Greece Travel Guide
Written by Joeri Van Overloop
Why Visit Greece?
Greece is an incredible destination for travelers - the country's ancient history, stunning scenery, delicious cuisine, and vibrant culture make it a great place to visit. From its iconic ruins such as the Acropolis in Athens to its picturesque beaches along the Mediterranean Sea, Greece offers something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach retreat or an adventure exploring Greek culture and landmarks, here are a few of reasons to visit this fascinating country.
Ancient history: Greece is home to iconic landmarks like the Acropolis and the Parthenon, which offer a glimpse into the country's rich history.
Beautiful beaches: Greece is famous for its picturesque beaches and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.
Delicious cuisine: Greek cuisine is renowned for its fresh ingredients and healthy Mediterranean-style dishes, including moussaka, tzatziki, and souvlaki.
Scenic islands: The Greek islands are a popular tourist destination, offering breathtaking landscapes, scenic villages, and traditional charm.
Cultural events: Greece is a vibrant country, with an array of cultural events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Athens International Film Festival and the Epidaurus Festival.
Friendly locals: Greeks are known for their warm hospitality and welcoming spirit, making it easy for tourists to feel at home in the country.
Outdoor activities: Greece is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, swimming, sailing, and more.
Affordable prices: Despite its popularity, Greece remains an affordable holiday destination, with reasonable prices for food, drinks, and accommodation.
In summary, Greece offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich culture, delicious food, and affordability. From the picturesque villages to the historic cities and beautiful beaches, Greece has offers something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach holiday in Crete, a cultural experience in Athens, or an adventure, Greece is the perfect destination for your next holiday.
Frequently Asked Questions When Travelling To Greece
What Is A Good Budget For A Trip To Greece?
The budget for a trip to Greece depends on several factors, including the time of year, the length of stay, and individual spending habits. As a rough estimate, a budget of around 50-70 EUR per day (excluding airfare) should cover the basics such as accommodation, food, and transportation, with some room for sightseeing and other activities.
Accommodation: The cost of accommodation in Greece varies depending on the location, type of accommodation, and time of year. On average, budget-friendly options such as hostels and budget hotels start at around 20-30 EUR per night, while mid-range hotels can cost around 50-100 EUR per night. High-end hotels and resorts can cost upwards of 100 EUR or more per night.
Keep in mind that prices tend to be higher during peak tourist season (June to August), while lower prices can be found during the off-season (November to March). Additionally, the cost of accommodation can be lower in more rural or less touristy areas, and higher in major cities like Athens and popular tourist destinations like Santorini.
Food and drink: On average, a meal at a budget-friendly taverna or street food vendor can cost around 5-15 EUR, while a meal at a mid-range restaurant can cost 20-40 EUR per person. High-end restaurants can cost 50 EUR or more per person.
Transportation: On average, the cost of a single journey on a city bus or metro in Athens is around 1.50-2.50 EUR, while a ticket for a long-distance coach or train can cost around 10-30 EUR depending on the distance traveled.
Additionally, the cost of a taxi ride in Greece can range from 3-5 EUR for a short trip within a city center to 30 EUR or more for a longer journey between cities. There are also options for rental cars and scooters, with daily rates starting at around 25-30 EUR.
Activities and Excursions: On average, popular activities like visiting ancient sites, such as the Acropolis in Athens or the ruins of Delphi, can cost around 15-30 EUR for entrance fees.
A guided tour of a city or a nearby island can cost around 30-70 EUR per person, while water activities like sailing, snorkeling, or scuba diving can cost around 50-100 EUR per person. Adventure activities like hiking, rock climbing, and paragliding can also be found, with prices starting at around 30-50 EUR.
It is important to keep in mind that this is a rough estimate and your actual budget may vary depending on your preferences and travel style.
How Many Days In Greece Is Enough?
A minimum of 5-7 days is recommended for a basic introduction to the country, allowing for a few days in Athens to visit the city's main sights and a few days on a nearby island.
For a more in-depth exploration of Greece, 10-14 days is ideal, allowing for time to visit multiple destinations, such as Athens, a few islands, and a smaller town or region in the mainland.
However, Greece is a large and diverse country with many historical, cultural, and natural attractions, so longer stays of 2-3 weeks or more are highly recommended for those who have the time and want to experience more of what the country has to offer.
Ultimately, the amount of time needed in Greece will depend on individual travel preferences and interests, but longer stays are always recommended for a more complete and immersive experience.
What Is The Best Way To Tour Greece?
The best way to tour Greece depends on individual travel preferences and interests. Some popular options include:
Independent travel: Renting a car or using public transportation to explore the country at your own pace, allowing for flexibility and a more personalized experience.
Guided tours: Joining a guided tour can be a convenient way to see multiple destinations and attractions in a limited amount of time, and can also provide insights and historical context from knowledgeable guides.
Island hopping: Exploring the Greek islands by ferry or private yacht, which is a popular way to experience the country's stunning coastline, beaches, and unique island cultures.
Cultural tours: Focusing on the country's rich history and cultural heritage, visiting ancient sites like the Acropolis in Athens, the ruins of Delphi, and the birthplace of Olympia.
Adventure tours: Engaging in outdoor activities like hiking, rock climbing, and water sports, while also visiting cultural and historical attractions.
Ultimately, the best way to tour Greece will depend on personal interests, budget, and the amount of time available. Mixing and matching different travel styles and activities can provide a well-rounded experience of the country.
What Is The Best Time To Visit Greece?
The best time to visit Greece depends on individual travel preferences and the destinations being visited.
