greece travel secrets

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

Mar 6, 2024 • 8 min read

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

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

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

1. Choose your season wisely

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

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

2. Prioritize your wishlist and make a plan

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

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

3. Find the perfect island or region for you

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

4. Athens isn't the only gateway to Greece

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

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

5. Book everything in advance during peak season

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

6. Roads in Greece are for confident drivers

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

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

7. Greece is not very wheelchair-friendly beyond Athens

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

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

8. Pack the right kinds of clothing

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

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

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

9. Learn some basic Greek phrases

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

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

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

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

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

11. Make sure you have good travel insurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This article was first published March 2022 and updated March 2024

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11 things I wish I knew before visiting Greece

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Don't just feast on gyro

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

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

3. Find your nearest laiki

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

4. Greece isn't just for the summer months

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

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

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

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

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

7.  Skipping Santorini is not a sin

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

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

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

8. You should visit Greece during Easter

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

9. Think of Crete as a separate country

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

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

10. Remember the mainland

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

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

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

Bottom line

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

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

Key Takeaways

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Be Sure To Plan Ahead

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

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

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

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

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

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

Greece Has Amazing Ancient Ruins

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

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

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

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

No One Does Hospitality Like the Greeks

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

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

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

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

The Greek Beaches are Gorgeous

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

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

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

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

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

Enjoy the Greek Cuisine and Wine!

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

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

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

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

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

What to Pack for Greece?

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

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

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

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

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

Make Sure You Have Cash On You

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

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

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

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

Everything is Closed on a Sunday

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

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

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

Eating Habits – Much Later Meal Times 

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

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

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

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

Sailing the Greek Islands

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

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

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

Driving Can Be Difficult

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

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

Greece Isn’t the Most Disability-Friendly

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

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

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

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

By All Means Drink, But Behave

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

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

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

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

The Roads Can Be Crazy

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

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

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

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

Some advice for our first-time visitors

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Final Thoughts

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

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

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

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

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

Is Greece Safe for Solo Travelers?

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

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

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

My Greece Travel Blog

Hi, my name is Pavlos and I blog about Greece and the greek islands.🌴🍹

You should also subscribe to my Youtube Channel where I regularly publish guides and reviews of attractions and places in Greece and the greek islands.

Pick your destination from the list below and start diving into the most useful info you can probably find online. See below for more pictures and information about Santorini:

• Best Greek islands
• Best Time to visit Greece
• Best Family Resorts in Greece
• Best Family Villas in Greece
• Best Beaches in Greece
• Greece Honeymoon
• Best Greek Islands for Families
• Best Greek Islands for Couples
• Best Greek Islands for Older Couples
• When is Summer in Greece?
• Best Things to Do in Greece
• Tipping in Greece: when and how much?
• Best Greek Beers

RECOMMENDED WEBSITES FOR GREECE:

🛏️ Booking.com   is the website with the most available rooms and Private Villas in Athens, Santorini , Mykonos & Crete  (more than Airbnb!)

⛴️ Ferryhopper   is the best website to book your ferry tickets or check the timetables for Santorini, Mykonos , Crete & all greek islands

🏺 Get Your Guide  has the best and largest variety of Tours in Athens and the greek islands (Santorini, Mykonos, Crete etc)

🚙 Rentalcars is the easiest way to rent a car or a quad for Greece with thousands of available options

✈️ Booking.com Flights  has all the available flights to and from the greek islands

🚕 Book Your Driver (Taxi) directly with booking.com’s large and safe platform of available certified drivers

