where not to travel in greece

Places the U.S. Government Warns Not to Travel Right Now

You may want to reconsider traveling to these countries right now.

Do Not Travel to These Countries

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Crime, civil unrest and terrorism are common risk factors for countries that end up on the State Department's "Do Not Travel" advisory list.

In 2024, tourism across the globe is “well on track” to return to pre-pandemic levels, according to projections by UN Tourism.

Global conflicts and natural disasters , ranging from a series of coups across Africa to catastrophic earthquakes in the Middle East affected international travel patterns throughout 2023. Still, international tourist arrivals reached 87% of pre-pandemic levels in 2023, according to estimates by UN Tourism .

In January 2024 alone, about 4.6 million U.S. citizens left the country for international destinations, 17% higher than the same month in 2019, according to the International Trade Administration . But some destinations warrant more caution than others.

On Oct. 19, 2023, following the outbreak of war between Israel and Gaza and flaring tensions in the region, the U.S. State Department issued a worldwide caution advisory due to “increased tensions in various locations around the world, the potential for terrorist attacks, demonstrations or violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests.” Prior to this update, the most recent worldwide caution advisory was issued in 2022 after a U.S. strike killed Ayman al-Zawahiri, Osama bin Laden’s successor as leader of Al Qaeda, causing “a higher potential for anti-American violence.” The worldwide caution advisory remains in effect.

The U.S. State Department also issues individual travel advisory levels for more than 200 countries globally, continually updating them based on a variety of risk indicators such as health, terrorism and civil unrest. Travel advisory levels range from Level 1, which means exercise normal precautions, to Level 4, which means do not travel there.

About 10% of countries – 19 total – have a Level 4: “Do Not Travel” advisory as of Mar. 4. In Level 4 countries, the U.S. government may have “very limited ability” to step in should travelers’ safety or security be at risk, according to the State Department. Crime, civil unrest, kidnapping and terrorism are common risk factors associated with Level 4 countries.

So far in 2024, the State Department made changes to the existing Level 4 advisories for Myanmar, Iran and Gaza, and moved Niger and Lebanon off of the Level 4 list.

Places With a Level 4 Travel Advisory

These are the primary areas the U.S. government says not to travel to right now, in alphabetical order:

Jump to Place: Afghanistan Belarus Burkina Faso Central African Republic Myanmar (formerly Burma) Gaza Haiti Iran Iraq Libya Mali Mexico North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea) Russia Somalia South Sudan Sudan Syria Ukraine Venezuela Yemen

Afghanistan: The Central Asian country is wrestling with “terrorism, risk of wrongful detention, kidnapping and crime,” according to the State Department. U.S. citizens are specifically at risk for wrongful detention and kidnapping. In 2022, the government reinstituted public floggings and executions, and women’s rights are disappearing under Taliban control. The U.S. Embassy in Kabul halted operations in August 2021. Since the Taliban took control , many forms of international aid have been halted . Meanwhile, in 2023, some of the year’s deadliest earthquakes killed more than 2,400 in Afghanistan while the country continues to face a years-long extreme drought.

Belarus: Belarus, which shares a western border with Russia and a southern border with Ukraine, has been flagged for “Belarusian authorities’ continued facilitation of Russia’s war against Ukraine, the buildup of Russian military forces in Belarus, the arbitrary enforcement of local laws, the potential of civil unrest, the risk of detention, and the Embassy’s limited ability to assist U.S. citizens residing in or traveling to Belarus.” The U.S. Embassy in Minsk halted operations in February 2022.

Burkina Faso: Terrorism, crime and kidnapping are plaguing this West African nation. Terrorist attacks may target hotels, restaurants and schools with little to no warning, and the East and Sahel regions of the country are under a state of emergency. In late November 2023, hundreds died in clashes between state security forces and rebels near the country’s border with Mali. In June, more than 2 million people in Burkina Faso were displaced due to “violence linked to al-Qaida and the Islamic State group.”

Central African Republic: While there have not been specific incidents of U.S. citizens targeted with violence or crime, violent crime and sudden closure of roads and borders is common. The advisory states that “Embassy Bangui’s limited capacity to provide support to U.S. citizens, crime, civil unrest, and kidnapping” is a factor in its assessment. Recent data from UNICEF suggests the country has the worst drinking water accessibility of all countries in 2022.

Myanmar (Formerly Burma): Armed conflict and civil unrest are the primary reasons to not travel to this Southeast Asian country, which experienced a military coup in early 2021. Limited health care resources, wrongful detentions and “areas with land mines and unexploded ordnance” are also listed as risk factors. After Ukraine and Israel, Myanmar had the highest conflict-related death toll in 2023.

Gaza : Hamas, a foreign terrorist organization as designated by the State Department, controls much of the Gaza Strip, which shares borders with both Israel and Egypt. On Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas fighters broke across the border into Israel, killing hundreds of civilians and soldiers in a brazen attack that stunned Israelis. On Oct. 10, Israel hit the Gaza Strip with “the fiercest air strikes in its 75-year conflict” according to Reuters . The conflict has since escalated into war between Israel and Hamas, with regular Israeli airstrikes leading to extensive civilian casualties in Gaza. As of mid-December, nearly 85% of Gaza’s population were displaced from their homes, according to UN estimates . The region continues to face shortages of food , water, electricity and medical supplies , with conditions deemed “far beyond a humanitarian crisis.” The State Department warns of terrorism and armed conflict within Gaza’s borders.

Haiti: In July 2023, the Department of State ordered all non-emergency U.S. government personnel and family members to leave the U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince in response to the increased risk of kidnapping and violent crime in the country , as well as armed conflict between gangs and police. The travel advisory states that cases of kidnapping “often involve ransom negotiations and U.S. citizen victims have been physically harmed during kidnappings.” The travel advisory also states that “U.S. citizens in Haiti should depart Haiti as soon as possible” given “the current security situation and infrastructure challenges.” A series of gang attacks in late September 2023 caused thousands to flee their homes, and many aid groups have been forced to cut or suspend operations amid escalating violence in recent months.

Iran: Terrorism, kidnapping and civil unrest are risk factors for all travelers to Iran, while U.S. citizens are specifically at risk for “arbitrary arrest.” U.S.-Iranian nationals such as students, journalists and business travelers have been arrested on charges of espionage and threatening national security. Executions in Iran rose sharply between 2021 and 2022, bringing the country’s total to nearly 580 people over the year, according to a report by Amnesty International released in May 2023.

Iraq: The State Department cites “terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict [and] civil unrest” as cause for the country’s Level 4 distinction. Iraq’s northern borders, and its border with Syria, are especially dangerous. Since the escalation of conflict in neighboring Israel in October, there has been an increase in attacks against Iraqi military bases, which host U.S. troops and other international forces. In October 2023, non-emergency U.S. government personnel and eligible family members were ordered to leave the U.S. embassy in Baghdad.

Libya: Following the end of its dictatorship over a decade ago, Libya has been wrought with internal conflict between armed groups in the East and West. Armed conflict, civil unrest, crime, kidnapping and terrorism are all risk factors. U.S. citizens have been targets of kidnapping for ransom, with terrorists targeting hotels and airports frequented by Westerners. The U.S. Embassy in Tripoli halted operations in 2014. In mid-September 2023, floods, which some say were intensified by climate change , killed thousands in eastern Libya. Clashes between armed factions escalated across the country in the latter half of 2023, including in the capital city of Tripoli and in Benghazi.

Mali: After experiencing military coups in 2020 and 2021, crime, terrorism and kidnapping are all prevalent threats in this West African landlocked nation. In July 2022, non-emergency U.S. government employees and their families were ordered to leave the country due to higher risk of terrorist activity. A U.N. report in August 2023 said that military groups in the country, including both Mali security forces and possibly Russian Wagner mercenaries, were spreading terror through the use of violence against women and human rights abuses. Democratic elections were supposed to occur in February 2024, but Mali’s military junta postponed the plans indefinitely. In December, the U.N. officially ended a decade-long peacekeeping presence in the country, which had been among the agency’s deadliest missions, with hundreds of the mission personnel killed since 2013.

Mexico: Each state in Mexico is assessed separately for travel advisory levels. Six of the 32 states in Mexico are designated as Level 4: Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas and Zacatecas. Crime and kidnapping are listed as the primary risk factors throughout the country. Nearly 112,000 people were missing across the country as of October, a number the U.N. has called “alarming.”

North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea): U.S. passports are not valid for travel “to, in, or through” this country, home to one of the world's longest-running dynastic dictatorships. The travel advisory states that the Level 4 distinction is due to “the continuing serious risk of arrest and long-term detention of U.S. nationals.” In July 2023, a U.S. soldier fled across the border into North Korea, where he is believed to be in North Korean custody, the first American detained in the North in nearly five years. He was returned to U.S. custody in September 2023.

Russia: The travel advisory for Russia cites its invasion of Ukraine , harassment of U.S. citizens by Russian government officials and arbitrary law enforcement as a few of the reasons for the Level 4 designation. Chechnya and Mount Elbrus are specifically listed as Level 4 regions. Terrorism, civil unrest, health, kidnapping and wrongful detention are all noted as risks.

Russia Invades Ukraine: A Timeline

Somalia: A severe drought resulting from five failed rainy seasons in a row killed 43,000 people in 2022, and caused a famine amid conflict with Islamist insurgents . Violent crime is common throughout Somalia , pirates frequent its coast off the Horn of Africa, and medical facilities, where they exist, have limited capacity. Crime, terrorism, civil unrest, health and kidnapping are all risk factors. In January 2024, some passengers aboard a U.N.-contracted helicopter were taken hostage by al-Shabaab militants after the vehicle crashed in central Somalia.

South Sudan: Crime, kidnapping and armed conflict are the primary risk factors for South Sudan, which separated from Sudan in 2011, making it the world’s newest country . Weapons are readily available, and travelers have been victims of sexual assault and armed robbery.