Peak season for tourism in Greece is from June to August, when the weather is warmest and the country's beaches and islands are most popular. This time of year can also be crowded and expensive.
Shoulder season, from April to May and September to October, offers more moderate weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices, making it an ideal time to visit for those looking to avoid peak season.
Winter, from November to March, can be cold and wet in many parts of the country, although it can also be a quieter and more budget-friendly time to visit, especially for those interested in visiting ancient sites and museums.
Keep in mind that the Greek islands have different peak seasons and weather patterns, so it's important to research the specific destinations you plan to visit to determine the best time to go.
Overall, the best time to visit Greece will depend on individual travel preferences, with options available for all budgets and interests throughout the year.
What Are The Dos And Don’ts In Greece?
Here are some of the most important dos and don'ts to keep in mind when traveling in Greece:
Dos:
Respect the local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites.
Learn a few basic Greek phrases, such as "hello" and "thank you."
Try the local cuisine and sample some of Greece's famous dishes, like moussaka and tzatziki.
Be mindful of your surroundings, especially when visiting tourist hotspots, to avoid pickpocketing and theft.
Bargain when shopping at markets and shops, as haggling is a common practice in Greece.
Wear appropriate clothing when visiting religious sites, covering your arms and legs.
Respect the environment and preserve Greece's natural beauty by properly disposing of litter.
Take time to relax and enjoy Greece's famous hospitality, such as having a coffee or drink in a local café or taverna.
Don'ts:
Don't litter or leave rubbish on the beaches or in public places.
Don't take photographs or film inside churches or other religious sites without permission.
Don't touch or climb on ancient monuments and ruins, as they are protected cultural treasures.
Don't use excessive physical gestures or loud voices when communicating, as this can be considered impolite in Greek culture.
Don't be insensitive with your photography, especially when taking pictures of people without their permission.
Don't ignore local laws and regulations, especially regarding smoking and alcohol consumption in public places.
Don't assume that everyone in Greece speaks English, and make an effort to communicate in the local language.
Don't be disrespectful or offensive to the local people or their culture.
Overall, following these dos and don'ts will help ensure a respectful and enjoyable trip to Greece.
What Are The Visa Requirements For Greece?
The visa requirements for Greece depend on a traveler's nationality and the purpose of their visit.
For citizens of the European Union (EU) and the European Economic Area (EEA), a valid passport or national ID card is sufficient for travel to Greece for stays up to 90 days.
For citizens of other countries, a valid passport and a Schengen visa may be required for stays up to 90 days. The Schengen visa is a short-term visa that allows travel within the 26 countries in the Schengen Area, which includes Greece.
For stays exceeding 90 days, a long-term visa or a residence permit may be required, depending on the purpose of the visit and the country of origin.
It is important to check with the Greek embassy or consulate in your home country for the most up-to-date visa requirements and to ensure you have the correct documents before traveling to Greece.
Do I need Travel Insurance To Visit Greece?
Travel insurance is an essential part of preparing for any trip. It is especially important when planning to travel to Greece due to its unique financial and political environment. While it may seem like an unnecessary expense, protecting yourself and your funds against the potential risks can save you a lot of money in the long run.
Greece has experienced many economic and political issues over the last few years. Travelers should be aware that if something unexpected were to happen during their stay, even with a valid insurance policy from home, they may not be covered if the incident occurs outside of their own country’s borders. Therefore, getting additional travel insurance for Greece is highly recommended so that travelers will have coverage for medical bills, lost luggage or other costs incurred due to emergencies or unforeseen events that could arise while abroad.
In summary, while travel insurance is not a legal requirement for Greece, it is highly recommended as it can provide valuable protection for your trip. It's best to do your research and compare different policies to find the one that best suits your needs and budget.
How To Stay Safe In Greece?
Greece is generally considered a safe country to travel. However, as with any destination, it is important to be aware of potential safety risks and to take appropriate precautions.
Common safety concerns in Greece include pickpocketing, theft, and scams aimed at tourists. To minimize the risk of theft, it is advisable to keep valuables in a secure location and to be mindful of your surroundings, especially in tourist hotspots.
Overall, with a little common sense and awareness, travelers to Greece can have a safe and enjoyable trip.
Where To Stay In Greece?
The Best Booking Resources For Greece
These are the companies I use predominantly when I travel. They offer great customer service and the best value, consistently outperform their competitors, as they always have excellent deals. I rely on them the most, and they are the starting point in my search for travel deals.
Booking.com - This is the best travel partner when it comes to planning your vacation in Greece. With over 28 million listings in more than 200 countries and territories, you'll have no problem choosing from the world's most comprehensive selection of accommodations - from exotic villas to cozy apartments! Booking.com offers a secure and convenient way to book your next holiday, with unbeatable deals that will make sure you get the best value for your money when travelling to Greece.
Skyscanner - This is the perfect tool for finding the best flights at the best prices to Greece. With a comprehensive selection of airlines to choose from, you can compare prices and routes in seconds - saving you time, stress and money. Skyscanner's intuitive search engine makes it easy to find great deals on domestic and international flights. Plus, you can easily customize your search preferences so you get results that fit your budget and destination needs.
Get Your Guide - Are you looking for ways to make your travel experiences more memorable? With GetYourGuide, you can book amazing activities, tours and attractions all over Greece. Whether it’s a tour of an iconic city landmark or unique experience that’s off the beaten path, GetYourGuide offers something spectacular for any traveler. With thousands of things to do and see in different cities around Greece, this platform simplifies the search process with user-friendly filters.
More Greece Travel Resources