniki doesn't seem to mind not being on most people's touring list. The locals are happy to have the place and all its sights to themselves. The main sightseeing attractions are its UNESCO-listed Byzantine churches , but worth investigating are several Roman monuments (including the Triumphal Arch of Galerius and the 4th-century Rotunda ), the 15th-century White Tower on the seafront, and an excellent Byzantine Museum .

Overlooking the Aegean Sea in northern Greece, Thessaloniki (Salonica) is the country's second biggest city after Athens. Founded in 316 BC due to its position close to both Bulgaria and Turkey, it has always been a crossroads of various cultures and religions.

One of the top day trips from Thessaloniki is to Mount Olympus , the highest mountain in Greece. Only 80 kilometers away on good roads, this impressive natural sight is well worth visiting. The most popular hiking trails depart from near the town of Prionia.

As you drive along the relatively flat highway 8 approaching the Peloponnese Peninsula, be sure to stop in at the lookout over the Corinth Canal. This canal, first dreamed about and attempted in 1 CE, was finally brought to fruition in 1883. Unfortunately for the builders, the canal was never particularly profitable or successful.

Park your car and walk out onto the bridge and give some thought as to how the original builders managed to dig down through the solid rock to carve out the canal.

Mount Olympus, famous home of the god Zeus, lies about halfway between Athens and Thessaloniki. Towering over the surrounding countryside at an impressive 2,918 meters, this mountain is a top recreation destination in the summer.

Three hiking trails lead to its summit, although most people take the two-day, one-night Priona trail. From the top, the views are unparalleled and well worth the effort expended to get here. You do not need any special equipment to do this hike, just a good assortment of clothing, sturdy hiking boots, and a taste for adventure.

One of the top archeological sites here in Greece, the Palace of Knossos is a must-see when visiting Crete. The site dates from the Late Minoan time period and has been very well restored. Although the standing buildings give you a real sense of what this place once looked like, as with many archeological sites in Greece, some portions require a bit of imagination.

The site is well laid out, with walking trails that wind their way past the main buildings and plazas. Be sure to check out the colorful paintings on some of the major structures near the end of the walkway.

The Palace of Knossos is located just outside of Heraklion , one of the main gateways to Crete. Tours can be easily arranged.

The impressive citadel of Mycenae is one of the top archeological sites south of Athens and well worth a visit for those interested in Greek history. Set impressively on a hill, Mycenae dates from around 1350 BCE, the peak of the Mycenaean civilization.

One of the key sights at Mycenae is the impressive Lion Gate. Set into the side of the hill, the gate is composed of perfectly inlaid stones over a rectangular doorway. This is the site where the famous gold mask was found by the explorer Heinrich Schliemann in the late 19th century. If the sun is getting to you, step inside the impressively domed Treasury of Atreus and enjoy some shade.

The island of Paros is sometimes overlooked by ferry travelers exploring the Cyclades, intent on visiting the more popular Santorini. However, this is a mistake. This laid-back island has everything that the busier islands offer farther south and north. The same whitewashed towns perched on the waterfront with patios full of laughing and smiling patrons are what you'll find here, but without the crowds.

Paros also has a fine selection of beaches and historical sites to explore. It's also a good spot to go if you are watching your costs; accommodation is cheaper here.

Another popular destination, Naxos is one of the largest Cycladic islands. This huge island is a fun place to explore, and with fewer tourists than places like Santorini or Mykonos. A couple of must-sees when exploring include the small towns of Filoti, Halki, and Apiranthos.

Take some time to wander through the main town, Chora of Naxos, especially the Kastro district. Here, you'll find a variety of shops selling all manner of souvenirs, along with cute restaurants with inviting patios.

If you want to hit the beach, Naxos does not disappoint. A couple to check out include Paradise Beach, Agia Anna, or Agios Prokopios. If you are into kiteboarding, the windswept Mikri Vigla is the place to go.

For a taste of quintessential Greece that's only a two-hour ferry ride from Athens , consider the delightful island of Hydra. Home to old mansions and white-washed houses adorned with bougainvillea and cobblestone streets the town has been attracting the creative set for decades.

The island is wonderfully car-free so walking is a pleasure, stroll the busy port area and be sure to check out the early 19th-century cannons along the waterfront. Should you need to get anywhere on the island, donkeys are the main mode of transport on land, and water taxis will be more than willing to take you to a secluded beach lapped by crystal-clear water.

Cat lovers will especially enjoy Hydra, it's known for its feline residents who are generally very friendly and always open for a tasty morsel of seafood.

Another one of Greece's premier natural attractions is the Víkos Gorge. Lesser known than the above profiled Samara Gorge on Crete, this incredible natural phenomenon is commonly known as the Grand Canyon of Greece. The gorge is a UNESCO World Heritage site and part of the larger Vikos–Aoös National Park.

An astounding 1,000 meters deep the canyon is one of the most amazing and easily accessible natural sights in the northwest area of Greece. If you want to just see the gorge from a lookout, one of the best is located at Oxya Viewpoint , where you'll be treated to views into the deepest part of the gorge.

For the more adventurous, a well-signposted 13-kilometer hiking trail takes you down into the gorge and back up the other side. The trail starts at Monodendri and ends at Vikos. Halfway through you can go for a dip in the icy cold Voidomatis Springs to cool off. The trail is considered moderately difficult and takes most people 4.5 to 5 hours to complete.

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26 of the Best Places to Visit in Greece in 2024

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: March 11, 2024

What are the best places to visit in Greece anyway? It’s a huge task to decide where to go in Greece. It could take a lifetime to discover all of its beautiful islands and astounding archeological sites. Greece is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world with something to suit everyone’s needs. Beach lovers and foodies, culture seekers, and history buffs will all fall in love with Greece.

Table of Contents

Beautiful Places to Visit in Greece

Dating back to 2000 BC, Greece is known as the birthplace of democracy and the cradle of western civilization. Some of the most beautiful places in Greece are the Greek Islands but the mainland houses rugged mountains and fascinating historic sites as well. So we are here to help you decide where to visit in Greece on your next holiday.

From whitewashed villages to its mountains, Greece is a land made for the Gods. There are so many beautiful places to visit in Greece that it really is impossible to show them all, but we are going to give it the old college try. So are you ready to discover Greece with us?

1. Santorini

Santorini is one of the best places to visit in Greece for a Honeymoon or romantic getaway. Of all the places in Greece, this island is certainly the most famous. With its whitewashed villages and blue domes sitting high on sea cliffs, Santorini is postcard perfect. The turquoise waters glisten in the caldera below as the sun sets over the Aegean Sea.

This island paradise with awe-inspiring views overlooking the caldera has it all black-sand beaches, red-sand beaches, and golden-sand beaches. It truly is the most beautiful of the Greek islands and our favorite place to visit. But make sure to pull yourself away from its infinity pools and stunning views to see the cultural side of the island and the archeological site of Akrotiri that dates back to the 16th century BC. Read more: 25 Best Things to do in Santorini, Greece

Where to Stay in Santorini

Where to stay in Santorini – We recommend staying on the west coast of Santorini in the town of Oia or Imerovigli. Two hotels that we recommend are Iconic Santorini in Imerovigli and Adronis Luxury Suites in the town of Oia. We have an entire post dedicated to Santorini hotels. Read more: Where to Stay in Santorini

How to Get to Santorini from Athens – We flew to Santorini from Athens and there are flights daily, but you can also take the Blue Star ferry from the Piraeus ferry port just outside of Athens. It’s about 20 minutes from the city.

Meteora is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Greece that is gaining in popularity. Located in central Greece, this awe-inspiring place is a sea of 9th-century monasteries built atop massive rock monoliths . The Monasteries of Meteora are so impressive that Meteora is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Massive sandstone spires reach 400 meters into the sky. Forming 60 million years ago, the landscape of Meteora is one of the most unique and beautiful we’ve ever seen. Monks built monasteries at the top of these mountains as a hidden retreat where they lived in seclusion and safety scaling the walls with ropes and ladders. Read more about Meteora in our post – Things to do in Meteora Greece – More than Monasteries

Where to Stay in Meteora

Where to stay in Meteora – Stay at  Divani Meteora Hotel situated in the town of Kalabaka right at the base of the massive Meteora Rocks. It has a swimming pool, spa and fantastic view.

You can book this top-rated two day tour from Athens that explores Meteora Monasteries and the Delphi Archaeological Site if you don’t have the time to stay in Meteora, but we recommend at least two nights in this magical part of Greece.

How to Get to Meteora – Meteora can be reached from the city of Athens by Bus, Train, and Car. We recommend renting a car as the best way to see Meteora is to drive around to its many lookouts. Going early in the morning before the tour buses is a must.

When visiting Greece, make sure to give yourself 3 days in Athens before heading off to the golden beaches of the islands. The capital city of Greece has a blend of ancient archaeological sites fitting in harmony with the everyday lives of the people. Few cities can compete with the wonder of Athens. The ancient Acropolis towers over this beautiful city with The Parthenon, built between 447-432 BC standing at its center.

Athens has it all. Tasty cuisine, culture, history, and vibrant nightlife. Athens is one of the best places in Greece for a blend of history and excitement. From the Ancient Agora, the Theatre of Herodes Atticus, and the Temple of Hephaestus to its stunning rooftop patios and delicious food, it is a must-stop on any Greece Itinerary. Read more: The Best Things to do in Athens, Greece

Where to Stay in Athens

Where to Stay in Athens – We’ve stayed in several neighborhoods around Athens, but recommend staying near Syntagma Square or Monasteraki Square.

