Thinking of Visiting Greece? Here’s What You Need to Know

Greece. The very name conjures images of ancient ruins bathed in golden light, impossibly blue seas lapping against whitewashed villages, and a history so rich it feels like stepping into a textbook come to life. From the bustling energy of Athens to the serene beauty of the Cycladic islands, Greece offers a travel experience unlike any other.

But beyond the postcard-perfect scenes, what do you really need to know before you embark on your Hellenic adventure? This comprehensive guide will equip you with the practical advice, cultural insights, and insider tips to make your trip to Greece truly unforgettable.

1. Best Time to Visit: Timing is Everything

Greece is a seasonal destination, and when you go significantly impacts your experience.

• Peak Season (July & August): This is when Greece truly comes alive, especially the islands. Expect hot weather, crowded sites, higher prices for flights and accommodation, and a vibrant nightlife. If you love bustling energy and don’t mind the heat, this can be fun.
• Shoulder Seasons (April-June & September-October): Hands down, these are the best times to visit.
  • Spring (April-June): Mild temperatures, fewer crowds, lush landscapes (especially in April/May), and seas warm enough for swimming by late May/early June. Easter is a major celebration with unique cultural experiences, but many businesses might be closed.
  • Autumn (September-October): The sea is at its warmest, crowds thin out significantly, and the weather remains pleasant. Many businesses stay open until mid-October, making it ideal for island hopping.
• Off-Season (November-March): While much quieter and more affordable, many island businesses close, and ferry schedules are reduced. Athens and larger mainland cities remain active, offering a glimpse into local life without the tourist rush. Weather can be cool and rainy.

2. Navigating Greece: Getting Around

Greece’s transportation network is generally efficient, but it varies between the mainland and the islands.

• Flights: For longer distances and island hopping, domestic flights are your fastest option. Aegean Airlines and Olympic Air are the main carriers. Booking in advance is crucial, especially for popular routes.
• Ferries: The quintessential Greek island-hopping experience! Ferries range from slow, conventional vessels to high-speed catamarans. Companies like Blue Star Ferries, Hellenic Seaways, and Seajets operate extensive routes. Book popular routes in advance, especially in high season. Rough seas can cause delays or cancellations, so build flexibility into your itinerary.
  • Pro Tip: Consider breaking up long ferry journeys with an overnight stay on a less-visited island.
• Buses (KTEL): On the mainland and larger islands, KTEL buses are reliable, comfortable, and affordable. They connect major cities, towns, and archaeological sites.
• Trains: Greece has a limited but improving rail network, primarily connecting Athens to cities like Thessaloniki and Kalambaka (for Meteora).
• Rental Cars: Essential for exploring the mainland or larger islands like Crete, Rhodes, or Corfu, allowing you to discover hidden beaches and remote villages. Book in advance, especially for automatic vehicles, and be prepared for narrow, winding roads and sometimes aggressive local drivers. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license isn’t from an EU country.
• Taxis: Readily available in cities and tourist areas. Ensure the meter is on, or agree on a price beforehand for longer journeys. Ride-hailing apps like Beat (similar to Uber) operate in Athens and Thessaloniki.

3. Accommodation: From Boutique to Budget

Greece offers a vast range of lodging options to suit every budget and style.

• Hotels: From luxurious five-star resorts to charming boutique hotels, you’ll find plenty of choices in cities and on the islands.
• Villas & Apartments: Ideal for families or groups, offering more space and self-catering facilities. Websites like Airbnb, Booking.com, and local agencies are great resources.
• Hostels: A budget-friendly option found in major cities and popular island destinations, often with a social atmosphere.
• Traditional Guesthouses (Archontika): Especially prevalent in historic towns and mountainous regions, offering an authentic, often family-run experience.
• Camping: Available in designated campsites, particularly on the mainland and larger islands, offering a more rustic experience.

Book well in advance, especially for high season or popular islands like Santorini and Mykonos.

4. Money Matters: Currency, Cards, and Tipping

• Currency: Greece uses the Euro (€).
• Credit/Debit Cards: Widely accepted in cities, larger towns, and tourist areas. However, always carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller villages, remote islands, or for small purchases, local markets, and some tavernas. ATMs are plentiful.
• Tipping: Tipping is customary but not obligatory.
  • Restaurants: A 5-10% tip is appreciated for good service. You can round up the bill or leave a few extra Euros.
  • Cafes/Bars: Round up to the nearest Euro.
  • Taxis: Round up the fare.
  • Tour Guides: A small tip (e.g., €5-10 per person for a half-day tour) is customary.

5. Food & Drink: A Culinary Delight

Greek cuisine is a highlight of any visit – fresh, flavourful, and often surprisingly healthy.