• Best time to visit Santorini
• Where to Stay in Santorini
• Best Hotels in Santorini
• Best 5-Star Hotels in Santorini
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• Best Family Hotels in Santorini
• Best Beach Hotels in Santorini
• Best Hotels in Oia
• Best Hotels in Imerovigli
• Best Hotels in Fira
• Best Hotels in Perissa (black beach)
• Best Hotels in Kamari Beach
• Best Hotels in Pyrgos
• Santorini or Mykonos
• Santorini or Crete
• Santorini or Milos
• Oia or Fira
• Best Things to Do in Santorini
• Best Things to Do in Oia
• Best Things to Do in Pyrgos
• Best Santorini Flying Dress Photoshoots
• Best Wineries in Santorini
• Best Santorini Boat Tours
• Best Sunset Cruises in Santorini
• Best Hikes in Santorini
• Akrotiri Prehistoric City: All You Need to Know
• Santorini Wine Museum: An Honest Review
• Santorini Tomato Museum: All You Need to Know
• Red Beach in Santorini: A Complete Guide (WITH PHOTOS)
• Pyrgos Village in Santorini
• Santorini Ferries Map
• Santorini to Ios Ferries
• Santorini to Naxos Ferries
• Santorini to Milos Ferries
• Santorini Cruise Ship Schedule
• Where to Stay in Mykonos
• Best Hotels in Mykonos
• Best 5 Star Hotels in Mykonos
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• Best Cave Hotels in Mykonos
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• Mykonos Bus Schedule
• Mykonos Ferries Map
• Best Time to Visit Mykonos
• Mykonos to Santorini
• Best Greek Islands Near Mykonos
• Mykonos in April
• Where to Stay in Crete
• Best Place To Stay in Crete for Older Couples
• How to Get From Athens to Crete
• How to Get From Crete to Santorini
• Best Family Hotels in Crete
• Best Villas in Crete with Pool
• Best Beach Villas in Crete
• Best time to visit Crete
• Best Chania beaches
• Best Things to Do in Crete
• Best Family Villas in Crete
• Best Beaches in Crete
• Crete in April
• Crete in May
• Where to Stay in Athens
• Best Hotels in Athens
• Best Family Hotels in Athens
• Best Hotels in Plaka
• Best Things to Do in Athens
• Acropolis Tickets
• Best Beaches in Athens
• Athens to Santorini
• Best Greek Islands Near Athens
• Acropolis Museum: All you need to know (with PICS)
• National Historical Museum in Athens: An Honest Review
• National Archaeological Museum in Athens: Monumental
• Best Greek Island Tours From Athens
• Acropolis vs Parthenon
• How To Get From Athens to Naxos
• How To Get From Athens to Paros
• How To Get From Athens to Amorgos
• How To Get From Athens to Milos
• How To Get From Athens to Tinos
• How To Get From Athens to Ios
• How Τo Get From Athens to Syros
• How To Get From Athens to Corfu
• How To Get From Athens to Kefalonia
• How To Get From Athens to Zakynthos (Zante)
• How To Get From Athens to Lefkada
• How To Get From Athens to Delphi
• How To Get From Athens to Meteora
• Where To Stay in Paros
• Best Hotels in Paros
• Best Family Hotels in Paros
• Best Hotels in Naoussa
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• Best Luxury Villas in Paros
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• Best Paros Beach Clubs
• Best Wineries in Paros
• Paros Bus Timetables
• Where To Stay in Amorgos
• Best Hotels in Amorgos
• Amorgos Bus Schedule
• Best Beaches in Amorgos
• Where To Stay in Naxos
• Best Hotels in Naxos
• Best Family Hotels in Naxos
• Best Beaches in Naxos
• Athens to Naxos Ferries

OTHER GREEK ISLANDS & PLACES

Cyclades islands.

• Best Hotels in Milos
• Best Beaches in Milos
• Best Hotels in Tinos
• Best Hotels in Ios
• Best Hotels in Syros
• Best Hotels in Sifnos
• Best Hotels in Serifos
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• Best Hotels in Astypalaia
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SPORADES ISLANDS

• Best Hotels in Skiathos
• Best Hotels in Alonissos
• Best Hotels in Skyros
• Best Hotels in Skopelos

IONIAN ISLANDS

• Best Hotels in Corfu
• Best Hotels in Zakynthos
• Best Hotels in Kefalonia
• Best Hotels in Kythira
• Best Hotels in Lefkada
• Best Hotels in Paxos

DODECANESE ISLANDS

• Best Hotels in Rhodes
• Best Beaches in Rhodes
• Best Hotels in Kos
• Best Hotels in Symi
• Best Hotels in Kalymnos
• Best Hotels in Patmos

SARONIC GULF ISLANDS

• Best Hotels in Hydra
• Best Hotels in Spetses
• Best Hotels in Aegina

OTHER GREEK ISLANDS

• Best Hotels in Thassos
• Best Hotels in Ikaria
• Best Hotels in Lesvos
• Best Hotels in Chios
• Best Hotels in Samos

MAINLAND GREECE

• Best Hotels in Delphi
• Best Hotels in Meteora
• Best Hotels in Thessaloniki
• Best Hotels in Kavala
• Best Hotels in Parga

I was born and raised in Greece, and I am actually Greek. I have visited pretty much every square meter of my beautiful country and I want to share my experiences and give my tips to anyone wishing to visit this beautiful piece of land.

This is my travel blog, which is read by more than 1 million people every year (I never expected that!), and I really hope it will help you out with your research on my beautiful country.

Get my secrets for Greece and Santorini in your email!

I have visited Santorini hundreds of times and I have actually lived on the island a few years ago for some time. It is my favourite greek island , but I want to be honest with you: it can also be a tourist trap and feel like a rip-off nowadays as prices have increased significantly.

However, I am going to try and give you all the secrets of Santorini in my dedicated Santorini blog but also provide you with a ton of travel tips for all greek destinations in my Athens Travel Blog , my Crete Travel Blog and my Mykonos Travel Blog .

Santorini’s tiny airport has recently had some upgrades, but it’s still a small airport on a small island, so don’t expect any exceptional services and facilities .