For luxury accommodations, you can’t go wrong with Hotel Grand Bretagne . This Ultra-luxury hotel with a rooftop restaurant/bar/pool and full-service spa has some of the best views in Athens. Check out Availability & Prices  Trip Advisor  /   Booking.com

This past summer found an affordable hotel with beautiful views of the Acropolis at the Astor Hotel . But we have a full article breaking down Where To Stay In Athens – A Guide To The Best Neighborhoods

One of our favorite places in Greece just so happens to be one of the most recent places we visited. Epirus is located in northwestern Greece, bordered by Albania and the Ionian Sea. This is a huge region of Greece that is perfect for nature lovers. We suggest spending at least a week in Epirus as there is so much to do. Read all about it at Places to Visit in Epirus – The Best Kept Secret in Greece

This incredible region is filled with mountain villages, stunning landscapes, and beautiful beaches, this is a fantastic destination that has yet to be discovered. Making a base in the city of Ioannina we explored the stunning Stone Arch Bridges of Zagori to the most impressive monastery outside Meteora, the Kipina Monastery.

For our adventures all around Epirus, we used  Alpine Zone  which is the leader in adventure tourism around Epirus.  Check out Alpine Zone  to book your own Epirus, Adventures.

5. Ioannina

The capital of Epirus is the City of Ioannina and this city will surprise you. It is filled with Byzantine history, beautiful monasteries and museums, and lively nightlife. The most important place to see in Ioannina is the seven monasteries on the Island of the Lake.

The Monastery of Philanthropists which dates back to 1204 is one of three very important monasteries in Greece including Meteora and the Mount Athos Monastery. But there is so much more to Ioannina making it a must-visit on a Greek vacation. Read more: Things to do in Ioannina – A Little-Known Greece Escape

How to Get to Epirus : It is a 1h 15 min flight to the capital of Epirus, Ioannina (pronounced, Yo-ah-nah-nah) from Athens or you can rent a car. It is only a 4h 30min drive from Athens to Ioannina and getting to see the Greek countryside is a real treat. We know, we’ve done it!

Where to Stay in Ioannina

Ioannina is a great place to make a base to explore Epirus. Rent a car and do day trips to the surrounding villages and attractions.

Hotel du Lac is one of the best places to stay in Ioannina located within walking distance (20 minutes) of Old Town. See it on  TripAdvisor  /  Booking.com

The Lake Hotel is also a popular conference center with a beautiful pool overlooking Lake Pamvotida. Check rates and availability on  TripAdvisor  /  Booking.com

How to get to Ioannina: You can fly directly to Ioannina from Athens International Airport. There are daily flights to and from Athens. There are also buses from Thessaloniki which is just 3 hours away and long-distance buses from Athens.

This region of Greece has everything from beaches that rival the Cyclades Islands to the Old Town of Parga complete with traditional whitewashed houses and bright blue waters. We fell in love with the town of Parga and were surprised to see that it is one of the most beautiful destinations in Greece!

Parga rivaled the best of the Greek Islands without the over-tourism. Read more: 21 Best Greek Islands to Visit

The main attraction of Parga is Parga Castle where you can hike up for beautiful views of the colorful buildings lining the beach. Parga is located on the mainland, but it certainly feels like a Greek Isle, so even if you don’t make it to nearby Corfu, you will get your feel of what a Greek Island vacation feels like in Parga.

Nearby Valtos Beach which is often named one of the best beaches in Greece and Sivota, Preveza and Plataria have beautiful beaches as well. Make sure to relax at a beach bar to enjoy the local seafood, this part of Greece is famous for its gastronomy, which says a lot since Greek food, in general, is so amazing!

How to get to Parga: The closest airports to Parga are Aktion National Airport in Preveza (65 km) and Ioannina National Airport (103 km). From one of these airports, we suggest you rent a car to explore the area, or  Prime Transfer Services is a superb company owned by our friend Vasili who can get you around from place to place in safety and comfort.  Visit his website  to book day tours and transfers around Epirus, Greece.

Zagori is located just outside of Ioannina and if you have a car it is an easy day trip to enjoy the adventure capital of Epirus, but we suggest making a base in the mountainous village of Metsovo.

There is the Katogi Averoff Hotel and Winery and the beautiful Averoff Gallery to see. It makes for the perfect base to enjoy all the things to do in Vikos from its scenic hiking trails to historic monasteries.

Zagori is most famous for its stone bridges, but the Vikos Gorge is not to be missed. This is one of the natural wonders of Greece and is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the deepest gorge in the world. With hiking trails, scenic lookouts, and rich flora, this picturesque region of Greece is not to be missed.

8. Zakynthos (Zante)

While each and every Greek Island is beautiful, Zakynthos (also known as Zante in Greek) in particular, has a beautiful beach. Navagio Beach is a stunning scene of white sand, with chalky white sea cliffs reaching up from the deep azure waters. Perhaps the most famous beach in the Greek Islands, Navagiao Beach, aka Shipwreck Beach is surrounded by high white cliffs surrounding turquoise waters.

Shipwreck Beach is accessible only by boat tour making it even more pristine. You can book a small private excursion directly to the smuggler’s cove. Zakynthos is also one of the best islands for scuba diving in Greece. If you want to enjoy the water this is the island to do it.

Where to Stay in Zakynthos

Where to Stay in Zanynthos – On the East Coast of Zakynthos is the town of Zante. It is a good place to stay for nightlife and ease of getting around.

Located in the Ionian Sea, Zante is one of the seven Ionian islands. It is known as one of the best places in the Greek Islands for nightlife. But the island has so much to offer with ancient history, some of the country’s best beaches, and fantastic traditional Greek food. Read More: Things to do in Zante Greece

How to Get to Zakynthos – Ferries run to Zakynthos Island from Peloponnese. There are also flights to Zakynthos.

There is nothing better than island hopping when visiting Greece, and the beautiful island of Crete is a must stop on any Greek Vacation. Crete the largest island of all the Greek Islands and it certainly has the best beaches in Greece. You’ll also see the traditional villages and whitewashed houses that we’ve all come to know of the south.

This island has it all with high peaks, deep gorges, and pristine sandy beaches, Crete is the perfect destination for your next Greece adventure! Don’t miss taking a hike through Samaria Gorge, it is certainly one of Greece’s Natural Wonders. This national park is considered one of the most beautiful in Europe. And be sure to see Elafonisi Beach which is often considered the best beach in Greece. Read more: 23 Unique Things to Do in Crete

How to Get to Crete – We took a very pleasant ferry ride to Crete from Santorini. There are ferries from Athens to Crete, but it is 7 hours long. I would recommend flying to Crete as there are regular short flights to Heraklion.

10. Knossos

One of the best places on the island of Crete is Knossos. Make sure to get out to see the UNESCO World Heritage Site with your own eyes. This archaeological museum contains the palace of King Minos.

We rented a car to see this and highly recommend being mobile on your Greece Holidays. We always found that having a car rental allowed us to see the everyday life of Greek residents and to get off the beaten path. Compare prices here

Knossos is a 2000-year-old ancient site that dates back to the Minoan civilization. This large bronze age archeological site is one of the best preserved in Greece and is considered one of the best museums in the country.

• This private tour is an excellent way to see the best of Knossos and Heraklion City. Take a guided tour of Knossos, see the highlights of the main city of Crete, tour the old Heraklion, and try some traditional Greek food.

How to get to Crete from Athens – Crete is a long ferry ride from Athens being 5 hours. But if you break it up while you visit other islands in Greece like we did, taking the ferry is a great way to get around. There are also daily flights from Athens to the island of Crete.

Pelion is a beautiful region of Greece, located on the Pelion Peninsula of mainland Greece. Located between Athens and Thessaloniki Pelion is filled with picturesque villages that you must visit including Tsagarada, Makrinitsa, and Milies. Read More: Pelion Greece – Visiting the Unknown Paradise of Greece

Also, if you want to visit the locations of the movie Mama Mia, this is the place to be. Much of the movie was filmed in the coastal village of Damouchari. The coastal city of Volos is a beautiful city was home to  Jason and the Argonauts if you love ancient Greek mythology, this is a must-stop.

Where to Stay in Pelion

Where to Stay in Pelion – We stayed at the 12 Months Luxury Resor t in Tsagarada. There are local shuttles that take you around Pelion if you don’t have a car and this was a beautiful retreat.

How to Get to Pelion: If you are flying, the main hub for Pelion is Volos. It is a five-hour scenic drive north of Athens en route to another major Greek City, Thessaloniki in Northern Greece.

12. Skiathos

Skiathos was a surprising destination that takes you off the beaten path in Greece. With beautiful beaches and a thriving nightlife, Skiathos is popular with local tourists. With our car, we had a chance to explore the island and a highlight was visiting the Evangelistria Monastery founded in 1894.

Located in the northwest Aegean sea, in the Sporades archipelago, Skiathos feels like what Crete or Santorini would have been 20 years ago. This island has the same lovely whitewashed houses, sandy beaches, and the same vibe as the more popular Greek islands.

The best evenings we had in Skiathos were spent relaxing in a beachfront tavern sipping sparkling wine while eating traditional Greek food followed by spectacular sunsets while strolling along the waterfront.

Where to Stay in Skiathos

Where to Stay in Skiathos – We stayed at La Piscine Art Hotel. It was very central to everything.

How to Get to Skiathos: Ferries depart daily from Volos and Agios Konstantinos. You can take your car, (like we did) on the ferries and it is a great way to get around the island to explore its hidden beaches and beautiful villages.

13. Skopelos

Skopelos is a gorgeous island with the typical whitewashed houses with blue doors and terracotta roofs, picturesque monasteries clinging to its coast and stunning beaches. Skopelos wasn’t at the top of our list of wonderful places in Greece until we had the chance to visit this gorgeous Greek island.

Located just a hop skip and a jump from Skiathos, Skopelos is another Mama Mia destination filled with incredible scenery. . There are 360 monasteries and churches, blue waters made for diving and snorkeling, and impressive beaches with white limestone cliffs.

Where to Stay in Skopelos – The Skopelos Holidays Hotel & Spa was a lovely 5-star hotel in the main town of Skopelos where we enjoyed scenic views of the hills and bay.