• Must-Try Dishes:
  • Moussaka: Layers of minced meat, eggplant, and béchamel sauce.
  • Souvlaki & Gyro: Skewered or shaved meat, often served in pita bread with tzatziki, tomato, and onion.
  • Tzatziki: Yogurt dip with cucumber, garlic, and dill.
  • Greek Salad (Horiatiki): Fresh tomatoes, cucumber, onion, olives, and a slab of feta cheese, drizzled with olive oil.
  • Fresh Seafood: Especially on the islands – grilled octopus, fresh fish, calamari.
  • Spanakopita: Savoury spinach and feta pie in phyllo pastry.
  • Feta Sagnaki: Fried feta cheese (a delicious indulgence!).
• Drinks:
  • Ouzo & Tsipouro: Anise-flavored alcoholic drinks, often served with mezedes (small appetizers). Drink responsibly!
  • Greek Coffee: Strong and traditionally unfiltered, often enjoyed slowly.
  • Frappé: Iced instant coffee, a popular Greek summer drink.
  • Wine: Greece has a long winemaking history; try local varieties.
• Dining Culture: Meals are social affairs, often enjoyed slowly. Tavernas are traditional eateries, while estiatoria are more formal restaurants. Don’t be afraid to try “magirefta” – daily cooked specials.

6. Safety & Health: Staying Well on Your Trip

Greece is generally a safe country for tourists.

• Petty Crime: Be aware of pickpockets in crowded tourist areas (e.g., Athens metro, popular archaeological sites). Keep valuables secure.
• Solo Female Travelers: Greece is very safe for solo female travelers, though standard precautions apply, especially at night.
• Sun Protection: The Greek sun is intense, especially in summer. Use high-factor sunscreen, wear a hat, and stay hydrated.
• Drinking Water: Tap water is generally safe to drink in cities and larger towns. On some islands, it may be desalinated or not palatable, so bottled water is often preferred. Ask locals if unsure.
• Pharmacies (Farmakeia): Easily identifiable by a green cross. Pharmacists are highly trained and can offer advice and remedies for minor ailments.
• Emergency Number: 112 for all emergencies (ambulance, police, fire).

7. Cultural Etiquette: Respecting Local Customs

Greeks are generally warm, hospitable, and expressive.

• Greetings: A simple “Yassas” (hello, formal/plural) or “Yassou” (hello, informal/singular) is appreciated.
• Dress Code: When visiting churches or monasteries, dress modestly – shoulders and knees should be covered. Some places may provide wraps for visitors.
• Punctuality: Greeks operate on a more relaxed time schedule. Don’t be surprised if things run a little late.
• Language: While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, learning a few basic Greek phrases will go a long way and be appreciated by locals.
  • Kalimera (Good morning)
  • Kalispera (Good evening)
  • Efharisto (Thank you)
  • Parakalo (Please/You’re welcome)
• Hand Gestures: Be aware of the “mountza” (spreading all five fingers towards someone with the palm facing out) – it’s an insulting gesture.

8. Packing Essentials: What to Bring

• Comfortable Walking Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, especially around ancient sites and cobbled island streets.
• Swimwear: Essential for the beautiful beaches and hotel pools.
• Light Layers: Evenings can be cooler, especially in spring/autumn.
• Sun Protection: Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses.
• Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste.
• Travel Adapter: Greece uses Type C and F electrical outlets (two round pins).
• Basic First-Aid Kit: For minor cuts, headaches, or upset stomachs.
• Small Backpack/Day Bag: For excursions and daily essentials.
• Camera: For capturing all the stunning scenery!

9. Don’t Miss: Iconic Experiences

• Explore Ancient Athens: The Acropolis (Parthenon), Ancient Agora, Temple of Olympian Zeus, and the Acropolis Museum are absolute musts.
• Witness a Santorini Sunset: Cliché perhaps, but truly breathtaking from Oia or Imerovigli.
• Marvel at Meteora: Monasteries perched atop towering rock formations – an otherworldly sight.
• Delve into History at Delphi: The ancient sanctuary and oracle, nestled on the slopes of Mount Parnassus.
• Discover Crete: Greece’s largest island offers diverse landscapes, Minoan history (Knossos), and incredible food.
• Island Hop the Cyclades: Mykonos for nightlife, Paros/Naxos for a balance, Milos for unique beaches.
• Experience Greek Hospitality (Filoxenia): Engage with locals; they are often eager to share their culture.

10. A Few Final Tips for an Epic Trip

• Plan, but be flexible: Have a general itinerary, but be open to spontaneous changes or recommendations from locals.
• Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: The Mediterranean sun is no joke.
• Learn a few Greek phrases: It shows respect and can enhance interactions.
• Pace yourself: Don’t try to see too much in one go. Greece is meant to be savored.
• Embrace the Siga Siga (Slowly Slowly) philosophy: Life moves at a gentler pace here. Enjoy it.
• Capture the moment: Take photos, but also remember to put your phone down and truly soak in the beauty around you.
• Respect the environment: Help keep Greece’s beautiful beaches and natural sites pristine.

Greece is a country that captivates the soul, rich in history, natural beauty, and a vibrant culture. With a little preparation and an open heart, you’re set for an extraordinary journey filled with unforgettable moments. Kali Taxidi! (Have a good trip!)