Yes, Santorini has big chain grocery stores and supermarkets that actually have local produce as well, so you can always find cheap food to cook by yourself if you don’t want to spend a fortune in premium restaurants.

This is the fantastic Franco’s Cafe in Pyrgos with some of the most magnificent views on the island of Santorini. Pyrgos is one of my favourite villages of Santorini, and if you are looking for very cute and picturesque accommodation off the beaten path, then this is where you should stay.

This is Vlychada Beach in Santorini, with its dramatic white geological rock formations at the back. There is no shortage of great beaches in Santorini , and if you are visiting between May and October, you will be able to swim in the seawater as the ambient temperature is usually above 30 degrees.

Ammoudi bay is a small bay below the famous Oia town, and if you decide to eat there you will literally be eating on the water! All 3 restaurants on the bay offer excellent quality seafood (mainly) and you won’t be disappointed. Make sure you reserve a table though as these restaurants get super busy in the high season!

Kamari is a beautiful long beach with black sand and pebbles (that can become very hot in the summer!), which is ideal for families and kids. There are lots of amenities behind the beach, many restaurants and beach bars to get a drink or a snack. Hotels in Kamari are usually cheaper than in Oia, Fira, or Imerovigli as you are not getting famous volcano views.

This is Perissa beach , the famous black beach in Santorini with lots of beach clubs , cafes and restaurants. Perivolos and Perissa are on the same long beach. The beach bar in this photo is my favourite one in Perissa called Tranquilo which is a lovely bar-restaurant with lots of healthy and vegan options with a mexican vibe.

Finally, I highly recommend you subscribe to my free newsletter, where I regularly send travel tips for Greece and the Greek islands to more than 15.000 people from all over the world. Alternatively, you can follow me on Twitter and I will try my best to respond to you personally!

Happy reading!

SUBSCRIBE to my Youtube Channel for Updated Guides and Videos for the Greek Islands!

TOP RATED HOTELS IN:

Santorini:  Canaves Oia Suites Mykonos:  Cavo Tagoo Mykonos Athens:  Coco-Mat Athens Crete:  Domes Noruz Chania Hotel  Corfu:  Corfu Imperial Resort Rhodes:  Casa Cook Rhodes

Delphi: Amalia Hotel

Meteora: Doupiani House

TOP RATED VILLAS IN:

Santorini:  Villa Aura

Mykonos:  Villa Evi

Athens:  Acropolis Villa

Crete:  Cavo Dago Villa

BEST THINGS TO DO IN GREECE:

🌄 Santorini Sunset Cruise

🥾 Samaria Gorge Full Day Hike

🏛️ Acropolis Guided Tour

🪨 Meteora Day Trip from Athens

🏛️ Delphi Day Trip from Athens

ALL AVAILABLE FERRIES TO GREEK ISLANDS:

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My name is Pavlos and I come from the beautiful country called Greece. You can follow me on Twitter here and I will try to do my best to respond to you personally. This is my blog to help you plan your next holidays to Greece and the greek islands, whether it is Santorini, Mykonos, Crete or even Athens. I was actually born in Athens, and I have been to almost all of the greek islands and pretty much most of mainland Greece. I know the ins and outs of my country and hopefully, my travel blog will help you make the most of your holidays.

Booking.com  i s the website with the most available rooms and Private Villas in Athens, Santorini , Mykonos & Crete  (more than Airbnb!)

Ferryhopper    is the best website to book your ferry tickets or check the timetables for Santorini, Mykonos , Crete & all greek islands

Get Your Guide  has the best and largest variety of Tours in Athens and the greek islands (Santorini, Mykonos, Crete etc)

Rentalcars is the easiest way to rent a car or a quad for Greece with thousands of available options

Booking.com Flights  has all the available flights to and from the greek islands

Santorini Secrets

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• 12 Useful Travel Tips For...

12 Useful Travel Tips For Greece

This is it! You’ve just booked your ticket to Greece . Now what? Despite having to wait a few more days, weeks, or months to get there, you can start to prepare. Of course, this is not a list that’s going to tell you what to take with you, such as a plug adapter as electrical outlets in Greece supply electricity at 220 AC. No, Culture Trip is going to provide you with useful travel tips you should know before heading to Greece, because forewarned is forearmed.

Remember that cash is king.

Unlike other European countries, Greece is big on cash, so make sure to have enough money with you. If not, you can find ATMs, especially in the center of big cities, though this may be an issue on lesser-known islands where many restaurants and establishments do not accept credit cards. Do not despair, though, as credit cards are accepted in the majority of big stores (shopping stores, large supermarkets, malls, restaurants in busy locations). But try always to have cash with you; just in case and when in doubt, always ask before getting to the register.