How to Get to Skopelos – Ferries depart mainland Greece to Skopelos from Thessaloniki and Volos. There are also several ferries a day leaving from Skiathos. We suggest combining a trip with Skiathos, Pelion and Skopelos.

14. Costa Navarino

While the Greek islands are considered one of the best places to visit in Greece for beaches, we feel that Costa Navarino in the Southwest corner of the Peloponnese region on mainland Greece rivals the best of them. Located on the crystal clear waters of the Ionian Sea in Messinia, few tourists visit this amazing place in Greece.

Messinia is a destination unto itself with luxury resorts, olive groves, and picturesque villages making it one of our favorite places to visit in Greece. People know of the ancient ruins of Athens, but the city of Messene in the Peloponnese is just as impressive with fewer tourists. Read more: The Ultimate Guide to Costa Navarino, Greece

Where to Stay in Costa Navarino

Where to stay in Costa Navarino – The Westin Costa Navarino Resort

How to get to Costa Navarino – Costa Navarino is a 3-hour drive from Athens. We rented a car from Athens and it was a great way to have the freedom to explore its historical sites on our own

15. Voidokilia Beach

Not far from Costa Navarino is Voidokilia Beach, the most beautiful beach we’ve ever seen. Shaped like the Greek letter Omega, Voidokilia Beach is the place of legends. Homer referenced this beach in the Odyssey and it was believed to be used by King Nestor, the ancient king of Pylos. Read More: The Ultimate Guide to Costa Navarino, Greece

16. Messene

While everyone knows of the ancient ruins of the Acropolis, Temple of Apollo, or the Temple of Poseidon, not many have heard of the ancient city of Messene.

This well-preserved city of ancient Greece is a must-visit to see its ancient stadium and have it all to yourself. Messene is one of the Best Places in Greece Free of Crowds and Filled with centuries of history, it withstood many sieges by both the Macedonians and the Spartans.

It is not nearly as visited as other ancient destinations in Greece but it was definitely one of our favourites. We had the chance to visit Messene free from crowds, walking through the Hellenistic agora, theatre, and stadium with nobody else around. If you visit Costa Navarino, be sure to add the Ancient City of Messene Greek travel list.

Where to stay in Messene – We stayed at the Westin Costa Navarino and took a day trip to Messene, but there are plenty of places to stay nearby. You can browse them all here on TripAdvisor .

17. Kalamata

The port city of Kalamata is also the capital city of Messinia. This is a great place for fans of theatre and the arts to visit. That’s because the main draw here is the Castle of Isabeau. The International Dance Festival is held here annually. 

This site is a massive amphitheater that offers a view of the entire city. You will also get to see the various influences both the Venetians and the Turks had on the architecture of the structure. And of course, there are plenty of museums to visit while you’re here as well. Therefore, you should be sure to take your time exploring this city.

18. Thessaloniki

While we are in the area, be sure to keep driving to visit Thessaloniki. Thessaloniki is the capital of Greek Macedonia in Northern Greece. It has a feel of being in Turkey with Turkish Baths and monuments from the Byzantine and Roman eras.

Be sure to walk around the old town to see ancient sites like the Roman Market, Hammams, and Byzantine Churches. Don’t miss the White Tower which is the symbol of Thessaloniki, the 15th-century tower reaches 33 meters into the air.

Where to Stay in Thessaloniki

Where to Stay in Thessaloniki – Electra Palace is a luxury hotel overlooking Aristotelous Square, facing the Thermaikos Gulf.

How to Get to Thessaloniki – The international airport of Macedonia welcomes flights from several countries around the world. Being a major city in Greece, it is easy to get to Thessaloniki by air, train, bus, and ferry. It is also a popular cruise destination in Greece.

19. Mount Olympus National Park

When we hiked Mount Olympus, I couldn’t believe that we were actually on this mythical mountain. Located in Thessaly, Mount Olympus stands 2,917 m (9,570 ft) high and its natural beauty is not to be missed. Passing through waterfalls and dense forests, the mythical mountain feels worlds away from civilization.

Even if you only climb a portion of the Mountain of the Gods, do it. A good place to start is at the nearby town of Litochoro. We entered at the Prionia trailhead and walked down from there on this lovely day trip in Greece. If you are a fan of ancient Greek mythology, you must see Mount Olympus with your own eyes.

How to Get to Mount Olympus – As you have probably guessed, we feel that the best way for getting around Greece is by car and highly recommend a car rental . But you can also get there by public bus from Thessaloniki and Athens.

How to Get to Messene – You can take a bus from Athens which is approximately 3 1/2 Hours. Buses also run from Kalamata and Costa Navarino organizes day tours to Messene.

20. Mykonos

Mykonos belongs to the Cyclades Islands group in the Aegean Sea and has long been one of the most popular places in Greece for twenty-somethings getting away from it all.

It is the second most visited place in Greece right after Santorini and with good reason. This beautiful island is world famous golden sand beaches falling into crystal clear waters attract people to its shores for beach time and nightlife. Read more: 22 Best Things to do in Mykonos, Greece

But there is more to the island than partying and nightlife. There are many historic places. Be sure to visit the archaeological site of Delos the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis.

Mykonos is best known for its beautiful windmills lining the shore which have become the symbol of the island. Built by the Venetians in the 16th century, they are incredibly well preserved.

It is fitting that the town of Alefkandra is known as Little Venice. With its charming wooden balconies hanging over the sea, it was once home to rich merchants of Venice .

How to Get to Mykonos – Like all the Greek islands, it is easy to get there by ferry from the other islands. It is possible to take the ferry from Athens as well. You can also fly directly from Athens or your home country.

Known as Knights Island, Rhodes is a Greek Island on the Aegean Sea that is draped in history and natural beauty. Inhabited since prehistoric times a visit to Rhodes offers the perfect blend of history and beautiful scenery. The medieval town of Rhodes and its ancient ruins makes Rhones one of the best islands to visit in Greece for History

Notable in Rhodes is the Acropolis of Lindos, Rhodes Old Town, Palace of the Grand Master, and relaxing at Lindos Beach (aka Limanaki Agios Pavlos). Rhodes was an important location for the Trojan War in 1184 BC where the Dorians were. It has survived centuries of earthquakes and wars making it one of the most interesting places to visit in Greece. Read more: 21 Best Greek Islands to Visit

Combined with ancient history, great beaches, and nightlife, it is also one of the most popular places to visit in Greece. A part of the Dodecanese Islands, Rhodes (like many other Greek Islands) has golden sandy beaches and crystal clear azure waters.

How to Get to Rhodes – Piraeus port Airport on Rhodes is one of the busiest airports in Greece and regular flights fly to Rhodes from several destinations. Regular ferries from Athens Piraeus port to Rhodes.

Corfu is hardly a hidden gem, and, in peak season, the island does get a little swamped by mass tourism. However, Corfu is one of the best Greek islands to visit if you are visiting off-season or in the shoulder seasons.

Corfu is Greece’s greenest island. It also has lots of historical sites dotted around the island. Corfu Town is perhaps the epicenter of history in Corfu and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.

How to Get to Corfu: Corfu International Airport is situated within a short taxi ride (or half an hour’s walk) of Corfu Town, and it has regular flights from many major European cities.

Delphi Archaeological Site is a famous place to visit in Greece. This ancient temple located at the top Mount Parnassus dedicated to the Greek God Apollo is awe-inspiring. The ancient Greeks, revered Delphi s their center of worship.

One of the best things to see in Greece is Delphi. Why? because of its history and setting. With the Temple of Apollo standing all at is center. Delphi dates back to the 8th century BC and is one of the top destinations in Greece for beauty and history. The ancient temple complex of Apollo sitting atop the high mountain makes for an incredible scene.

Book this highly rated private day tour from Athens to Delphi where you’ll explore the UNESCO-listed Delphi Archaeological Site and marvel at ancient statues of the Charioteer and the Sphinx of Naxos at the Delphi Archeological Museum

How to Get to Delphi – Delphi is a popular day tour from Athens that you can organize an easy excursion to. You can also take a bus to Delphi. It is 3 hours from Athens. We highly recommend renting a car.

24. Halkidiki

Halkidiki is an area located in the northern part of Greece . It is famous for its three peninsulas known as “the three legs” – Kassandra, Sithonia, and Mount Athos. One of the most interesting places in Halkidiki is Mount Athos Monastery. Mount Athos Monastery is one of the three important monasteries in Greece. The others are Meteora and Ioannina in Epirus.

Halkidiki is probably one of the best places to visit in Greece that you’ve never heard of. Compared to the thousands of islands in Greece, tourists have yet to discover Halkidiki. It is popular with neighboring Bulgaria and Romanian sunseekers but it will soon catch on with the rest of Europe I am sure. Read more about Halkidiki here .

How to Get to Halkidiki – From Thessaloniki,  a car transfer  can be arranged to the hotel or even a car rental. Once you get to your hotel there are several options to rent a car in the main resorts, but probably it is better to get one at Thessaloniki airport. You will need it anyway to explore the area!

25. Athens Riviera

If you are visiting Athens and don’t have time to make your way to the islands, the Athens Riviera is a great place to visit in Greece. We spent a long weekend enjoying the stretch of the Athens Riviera just a short drive outside the city. You can hire a taxi from Athens or rent a car. Our hotel the Vincci Ever Eden Hotel offered discounted transfers from Athens International Airport.

26. Poseidon’s Temple – Cape Sounion

Even if you don’t stay overnight on the Athens Riviera, a day trip from Athens to see Poseidon’s Temple is a must. It took us several trips to Greece before seeing this imposing temple on the shore of the Ionian Sea and it is worth the trip.

The ancient world loved honoring its Greek Gods and Poseidon’s Temple is the most impressive simply due to its location. You can book this day tour from Athens.

Where Should You Go in Greece for the First Time?