Sudan: The U.S. evacuated its embassy in Khartoum in April 2023, and the country closed its airspace due to the ongoing conflict in the country, only permitting humanitarian aid and evacuation efforts. Fighting has escalated in the region between two warring generals seeking to gain control after a military coup in 2021 ousted the country’s prime minister. Civil unrest is the primary risk factor for Africa’s third largest country by area. Crime, terrorism, kidnapping and armed conflict are also noted. The International Criminal Court began investigating alleged war crimes and violence against African ethnic groups in the country in 2023. Millions have fled their homes due to conflict, and the U.N. has said its efforts to provide aid have been hindered by a lack of support, safety and resources. As recently as December 2023, the United Nations warned of catastrophic famine , with millions of children at-risk for malnutrition .

Syria: The advisory states that “No part of Syria is safe from violence,” with terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, armed conflict and risk of unjust detention all potential risk factors. U.S. citizens are often a target for kidnappings and detention. The U.S. Embassy in Damascus halted operations in 2012. Fighting in neighboring Israel has escalated since October, and the conflict has spilled over into Syria, where the U.S. has carried out air strikes following drone and rocket attacks against American troops in Syria and Iraq, triggered by the Israel-Hamas war.

Ukraine: Russian setbacks in their invasion of Ukraine buoyed hopes in Ukraine in 2023. However, Ukraine is a Level 4 country due to Russia’s invasion, with crime and civil unrest also noted as risk factors. The country’s forces shot down two Russian fighter jets on Christmas Eve 2023, in a move Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said “sets the right mood for the entire year ahead.”

Venezuela: Human rights abuses and lack of health care plague this South American nation, which has been in a political crisis since 2014. In 2019, diplomatic personnel were withdrawn from the U.S. Embassy in Caracas. Threats in the country include crime, civil unrest, kidnapping, wrongful detention and poor health infrastructure.

Yemen: Six of the nine risk factors defined by the State Department – terrorism, civil unrest, health risks, kidnapping, armed conflict and landmines – are all present in Yemen. Despite private companies offering tourist visits to the Yemeni island of Socotra, the U.S. government argues those arranging such visits “are putting tourists in danger.” Civil war and cholera are also both present throughout the country. The U.S. Embassy in Sanaa halted operations in 2015. The country has experienced a relative lull in the civil war fighting, but as peace negotiations have gotten traction, flare ups in the fighting have jeopardized progress. Most recently, the U.S. and U.K. have carried out a series of airstrikes in the country, targeting Iran-backed Houthi sites.

Other Countries to Watch

Since Jan. 1, the State Department has updated travel advisories for 17 different countries as well as for the West Bank and Gaza, adding information about specific regions or risk factors, or simply renewing an existing advisory. Travel advisory levels can change based on several factors in a nation, such as increased civil unrest, policies that affect human rights or higher risks of unlawful detention.

The State Department has given about 25 countries an assessment of Level 3, meaning it recommends people “reconsider travel” to those destinations.

On Oct. 14, one week after the deadly Hamas attack on Israel, Israel and the West Bank were both moved from Level 2 to Level 3, while Gaza remains at Level 4. The region’s travel advisory was updated in November to reflect travel restrictions for certain government employees who have not already left the area, and it was updated again on Jan. 3.

Following the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war in early October, the U.S. State Department raised Lebanon ’s travel advisory level from a Level 3 to a Level 4 level due to “the unpredictable security situation related to rocket, missile, and artillery exchanges” between Israel and Hezbollah or other militant groups. In December, the U.S. Embassy in Beirut returned to normal staffing and presence, and on Jan. 29, the country was moved back to Level 3. Crime, terrorism, armed conflict, civil unrest, kidnapping and unexploded landmines are listed as the country’s primary risk factors. However, the country’s borders with Syria and with Israel, as well as refugee settlements within Lebanon, are specifically noted as Level 4 regions.

China became a Level 3 country in late 2020, with an update in December 2022 citing “the surge in COVID-19 cases, arbitrary enforcement of local laws, and COVID-19-related restrictions” as the reason for the advisory. In June 2023, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) was moved from the Level 3 to the Level 2 list, but travelers are still advised to be cautious in the area due to “arbitrary enforcement of local laws.” Meanwhile, Macau remains at Level 3.

Following an attempted coup in August 2023, Niger was elevated to Level 4 in August and the Department of State ordered all non-emergency U.S. government personnel and family members to leave the U.S. Embassy in Niamey. In early January 2024, the overall risk level for the country was lowered back to Level 3. Despite the new classification, the State Department still asks non-emergency government personnel and eligible family members to depart the country.

In mid-December 2023 there was an explosion at Guinea’s main fuel depot which has since affected access to health care and basic goods and services. The country was subsequently designated a Level 3 nation after having previously been Level 2. Concerns about civil unrest, health, crime and fuel shortages impacting local infrastructure were listed as the primary risk factors contributing to the change.

Several Level 3 countries are among the worst countries for human trafficking, as designated by the State Department’s annual Trafficking in Persons Report . Level 3 countries on this list include Papua New Guinea, Guinea Bissau, China and Chad. There are also nine Level 4 countries designated as among the worst for human trafficking: Afghanistan, Belarus, Iran, Myanmar, North Korea, Russia, Syria, South Sudan and Venezuela.

Over 70 countries are currently at Level 2, meaning the State Department recommends travelers “exercise increased caution” when traveling to those destinations.

Botswana became the newest Level 2 country on Feb. 26 after having previously been Level 1, with crime noted as the primary risk factor.

France, which saw nationwide protests throughout 2023, has civil unrest and terrorism noted as risk factors for its Level 2 status, and Sweden’s Level 2 status is associated with risks of terrorism.

The Level 2 travel advisory for the Bahamas was updated in January to reflect water safety concerns. The advisory warns that “activities involving commercial recreational watercraft, including water tours, are not consistently regulated” and notes that government personnel are “not permitted to use independently operated jet-ski rentals on New Providence and Paradise Islands.” It also warns visitors to be mindful of sharks, weather and water conditions. The advisory also says that crime is a primary risk factor with gang-on-gang violence contributing to high homicide rates in some areas. Visitors are asked to “be vigilant” and to not physically resist robbery attempts.

Bangladesh 's Level 2 travel advisory was updated in October 2023 to add a note about the country’s general election , which took place Jan. 7, 2024. The advisory states “demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence.” The U.S. has since claimed the country’s election was not free nor fair.

In November 2023, several Level 2 travel advisories were updated with new cautionary information. The advisory for Ghana was updated to reflect threats against LGBTQI+ travelers specifically, noting “anti-LGBTQI+ rhetoric and violence have increased in recent years.” Meanwhile, the advisory for South Africa was updated in February to note that routes recommended by GPS may be unsafe with higher risk for crime.

Turkmenistan was moved off of the Level 2 list to become the newest addition to the Level 1 list on Jan. 22, meaning normal precautions are recommended but there are no risk factors causing travelers to practice increased caution.

The State Department asks travelers to pay attention to travel advisory levels and alerts , review country information pages for their destinations and read related country security reports before going abroad.

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10 Mistakes to Avoid on a Trip to the Greek Islands

Editor's Note: Travel might be complicated right now, but use our inspirational trip ideas to plan ahead for your next bucket list adventure.

Some 32 million foreigners traveled to Greece in 2018, up from about 15 million in 2010, according to the Greek National Tourism Organization . Many of those visitors flocked to the nation's stunning islands dotting the Mediterranean Sea.

Monica Farber/Travel + Leisure

Need proof? Just look at Instagram. On the social media platform, you'll find more than two million posts with the hashtag #GreekIslands. And if the thought of all those people heading to Greece and sharing their island journeys has you feeling a little envious, then it's time to start planning your own Greek island vacation.

But, before you go, there are a few things to consider. It's easy to get lost in the haze of Instagram posts, Pinterest guides, and the very idea of sipping ouzo on a white-sand beach, forgetting the planning process altogether. To help you on your travels, we've compiled 10 common mistakes to avoid on any trip to the Greek islands, whether it's your first or fifth time visiting.

1. Picking the Wrong Island for Your Desired Vacation Vibe

Though you may already be familiar with places like Santorini and Mykonos , it's important to think outside the box when planning a Greek island vacation. That's because there are more than 6,000 islands that make up the Greek archipelago, and each one comes with its own distinct flavor.

If you're looking for a super-relaxing getaway, it might be wise to stay on Milos . The island, located just a 45-minute flight from Athens, comes with just a few thousand residents and plenty of coastline for visitors to stretch out. For something in the middle, look to the island of Paros . Here, travelers can rent a car or ATV to find some quiet, remote areas, or enjoy lots of action in the town of Naousa. Meanwhile, those interested in a party scene may want to consider the island of Ios . Tucked between Naxos and Santorini, Ios is filled with plenty of nightlife, but it's also just the right amount of rough around the edges to feel like a wholly unique vacation than those your friends took before you.

2. Mismanaging Your Transportation Between Islands

Planning a multi-island itinerary requires a bit of finesse. If you glance at a world map, the islands all appear much closer than they are in reality. For example, traveling from Athens to Mykonos can take about five hours on a ferry, but just 40 minutes by plane.

However, flying, too, can become a burden if you're hoping to hop from one place to the next, as many flights require travelers to return to Athens before flying to another island.

So, while planning a trip, try to think about the transportation time between islands, whether it's more efficient to travel by plane or ferry, and if you can create a smooth path from one island to the next. It may even be a good idea to stick to an island group, such as the Cyclades, Dodecanese, or Ionian Islands. Want a little help deciding which island group to visit? Check out our entire guide to Greek island hopping here .