Be Sure To Plan Ahead

Watch Out For The Cigarette Smoke

It is estimated that roughly 50 percent of Greeks smoke, which can be very annoying for non-smokers. While a ban on smoking indoors has been introduced, it is still very common to enter a café or restaurant where people smoke, although a lot of new places are enforcing the ban. But when it comes to outdoor smoking, unfortunately, not much can be done.

Be Vigilant When Driving

You should know that Greeks drive rather aggressively, especially in Athens . If you are planning on renting a car, always be careful. Outside of the city, however, the situation is a bit better, but be cautious. Motorcycles won’t stay behind you when driving and tend to zigzag a lot, while other drivers may overtake you on the left or the right. Therefore, be vigilant and try to refrain from driving in the Greek capital, but on the islands and elsewhere, you should be fine.

Be Taxi-Smart

Taxi fares in Greece are rather cheap, except for the airport rides. But in the city, you can find taxis virtually everywhere. Once you’ve flagged one down, the driver may ask you your destination first before deciding if it suits him or not. While this is unusual elsewhere, in Greece, it is common. Also, do not be surprised if the driver stops to take other people while you’re in it. Few drivers do it, but it may happen. And if it does, note that you will not share the fare with them.

During high season, the earlier you book your tickets or your hotel , the less you’ll pay. If you are traveling during the busy season (mid-July to the end of August), note that islands and ferries are crowded since Greeks and tourists alike are on holidays.

By All Means Drink, But Behave

Greeks drink regularly, but you will rarely see them drunk. As such, they expect the same from you.

Think Bottled Water On The Islands

You can drink water from the tap in virtually any city in mainland Greece, but on the islands, it’s best to stick to bottled water. The majority of Greek islands do not have sufficient water, and the little that they do have is used for hygienic purposes and laundry.

Know The Opening Hours

Throughout Greece, shops, department stores, and supermarkets are open from 9 AM-9 PM. (On Saturdays, most stores close at 8 PM.) As far as small stores and local shops, the hours are as follows: 9 AM-2:30 PM & 5:30-8:30 PM on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. On Mondays and Wednesdays, they open at 9 AM and close at 3 PM. Shops are usually closed on Sundays, except for mini-markets and kiosks ( periptero ).

Don’t Be Afraid To Ask For WiFi

In Greece, except in remote and isolated places, you can get an internet connection virtually anywhere. WiFi spots are available in many public spaces, as well as in hotels and cafés/bars. Don’t be afraid to ask for the password if the connection is secured; this is common practice in Greece. Alternatively, you can buy a prepaid internet card at a kiosk.

Do Not Flush Toilet Paper

Do not throw paper in the toilet: this sign is omnipresent in Greek toilets. You are kindly requested to use the bin for this purpose. Why? Simple. Greek sewage pipes are 50 millimeters in diameter and easily get clogged if toilet paper is flushed. Don’t forget that Greece is an ancient civilization. And although sewage pipes are not that old, they just cannot support the quantity of flushed paper. And if you are worried about possible issues, the bins are emptied at the end of each day and usually have a lid.

Go Outside And Explore

Greece is a beautiful country. It has beaches, mountains, lakes, verdant valleys, and cities to boot. And while the islands welcome tourists by the thousands during summer, other destinations, especially on the mainland, are worth seeing. Even better, they are usually cheaper and less crowded than some of the top destinations – an ideal solution if you’re looking for a truly relaxing vacation or if you’re on a budget.

To report any theft, loss, or any other major issue, contact the Tourism Police. The agents are fluent in many languages and can offer help and information (they are not tourist guides, however, so refrain from asking for specific touristic things). You can reach them by dialing 171 from all over Greece 24/7.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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• FOOD & DRINK
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• Greek Ferry Guide
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PRIVACY POLICY

Corfu or Kerkyra is the main island in the Greek Ionian Islands with Corfu Town being one of the most attractive of Greek island capitals.

Visitors and settlers have been delighted by the green and pleasant island of Corfu for thousands of years. It was already a popular holiday destination in Roman times, and today it is one of the busiest spots in the Mediterranean. 

What's in a name? T he Greek name for Corfu is Kerkyra. According to one tradition this derives from a nymph named Kerkyra or Korkyra, brought to the island by the sea god Poseidon who was in love with her.

Another possible derivation is from the Greek kerkos, meaning ‘handle’, referring to the island’s shape. Corfu has also been known as Drepanon or Drepani, meaning ‘sickle’.

The English name Corfu probably comes from the Greek word korifai (peaks), as a twin-peaked citadel once stood on the site of Corfu Town. The name was corrupted into Corfu by European settlers, and this is now how most of the inhabitants refer to the island themselves. 

Corfu has a population of just over 100,000, packed into its 593 sq kms (229 sq miles), making it one of the most densely populated parts of Greece – and that’s without the annual impact of almost one million visitors. Nevertheless, such figures are misleading, as about 40% of the population lives in the capital, Corfu Town .