When visiting Greece for the first time, we suggest flying into Athens and spending three days exploring the ancient ruins, the Acropolis, and National Archaeological Museum and enjoying its fun nightlife. After getting acquainted with Athens, we then suggest moving on to Santorini, Mykonos , or Crete to enjoy a taste of the Greek Islands.

What are the Most Beautiful Places in Greece?

There are many beautiful places in Greece from the monasteries of Meteora to the rugged beauty of Epirus , but we think that the most beautiful place in Greece is Santorini.

This beautiful island lives up to the hype with traditional whitewashed villages lining the slopes of the high seacliffs overlooking the caldera. While it is very busy with day tours and cruise ships in peak season, we suggest spending 5 days to a week in Santorini in shoulder season to really get a feel for this Cyclades Island.

And these are the best places to visit in Greece. We love exploring this incredible country and going back to Greece again and again, so we want to know where to go next. Where have you been in Greece? Is there a place we should add to our list? Let us know in the comments below.

With each visit to a new destination in Greece, we are mesmerized by its beauty. There are so many places in Greece, it could take a lifetime and we are okay with that. We look forward to going back to Greece again and again.

Plan Your Next Trip to Greece With These Resources

• 25 Interesting and Fun Facts About Greece
• Best Greek Islands to Visit
• Ultimate Greek Food Guide – Traditional Dishes to Eat in Greece
• Halkidiki Greece – The Complete Travel Guide
• Things to do in Zakynthos, Greece
• The Best Honeymoon Destinations in the World
• Bucket List Travels – 52 Places to Visit in Your Lifetime

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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6 thoughts on “26 of the Best Places to Visit in Greece in 2024”

I’m surprised you left out Hydra. The town is quaint and car-free so pedestrian and donkey travel is it (unless you can take a water taxi there). It’s very beautiful! We loved it on our trip in Sept.

A very informative read. Thank you for this good quality knowledge, great work done. I will tweet your post and share this information with the world.

This is a precise, clear, and yet informative read. Thank you for this, Cudos to you for this information,great work done.

Santorini and Mykonos are beautiful places. They have been on my bucket list for so long. God knows when wil I get the chance to visit them.

Evia Island – the second largest island in Greece. It’s about an hours train ride from Athens. Beautiful place.

The guidelines of train schedule is very awesome and really helpful to me about the Greece

Crete simply has it all!

Crete is the largest island in Greece, and the fifth largest one in the Mediterranean Sea. Here, you can admire the remnants of brilliant civilizations, explore glorious beaches, impressive mountainscapes, fertile valleys and steep gorges, and become part of the island’s rich gastronomic culture. Crete is, after all, a small universe teeming with beauties and treasures that you will probably need a lifetime to uncover!

Where to go...

Chania (also spelled Hania) is the capital city, a place where different civilizations have flourished throughout the centuries. Strolling around the Old Town’s maze-like alleys with the beautiful Venetian mansions, the fountains and the churches will guide you through well-preserved historical monuments. The city of Chania is built on the area of Minoan Kidonia, at the end of the homonym gulf between Akrotiri and Onicha peninsulas. It was the former capital city of Crete (from 1847 until 1972). Nowadays, it is the second largest city of Crete after Heraklion and capital of the homonym prefecture. Get familiar with the city of Chania by wandering around in its streets, visiting its museums and admiring the different architectural styles presenting the historical route of the city.

Rethymno is located in the north end of the prefecture, built by the sea and is a city with many faces. Rethymno or Rithymna as it was once called has been inhabited since the Later Minoan III period. Nowadays, it keeps the elements inherited by its history (from antiquity up to now), preserving at the same time the characteristics of a modern city. You can reach Rethymno by boat from Piraeus or by plane from Athens to Chania and then drive 60 km to Rethymno.

Heraklion is the largest city of Crete and one of Greece’s major urban centres. The city flourished under a multicultural influence throughout the centuries; that’s why there is a plethora of Byzantine , Venetian and Ottoman structures to look out for! The city’s landmark is the 16th c. Koules fortress in the westernmost side of the old Venetian port , which along with the fortification walls (dating back to the same period) are among the most significant and imposing sights.

Agios Nikolaos

Agios Nikolaos (“Ag Nik” as the British visitors love to call it) is the capital town of Lassithi. Here, the bottomless salt lake Voulismeni dominates the area. A narrow channel of water connects the lake with the sea, while an imposing backdrop of red rock and trees adds to the natural beauty of the scenery. A small pine tree park lies above the lake, and a stone path leads to its southern section to a cute small harbour for fishing boats. The city boasts interesting Archaeological, Folklore, and Natural History museums, Byzantine churches, a well-organised marina, bustling pedestrian streets (ideal for leisurely walks), and traditional squares with buzzing cafés and restaurants.

10 reasons to fall in love with Crete

Local Dishes

Kalitsounia

Tips for your trips.

The Old Port Area of Chania

Chania’s Venetian Harbour was carefully built in the 14th century for commercial purposes and for protection against pirate raids. Today it is a point of reference for the city of Chania, and a much-photographed place with a touch of magic!

Geoparks in Greece

Greece is a land of major geological change. Millions of years of continuous mountain building have endowed this part of the planet with amazing natural monuments.

Explore the east part of Crete

Take part in a traditional harvest activity!

13 Oscar winning beaches

The first thing that comes to mind when you think about Greek summer are the endless coasts and the charming seashores that “flirt” with the magical waters of the Aegean, Ionian and Lybian Sea.

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.

Real Greek Experiences

Greek Culture, Travel Information, Itineraries, Life in Greece

Real Greek Experiences – Travel Blog About Greece

Welcome to Real Greek Experiences, a travel blog about Greece and the Greek islands. I offer information and tips about the beautiful Mediterranean country, and help travelers plan their Greek vacation independently.

Real Greek Experiences – An introduction to Greek life

Hi and welcome to my Greece travel blog! I am Vanessa , and I was born in Athens, where I live. In this blog, I suggest the best places to visit in Greece, and offer travel tips about weather, transportation, food and sightseeing. I also write about Greek culture, history, customs, and Greek lifestyle.

You will find articles on popular destinations, such as Athens , the famous Mykonos and Santorini , Ancient Delphi and the Meteora monasteries .

However, my aim is to introduce you to the less visited areas, focusing on authenticity. I love writing about my favourite places, and make sure you experience things the way locals do.

My vision is to help you explore and discover Greece without any stress, and have a Real Greek Experience during your holiday!

A few articles to get you started on Real Greek Experiences

Here are a few suggestions on where to start:

What to see in Athens in three days

A complete 3-day itinerary for the city of Athens, the Greek capital. Includes the main sights, local highlights, walking routes, and suggestions on places to eat.

Read it here: What to see in Athens in three days

Also read: Athens combo ticket

What to do in Santorini in four days

How to spend four days in Santorini, the iconic Greek island which is a dream destination for thousands of people. You will find tips on beaches, mountain villages, boat cruises, wine tours, restaurants and more.

Read it here:   What to do in Santorini in four days

Driving in Greece

If you are interested in driving in Greece, you’ll have lots of fun reading this guide. To sum things up, not all Greeks drive like crazy, but there are some things you should take into consideration.

Read it here: Driving in Greece

What to pack for Greece

A guide on what to pack for Greece, for all seasons – I can assure you that Greece has four seasons alright! Whatever you do, bring comfy shoes, a few different layers of clothes, sunscreen and sunglasses.

Read it here: What to pack for Greece for all seasons

Greek Orthodox Easter traditions

Greek Easter is the most important celebration in every single region of Greece. Here is all you need to know about the Greek traditions throughout the Holy Week, the joyous Anastasi liturgy on Good Saturday, and the special dishes prepared for Easter Sunday.

Read it here:   Greek Orthodox Easter traditions

• Greek celebrations

Articles on the major Greek celebrations, religious days and public holidays, which are a big part of everyday life. You will also find information on the Greek panigiria , local feasts with lots of eating, drinking and traditional Greek dancing.

Read them here:

• Kathara Deftera – Clean Monday
• Independence Day – 25 March
• The Oxi day – 28 October
• Christmas in Greece

An introduction to the Greek island groups

Greece has several dozens of islands, and most visitors don’t know where to start! This article introduces the various Greek island groups.

Read it here: The Greek island groups

Also read: Island hopping in Greece on a budget

50 popular dishes of Greece

Greece has so many more dishes apart from Greek salad, souvlaki and moussaka ! This article includes information about our rich culinary tradition. You will find dishes based on meat, fish, dairy products, legumes, fresh produce, and good quality olive oil.

Read it here: 50 popular dishes of Greece

The evil eye in Greece

What is the Greek evil eye? Is it reality, or superstition? Have a look for yourself!

Read it here: The evil eye in Greece

Every week, I add more articles to Real Greek Experiences. Feel free to subscribe to my weekly newsletter , and never miss a new blog post!

Booking ferries, tours, rooms, cars and transfers in Greece

If  you want to make any bookings in advance of your trip, here are a few websites you will find helpful:

• FerryScanner – A search engine where you can compare ferry routes, prices, and book your ferry tickets online
• Get Your Guide – Hundreds of tours in Athens, the Greek islands and the rest of Greece and the world. You can choose from sailing trips, cruises, food tours, guided tours in the ancient sites, and so much more!
• Booking.com – My favorite platform to book rooms and apartments in Greece. It has a wider selection (and, often, better prices) than other popular platforms.
• DiscoverCars – A great online tool to book a rental vehicle during your holiday. You can compare prices across several well-known operators, choose your preferred insurance policy, and pick any extras.
• Welcome Pickups – Book a private transfer quickly and easily.

One more thing: I’ve traveled to many cities and countries in the world, and can relate to anyone’s excitement when planning a trip to Athens and Greece! I always answer all questions, so feel free to get in touch on my FB page , or at [email protected]. 

Enjoy your stay in Greece!