3. Underestimating the Difficult Driving Conditions

The Greek islands have been inhabited for thousands of years. That means, humans built roadways long before the advent of cars. Before booking a car for each island you plan to visit, take a peek at Google Maps. This way, you'll get a live view of what the roads may look like during your stay. If you're feeling adventurous, book an ATV. The four-wheeler will allow you to get around most of the island, but is also rugged enough to traverse over the dirt roads and small enough to fit into Greece's famed alleys. Just make sure to have the right insurance and always wear a helmet.

4. Flushing Toilet Paper

Do not — under any circumstances — flush toilet paper, feminine products, or anything beyond human waste down the toilet on any Greek island. This will wreak havoc on the very delicate plumbing system on the islands. As World Nomads explained, Greek sewage pipes are approximately two inches in diameter. That is about half the size of both American and British plumbing, meaning it's very easy for the pipes to clog or even rupture. Instead, place all garbage and used toilet paper in the small bins beside every single toilet. This is exactly what it's meant for, so there's no need to be shy.

5. Bringing the Wrong Footwear

We get it, everyone wants to look their best while on vacation. However, the Greek islands are not the place to wear stilettos or break in a new pair of leather loafers. Most of the streets are dirt, cobblestone, or at best, lightly paved. Keep it comfortable and pack sneakers or sensible footwear. But make no mistake: Sensible doesn't mean hideous. Here are 18 comfortable — and adorable — shoes that were made for traveling.

6. Packing Too Much

The Greek islands are stunning, thanks to their rugged landscapes, sweeping hillsides, and sparkling coastlines. However, given the terrain, coupled with the above dilemma of few modern roadways, travelers will likely have to walk to their hotels and lug their baggage with them. (In places like Santorini, that could also include walking up hundreds of steps.) With that in mind, it's advisable to pack as lightly as possible . As a bonus, bringing a carry-on makes traveling between islands a breeze. Luckily, it rarely dips below 50 degrees Fahrenheit on the islands, even in the midst of winter, so packing a heavy jacket is not required.

7. Overlooking the Smaller Islands

Santorini, Corfu, and Crete are all wildly popular tourist destinations — and for good reason. The history, food, nightlife, and beaches on these islands are second to none, and visiting at least one should be on your list. That said, when crafting an itinerary with multiple island stops, make sure to throw in a few lesser-known, off-the-beaten-path spots. Again, there is Milos or Paros, both of which regularly make appearances on T ravel + Leisure 's best-of lists , but there are also places like Symi, a picturesque island home to fewer than 2,500 people. Here, visitors will find candy-colored homes dotting the craggy coastline. Beyond walking the streets and beaches, guests can also pay a visit to the 18th-century monastery of the Archangel Michael Panormitis . And if you're feeling extra-adventurous, the monks even rent out a few rooms each night for those looking for ultra-quiet accommodations.

8. Skipping the Local Coffee Shops

If there's one thing the Greeks do well, it's iced coffee. However, this isn't just any iced coffee, but rather, it's known as a frappe, a drink made from instant coffee and sugar and blended with ice. That's it. Though simple, it's still delicious and utterly satisfying, especially on a hot island day.

However, the Freddo espresso is also gaining popularity in Greece. That drink, Athens Coast explains, is made with one shot of hot espresso poured into a metal canister, then blended with a few ice cubes and a little sugar if desired. It gives a nice foam topper to the espresso, along with a good contrast of temperatures.

In short, it's worth visiting the local coffee shops when in town. To top it off, Greeks also know a thing or two about delicious pastries (hello, baklava, revani, and koulourakia cookies), making a trip to the islands all the more sweeter.

9. Never Leaving the Hotel for Food

Sure, many hotels in Greece serve delicious food. However, there's more to a meal than just the dishes. Greece is a place that is made for experiential dining: The outdoor seating, the stunning sunsets, the flowing wine, and the boisterous patrons all set the scene. It's worth getting out into town to eat when visiting the Greek islands. You can pick your octopus right from the fisherman's display, order as many drinks as you'd like, douse your bread in Greek olive oil, and make friends with folks you'll talk or dance with all night long.

Ambika Verma/Travel + Leisure

10. Treating Athens as Just a Layover

Yes, you will have to fly or ferry back and forth to Athens in between islands and on your entry and exit to the country. But don't just visit the airport or ferry docks. Make sure to build in at least a day to explore one of the oldest cities in the world. Athens is brimming with history, cultural attractions, a divine food and art scene, and much more. It's a place visitors will regret missing if they only skim the surface. Don't fret if you're not sure what to do in the city — just check out our guide to Athens in the midst of its cultural revolution.

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The 13 best places to visit in Greece

From sprawling cosmopolitan cities to breathtaking beaches, here's where to add to your Greece bucket list

There are many beautiful countries in Europe, but there is nowhere like Greece . The white and blue houses. The mountain views. The glistening blue waters and the secret hidden coves. It’s sometimes barely believable that Greece exists, but it does! And the best part? It’s absolutely massive, and there’s so much to explore. 

Different Greek islands do different things, so if you’re making the trip, you should first figure out what kind of holiday you’re after. Are you looking for something beachy, nature-y or a bit more cosmopolitan? Lemon trees, sunset cocktails or pure, unadulterated clubbing? Whatever you're looking for, our local writer has picked the best islands, cities and towns to visit. 

RECOMMENDED: 🏝️  The most  beautiful Greek islands 🏨 The best  hotels in Greece 🏛 The best things to do in Athens 🧿 The best things to do in Mykonos

Demetrios Ioannou  is a writer and photographer from Athens.  At Time Out, all of our  travel guides  are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines .  This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our  affiliate guidelines . 

An email you’ll actually love

Where to visit in Greece

1.  Athens

Obviously, if you’ve heard anything about Greece, you know about its beautiful capital Athens. Athens is that perfect mix of traditional but trendy, ancient but modern, full of nature but cosmopolitan at the very same time. Here you’ll find huge, open roads covered in restaurants and bars, but coming off them are tiny little cobbled side streets to explore. Old buildings give way to fascinating galleries. You can grab an ouzo and pitch up at a beautiful outdoor cinema, looking up at the stars. Plus you’ve simply got to see the Parthenon at least once in your life. Athens is a sprawling, incomparable beauty that is like no other. Add it to your bucket list. 

Why go?  Europe’s oldest capital and the birthplace of democracy, Athens is crammed with several thousands of years of history and is as unmissable as any great Euro city. 

Discover Athens: 🧿  How to spend a weekend in Athens 📍  The best  things to do in Athens 🥙  Really good  restaurants in Athens 😎  Explore  Kypseli, Athens’s coolest neighbourhood

2.  Aegina

A little over an hour away from the port of Piraeus, the island of Aegina is the closest to the Greek capital and a popular destination for tourists and locals. In 1827, after the Greek Independence War had ended, it served as the first capital of the newly founded Greek state for a while. Today, the island is mostly famous for pistachios, chock-a-block full of pistachio trees, and thought to be the best in the world for the stuff. It’s worth visiting the famous Aphea Temple, dedicated to goddess Athena, the Saint Nektarios Monastery and the nearby uninhabited Islet of Moni, where wild peacocks and deer stroll uninterrupted. 

3.  Crete

You’ll need a car to explore Greece’s biggest island, but if you’re after golden beaches, crumbly old towns, world-class museums and UNESCO Heritage sites,  Crete  ticks every box. Chania in the west is the liveliest part of the island, while Sitia in the east is famed for its pristine coves and sandy beaches – a perfect rural and picturesque escape. Nature seekers could hike Samaria, Europe’s longest gorge, culture hunters should track down the Minoan palaces, and kids are guaranteed a good time at the island’s countless waterparks.

Why go?  Much more than just an all-inclusive beach holiday hotspot, Crete is a mish-mash of fabulous stuff to see, do, eat and drink. 

Discover Crete:

📍  The best things to do in Crete

4.  Santorini

The scenery in  Santorini , one of the Cyclades islands in the Aegean Sea, seems crafted by the Greek gods: whitewashed villages crown the island with views over its majestic coastlines, rural vineyards span huge stretches inland and the beaches are black, red, and out of this world. There’s a ridiculous amount for explorers, foodies and culture vultures to discover, from archaeological sites to swimming spots and brilliant wine and food. And trust us: this place is  even  more beautiful IRL than it looks on the ’gram.

Discover Santorini:

📍  The best things to do in Santorini 🏨  Amazing hotels in Santorini 🏖️  Where to stay in Santorini  

5.  Zakynthos

Better known as Zante, Zakynthos draws a party-ready crowd to its notorious Laganas nightlife strip, but this sunstruck Ionian isle – known by the Venetians as ‘the flower of the East’ – is also blessed with some of the Med’s most beautiful scenery. This includes the spectacular Shipwreck Beach, whose bright-blue waters hemmed in by sheer white cliffs can only be reached by boat, and Zakynthos Marine Park, home to slippery seals and savvy turtles. It’s truly wild – in multiple senses of the word.

6.  Tinos

Famous for its carved marble-fronted buildings – and, increasingly, its burgeoning food scene – Tinos is yet another jewel in the Cyclades archipelago. To get there, you’ll need to fly to Mykonos and catch a ferry. It’s worth the journey: some of the best Greek wines are produced here, and chefs from all over Europe have opened restaurants among its sage-scented hills. Most are situated in the main town of Chora – we recommend the traditional Greek menu at Thalassaki.

7.  Naxos

The largest of the Cyclades islands, Naxos is also one of the least explored – which means you can expect secluded sandy beaches and a low-key, laidback atmosphere that’ll make the pressures of everyday life feel worlds away. Packing an incredible amount of variety into an incredibly small space, this is a place where you can venture up into tiny high-flung mountain villages or laze on an endless chain of silky sand beaches away from the madding tourist crowds.