Corfu History

It has been established that Corfu Town was one of the first settlements on the island, with remains dated back to about 50,000 years ago. The island’s fertility, size and natural beauty all contributed to its development, and by the time of the Persian Wars it was so powerful that only Athens contributed a greater naval fleet to the Greek forces massed against the Persians. It remained a strong Greek power, and little surprise that it was coveted by the Romans, and indeed by many other powers over the succeeding centuries.

See our page on Corfu Writers and Artists .

It was the Venetians who have left the most impact culturally and architecturally, after their occupation here from 1386 to 1797, which also means that the Turkish influence, so strong elsewhere in Greece, is here quite negligible. Instead you will see in Corfu Town the tall houses, with wrought-iron balconies and shutters, and the narrow streets so typical of Italian towns, and reminiscent in places of Venice.

The British also ruled Corfu for a time and left behind a quirky legacy - a love of cricket on Corfu !

Our Pick of Greek Islands Guides

Walking on Corfu

For some suggestions about walking on Corfu, see these pages: The Corfu Trail A Walk in the Old Town of Corfu A Lawrence Durrell Walk

And this one about Corfu's neighbour: Walking on Paxos

Some Cool Corfu Souvenirs

Paleokastritsa Luggage Tag

Corfu Cypresses Capri Leggings

Corfu T-shirt

Corfu Tote Bag

Driving on Corfu

For some suggestions of drives you can do on Corfu, see: Drive to Palaiokastritsa Mount Pantokrator Drive Northern Corfu Drive Northern Corfu in Three Days Southern Corfu Drive

Getting to Know Corfu

You can get a broad view of the island by reading the following pages: Northern Corfu Beaches and Villages North-West Corfu Beaches and Villages Southern Corfu Beaches and Villages

Corfu's Coastline

Corfu has some 217km (135 miles) of glorious coastline for visitors to enjoy, and the vast majority of these visitors shoehorn themselves into a handful of bustling seaside resorts, so escape from the crowds is still possible. Take a look at little Kalami , as one example. And though few coastal villages are totally untouched by tourism, some have not yet been taken over by it. 

Corfu's Wildlife

Be sure to read our pages on Corfu's Wildlife  and Corfu's Marine Life .

Corfu's Food and Drink

Corfu's food and drink is definitely one reason to visit the island. Check out these pages:

Corfu's Food and Drink Corfu's Olives Corfu's Special Cuisine Where to Eat in Corfu Town Where to Eat in Northern Corfu Where to Eat in North-West Corfu

Corfu's Popularity

What has made Corfu so popular? For one thing, it can boast some of the best beaches in Greece. Its climate is warm for most of the year and regular rainfall makes Corfu an unusually green Mediterranean island.

The scenery is outstanding, with the north dominated by the majestic slopes of Mount Pantokrator , and the people possess the traditional Greek friendliness (in Greek the word for ‘stranger’ and ‘guest’ is one and the same). To see the best of the scenery think about walking the Corfu Trail .

The island is divided into a mountainous north and a lower-lying south , with a flat and fertile plain in-between, so lush that it can provide the islands’ only golf course. The bulk of the tourist development is in the northeast, spreading north from Corfu Town, and there are numerous excellent beaches all around the island, which is big enough to provide escape from the crowds into untouched mountain villages, as this drive indicates. And finally, Corfu Town is probably the most attractive capital to be found in any of the Greek islands. 

Where to Stay on Corfu

Where to Stay in Corfu Town

Where to Stay in Northern Corfu

Where to Stay in North-West and Central Corfu

Where to Stay in Southern Corfu

Other Corfu Pages

Corfu Writers and Artists

Corfu writers and artists inspired by the island include both residents and visitors, like Gerald and Lawrence Durrell, Edward Lear, and Henry Miller.

Corfu Shopping Tips

These Corfu shopping tips include advice on buying souvenirs like ceramics, jewelry, gold, silver, wood carvings, and food and drink, with tips on haggling.

Corfu Festivals and Events

Information for travellers to Greece on Corfu festivals and events including Easter, the Feast of St Spiridhon, Carnival and Name Days.

Benitses is a popular resort town south of Corfu Town with its own marina, remains of a Roman Baths, an old town, and plenty of walks inland.

Kassiopi is a popular tourist resort on the northeast coast of Corfu with a sandy beach, Byzantine fortress, old church, and lots of places to stay and to eat.

Kalami in north-west Corfu is a hidden gem which many people know about because writer Lawrence Durrell once lived here in The White House.

Greece Travel Secrets recommends where to stay in north-west and central Corfu including luxury mansions, inexpensive rooms, and resort hotels.

Corfu and Cricket

The history of Corfu and cricket goes back to 1823 when the island was under British rule, which left them with a legacy of loving both cricket and ginger beer.