Travel, Tourism & Hospitality

Travel and tourism in Greece - statistics & facts

What are the leading inbound tourism markets in greece, outbound and domestic tourism in greece, key insights.

Detailed statistics

Travel and tourism's total contribution to GDP in Greece 2019-2022

Distribution of travel and tourism expenditure in Greece 2019-2022, by type

Travel and tourism's total contribution to employment in Greece 2019-2022

Editor’s Picks Current statistics on this topic

Travel and tourism: share of GDP in the EU-27 and the UK 2019-2022, by country

Leisure Travel

Leading international travel markets in Greece 2019-2023, by arrivals

Further recommended statistics

• Basic Statistic Travel and tourism's total contribution to GDP in Greece 2019-2022
• Basic Statistic Travel and tourism: share of GDP in the EU-27 and the UK 2019-2022, by country
• Basic Statistic Distribution of travel and tourism expenditure in Greece 2019-2022, by type
• Basic Statistic Distribution of travel and tourism expenditure in Greece 2019-2022, by tourist type
• Basic Statistic Travel and tourism's total contribution to employment in Greece 2019-2022

Travel and tourism's total contribution to GDP in Greece 2019-2022

Total contribution of travel and tourism to GDP in Greece in 2019 and 2022 (in billion euros)

Share of travel and tourism's total contribution to GDP in European Union member countries (EU-27) and the United Kingdom (UK) in 2019 and 2022

Distribution of travel and tourism spending in Greece in 2019 and 2022, by type

Distribution of travel and tourism expenditure in Greece 2019-2022, by tourist type

Distribution of travel and tourism spending in Greece in 2019 and 2022, by type of tourist

Travel and tourism's total contribution to employment in Greece 2019-2022

Total contribution of travel and tourism to employment in Greece in 2019 and 2022 (in million jobs)

Inbound tourism

• Premium Statistic Number of inbound tourists in Greece 2005-2023
• Premium Statistic Leading international travel markets in Greece 2019-2023, by arrivals
• Premium Statistic Average duration of stay by inbound tourists in Greece 2022, by country
• Premium Statistic Number of inbound tourist visits to Greece 2019-2022, by region
• Premium Statistic International travel receipts in Greece 2003-2023
• Premium Statistic International tourist expenditure in Greece 2019-2023, by purpose of trip

Number of inbound tourists in Greece 2005-2023

Number of international tourists in Greece from 2005 to 2023 (in 1,000s)

Leading inbound travel markets in Greece from 2019 to 2023, by number of arrivals (in 1,000s)

Average duration of stay by inbound tourists in Greece 2022, by country

Average length of stay of international visitors in Greece in 2022, by country (in number of overnight stays)

Number of inbound tourist visits to Greece 2019-2022, by region

Number of international visits to Greece from 2019 to 2022, by region (in 1,000s)

International travel receipts in Greece 2003-2023

Value of international travel receipts in Greece from 2003 to 2023 (in million euros)

International tourist expenditure in Greece 2019-2023, by purpose of trip

Value of international travel receipts in Greece from 2019 to 2023, by purpose of travel (in million euros)

Inbound tourist destinations

• Premium Statistic Number of international air arrivals in Athens, Greece 2010-2023
• Premium Statistic Number of international air arrivals in Thessaloniki, Greece 2010-2023
• Premium Statistic International air arrivals to South Aegean region of Greece 2010-2023, by island
• Premium Statistic Number of international air arrivals in Crete, Greece 2010-2023
• Premium Statistic Leading inbound travel markets in Crete, Greece 2019-2022, by number of visits
• Premium Statistic International air arrivals on the Ionian Islands, Greece 2010-2023, by island
• Premium Statistic Leading inbound tourist markets in the Ionian Islands, Greece 2019-2023

Number of international air arrivals in Athens, Greece 2010-2023

Number of international air arrivals in Athens, Greece from 2010 to 2023 (in 1,000s)

Number of international air arrivals in Thessaloniki, Greece 2010-2023

Number of international air arrivals in Thessaloniki, Greece from 2010 to 2023 (in 1,000s)

International air arrivals to South Aegean region of Greece 2010-2023, by island

Number of international air arrivals on selected islands in the South Aegean region of Greece from 2010 to 2023 (in 1,000s)

Number of international air arrivals in Crete, Greece 2010-2023

Number of international air arrivals on the Greek Island of Crete from 2010 to 2023 (in 1,000s)

Leading inbound travel markets in Crete, Greece 2019-2022, by number of visits

Number of inbound tourist visits to the Greek Island of Crete from 2019 to 2022, by country of origin (in 1,000s)

International air arrivals on the Ionian Islands, Greece 2010-2023, by island

Number of international air arrivals on the Ionian Islands in Greece from 2010 to 2023, by island (in 1,000s)

Leading inbound tourist markets in the Ionian Islands, Greece 2019-2023

Leading inbound tourist markets in the Ionian Islands in Greece from 2019 to 2023 (in 1,000 visits)

Domestic tourism

• Premium Statistic Total number of domestic trips in Greece 2015-2021
• Premium Statistic Number of domestic trips in Greece 2015-2021, by type
• Premium Statistic Number of domestic overnight trips in Greece 2015-2021, by purpose
• Premium Statistic Number of domestic overnight trips in Greece 2015-2021, by transport
• Basic Statistic Domestic tourism spending in Greece 2019-2022

Total number of domestic trips in Greece 2015-2021

Total number of domestic trips in Greece from 2015 to 2021 (in 1,000s)

Number of domestic trips in Greece 2015-2021, by type

Number of domestic trips in Greece from 2015 to 2021, by type (in 1,000s)

Number of domestic overnight trips in Greece 2015-2021, by purpose

Number of domestic overnight trips in Greece from 2015 to 2021, by purpose (in 1,000s)

Number of domestic overnight trips in Greece 2015-2021, by transport

Number of overnight domestic trips in Greece from 2015 to 2021, by mode of transport (in 1,000s)

Domestic tourism spending in Greece 2019-2022

Domestic tourism expenditure in Greece in 2019 and 2022 (in billion euros)

Outbound tourism

• Premium Statistic Number of outbound tourists from Greece 2005-2023
• Premium Statistic Leading outbound travel destinations from Greece 2016-2023
• Premium Statistic Outbound travel expenditure in Greece 2003-2023
• Premium Statistic Outbound travel expenditure by Greek residents 2016-2023, by destination

Number of outbound tourists from Greece 2005-2023

Number of outbound travelers from Greece from 2005 to 2023 (in 1,000s)

Leading outbound travel destinations from Greece 2016-2023

Leading destinations for outbound travelers from Greece from 2016 to 2023 (in 1,000s)

Outbound travel expenditure in Greece 2003-2023

Value of international travel payments by residents of Greece from 2003 to 2023 (in million euros)

Outbound travel expenditure by Greek residents 2016-2023, by destination

Value of international travel payments by residents of Greece from 2016 to 2023, by country of destination (in million euros)

Accommodation

• Basic Statistic Number of tourist accommodation establishments in Greece 2013-2022
• Basic Statistic Number of nights in tourist accommodation in Greece 2013-2022
• Basic Statistic Number of tourist accommodation establishments in Greece 2022, by type
• Premium Statistic Number of hotels and similar accommodation in Greece 2013-2022
• Premium Statistic Travel and tourism revenue in Greece 2017-2027, by segment

Number of tourist accommodation establishments in Greece 2013-2022

Number of travel accommodation establishments in Greece from 2013 to 2022

Number of nights in tourist accommodation in Greece 2013-2022

Number of overnight stays spent at travel accommodation establishments in Greece from 2013 to 2022 (in millions)

Number of tourist accommodation establishments in Greece 2022, by type

Number of travel accommodation establishments in Greece in 2022, by type

Number of hotels and similar accommodation in Greece 2013-2022

Number of hotels and similar accommodation establishments in Greece from 2013 to 2022

Travel and tourism revenue in Greece 2017-2027, by segment

Revenue of the travel and tourism market in Greece from 2017 to 2022, with a forecast until 2027, by segment (in million U.S. dollars)

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The ultimate Greece holiday destinations to visit in 2024

Sunny islands, ancient cities and the mountainous mainland – these are the very best Greece holiday destinations

Whether you want to visit one of the thousands of islands, from the Cyclades to the Sporades, tour the classical destinations on the mainland or admire the Acropolis in Athens , there’s a holiday destination in Greece for you.

Just like Italy's holiday destinations and the most beautiful Portuguese holiday destinations , the beauty spots in Greece are perfect for a spring , summer or autumn escape when you can make the most of the Mediterranean sunshine.

Mykonos and Santorini in the Cyclades get more tourist footfall than most of the rest of the country, but there are other islands worth a visit in this region of the Aegean, too.

Sifnos, for example – home to several hundred whitewashed churches, an exciting food scene and charming boutique hotels. Or magical Milos, with its rich mining history, incredible geology and hilltop towns, where the sunsets give even Santorini’s a run for their money.

Ancient Athens never gets old: the almighty Acropolis is one of the most majestic sites in the country.

Crete may be an island, but it’s a vast one – don’t miss the gorgeous capital Chania, with its Venetian harbour and restaurants along the water’s edge.

Here are our favourite Greece holiday destinations to visit in 2024.

Framed by the dramatic Taygetus mountain range, the lively city of Kalamata is the capital and central port of Messinia on the Peloponnese peninsula in southern Greece. It's a haven for culture vultures: there's the annual International Dance Festival, regular shows at Castle of Isabeau, an excellent archaeological museum, tonnes to see at the Modern Greek Art Gallery, and a pretty old town filled with local shops and boutiques to boot. For beach lovers, meanwhile, there's a full four-kilometre stretch of crystal-clear sea and sand, as well as a waterfront area dotted with tavernas, restaurants, and bars.