8.  Corfu

Italianate villages, ornate palaces and romantic beaches are on the cards if you visit the lush island where the Durrell family once lived. With its sundry influences left by past invaders,  Corfu  is a place where you can drink ginger ale with your Greek salad, stroll streets packed with Byzantine and Venetian architecture and meet modern-day monks in Paleokastritsa’s spectacular medieval monastery. And after a hard day’s sightseeing and stuffing your face, you’ll obviously want to jump straight into the Ionian Sea – never not a stunning shade of turquoise blue.

Discover Corfu:

📍  The best things to do on Corfu

9.  Rhodes

Way back when – and we’re talking way, way back –  Rhodes  was home to the Colossus, one of the world’s Seven Wonders. An earthquake may have destroyed that ol’ thing in 226BBC, but the island’s Unesco world heritage-classed old town is still steeped in charm and history – thanks to a series of dazzling topsy-turvy medieval inns and fourteenth-century knight’s houses that stand to this day. Head outside the city, and the mountain villages and cliff-top towns you’ll come across are just as magical as any fairytale location. And with plenty of chic shops, decent restaurants and lively bars, you’re guaranteed some modern magic, too.

Discover Rhodes:

📍  The best things to do in Rhodes 🏨  Amazing hotels in Rhodes

10.  Kastellorizo

At the edge of Greece, right opposite the Turkish coastal town of Kaş, you'll find Kastellorizo (aka Megisti), the island furthest from the Greek capital. It's a flight or a boat ride away from the island of Rhodes in Dodecanese, and though it's a bit of a journey to the island, it's absolutely worth it. This is a remote paradise with colourful buildings, seafood for days and seriously chilled out vibes. Plus, it has a fascinating history – make sure to visit the castle of the Knights Hospitaller overlooking the Aegean Sea, and the glorious 4 th century BC Lycian tomb below it. The fort-monastery of Agios Georgios of the Mountain also boasts one of the best views on the island (you just need to get up 315 steps first).

11.  Thessaloniki

Once the second city of the Byzantine Empire – and later a thriving Ottoman port city connecting east and west – Thessaloniki has only been part of Greece since 1912. And that really shows. This place doesn’t feel like Greece you see in tourist brochures: its central market, Kapani, has all the colour and chaos of an Istanbul bazaar, and much Ottoman architecture remains throughout the city centre – you can even visit the house where Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the father of modern Turkey, was born. The harbourside Ladadika area hums with some of the wildest, most fun nightlife in the Balkan peninsula, with most bars and clubs open until 6am and beyond. The old town is perfect for the aimless morning-after mooch – and the ouzo and  bougatsa  breakfast pastries in these parts are unrivalled.

12.  Kalamata

The city of Kalamata in the Peloponnese is home to the ancient ruins of Messenia, the picturesque Navarino Lagoon beach, and also those very famous olives you may recognise the name from. Few tourists venture to these parts, which is great news for you. To explore the wider region, base yourself at the Ant Farm – a beautiful farmhouse just outside the city, where you can stay in one of ten treehouses nestled within the olive trees.

13.  Mykonos

Dubbed the ‘Greek Ibiza’,  Mykonos  is where you’ll find world-famous DJs headlining superclubs while a jet-set crowd mingle on yachts and private jets. But this Cyclades island is not just for the uber-privileged: there are plenty of cute hotels, affordable gourmet restaurants and quiet corners still relatively untouched by the tourism industry. So when you’re done hanging out at the beach clubs and traditional tavernas, just follow the tangled web of dirt-smattered backroads – chances are, there’ll be a heavenly beach waiting at the end.

Discover Mykonos: 📍  The best things to do in Mykonos 🏨 Amazing hotels in Mykonos

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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.

15 tips for travelling in Greece

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written by Joanne Owen

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Though arguably best known - and most visited - for its stunning islands,  Greece  is astoundingly diverse. Beyond its beautiful beaches, Greece boasts mighty mountains and caves, salt marshes and cloud-forests. Its weather ranges from blazing summers to snowy winters. In short, few countries have such varied landscapes and seasonal extremes. Then there’s its ancient history , glorious food , and warm Hellenic welcome.

1. Avoid peak season

2. be inspired by fiction, 3. learn a little lingo.

• 4. Embrace island-hopping

5. Stay put in paradise

6. meander the mainland.

• 7. Take-in the capital

8. Take care in the capital

9. eat and drink like a local, 10. embrace greek time, 11. embrace greek culture, 12. be sensitive..., 13. ...but don’t be shy, 14. share the wealth, 15. use your judgement.

One thing’s for sure, visiting Greece has the potential to deliver all manner of unforgettable trips - you just need to know what you want, where to find it, and to do a little planning. With that in mind, here are our top 15 Greece travel tips - from what to know before  travelling to Greece , to top tips for Greece getaways that take you off-the-beaten-track.

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!

Unless you absolutely have to travel to Greece during high summer because of school holidays, try to visit outside the peak season (late July to the end of August). At this time, the weather is scorching, prices soar, and you’ll struggle to escape the crowds - this is when the Greeks take their holidays too.

For a winter pick-me-up with added colour and culture, you could consider visiting for the February Carnival (Apokriátika). The celebrations span three weeks, ending during the seventh weekend before Easter. For peak pageantry, check-out Patras Carnival - one of the largest and most flamboyant in the Mediterranean (and the third largest of its kind in the world). Patras itself is the largest city of  The Peloponnese and its carnival boasts a chariot parade and exuberant costume parties. More of our winter travel tips for Greece can be found  here .

Monastery in Metéora, Greece - a peak springtime experience © Shutterstock

It goes without saying that scaling mountain peaks in the peak summer months won’t be a walk in the park. So, the adventurous hikers among you should consider visiting in May - when warmer weather is on its way, but before the mercury has risen. From exploring the Meteora geological marvels and Eastern Orthodox monasteries of central Greece on  treks like this , to  tackling the iconic Imbros Gorge  in southern Crete, spring is pretty much perfect for outdoor adventuring in Greece.

For more round-the-year information, head here  to read our full when-to-visit Greece guide.

As well as researching where to go, when to go, and what do to, why not get yourself in the mood for Greece through reading fiction? There’s no shortage of quality material to enrich your understanding of the country - from re-workings of ancient history and culture, to contemporary page-turners.

Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, Peloponnese - where classics came to life © Shutterstock

To begin at the beginning, you could finally get round to reading Homer’s  The Iliad  and  The Odyssey.  For fabulous contemporary novels centred on ancient myths, try Madeline Miller’s  The Song of Achilles  and  Circe , or Mary Renault’s  The King Must Die , a magnificent account of Theseus in Minoan Crete. Then there’s Margaret Atwood’s ingeniously inventive The Penelopiad , and Pat Barker’s  The Silence of the Girls.   

Assos village in Kefalonia island - Captain Corelli territory © leoks/Shutterstock

Moving away from myths, Crete-set  Zorba the Greek  by Nikos Kazantzakis is considered a classic, while  Captain Corelli’s Mandolin  well and truly put Kefalonia on the map. Also read our guide to the best things to do in Kefalonia and find some useful ideas for your trip.

For real-life family drama and animal antics aplenty, Gerald Durrell’s Corfu-set memoir  My Family and Other Animals  is a must-read. Or how about Victoria Hislop’s  The Island  and  The Thread  for Greek history and atmosphere? 

With literally hundreds of Greek-set literary treasures to choose from (we’ve hardly touched the surface here), you might just find your perfect Greek destination after reading one of them. What’s more, by the time you travel to Greece, you’ll be in the perfect frame of mind - when it comes to pre-trip tips for Greece, they don’t come more inspirational than this.

Related to getting your Greek on through reading fiction before you travel to Greece, why not also learn (at least) a little of the language?

First up, it will make your trip all the more immersive. Secondly, Greeks don’t generally expect foreigners to know any Greek, so they love it when you do know a few words. What’s not to like about impressing (and ingratiating yourself) with locals?

With a few words in your lexicon, you'll be ordering boukáli krasí in no time. Santorini wine and island image © Shutterstock

Given the high levels of English throughout the country, learning Greek isn’t at all necessary. But that's not the point. Your efforts will be rewarded when your status is elevated from regular tourist to honoured “xenos”, which means both “foreigner” and “guest”. 

If you’re wondering what to know before travelling to Greece, take a look at the  Rough Guides Greek Phrasebook . One thing’s for sure - if you follow this advice (one of our top Greece travel tips) you’ll never have need of the phase “it’s all Greek to me again.” Talking of which, we also recommend reading John Mole’s hilarious memoir,  It’s All Greek to Me .

4. Embrace island-hopping

These days most people tend to stick to one island per trip (the golden age of Greek island hopping was back in the 70s and 80s). Having said that, there’s no reason you can’t buck the trend and plan a multi-island adventure. While island-hopping can make travelling in Greece more complex, it can be done. What's more, it can make for a richly diverse experience. 

Stunning Sarakiniko beach on Milos, Greece © Shutterstock

For inspiration, you could take a look at our guide to the best Greek islands , and then start researching what’s possible. Ferry services are still plentiful and mostly reliable through the warmer months, so why not choose a group of islands like the  Ionians , the  Dodecanese  or the postcard pretty  Cyclades ? Most islands offer trips to see some of their smaller gems, such as this  full-day sailing cruise  around the Small Cyclades from Paros. Or, if you’re flying into Athens, you could take a  tour of the scenic Saronic Islands  (Hydra, Poros and Aegina). Our Greece experts share some itinerary ideas here .

Paxos, the smallest group in Greece's Ionian Islands © Shutterstock/Heracles Kritikos

Related articles from the blog

If you don’t the fancy multiple moves that come with island-hopping, why not look to park yourself on a lesser-visited island for the duration of your trip? For travellers looking to discover the country beyond the trappings of resort-life. this is one of our best tips for Greece.