A Lawrence Durrell Walk

This Lawrence Durrell walk takes you from Kaminaki Beach in northern Corfu to the White House in Kalami where the writer Lawrence Durrell lived for four year.

Where to Eat in Northern Corfu

This is the Greece Travel Secrets selection of where to eat in northern Corfu, from classy restaurants and traditional tavernas to beachside fish tavernas.

Angelokastro

Angelokastro is a 13th-century hilltop fortress with breath-taking views near Paleokastritsa on the Greek island of Corfu in the Ionian Islands.

Mount Pantokrátor

Mount Pantokrator is the highest mountain on Corfu and it’s easy to drive to the top for spectacular views of Albania, Corfu, and even sometimes to Italy.

Paleokastritsa, Corfu

Paleokastritsa is on the west coast of Corfu and is one of the most popular holiday spots. This page gives information on beaches, boat trips, weather and map.

Fun Facts about Corfu

These fun facts about Corfu include how the island got its name, who wrote the Greek National Anthem, and the eccentric Englishman, the Earl of Guilford.

Southern Corfu Beaches and Villages

This guide to southern Corfu’s beaches and villages includes busy resorts, quiet beach, hill villages and the southernmost tip of Corfu at Cape Asprókavos.

Best Things to Do on Corfu

The best things to do on Corfu include visiting Palaiokastritsa, a day trip to Albania, seeing the Achilleion Palace, and the museums in Corfu Town.

Where to Eat in North-West Corfu

Greece Travel Secrets has its list of favourite places where you can eat in north-west Corfu, including in Paleokastritsa, Pelekas, and Ayios Stefanos.

Corfu Beer Festival

The First Corfu Beer Festival took place in Arillas in North West Corfu and celebrated the beer of Bavaria and of Corfu, in the Ionian islands of Greece.

Korission Lagoon

The Korission Lagoon on the west coast of Corfu is also called Lake Korission and has abundant wildlife, especially birds, and one of the best beaches on Corfu.

Drive to Palaiokastrítsa

This drive to Palaiokastritsa starts at Corfu airport and takes you across the Ropa Plan and through hill villages before returning to Corfu Town.

Visiting Albania from Corfu

Donna Dailey of Greece Travel Secrets visits Albania by boat from Corfu Town, staying overnight and seeing archaeological sites with Sipa Tours.

Mount Pantokrator Drive

This Mount Pantokrator drive takes you to the top of Corfu’s highest mountain with wonderful views to Albania, mainland Greece, and around Corfu.

Corfu Olives

Corfu olives are an important part of this Greek island's economy, with an estimated 3-4 million trees producing olive oil of exceptional quality.

Corfu Wildlife

Corfu’s wildlife includes rare and colourful birds, snakes, lizards, fireflies, and insects, with plenty of places to watch the wildlife like lakes and lagoons.

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

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

Greece travel facts

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

• How to get to Greece

How to get around Greece

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ancient Delphi © elgreko/Shutterstock

Discover more places in Greece

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here’s our full guide to getting around Greece .

Sunset at Oia on Santorini island © DigitalHand Studio/Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

10 days  / from 2632 USD

The Historical and Mythological Cyclades islands

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

9 days  / from 2226 USD

A secluded villa stay on Mainland Greece

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

10 days  / from 2012 USD

Along the Coast of Crete: from Heraklion to Platanias

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mykonos © Ella Hanochi/Shutterstock

Watersports

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

Windsurfing

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

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

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

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

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

Scuba diving

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

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

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

Travel advice for Greece

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

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

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

Travel visa requirements for Greece

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 19.05.2021

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• Travel advice

10 things I wish tourists knew before visiting Greece, from a local

• I'm from Athens, and I've seen plenty of tourists make mistakes while traveling to Greece .
• Pace yourself if you're planning on staying out at the bars and clubs all night.
• It's worth it to do some research on smaller islands and local cuisine before your trip.

Thanks to its ancient ruins, picturesque beaches, and incredible food, Greece is one of the top tourist destinations. In 2023, over 32 million people visited.

I was born in Athens and currently split my years living between the US and Greece , so I've spent plenty of time in the beautiful European country.

Here are 10 things I think tourists should know before visiting.

There’s so much more to see in Greece than the popular islands.

It seems like everyone visits Mykonos, Santorini, and maybe Paros, but Greece has over 220 inhabitable islands. Plus, most of them are more budget-friendly than the popular spots.

I recommend looking into places like Kimolos, Astypalaia, Paxoi (also known as Paxos and Paxi), or Folegandros.

The Greek mainland is also beautiful. There's a lot to see there, from UNESCO sites at Delphi and Meteora and the turquoise waters of the Peloponnese to the stunning mountains and villages of Epirus.

Athens is more than the Acropolis.

Athens has great nightlife , restaurants, museums, and cool neighborhoods like Plaka, Exarcheia, Psyrri, and Pangrati.