Where to stay: A little while out of town, facing the wide, sandy Analipsi bay, you'll find Buca Beach Club – a minimalist, boutique-style Neilson resort offering water sports, activities and relaxation aplenty. Words Clementina Jackson

Mykonos may have a reputation as Greece’s premier party-loving island, but there’s another, far quieter side to the island. And regardless of how popular it is today, there’s a reason it became so adored and sought-after in the first place. Mykonos Town is where you’ll find some of the island’s iconic windmills. There are also lots of lovely beaches on the island, including Agios Ioannis, which is lined by restaurants where you can dine on fresh seafood at the water’s edge. How to visit: Travel on board Star Clipper with the writer Victoria Hislop, who has written many novels set in Greece, and see a less-trodden part of Mykonos. Your voyage will begin in Athens, stopping at Patmos and other places before you dock at Mykonos for a relaxing day on a beautiful beach.

To the north of the Ionian Sea, the mountainous, cypress-studded isle of Corfu has been ruled by the Venetians, French and British over the years, which makes it a fascinating place to visit (and not just for fans of The Durrells ). As well as the golden beaches and sparkling coastline, which is dotted with well-heeled resorts, there are lots of mountain villages. Corfu Town – with its palaces, Venetian fortresses, cobblestoned alleyways and UNESCO-listed old town – is not to be missed.

Where to stay: For some romantic seclusion, Domes Miramare , on an olive grove above the coast, is the hotel for you – it was built by the Onassis family in the 1960s and has been popular with royals and rock stars ever since.

One of Greece’s lesser-visited islands, Amorgós is just as beautiful as its counterparts that see far higher footfall come the summer months. The sleepy isle is the easternmost of the Cyclades, and the closest to the Dodecanese archipelago. As with most Greek islands, it’s home to several beautiful, quiet beaches, lots of whitewashed architecture, and some iconic blue-dome-topped churches, too.

How to visit: Set sail aboard a nine-day cruise with the celebrated writer Victoria Hislop, who has based many of her novels in Greece and its islands. She will host a drinks reception during the trip and discuss her accomplished career, and will sign copies of her latest book, The Figurine . The journey begins in Athens and will also dock in Patmos and Mykonos.

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Mani Peninsula

In the central of the three finger-shaped peninsulas of the Peloponnese and one of the most wild, remote parts of Greece, the Mani is home to the Maniots, believed to be descended from the Spartans. The dramatic scenery spans the Taygetos Mountains, quiet coves and walking trails linking up hilltop hamlets. The region is divided into the Outer Mani, which includes coastal villages such as Stoupa, and the Deep Mani, visited by few tourists.

Where to stay: For a stay as historic as its surroundings, look no further than Citta dei Nicliani , an officially designated ‘ancient monument’, formed from an old tower and a series of atmospheric stone buildings.

The rugged, mountainous Epirus region of north-western Greece may not be all that well-known, but if you like your classics, you’ll enjoy a visit to the door to Hades, AKA the Necromanteion of Acheron. In Preveza, there’s a charming old town and lots of seafood restaurants; or tour the shores of the Ionian Sea, go canyoning, hike to cliff-top monasteries and stop by pretty mountain villages.

Where to stay: At Meraviglia Slow Living on the edge of Preveza, the clue is in the name: hotel guests can enjoy a peaceful, unhurried pace of life, while admiring the stunning architecture (the hotel is the dream creation of a local construction mogul).

Home to Mount Athos, this part of northern Greece is formed from peninsulas of forests and sandy bays, and has lots of seaside resorts to choose from. Archaeological sites of note include Stageira, which is where Aristotle was born, and Olynthus, founded by the son of Heracles and famous for its mosaic floors.

Where to stay: The westernmost peninsula has the most bustle and it’s where you’ll find Sani Resort, a collection of five hotels – including Sani Beach and Sani Dunes – within a well-equipped estate that has everything from football academies, survival courses with Bear Grylls and tennis courts to fine-dining restaurants and its own marina.

Skopelos and Skiathos

If you thought the backdrop of the first Mamma Mia! film looked like your idea of Greek-holiday heaven, you need to visit the Sporades isles of Skopelos and Skiathos, which are where much of the filming took place. Skopelos has no airport, which makes it a little harder to get to, but all the more rewarding when you reach it. The unspoilt island is much more authentic than many of its crowd-frequented counterparts.

Where to stay: It’s just a short ferry ride to Skopelos from neighbouring Skiathos, which does have an air hub. Over on this island, Elivi was once popular with Jacki O – today, it has villas along the beach, a Japanese restaurant and an Elemis spa.

Crete is the fifth largest island in the Med and there’s so much more to it than popular package-holiday resorts. The capital Chania, on the north-west coast, has a Venetian harbour that was built in the 14th century and a lighthouse from a couple of centuries later with Venetian, Ottoman and Egyptian influences. Classical sites include the Palace of Knossos, a Minoan settlement with its own labyrinth, and the remains of the city of Eleutherna.

Where to stay: In the east, Acro Suites has been created by a Cretan family with several other hotels on the island – each of the stylish, cliff-edge rooms has its own pool and there’s a superb spa, too.

A butterfly-shaped island in the Cyclades, Milos has an incredible landscape that spans red, pink and orange beaches, caves and the lunar landscape of Sarakiniko. In Klima, colourful fishermen’s houses are lined up along the water, and there are beaches marked out as being only for the adventurous, since they can only be reached by ladder (or boat, of course). More amazing rock formations await at Kleftiko, Fyrligos and Glaronisia. All days should end in the ancient capital Plaka – high on a hilltop and with a 13th-century Venetian fort – for sunsets that rival even those seen on Santorini.

Where to stay: A perfect base in Pollonia is Captain Zeppos Boutique hotel , which has just a handful of suites and a very helpful owner, who’ll assist with everything from hire cars to kayaks to borrow.

The tiny island of Hydra in the Argo Saronic Gulf, close to the Peloponnese coast, is just 10 miles long. It was once home to Leonard Cohen – the singer lived here in the Sixties and it’s where he met his muse Marianne. The main harbour is the only town, there are no cars (just horses, donkeys and water taxis), bells ring out from its hundreds of churches and the coves are scented by pine. You won’t find any big resorts or high-rise hotels, and there are certainly no arrivals by air.

Where to stay: Not to be confused with a certain behemoth hotel brand, the Four Seasons Hydra Luxury Suites is one of the most charming places to stay on the island.

The ancient landmarks of the capital make it one of the most popular holiday destinations in Greece, with people eager to explore the classical sites – the most famous of which, of course, is the Acropolis, a hilltop citadel with buildings that include the Parthenon temple. More archeological treasures await at the many museums, which showcase ceramics, sculptures and jewellery from Ancient Greece. The modern city is a lively one, with neighbourhoods such as gallery-packed Kolonaki and edgy Exarcheia.

Where to stay: Keep watch over the Acropolis from the comfort of the Hotel Grande Bretagne on Syntagma Square, which has been offering refuge to classics fans since 1874.

Santorini and Mykonos may steal a lot of the Cyclades’ thunder, but Sifnos is just as captivating as its more tourist-frequented neighbours. Fittingly for the birthplace of beloved Greek chef Nikolaos Tselementes, the island has some excellent foodie credentials – visitors can dine at upscale seafood bars where the jet-set yachts drop anchor and traditional tavernas, and try island-made goat’s cheese, chickpea fritters and aniseed buns in the ancient villages. Sifnos also has 235 whitewashed churches, monasteries and temples to Artemis and Apollo.

Where to stay: Verina Astra is a boutique hotel with pastel-coloured shutters, shaded terraces and stone walls that gives its guests a taste of the traditional Greek-island life.

Paros and Antiparos

Somewhat of a Cyclades secret (until now), the word is out about Paros and its diminutive neighbour Antiparos. The islands have A-list approval – Tom Hanks and his wife Rita Wilson had a home on Antiparos and Salma Hayek was spotted on Paros in recent summers. Paros has all of the appeal of its starrier neighbours, such as Santorini and Mykonos, but it’s a much more discreet kind of style. Spend your days hiking inland near Lefkes and your evenings strolling the beautiful towns Naoussa and Parikia.

Where to stay: Cosme is next-door to the harbour town of Naoussa, which means you’ll be within walking distance of the many bars and restaurants lining the water’s edge, not to mention the several boutiques that were made for souvenir shopping.

If you are in search of glitz and glamour though, Santorini is one of the flashiest of the Greek islands – mostly thanks to its spectacular sunsets, but also because of its luxury hotels, fine-dining scene and captivating (and croissant-shaped) coastline. The northern town of Oia, with its famously cliff-hugging architecture, may be packed with people in search of a church with a blue dome, but there’s a reason it’s so popular – the views of the sparkling Aegean and the caldera are mesmerising. Hike the shoreline south to Imerovigli for a workout and more incredible views.

Where to stay: A little away from the action in Oia (and all the more peaceful for it), Santo Pure has been modelled on a traditional Cycladic village, with whitewashed villas forming the standalone suites, several pools and a cocktail bar with a prime view for sunset. As an added bonus, there’s a footpath taking you up into Oia in minutes.

One of the Ionian Islands, Zakynthos has everything you could hope for in a Greek holiday destination, from beautiful beaches to a capital with a harbour for sunset strolls. Some of the beaches, such as Navagio, can only be reached by boat – you’ll also be able to see the shipwreck from 1980 that’s been left behind in the cove.

Where to stay: For the ultimate seclusion, check in to Porto Zante , a series of private villas on a peaceful beach that is formed from just nine buildings, each of which has a private pool and up to four bedrooms. Other highlights include the spa by the water and the two restaurants.

Monemvasia, Peloponnese

On the mainland, Monemvasia is one of the most magical towns in the Peloponnese. It’s in the region of Laconia, which linguists will be delighted to learn is where the word ‘laconic’ derives from, but that’s not to say that they’re not a friendly bunch. The town is on an island off the east coast of the Peloponnese that’s connected to the mainland by a 200-metre causeway. The main attraction is the medieval castle at the edge of a cliff, but don’t miss the narrow shop-lined streets, too.