Take lovely  Lesvos , for example. It might be the third-largest island behind Crete and Evvia, but it’s surprisingly little visited. Its coastline boasts a bounty of beautiful beaches, while main town of Mytilini has an impressive seafront, an extensive fortress, plus plenty of places to eat and drink. The island isn’t short of pretty small towns either, among them Molyvos and Ayiassos. What’s more, the large shallow Gulf of Kalloni includes salt marshes that are a birdwatcher’s dream.

Of course, there’s nothing wrong with taking a well-travelled path. It's hardly a hidden gem, but with stunning sunsets, beautiful beaches , volcanic hiking trails, and lively nightlife,  Santorini is the perfect place to enjoy a varied Greek Island getaway . Known for its iconic blue-domed churches, white houses carved into cliffs, and epic caldera views (not to mention the sunsets that will take your breath way - really), it’s no wonder that Santorini’s Oia is one of the most photographed spots on all the Greek Islands.

The iconic blue-domed churches of Oia, Santorini © Shutterstock

While you’ll most likely want to amble enchanting Oia in your own time, booking a boat trip to view that legendary sunset comes highly recommended. While building up to the main event, this sunset sailing cruise  sails past the Indian Head Mountain and Venetian Lighthouse into the picturesque Caldera. It also offers views of the Ancient City of Akrotiri, with swimming and snorkelling stop-offs at secluded bays along the way. And if you give this a read , you might just discover some of Santorini's secret gems.

As with planning an island-hopping adventure, you’ll want to take time to research which island to make your “stay-put-Paradise” - but all that prep will be more than worth it when you find your Greek El Dorado.

Get your glow on - a (typical) stunning Santorini sunset © Shutterstock

Though we've waxed lyrical about the joys of island-hopping, and about staying put on your preferred island paradise, don’t fall into the trap of associating Greece solely with its islands (as Greece travel tips go, this is up there with the best of them). The mainland has a whole lot to offer too, from the imposing northern mountain ranges, to the all-but-empty golden beaches of the western  Peloponnese . Talking of which, the Peloponnese is also perfect for culture vultures who are keen to discover Greece’s archaeological treasures, among them the  ancient site of Olympia . 

If nature and outdoor adventuring is more your bag, be sure to investigate visiting the Pindus Mountains. Known as the spine of Greece, this 160km long mountain range borders northern Greece and southern Albania. Hiking to the Vikos Gorge  is an unforgettable experience - famed for its unique natural beauty and crystal-clear waters, the gorge is listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the deepest gorge in the world.

Travelling between the main towns can be done on the extensive KTEL bus network, with local services radiating out to villages, but if you're interested in historical and cultural highlights and maybe pressed for time, consider a private guide and driver, or hiring a car .

For more information about getting around Greece, check out our guide to exactly that. If you’re wondering how to travel to Greece in the first place, read this .

7. Take-in the capital 

Where ancient myth meets modern metropolis - historic Athens is as multi-layered as an archaeological excavation, or a serving of flaky baklava. For history buffs, visiting this bustling city is one of our top tips of Greece, with exploring the Acropolis and Parthenon a literal and metaphoric highpoint of any visit.  This guided walking tour  is a great way to see the city’s major sights - including the Acropolis - with entry fees included in the price. 

The Acropolis resplendent at sunset © Shutterstock

One of our favourite spots in Athens is picturesque Plaka. Straddling the ancient and modern city, Plaka was the hub of Athens’s population from Byzantine times through to Greek independence. Today its tangle of winding thoroughfares is a delight to explore. Dappled with neoclassical mansions, fragrant with gardenias, and chock-a-block with street musicians, it’s the perfect place for a pre-dinner stroll. You could even blend Plaka’s ambience with Greek culture and great food on this deliciously entertaining dance-and-dine experience .

Picturesque Plaka in Athens © Shutterstock

If you’re looking for a room with a view in Athens, they don’t come better than  Electra Metropolis . It's elegantly appointed, conveniently located, with panoramic views over (you’ve guessed it) the Acropolis.

The Rough Guides to Greece and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Discover the diversity of Athens with our guide to the best things to do in Athens .

Caryatids at the Acropolis, Athens © Shutterstock

Athens is where you’re most likely to encounter the effects of Greece’s twin crises of recent years (financial and immigrant), with an increase in shuttered buildings and homelessness.

Classical Kerameikos in Athens © Shutterstock

While it’s not generally unsafe, you should watch your valuables, especially when travelling on crowded transport such as the metro. And, as with travel in general, look into taking out insurance before travelling in Greece, or to Greece for that matter. Better safe than sorry.

While Greeks love their grub, eating out in Greece is a delectably casual affair. And, rather than sticking to three square meals a day, they tend to eat more often - good news for travellers wanting to sample the country’s many culinary delights. It goes without saying that when you’re away, it’s better to look out for restaurants that locals dine in - not only will the food be much better, but it’ll be better for your pocket too.

Experiencing Greek food is a great reason alone to travel to this country. Read our guide to the Greek dishes you must try during your trip .

Al fresco dining Greek style at Paros island's Naoussa Old Port © Shutterstock

Another way to embrace that dine-like-a-local ethos is to ask for local barrelled wine, (cheaper than bottled), or to try a fiery spirit like ouzo or tsipouro. And don’t be fobbed off with bottled water - tap is fine.

You could get into Greek grub through taking a tasting tour, like this  gourmet food walking tour of Athens , or this  Crete wine and food tasting tour . You’ll find similar experiences all over the mainland and islands.

Mouth-watering Greek Moussaka © Shutterstock

From breakfast koulouri (soft bread rings covered in sesame seeds), to mouth-watering moussaka, to perfect pastries (spanakopita is especially sensational - phyllo pastry layered with feta cheese and spinach), there’s plenty to whet your appetite. For more food recommendations, read our  guide to must-eat dishes.

Flaky phyllo spanakopita stuffed with feta and spinach © Shutterstock

Leading on from eating and drinking like a local, it’s worth knowing that punctuality isn’t held in the highest esteem in Greece. Greeks tend to hold the healthy Mediterranean belief that most things can be put off until tomorrow, and nothing needs to be done in a hurry - Spanish “mañana” equals Greek “avrio”.

So, don’t expect snappy service in restaurants, or transportation to run like clockwork. In fact, this might just be one of our best tips of Greece - don’t sweat the small stuff (like getting annoyed if your dinner’s a bit late). Instead, save your energy for the good stuff - like discovering (yet another) secluded cove, exploring (yet another) awe-inspiring ancient ruin, or making it to the top of that mountain peak.

Alongside eating like a local, you’ll get a whole lot more from your trip if you seek out the likes of local festivals, feasts and craft and food markets during your stay. Even better if you take part, or get a guide to show you the ropes. With options running from taking a weaving class in Crete’s traditional Arolithos village to  learning the art of traditional breadmaking , you won't be short of activities.

Get close to culture at Knossos Palace ruins, Heraklion, Crete © Shutterstock

And of course, don’t pass up the chance to see Greece’s rich ancient history up close. In all likelihood, there’ll be a host of amazing ruins to explore whenever you are.

A fine fresco in Knossos Palace, Crete, Greece © Shutterstock

While most younger Greeks regard themselves as open­-minded, the older generation are pretty conservative. Also, the Orthodox Church still holds great sway. Nudity is frowned upon away from designated beaches, and it’s not advisable to visit churches or monasteries in skimpy shorts or tops.

Church of Agios Ioannis (as seen in Mamma Mia), Skopelos © Shutterstock

It might be useful to be aware of two gestures that could cause offence, or misunderstanding. First, hand gestures. Don’t hold your hand up, palm out, to anybody, and don’t make an OK sign by forming a circle with your thumb and forefinger - both are extremely rude. Secondly, nodding and shaking your head for "yes" and "no" are also likely to be misinterpreted. Greeks use a slight forward inclination of the head for yes, and a more vigorous backward nod for no.

For our full guide to Greek etiquette, take a look at  this.

Greeks are mostly extroverts and love exchanging views and opinions with anyone and everyone. So don’t hold back on asking people about their beliefs and opinions, or expressing your own.

If travelling with children, you’ll soon see how much they're adored - and indulged. Children often act as natural ice­breakers too, especially at restaurants, where nobody minds them running around and making a bit (or even a lot) of noise.

Definitely not shy - the flamboyant changing of the guards in Athens © Shutterstock

While resort packages - especially all­-inclusive ones - can be very cheap, not much of the money you spend stays in Greece. So, you might want to give a little back and stay in independent accommodation - a local guest house, or locally owned villa. Not only are there great deals to be had, but you’re also more likely to have a more authentic experience. As an example, Home Sweet Hotel in Plaka is a lovely option if you're in Athens.

If you are set on staying in a resort, why not head beyond the confines of your holiday retreat to eat? Firstly, eating the same buffet every day can get a little boring. And secondly, as we mentioned above, there are plenty of local eateries serving excellent food at excellent prices.

There’s a lot of truth in the maxim that if you ask five Greeks how to get somewhere you’ll get five different answers. So, take what you’re told with a pinch of salt. Ask, listen, get a second option - but don’t be surprised when that second opinion advises driving in the opposite direction. Above all, don’t worry - getting a little lost is part of the fun.

Greeks tend to have a similarly divergent, flexible attitude to rules and regulations - like having to wear seatbelts or crash helmets, and not smoking in public places. These are all regularly ignored, but it’s up to you whether you follow suit. Take your cue (or not) from others around you.

Famous shipwreck bay, Zakynthos island, Greece © Michail Makarov/Shutterstock

At Rough Guides we’ve always taken pride in telling it like it is - whether we’re updating details in our guide books, or researching emerging destinations. With that in mind, we want you to know that when you click on links that lead to our affiliate partners’ sites, we can earn a small commission (at no cost to you). This is one of the ways we’re able to keep doing what we do best - provide you with travel advice and inspiration you can trust. Speaking of which, you can trust what we link to - our travel writer experts are exactly that (experts) and have highlighted them to share ideas that might make your trips all the more satisfying.