Tourists who just swing by to check the Acropolis off their list are missing out. I've always found it to be one of the liveliest cities in the world.

You don’t need to tip 20%.

Greek servers generally rely on hourly wages, so there isn't the same tipping culture as the US .

I normally just round up the bill or leave a couple of Euros on the table as a tip — unless I had exceptional service or dined at a more formal (and tourist-oriented) restaurant.

Pace yourself when drinking alcohol.

A lot of travelers take advantage of Greece's lax attitude toward alcohol restrictions. Coupled with the fact that Greek bars and clubs close pretty late (like 4 a.m. late), some tourists get sloppy.

Locals usually intersperse drinks with food and water so they can last the whole night, and I recommend tourists do the same.

Slow down and take Sundays off.

Greeks have a pretty relaxed relationship with time — people often arrive late and stores may open half an hour after they said they would.

Service in Greece can seem slow to people from more fast-paced places, especially on the quieter islands . A lot of stores and supermarkets are also closed on Sundays, even in Athens.

I know this can be annoying at times, but I recommend just enjoying the slower pace of life.

Don’t try to visit too many islands on one trip.

So many people ask me if they can fit four or five islands into a seven-day trip, and I never recommend it. Take your time and enjoy each destination for at least a couple of days.

Half the joy of the Greek islands is getting to destress. If you're hopping from ferry to ferry and running around to cover the highlights, you'll miss out on the best parts of the country.

Be sensitive about natural disasters.

I never thought I'd have to say this, but I have seen multiple tourists in the last few years posting about how "pretty" the skies or sunsets are thanks to the glow from raging wildfires .

At a time when a lot of Greek people are wondering if their houses are still standing or their loved ones have gotten to safety, it's a pretty insensitive thing to do.

Don't skip out on experiencing a traditional taverna.

Athens and other popular Greek destinations now have a lot of upscale restaurants with cuisines from all over the world. But make sure to eat in a traditional taverna at least once.

A taverna is a casual restaurant with family-style dining. Diners can spend hours in them chatting with friends while sharing food paired with some great wine or ouzo (a Greek aperitif).

Greek food is more than just gyros.

Well-known dishes like gyros and souvlaki are truly delicious, but Greek cuisine is so much more than that.

For example, a lot of Greeks start their day with a tiropita (cheese pie) and freddo coffee. Each region also has local specialties that I recommend inquiring about.

In tavernas, popular menu items include calamari, octopus, all kinds of fish, grilled and fried cheeses (like saganaki and halloumi), and side dishes like fava.

Learn a few local words.

Most younger Greek people understand English, but you may run into problems communicating with older people — especially in more rural areas.

Even if a local person can understand you, I think it's nice to learn a few simple words and phrases like "good morning," "thank you," and "how are you?"

It's nice when tourists make a little bit of an effort.

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Greece Travel Secrets Podcast

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A podcast about travelling to Greece & making the most of your Greek Odyssey

Wednesday Mar 06, 2024

The region of Epirus with Epirus Traveller

Learn about one of the most incredible, less known, regions of Greece - Epirus, as I chat with Ioannis Smiris of Epirus Traveller. Located on the western mainland, above the Peloponnese, this region is packed full of some of the most amazing sites in Europe:

• Ioannina, the capital located on beautiful Lake Pamvotida
• Vikos Gorge - the deepest in the world!
• the 46 traditional villages of Zagori
• the Mythical Dragon Lakes of Drakolimnes
• the Acheron River - the Gates of Hades that lead to the underworlds and guarded by the Ferryman and Cerberus the 3-headed dog
• the Epirus Riviera with over 40 beaches, several stunning islands and the Greek 'Caribbean' area of Syvota 
• the Monasteries of Tsouka & Kipina - hundreds of years older than Meteora
• Nikopolis - the Roman Capital in Ancient times and a world UNESCO Heritage Site
• The Ambracian Gulf and Amvrakikos Wetlands - homes to thousands of rare migratory birds 

and much more! Find Ioannis at Epirus Traveller 

• Download 2.9K

Saturday Dec 30, 2023

Naxos - with Sophia Werning

Listen in as I chat with Naxian-American Sophia Werning about the wonderful island of Naxos. This perennial favourite offers something for absolutely everyone, and we talk about the many highlights, including the great beaches, the charming mountain villages, the excellent Chora, and lots more.

You can find much more information on the Naxos page on the website too.

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Sunday Apr 23, 2023

Episode 3 with Archaeologist Ilona Bartsch - The Greek Islands

Welcome back to my chat with Archaeologist Ilona Bartsch as we complete our three part series about her amazing trip to Greece. This time Ilona ventures to the islands. First up is Mykonos , mostly to visit the sacred island of Delos , before moving on to Santorini , Crete , Rhodes and Naxos . We discuss the many, many incredible wonders on these islands including a number of places steeped in Mythology , the construction of ancient cities and what life was like for these ancient civilizations as well as some modern history too. You can find destination guides for all of these places on the website as well specific guides to Delos, Akrotiri , Lindos   and more.