Where to stay: Kinsterna Hotel is set on a vineyard and olive grove – don’t go home without stockpiling their wares at the shop. The serene retreat has 25 acres of grounds and a view of the castle.

Made famous by Captain Corelli’s Mandolin , the film of which was shot here at the turn of the century, Kefalonia is in the Ionian Islands. The Hollywood scouts chose Sami Beach as their backdrop, but the rest of the island is just as beautiful, thanks to its limestone cliffs and sandy coves. The hillside capital Argostoli overlooks a harbour; and Myrtos Beach in the north of the island is just one of the picturesque places for a swim.

Where to stay: At F Zeen , guests can enjoy yoga on a deck overlooking the Ionian Sea, film nights at the outdoor cinema and drinks down on the beach, along with guided hikes and meditations.

In the eastern reaches of Greece and close to the Turkish border, Samos is a Greek island for the more adventurous traveller – and any mathematicians hoping to go on a Pythoras pilgrimage (the philosopher was born here). The island has another famous son: it was the birthplace of Epicurus, whose disciples can indulge today at the tavernas that line the harbours or at one of the vineyards where sweet muscat wine is produced. This is also where you’ll find the remains of the Temple of Hera.

Where to stay: Casa Cook Samos near the town of Pythagoreio has no fewer than six swimming pools, a beachside restaurant with a Josper grill and siesta-ready cabanas suspended above the water.

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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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91 Vasilisis Sophias Avenue 10160 Athens, Greece Telephone: +(30)(210) 721-2951 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +30 210 729-4444 or +30 210 729-4301 Fax: +(30)(210) 724-5313 Email:   [email protected] Facebook

U.S. Consulate General Thessaloniki Plateia Commercial Center 43 Tsimiski Street, 7th floor 546 23 Thessaloniki Greece Telephone: +30-231-024-2905 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +30 210 729-4444 or +30 210 729-4301 Fax: +30 231-024-2927 Email:  [email protected] U.S. Embassy Athens provides all regular consular services including U.S. passports, notarials, and reports of birth and death abroad.

U.S. Consulate General Thessaloniki provides notarial service. Embassy Athens consular staff periodically provide regular consular services in Thessaloniki. Please check the U.S. Embassy Athens website for information on the next scheduled visit. Visa services are provided at Embassy Athens only.

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Visit the Embassy of Greece website for the most current visa information.

Greece is a party to the Schengen Agreement; therefore, U.S. citizens may enter Greece without a visa for stays of up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes. For additional details about travel into and within Schengen countries, please see our Schengen fact sheet .

• For entry into Greece, your passport should have at least six months of remaining validity . While Greek law requires three months of passport validity beyond the intended date of your departure, if you are transiting a country that requires six months of validity, you may not be permitted to continue your trip. We recommend that you have at least six months of validity to avoid any travel disruptions.
• U.S. citizens traveling on a passport reported lost or stolen will not be permitted entry into Greece and may be returned to their original departure point. This decision is the purview of the Greek immigration authorities; the U.S. Embassy cannot intervene. Emergency passports are issued only at the Embassy in Athens. Staff members do not travel to the air, land, or sea ports of entry.
• You must arrive in country with proof of sufficient funds and a return airline ticket or other evidence that you will depart Greece if asked. The sufficient funds requirement is often met with credit cards.
• U.S. official and diplomatic passport holders must obtain a Schengen visa prior to arrival. If you are traveling on a U.S. official or diplomatic passport, you will not be allowed to enter Greece without a visa.
• If traveling on official military orders , review the guidance in the Department of Defense Foreign Clearance Guide .

If you are a U.S. citizen with a passport listing your place of birth as the Northern Republic of Macedonia, the Greek authorities will stamp your passport.

If you are a U.S. citizen with a passport listing your place of birth as Skopje or the Republic of Macedonia, your U.S. passport should be recognized as a valid travel document. However, be aware:

• Greek Immigration officers at ports of entry (land, air, and sea) will not place entry stamps in a passport listing the traveler’s place of birth as Macedonia or the Republic of Macedonia.
• You will be asked to complete a short form on which the entry stamp will be placed.
• Keep the form with your passport while you are in Greece and present it upon departure. If you lose the form, you must visit a police station and file a report before the Greek authorities will permit you to depart the country.

HIV/AIDS RESTRICTIONS: The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Greece.

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction , and customs information on our website .

Safety and Security

Terrorism: Credible information indicates terrorist groups continue plotting possible near-term attacks in Europe. All European countries remain potentially vulnerable to attacks from transnational terrorist organizations. In the past year, there have been multiple terrorist attacks in Europe. Extremists continue to focus on tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities as viable targets. In addition, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, high-profile events, educational institutions, airports, and other soft targets remain priority locations for possible attacks. U.S. citizens should exercise additional vigilance in these and similar locations.

For more information, see our Terrorism page.

Strikes and Demonstrations:

• Domestic strikes, demonstrations, and work stoppages are common throughout Greece and can become violent. Stay informed through local news, hotel security, the U.S. Embassy website , and the Consular Section’s Facebook page . Enroll in STEP to receive alerts sent by the Embassy.
• Transportation sector strikes interrupt traffic, public transportation, taxis, seaports, and airports. Confirm domestic and international flights before heading to the airport.
• Avoid all areas affected by the annual November 17 demonstrations, including the U.S. Embassy.
• Anarchists and criminals have used university campuses as refuges. Demonstrators frequently congregate in the Polytechnic University area, Exarchia, Omonia, and Syntagma Squares in Athens; and at Aristotle Square, Aristotle University, and the Kamara area in Thessaloniki.
• Violent anarchist groups have joined public demonstrations to clash with police and vandalize public and private property.

Crime: Crimes against tourists, such as pick-pocketing and purse-snatching , occur at popular tourist sites and on public transportation, especially the metro. A common tactic is one person causes a commotion on the metro or pushes travelers to distract them while another person snatches the belongings. Thieves also seek out and break into rental cars to steal passports, valuables, and luggage. The Embassy has received reports of alcohol-induced attacks targeting individual tourists at some holiday resorts and bars.

Take the following precautions:

• Be cautious and aware of your surroundings.
• Do not leave bags unattended, especially on the metro and the Athens Airport train or in your vehicle.
• Avoid standing near bus or train doors. Thieves often strike as the doors open then disappear into the crowd.
• Use alcohol in moderation and remain in control.
• Never leave drinks unattended in bars or clubs.
• Be discreet when discussing plans and organizing belongings upon arrival.
• Protect yourself and your money by using well-lit, public ATMs.
• Be aware of internet scams with online thieves posing as loved ones or romantic interests.

See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information on scams.

Victims of Crime: Report crime to the local police and contact the U.S. Embassy at (+30) 210-720-2414 or the Emergency after-hours telephone (+30) 210-729-4444 if you require assistance. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends, with your written consent
• Explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
• Provide a list of local attorneys
• Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in certain cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home in certain cases of destitution
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tremors and earthquakes occur regularly.  Forest fires are common, especially during the dry summer months, and occasionally cause road closures. In the event of a natural disaster, follow the instructions of local authorities. Contact the General Secretariat for Civil Protection, which responds to emergencies, at 210-335-9900 for more information. Operators speak English. Monitor the U.S. Embassy Athens’ website and Consular Facebook page .

Tourism : The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities, such as Athens or Thessaloniki. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Possession of a U.S. passport will not prevent you from being arrested, prosecuted, or jailed.

• Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Marijuana is illegal in Greece.
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs could land you immediately in jail.
• Photographing military installations is prohibited and may lead to arrest.
• Mace or pepper-spray canisters are illegal in Greece. Such items will be confiscated, and police may arrest or detain you.
• Carry your passport or some form of photo identification at all times. Police may detain you for questioning if you do not have proper identification with you.

Some crimes are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Faith-Based Travelers: See our webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

Greek Antiquities: Customs authorities strictly regulate the export of Greek antiquities, including rocks from archaeology sites. Do not remove anything, no matter how small, from archaeological or historical sites. Do not purchase protected antiquities and carry receipts for any purchases that may appear to be antiquities.

Military Service for Dual Nationals:

• Greek males between 19 and 45 are required to perform military service.
• If the Greek government considers you to be a Greek citizen, you may be required to fulfill this obligation whether or not you consider yourself Greek or possess a U.S. or third country’s passport.
• Authorities can prevent you from leaving Greece until you complete your military obligations . Contact the Greek embassy or nearest Greek consulate with questions.
• Generally, required military service will not affect your U.S. citizenship, but contact U.S. Embassy Athens if you have questions.

LGBTI Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Greece. LGBTI individuals in Greece are protected by anti-discrimination laws, and gender identity is among the grounds covered by laws against hate speech; however, non-governmental organizations report that social discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity is widespread in Greece and violence against LGBTI individuals remains a problem.

See our LGBTI travel information page and section six of our Human Rights Report for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: While Greek law prohibits discrimination against persons with physical or intellectual disabilities and local law requires access to buildings, sidewalks, and public transportation, application and enforcement of these laws is lacking.

• Handicapped parking spaces and sidewalk ramps are often occupied or blocked by parked vehicles.
• Sidewalks often are narrow with broken paving stones and large holes and obstructed by trees and street signs.
• Buildings with ramps might lack accessible elevators or bathrooms.
• A small percentage of public buildings (primarily in Athens) have full accessibility. Some buildings and intersections include accommodations for visually-impaired travelers.
• The Athens metro and Athens International Airport are fully accessible with ramps and elevators.
• Ask your hotel about accessibility before booking.

The Deputy Ombudsman for Social Welfare handles complaints related to persons with disabilities, especially those related to employment, social security, and transportation.

Students: See our students abroad page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for women travelers .