Header image: idyllic Agios Stefanos on the Greek island of Corfu © Shutterstock

Joanne is a Pembrokeshire-born writer with a passion for the nature, cultures and histories of the Caribbean region, especially Dominica. Also passionate about inspiring a love of adventure in young people, she’s the author of several books for children and young adults, hosts international writing workshops, and has written articles on the Caribbean and inspirational community initiatives for Rough Guides. Follow her @JoanneOwen on Twitter and @joanneowenwrites on Instagram.

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• 8 Non Touristy Cyclades Islands...

The Best Quiet and Non-Touristy Greek Islands to Visit

So you think you’ve done the Greek islands because you’ve ticked off Santorini and Mykonos? Think again. Head off the tourist trail to discover the lesser-known lovelies of the Cyclades, where you can enjoy near-deserted beaches, friendly neighbourhood tavernas, pretty towns and wild sun-kissed hiking trails without another soul in sight. Just don’t tell anyone we told you.

Fancy a trip island-hopping around Greece? Our eight-day small-group adventure starts in Athens, then visits Milos and Naxos before finishing on Santorini for that iconic sunset snap.

Overlooked for neighbouring hotspots Santorini and Mykonos, Koufonisia has all the charms of its world-famous neighbours without the influx of tourists and cruise ships. Koufonisia is technically three islands, including the uninhabited Kato Koufonisi and Keros, but all ferries arrive at the tranquil Ano Koufonisi. Base yourself there for its golden sandy beaches, natural sea caves, hiking trails and upscale restaurants, and pop to the other two for day trips if you’re really craving seclusion.

In Greek mythology, Dionysus, god of wine and pleasure, is said to have hidden Ariadne from Theseus on this remote island in the Small Eastern Cyclades. East of Naxos and north of Amorgos, it’s still the ideal place to get away from it all with just over 100 residents in four tiny villages. Visit for empty beaches, glittering emerald-green waters and traditional white houses as picture-perfect as those Santorini is known for, but without the hordes of Instagrammers posing outside. Explore by boat if you can to visit sea caves including Fokospilia, named after the seals that shelter there.

A little-known secret, Anafi is one of the least visited islands in the Cyclades despite being just 22km (14mi) from Santorini . Greek mythology claims the island emerged from the bottom of the sea to give shelter to the Argonauts, and its wild natural beauty, rocky hillsides and turquoise waters still feel like a sight for sore eyes some 3,000 years later.

At first glance, the small, picture-perfect island of Ios could be its neighbour Santorini. White buildings tumble down a hillside dotted with blue-domed churches, cobbled streets wind through traditional towns and the golden sunsets are enough to stop anyone in their tracks. Yet unlike Santorini, you can have the place to yourself, hiking trails to hilltop towns, discovering deserted beaches or heading away from the coast to explore the countryside. Said to be the birthplace of Homer’s mother and his final resting place, the island has become increasingly popular in July and August, so avoid the busiest months if you prefer solitude.

Are you thinking where to visit in Greece for some tranquillity? The tiny island of Kimolos is a godsend for anyone searching for peace and quiet. Just next to Milos, this volcanic island is almost entirely overlooked by tourists but offers both sandy and pebbly beaches, a clutch of museums and churches and the traditional town of Chorio where tavernas spill into sunlit squares populated only by locals. Go for a day trip from Milos even if you’re not staying to glimpse the real Greece without the crowds.

Another pocket-sized island squeezed between Naxos and Ios in the Small Eastern Cyclades, Iraklia feels like stumbling into an idyllic time gone by. Narrow streets snake through the island’s only two villages, while fuchsia bougainvillea blooms at every turn and olive groves carpet hillsides perfect for hiking. Discover Venetian fortifications and bubbling hot springs, or snorkel to spy eerie shipwrecks in crystal-clear waters.

If you’re all partied out from Mykonos, head to Syros for some well-earned me-time. Once an important trade and industrial centre in the 19th century, it’s bigger than many of the overlooked Cyclades islands, but you’ll still be hard-pushed to find another tourist. Instead, take in the island’s ornate Venetian architecture, time-trapped cobbled streets, pavement tavernas and gloriously sheltered beaches all on your own.

Folegandros

Folegandros is just 13km (8mi) long and 5km (3mi) wide, but there’s no chance you’ll be bored. This rocky island an hour’s ferry ride from Santorini is ideal for lazy days spent swimming in blissfully blue coves, gorging on Greek food in tavernas and hiking through orchards and hamlets in the island’s verdant north. Don’t miss the medieval town of Chora, built on a cliff 200m (655ft) above sea level with a winding path up the mountain to the secluded church of Panagia for unforgettable sunsets.

Chios is a Greek island like no other. With an extraordinary history dating back to Neolithic times, it claims to be the birthplace of Homer; it is also the world’s only commercial producer of mastic and is famous for its unusual fortified villages . There’s a beach to suit your every whim, too, from the black sand of Mavra Volia to the white sand wonder of Elinta or the historic Daskalopetra, where it is said Homer used to sit on a stone and teach.

A reward for the intrepid, Samothraki can only be reached by ferry from the mainland port of Alexandroupoli , which discourages the majority of Greek island hoppers from discovering this beautiful natural wonder. Those that do can enjoy one of the highest mountain ranges in the Aegean, secret waterfalls, cool clear pools for swimming, natural hot springs and curved white beaches that wouldn’t look out of place in the Caribbean.

It’s not difficult to understand why Luc Besson chose to shoot part of his iconic film The Big Blue in Amorgos. Taking at least six hours to reach by ferry from Athens, this Cyclades stunner is far removed from the island-hopping trail so you can take your time enjoying its deserted beaches, ancient ruins, meandering mountain trails and cliff-top monastery without interruption.

Did you know you can now travel with Culture Trip? Book now and join one of our premium small-group tours to discover the world like never before.

Holidaying in Greece on a budget? Read the Culture Trip guide to the most affordable Greek islands that you can visit . Alternatively, check out the best Greek islands that you can fly directly to .

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.

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Traveling Safely in Greece

Despite periods of unrest, Greece remains relatively safe

Pedro Szekely/Flickr 

Over the years, Greece has had occasional periods of unrest that have led travelers to wonder how safe the country is. 

The bottom line: There are risks in traveling to Greece , including some unique to the country, but as of April 2020, the U.S. Department of State does not discourage American travelers from visiting the country and urges travelers to exercise normal precautions. 

Concerns About Greece's Safety

Greece has been the site of many domestic terrorist attacks. In addition, the U.S. Department of State warns of the potential of transnational terrorist attacks in European countries. ​The warning indicates that all European countries are potentially vulnerable to terrorist attacks focused on public areas where tourists and locals may gather and provides detailed safety information to help tourists avoid becoming an opportunistic target.

The State Department also notes the following safety concerns about Greece:

• Strikes and demonstrations are common and they can escalate to violence. On Nov. 17 every year, you can expect to see demonstrations. This is the anniversary of the 1973 student uprising against the military regime.
• Beware of violent anarchist groups. Some use university campuses as a refuge. They may join in with peaceful demonstrations which then turn violent.

As in many European cities, there are warnings about crimes targeting tourists. The U.S. Department of State urges caution in Greek cities as crimes like pick-pocketing and purse snatching are known to take place in tourist areas, on public transportation (especially the Metro), and in Thessaloniki shopping areas. Car break-ins have been reported and the U.S. Embassy has received reports of alcohol-related attacks targeting individual tourists at some holiday resorts and bars.

Be careful, also, of the dangerous and often homemade celebratory fireworks for Greek Orthodox Easter celebrations at midnight on Holy Saturday. 

Areas to Avoid in Greece

If there is rioting for any reason, these are the areas to avoid:

Downtown metropolitan areas:  These areas are often the site of protests. In Athens, avoid the area around Syntagma Square, Panepistimou, and Embassy Row. Unfortunately, this also includes some of Athens' finest hotels.

University campuses:  Violent anarchist groups have used campuses as a place of refuge and so the State Department warns that demonstrators frequently gather in the Polytechnic University region. The department also warns against going near Aristotle University. 

While TV images can be scary in times of unrest, Greece has a long "tradition" of vigorous civil protest. Usually, no one gets hurt and the violence is directed at property, not people. If there are demonstrations and tear gas is used, that can affect the air quality of the immediate area. If the streets are filled with demonstrators, you can expect closures and transportation difficulties. Needless to say, sightseeing will be curtailed.

Spots For a Peaceful Trip in Greece

The large Greek cities are the most affected by demonstrations and strikes. Avoid the big cities and plan your trip to one of these more peaceful destinations: 

• The Greek Islands :  Santorini, Crete, Rhodes, Lesbos, and Corfu are all good options. On the larger islands, such as Crete and Corfu, there may be some disturbances in the major towns in times of stress, but nothing like what you would experience in Athens or Thessaloniki. If it concerns you, choose a hotel   outside of the city centers of Heraklion, Chania, Thessaloniki, Rhodes City and Corfu Town, though the last two are rarely involved in civil disturbances.
• The Greek countryside:  Places with older populations and spots that are a bit out of the way are likely to remain quiet. Nafplion, on the  Peloponnese peninsula , is a pleasant town providing a good base for day trips to Corinth, Epidaurus and even across the Rio-Antirio Bridge to Delphi.
• A Greek Islands cruise:  A Greek cruise is a great option, as the ships have the ability to skip a port stop if there are any problems developing. You get the full benefit of sea and sun, and you have mobility in your favor.