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Tuesday Mar 14, 2023

Greek Archaeology with Ilona Bartsch Part 2

In this episode Ilona and I talk about the wonders of Thessaloniki and surrounds and her road trip back to Athens via Delphi , Arachova and Meteora , with a few stops along the way.

These are some of the most significant historical sites in Greece and are also in arguably some of the most beautiful surroundings in the world.

You can find out more about these and other astonishing Mainland sites, including how to get there are and where to stay,on the Mainland Page on the website.

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Monday Feb 20, 2023

Greek Archaeology with Archaeologist Ilona Bartsch

Part one of a three part series with Archaeologist Ilona Bartsch. 

We talk about her amazing trip to Greece and her journey around the country visiting many of the best archeology sites including Delphi, Mycenae, Vergina, Knossos Palace, Delos and more.

Join us as we talk about the history behind these incredible places as well the Mythology and also the logistics about how to get to them and lots more...

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Tuesday Jan 17, 2023

Food Tours in Athens with tour guide & foodie, Anna Tzogia

In this episode I chat with Anna Tzogia from Athens Food on Foot about her fantastic food tours and cooking classes too. We talk about how Anna acquired her love of food as well as the different types of tours she offers, including those that are great for families and children and some of the newer, niche tours that cover other topics as well.

Read more at: Things to do in Athens

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Wednesday Dec 21, 2022

Monemvasia with local proprietor Yannis Papadakis

Join me as I chat with Yannis Papadakis, a young man who lives and works on the incredible 'island fortress' of Momenvasia, on the Peloponnese peninsula on the Greek Mainland.

This is an incredibly unique and fascinating destination that is steeped in history and has a burgeoning food and wine industry.  Step inside the castle and discover a magical medieval village, once home to over 20,000 people and now a charming place to spend a few days, or more.

Read all about Monemvasia including how to get there, where to stay and more here: https://www.greecetravelsecrets.com/monemvasia-castle/

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Thursday Nov 10, 2022

Milos Island with Lefkothea Georgantis from White Pebble Suites

I finally got to chat with one of the amazing women from Sydney who built a hotel on Milos during the pandemic!

Listen in as Lefkothea and I talk about all the wonders of Milos including activities, restaurants, and day trips as well as the process of building and now running the hotel.

It's no secret that Milos has increased significantly in popularity in recent years and when you hear about the beaches, the charming villages, and some of the other things that make it stand out in the Greek Islands, you'll understand why.

Head over to the Milos page on the website for lots more information including how to get there, where to stay , what to see and do - including the 73 extraordinary beaches , and more. You can book White Pebble Suites direct on their website

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Thursday May 19, 2022

Crete, Cretan Food and Cooking Classes with Kelly Michelakis

Today I chat with Kelly from The Hellenic Odyssey. Based in Melbourne Australia and Chania in Crete The Hellenic Odessey run fantastic cooking classes in Melbourne and online and do food tours in both Chania and Melbourne.

I chat with Kelly about her business and its products as well as her favourite things to see and do in Chania. There are a few hidden gems that not many people know about!

To book the tours and cooking classes AND to receive a 10% discount for listeners, head to either of these sites and use the code "greecetravelsecrets" at checkout.

https://www.greecetravelsecrets.com/explore-greek-islands/crete/

https://www.thehellenicodyssey.com/

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Friday Mar 18, 2022

Meteora, Tours and Transfers with Terry Drukakis

Join me as I chat with my driver and tour partner Terry Drukakis from CATTaxi in Athens.

We find out more about Terry, his team and his fleet of vehicles as well as the services they offer.

We also talk in detail about our amazing overnight tour to Meteora as well as the new tour - Highlights of Corinth and The Peloponnese.

Terry shares some great tips about drivers vs guides in Greece as well as hidden gems and accommodation choices on the Tours. He also points out that listeners, readers and group members get some great discounts too!

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It’s easy to see why many people regard Paros as the quintessential Greek Island.

Located in the heart of the Cyclades Islands in Greece there are over 120kms of coastline and 10,000 inhabitants. Beautiful beaches, medieval villages, wineries, harbours and easy access to neighbouring islands, they say Paros is like Mykonos was 20 years ago. It has all the charm and atmosphere but without the crowds and the steep prices, particularly in summer.

There are two large towns, the Port town of Parikia and the more cosmopolitan and lively town of Naoussa in the north. Both are lovely and offer something for everyone. There is also the magical inland village of Lefkas in the hills and numerous beachside villages dotted around the island.

The island is a good size that allows a full loop as a day trip but not so small you run out of things to do or places to explore.

There’s a good reason why Paros is a perennial favourite for so many visitors.

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