Most public medical facilities in Greece offer adequate care, although service quality and hospital appearance may differ from the United States. Some private hospitals have affiliations with U.S. facilities and provide high-quality care. Many doctors trained in the United States or elsewhere in Europe.

• Private hospitals usually require proof of adequate insurance or cash before admitting a patient. Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
• Public hospitals often employ minimal nursing staff overnight and on weekends in non-emergency wards. Consider hiring a private nurse or having family spend the night with the patient, especially a minor child.

We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare is not accepted overseas.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. You may be required to pay upfront and seek reimbursement from your insurance company. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .

We strongly recommend that travelers purchase travel insurance before their trips to cover medical evacuation.

If traveling with prescription medication, check with the Greek Embassy or consulate in the United States , the Customs office at Athens International Airport (+30 210-3542126) or the National Organization of Medicines ( [email protected] , www.eof.gr , +30 213-204-0000) to ensure the medication is legal in Greece. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription.

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Short-term Car Rentals: Greek law requires that visitors carry a valid U.S. driver’s license and an international driver’s permit (IDP), even if the rental company does not request to see your IDP. The Embassy does not issue IDPs. You must obtain your IDP in the United States from the American Automobile Association ( AAA ) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance ( AATA ). Contact AAA directly to inquire about their mail in option that will allow you to apply from overseas, but note that it will likely take days or weeks. If you drive without these documents, you may face high fines (1,000 Euros or more) or be responsible for all expenses in the event of an accident.

Road Conditions and Safety: Greece has one of the highest traffic fatality rates in the European Union. Exercise extreme caution as both a driver and a pedestrian, and follow these tips:

• Drive defensively.
• Expect heavy traffic, obscured traffic signs, and vehicles traveling at high speeds.
• Driving at night in inclement weather and on mountain roads can be hazardous.
• Local law requires all motorcyclists to wear a helmet.
• Check for motorbikes between lanes and on either side of you.
• Do not rely on lane markings. On many two-lane highways, slower traffic will drive on the shoulder, and cars will pass straddling the center double-yellow line.
• Review your insurance coverage before renting. Most insurance companies require that you have both your valid U.S. license and an international driver’s permit (IDP) for coverage in Greece. Small motorbike and all-terrain vehicle (ATV) rental firms frequently carry no insurance and require customers to cover the cost of all damages to their vehicles. Your insurance company may not cover two-wheel or ATV rentals.

Traffic Laws:

• Talking or texting on a mobile phone while driving is illegal. The police check phone records when investigating accidents.
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal, and police conduct random alcohol testing.
• A Greek license is required if you stay more than 185 days in Greece. Contact the Regional Office of Transportation and Communications for more information.

See our road safety page for more information, including information on IDPs. Visit the Greek National Tourist Office website for more helpful tips.                                        

Public Transportation: Purchase and validate your ticket by touching it to the pad on the turnstile prior to boarding a bus or train. Inspectors randomly check for tickets. If you do not have a ticket, have the wrong ticket, or fail to validate your ticket, you could be fined up to 60 times the basic fare.

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Greece’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Greece’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Greece should monitor U.S. maritime advisories and alerts at www.marad.dot.gov/msci , the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website, https://homeport.uscg.mil , and the NGA broadcast warnings website https://msi.nga.mil/NGAPortal/MSI.portal . Greece implemented a Recreational and Daily Tour Cruise Ships Fee on all private and professional leisure ships with a total length of over seven meters, regardless of flag, in Greek territorial waters. Mariners should consult https://www.aade.gr/polites/etepai for details.

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Greece . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.”

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Worries grow for British doctor and TV presenter who went missing in Greece

ATHENS, Greece — Greek police say an ongoing major search and rescue operation on the small eastern Aegean island of Symi has still not located British doctor and television presenter Michael Mosley, who went missing on Wednesday afternoon after reportedly going for a walk.

Police said Friday that the coast guard, police and fire department were involved in the search, with a helicopter, drones and a police sniffer dog deployed. They have found no trace of the 67-year-old who had been vacationing on the island.

An initial search had focused on the area between Agios Nikolaos, the beach where Mosley apparently set off on his walk at 1:30 p.m. local time, at the island’s main town of Symi. But CCTV footage seen by PA news agency shows him later entering a mountainous path heading inland.

Authorities had also looked into whether he might have left the island altogether, but found no indication that anyone had traveled under his name.

Britain’s Foreign Office said it was in contact with Greek authorities over the search.

Mosley is well-known in Britain for his regular appearances on television and radio and for his column in the Daily Mail newspaper. He is known outside the U.K. for his 2013 book “The Fast Diet,” which he co-authored with journalist Mimi Spencer. The “5:2 diet” set out how people can lose weight fast by minimizing their calorie intake for two days in a week while eating healthily on the other five.

He has subsequently introduced the Fast 800 diet, a rapid weight loss program, and has made a number of films about diet and exercise.

Mosley has often pushed his body to extreme lengths to see the effects of his diets and also lived with tapeworms in his guts for six weeks for the BBC documentary “Infested! Living With Parasites.”

Worried friends and colleagues expressed their shock over Mosley’s disappearance.

“This shocking news focusses our minds on Michael’s wife, Clare, and their sons,” said Roy Taylor, a professor of medicine and metabolism at Newcastle University who co-authored “The 8-Week Blood Sugar Diet” with Mosley. “Our thoughts are with them in this terrible time of uncertainty, hoping that he will be found safely.”

In 2002, Mosley was nominated for an Emmy for his executive producer role on the BBC science documentary “The Human Face,” which was presented by Monty Python star John Cleese and which featured a raft of famous faces including Elizabeth Hurley, Pierce Brosnan and David Attenborough.

Mosley has four children with his wife, Clare Bailey Mosley, who is also a doctor, author and health columnist.

Michael Mosley wandered lost before heat killed him

Greek police said to have ruled out foul play as evidence points to natural causes

Dr Michael Mosley is believed to have died of heat exhaustion after losing consciousness while walking in 40C temperatures, Greek police say.

An initial examination, based on CCTV footage and forensic evidence, suggests he died of natural causes, The Telegraph understands.

Police have ruled out foul play or criminality, according to sources.

Officers are also investigating CCTV footage that appears to show Dr Mosley disappearing from view as he makes his way down a hillside, close to where his body was later found on the island of Symi.

Dimos Kotsidaras, police commander for Symi, said it was believed “the cause of death was heat exhaustion after walking from St Nikolos to Agia Marina in high temperatures”.

Dr Mosley sat down before losing consciousness in the 40-degree heat only yards away from safety, interim findings from a coroner found.

The inquiry into his death, based on CCTV footage and forensic evidence, suggests he died of natural causes, The Telegraph understands.

Greek police have ruled out any possibility of foul play or criminality, according to sources.

Police are also investigating footage that appears to show Dr Mosley disappearing from view as he makes his way down a hillside close to where his body was later found.

The area where Dr Mosley was discovered is one of the hottest in the region and the local temperature between Wednesday and Sunday reached north of 40C.

Dr Mosley was found lying on his back, suggesting he had tried to raise his leg upwards, suggesting he had tried to stop himself fainting, police sources disclosed.

The details came as Rishi Sunak joined close friends in paying tribute to Dr Mosley

Downing Street said he was an “extraordinary broadcaster” who had a “huge impact” on people’s lives.

The Prime Minister’s official spokesman said: “The reports from the weekend are heartbreaking and our thoughts are with Dr Michael Mosley’s family, his wife Clare and friends, in what must be deeply sad times.

“We have seen some incredibly touching tributes which have made clear the huge impact that Dr Mosley had on people and helped to transform people’s lives for the better .

“He will be known as an extraordinary broadcaster who used his platform to influence and change the way we think about many public health issues.”

Meanwhile, three close friends of Dr Mosley laid a single flower on the mountainside where he was found.

A woman and two men sailed on a small private boat on Monday morning to the beach resort of Agia Marina.

Dr Mosley was found 50 yards away from the resort on Sunday morning, five days after his wife reported him missing.

The group were seen tentatively making their way over the rocks towards the site where Dr Mosley was discovered by a bar manager.

Visibly distressed, the group laid a single-stemmed white and pink Oleander and were seen hugging and consoling each other for around 20 minutes.

One of the party was a young male British volunteer who had helped search the island for Dr Mosley.

The Oleander has poetic significance in Greek mythology. According to one legend, Hero, a priestess of Aphrodite, is wooed by a young man called Leander, who swims across the Hellespont every night to see her.

One night during a violent storm he is dashed against sharp rocks and washes up on the beach.

Dr Mosley’s body lay undiscovered just yards from a beach resort, as his wife said he “so very nearly made it” to safety.

CCTV footage shows Dr Mosley gingerly walking down a rocky mountain near the perimeter fence of the Agia Marina resort before he appears to stumble and fall out of view, just over two hours after he left his wife and friends.‌

His wife, Dr Clare Bailey Mosley, paid tribute to her “wonderful, funny, kind and brilliant husband”.

She said: “We’re taking comfort in the fact that he so very nearly made it. He did an incredible climb, took the wrong route and collapsed where he couldn’t be easily seen by the extensive search team.”

Volunteers on Symi said “high temperatures” and “rough spots” made the search for Dr Mosley “particularly difficult”.

The Symi Crisis Rescue Volunteer Team posted a tribute to Dr Mosley’s family on their official social media page.

A spokesman said: “We would like to extend our deepest condolences to Dr Michael Mosley’s wife, children, relatives and friends for his tragic loss.

“Our team was called in by island authorities to assist in the search investigation on the very first night of his disappearance and we immediately began with a first night search.

“We continued all the coming days to participate in the investigations together with firefighters, police officers and other volunteers, as always directed by the head of the investigation.

“High temperatures and rough spots made this mission particularly difficult, and unfortunately, the outcome was one we all know.”

• Michael Mosley,
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