Tips for a Safer and Easier Trip

Consider these tips when traveling to Greece:

• Have a cell phone that works in Greece . Buy a pay-as-you-go phone there if necessary. An innkeeper trying to alert you to a situation may not want to make a pricey international call. Enter your hotel numbers and other important numbers in your cell phone, like sightseeing locations and restaurants, so you can call and ask if they are open, if they are accessible or if there is an alternate route. Keep your cell phone charged and have a backup power source.
• Travel light and smart. Dragging lots of luggage makes everything harder. Take half of what you think you'll need. Scale it down. Take the smaller camera. Tear out the chapter of the guidebook that you need or take a digital picture of it and avoid papers altogether. Forget the shoulder bag. Use a small backpack; you may want one with a strong metal grid inside.
• Buy a good map before you go. And keep it with you. If you do find your route blocked, you'll have options and if you call someone for assistance, you can understand their directions better. The Athens map provided by the GNTO office at the airport is excellent, and it's free. A paper map is still the best way to orient yourself without endlessly zooming in or out on a small screen and using up what may be precious battery power. Use your cell phone or another device alongside the paper map for detail.
• Take enough medication with you for twice the length of your trip. Pack one amount in your luggage and one in your carry-on. Keep at least a day or two's supply on you in a small pill container.
• Have a color copy of your passport with you and another copy in your luggage, along with extra copies of your itinerary. Email digital copies to an email account you can access via the internet.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ( STEP ) to receive security messages and make it easier for the American Embassy to locate you in an emergency.
• Learn a few words of Greek and enough of the Greek alphabet to decipher street signs. It can warm your welcome and at the same time, help you stay on your route, which is crucial if you have to make last-minute changes.
• Talk to the Greeks. They likely know what is going on and will be happy to tell you, share their opinions, their politics and their advice. Keep tabs on things by reading English language newspapers, watching the local news station and asking questions at your hotel.

Travel Insurance and Trip Cancellation

If you become aware of unrest in Greek cities or develop concerns, you may decide to cancel your trip. Whether or not your travel insurance covers you if you cancel depends on your policy. Many travel insurers allow a cancellation if there is  civil unrest  in your destination or a region you must travel through. Contact your insurance company directly for details.

Note: If a protest or strike is predicted before you get on your plane, your travel insurance company may refuse to cover your expenses. Make sure you ask if the company excludes any planned incidents. And remember: Independence Day (March 25) and Nov. 17 often see protests in Greece. 

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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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Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

Greece - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in Greece.

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

If you decide to travel to Greece: 

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

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Six months of remaining validity recommended.

One page per stamp.

10,000 euros or the equivalent.

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy athens.

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

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

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

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Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Safety and Security

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

For more information, see our Terrorism page.

Strikes and Demonstrations:

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

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

Take the following precautions:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

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

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

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

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

Faith-Based Travelers: See our webpages for details:

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

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

Military Service for Dual Nationals:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for women travelers .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Further health information:

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

Travel and Transportation

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

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

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

Traffic Laws:

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

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

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

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

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

For additional travel information

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

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

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Do’s and Don’ts in Greece – Greek Customs and Etiquette from an Athens resident

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I write about hotels in this glorious country (Greece), I write about destinations, but one thing I do get asked a lot about is what to wear (for which I created my Greek Island All Round Packing Guide to help you out) and also my Recommended Anti-Theft Travel Items for those with travel security on their minds. But whilst Greece isn’t a strict country with regards to attire, one does have to extend a modicum of common sense in the clothing stakes at times (I have seen some real faux pas) and it dawned on me that a post about etiquette in Greece in general would be useful to have to hand – as what’s obvious to me may not be obvious to others.

Looking to explore Greece from your phone? Download my latest App for Android or Apple: Greece’s Best . It’s all there for you to help with your travel planning.

So, without further ado I present to you the Do’s and Don’ts in Greece, some customs and etiquette if you will – and there’ll be more than just clothing tips.

• You might also be interested in my Things to know before travelling to Greece article too.
• Essential reading for your trip to Greece includes (shameless self promotion): My debut novel  Girl Gone Greek  – a fun look at Greek life.

If you’re looking to travel further afield, you need to be prepared to understand what happens in other countries as well. So my collaboration post with other travel writers and bloggers about Cultural faux pas around the world may interest you too.

Do’s and Don’ts – Customs and Etiquette in Greece – Clothing

So let’s start off with clothing. The predominant religion in Greece is Greek Orthodox and you’ll see many churches around the country, both large and small.   They’re lovely to walk into and you don’t need to be necessarily religious to appreciate the architecture inside and out. But note: some churches – especially monasteries, don’t like women to show their shoulders, and especially not their legs.  If you go visiting the monasteries of Meteora in Central Greece, even if a woman is wearing trousers you have to cover with a wrap around skirt…and they helpfully provide this.

So, respect this please.   Wear a long loose skirt if you intend to go inside churches – and bring a shawl or scarf to put over your shoulders – better still, wear something with long sleeves.

Talking of clothing: I am not going to just single women out.  I had an experience back in the summer that made me think of penning this post: Quite happily minding my own business in an Athens coffee shop in the heat, a male backpacker plonks himself down at an outside table opposite me, takes of his backpack – and his shirt …leaving himself topless in the middle of a busy Athenian street.  I’m not a prude and love wearing summer clothes, but look – just don’t do it please. Show some modicum of decency.  Do you walk around topless (males) in your home city in the summer?

Some etiquette in Greece tips regarding clothing: Do show a modicum of decency and use your common sense.  Carry a shawl around with you that can be used as a cover for legs and shoulders if needs be. Don’t show your bare legs or shoulders in a church, especially not a monastery, and men: please keep that singlet on.

A time when clothing won’t matter so much is Apokries , or Carnival Time that starts in about February each year. Be sure to visit the country during this period – it’s fun!

Do’s and Don’t in Greece – Beverages

One things the Greeks love is their coffee . And the most famous Greek beverage? Frappe. It’s made from instant Nescafe, sugar and water and is drunk cold with lots of froth and ice cubes.  Think of it as a coffee milkshake, maybe not as thick.

The thing is, Greeks love their coffee so much it is a culture here  You can sit around for hours nursing just one cup/glass, and you won’t be harangued by a stroppy waiting staff to move or order more.  The Greeks appreciate the good things about life, and that’s a good coffee with good company, maybe playing tavli.

What the Greeks don’t do is binge drink.

And this is why I love Greek culture.  You’ll see young people drinking coffee at 11pm with their friends, playing tavli (see my British vs Greek culture post for an in depth look at these cultural differences).  They enjoy alcohol as it’s meant to be enjoyed; with good food, good company and good times.  If they’re not actually eating a meal, then there’ll almost always be some small snack accompanying the alcoholic drink ordered.  The etiquette in Greece is not to go out with the intention of ‘getting smashed.’

Some etiquette in Greece tips regarding drinking: You may not think twice about binge drinking in your home culture.  Well, please think twice when visiting Greece (or any foreign culture to be honest). Do remember in a way, you are an ‘Ambassador’ for your country whenever you go away, so don’t do anything to give your fellow countrymen a bad name. Do try the frappe, it’s a delicious drink!  And some places even put a shot of Baileys with it – even more delicious. Do take your time over coffee – there’s no rush. Do remember people in Greece don’t tend to drink at home before going out, and they start going out about 11pm. Don’t think that because you get away with it at home that you’ll be OK drinking yourself silly and vomiting in the street – or worse, a local’s garden (if on an island). It’s not funny, it doesn’t show you’ve had a good time and worse still, you’re a bad ‘Ambassador’ for your country.

Dos and Don’ts in Greece – Customs and Etiquette regarding Transport

The public transport – in Athens at least – is very very good, especially the Metro. It’s clean and some stations even have ancient artefacts in glass cases on display, usually found when the Metro was being dug up and constructed.  After all, this is a country that dates back to ancient times.

It’s very clean and worth using. Take a look at Syntagma Metro Station Archaeological Collection . It’s easy to use as there’s just three Metro lines to have to navigate – not like London’s,  but then to be fair, London’s transport system has been running for a lot longer. Athens’s Metro System only really modernised in 2004 in time for the Olympic Games.

The ticket system is easy to use with re-chargable Electronic Cards (paper tickets, so don’t get confused and think it should be a plastic card), that you can buy for varying amounts, each allowing a certain amount of journeys. IE: each journey is (only) €1.20 (Athens is not zoned, unlike London) – and you can buy a card, for example, for €13.50 that covers 10 journeys plus one for free.

Machines to buy them have languages in Greek, English, German, French and Russian. So you won’t be confused. But alas, in my experience the Greeks seem not to understand the concept of waiting for people to disembark the train first before boarding, so be warned it’s a bit of a free for all.

See my Insiders Guide to Visiting Athens for some advice of things to do when visiting the capital on a city break and base yourself in the small, affordable luxury suites of Sir Athens – central and yet hidden away from the hustle bustle.

Driving in Athens, and Greece in general, can be a little hair raising!  A list of why:

• The Greeks tend not to obey the speed limit – at all: and that’s not on the lower side of it
• They tend not to wear their seatbelts in cars or crash helmets on bikes
• The rules for roundabouts is this weird system whereby you give way to the cars coming onto it, so you clog up the traffic on the roundabout by having to stop
• Stopsigns: virtually ignored.  So if you’re a pedestrian, be sure to not assume that just because your green man is showing means you can happily cross
• On the subject of pedestrians: they are also a menace! To be fair, the sidewalks/pavements are quite narrow, so one has to walk in the side of the road at times…but car drivers; beware the pedestrians who think the street is their domain and walk nearly in the middle of it!

Some customs and etiquette in Greece tips for Driving and Public Transport:  Do wait an extra few seconds before crossing the road after your man has turned green – to allow cars to actually acknowledge they’re required to stop.  Don’t forget to use the public transport in Athens – especially the metro. It’s clean, easy to use (and cheap) feels safe (I’ve not had any problems, touch wood) and as mentioned, quite classy.  Don’t think you’re driving too slowly by driving the speed limit; everyone will wizz past you.   You are the one being correct – stay that way.  Do remember to give way on a roundabout, that means stopping for cars that want to come onto the roundabout as they just wizz onto it.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my brief, what I consider essential etiquette in Greece.  Most of all, I hope it helps you to enjoy your holiday.

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Header Image © Mariamichelle

64 COMMENTS

Nicely written! As a Greek who’s lived in the UK for some time, I can not stress enough the “not to go out with the intention of ‘getting smashed’” advice. Just enjoy your drink slowly!

I’ll just add one point – when in Greece, don’t just stick to gyros, souvlaki and moussaka. Greek food is lots more than that, so be a little adventurous!

I totally love this post! Really related to what you say about binge drinking; it is not that Greeks don’t want to binge drink but that the “aftermath” is considered embarrassing – so that’s why they mostly don’t do it. As for coffee, frappe is truly amazing, but I d suggest to everybody reading to try espresso Freddo; sounds Italian but it is not, really. It is the “new frappe” and the absolute summer coffee.

Thanks Zeta. I’m glad you enjoyed it and can relate. Great advice re: Espresso Freddo

Thanks Vanessa…yep! Definitely be more adventurous with the food too.

What a dream to live in Greece! I think a lot of your suggestions are common sense and there are just so many ignorant people who don’t care!

I really loved Greece when I visited and would love to see more of the country. The frappes I had were delicious! I would have never known about wearing a skirt over pants. Thanks for the tips! I hope to visit again one day!

Possibly Sami,

Although maybe people won’t know about the ‘unofficial driving/road rules’ as you really have to be extra careful when crossing the road!

Thanks Scarlett.

I’m glad you loved the country, like I do.

The skirt over trousers thing isn’t everywhere – but just in some of the stricter places. And I agree about the frappes!

Oh my God! All I’ve ever seen on the internet is about holidaymaking in Greece which gave me the total opposite impression of your first two tips! But if that’s the actual local norms, I think Greece would actually suit me much much better than I thought! Thank you! (And totally handy driving tips too)

I’m glad the article has persuaded you that Greece is a cultural destination and traditions can be enjoyed

LOL! “Do you (males) walk around topless in the summer in your home town?” ? Like YES. I mean, actually no since I’m not male, but yes, 8/10 times the North American custom is to allow males to not wear a shirt outside. I mean, you have to throw one on one if you go into a store or restaurant, but other wise yeah, males do whatever the fuck they want. I mean it’s nice to know a countries preferences but when your economy relies mostly on tourism, just suck it up. Tourism doesn’t have to mean being a disrespectful douche, but also should not ever mean being required to conform, however temporarily, to a religion, even if it’s to cover my shoulders.

Interesting observation Sarah. I don’t take it as conforming, however; I peruse it as being merely respectful of others around me, irrespective of what country I am in. I am mindful of being an ‘Ambassador’ for my country when I travel and do wish to behave respectfully, therefore if it means covering my shoulders to go inside a church (my choice to go inside a church, I could choose not to), then I have no right to insist that I don’t cover my shoulder just because I am a tourist and my host country must ‘suck it up.’ If there is any ‘sucking up’ going on, then it must be me, the tourist, who does so. I am a guest in that culture – why should they conform to me?

Well being a Greek Canadian.. no Canadian do not walk around topless. When there are rules north Americans abide by them. Great article Bex and thank you. I like how you mentioned that everyone is an Ambassador of their own country. I like how you mentioned about the roundabout even though I learned how to drive in Greece when I visited last month to visit my mom I completely forgot. 🙂

Thanks Antonia.

It was meant as a bit of ‘fun’ and cultural observations…but turned into a little bit of heated discussion! I do truly believe one is an Ambassador for their country when abroad and when a visitor in someone’s country, naturally abide by that country’s cultural norms. Who are we to dictate what is right and wrong in a country?

I’m glad you engaged with and enjoyed the post. Thanks.

You might also have mentioned the serious issue with pickpockets in the metro. I recently returned from Greece and had the unfortunate experience of having my passport picked out of my front pocket and I had only been in the country 1 hour! I will admit that I should have been carrying it in one of those under the shirt holders and in the future, that is what I will do. I realize you don’t want to scare people from coming, but it also happened to others in the tour group I was with on other occasions. Didn’t stop me from enjoying my stay in the country which was wonderful, but definitely made me more mindful. Thankfully, I had put a copy of my passport in my suitcase which made it so much easier in getting it replaced at the embassy.

Sorry to hear of your unfortunate experience Mark. Glad the Embassy in Greece was able to sort it out – and yes, there are incidences of pickpockets…as there are in a lot of cities. I know of incidences in Barcelona, Lisbon, a lot of European cities.

I really enjoyed reading your information here.

I think it is important to visit Greece equipped with a little knowledge of what to expect.

Very often you can be surprised with what you come across. What can be seen as strange to outsiders is quite normal in Greece.

The one thing I was not ready for when I first came here, was at the dinner table.

All the food was in the middle and everyone just ate from the same plates. Although I was taken back by this, I am quite used to it now.

I like your site, and it is a nice resource for people to learn a little about what to expect before they arrive.

Thanks Chris,

Yes, I love the community sharing of meze food. It’s so nice to share and not be individualistic.

Great info!! I’ll be visiting Greece soon so this is indeed very helpful

Great! I am glad it’s been helpful for you

Omgosh! What a great article! My bestie and I are just now planning a 2 week trip there for this September. If I have questions…would you be available for me? Where would I contact you via the internet…here?

Many thanks for your compliments Conni. You are welcome to head to the contact form on my site and if I can answer anything, I most certainly will try. Have a good trip.

A few tips for driving on the island of Crete, most of the roads are single highways with fairly wide shoulders. The locals and those such as myself who have lived here for 17 years always position our car to the right of the traffic lane so anybody trying to overtake can do so. Once you are aware of someone trying to overtake pull even a little further over on the hard shoulder please do not sit continuously in the middle or to the left of the traffic lane. Also on smaller roads beware of vehicles just stopped in the road or been driven in the middle and most disconcerting of all is the use of hazard lights instead of indicators. You then have to seriously question what the next move will be and I cannot understand who teaches the Greeks to do this as you have to take your hand off the steering wheel to put hazard lights on instead of flicking the indicator switch which again doesn’t seem to get used very much. At junctions you often wait for a sign but in the end nothing happens and they turn or go straight on with no indication whatsoever.

Another great tip – thank you Kritilane

Took me a while to come around to the frappe. Not a fan of instant coffee and rarely use sugar but in the end, I fell in love with it. I’m glad you pointed out about taking your time and enjoying your drink. My wife and I love sitting at a cafe and people watching.

Thanks Eric.

Yes, they sure know how to treat eating and drinking as a lifestyle choice as opposed to just filling your stomach. And it’s such a healthy outlook to life too.

How on earth can you NOT chug a frappe?? Haha, I’m absolutely obsessed with them. I’ve been to Greece twice, found a frappe mixer and brought it home but sadly because of the voltage difference it is not effective here in Canada. I’ve managed to make an immersion blender quite successful in imitating the frappe! Although, again sadly, I cannot get the frappe Nescafé mix so I use the kind we get here. It’s pretty darn close! I had THE strongest mojito at Brettos in April. WOW.

I can’t wait to go back- my mouth waters and my heart flutters thinking about walking through monastiraki with a gyro and frappe in hand.

You have truly embraced the Greek way of life – well done Tiffany!

I like to think so! I’m also slightly obsessed with the Minoan civilization. Definitely feel a very strong connection to the Greeks. ?

Hope you get to come back soon

Thanks so much for the great tips! Our family will be visiting Athens and Santorini next week and we are so excited! Can you tell me what the temperatures and weather is like in November? Is it cold and will we need coats? Thanks!

You will love Santorini – but yes, it is chilly at the moment (not by UK standards though!) It’s sunny, you will need jumpers though as it gets windy on the islands – maybe a windproof jacket too?

Great post. My hubby is Aussie Greek, we visited in 2017 and I loved the place the people, everything! So laid back, use your commonsense and you fit right in! I would do a mama Mia style go on holiday and never come back if I didn’t have young children…. maybe when they grow up !! We

Thanks Kylee – it’s always great to meet a fellow Grecophile. You have to come back soon! So many lovely places in this country to visit.

My hubby and I are visiting first time mid April. We are Catholic…USA?. Have traveled in Europe no problem with etiquette..we are overgrown..lol..in our 50’s.

Not sure what to wear when chilly to tour? Are jeans acceptable? Minus athletic shoes? What to wear throughout day totour city while chilly and be able to visit a religious site or church dressed appropriately? Appreciate any advice ..always wish to respect local etiquette and learn from locals.

Thanks for taking the time to read my article and I’m glad you found it useful for your up and coming visit to Greece which you will love! It only really gets ‘chilly’ in Greece from end of November to late Feb. And it all depends on where you’re going and what you’re seeing: if you’ll be in the mountains, on an island, in the cities.

One thing: Athens is by the coast so can get quite humid – so when it is chilly, it can feel colder than it actually is.

So, I would suggest trousers that are maybe a cotton mix as they absorb any sweat (should it be hot) and keep you cool. I’m not endorsing their products and am on no commission (as I have never actually tried them) – but I have read that Scottevest is a good travelling product for both men and women’s clothing. They’re a North American company, and deliver. Sneakers/trainers (as we call them in the UK) are perfectly acceptable for going into a church…my point about a religious site was just to respect the local culture and if wandering around in the heat, maybe wear loose linen/cotton trousers and a long sleeved shirt. T-shirts are even fine – it’s just so long as you have your shoulders covered so no sleeveless t-shirts. Women can always grab a little sarong to throw over their shoulders – that’s what I do.

The thing to remember is it’s not STRICT STRICT – and I am sure as you’re seasoned travellers anyway, you have knowledge and common sense. I have just seen some ridiculousness in the clothing stakes in the past – mainly from younger travellers who have an attitude of ‘We don’t care what your culture is, this is what I wear and you will not dictate to me what to wear’ which makes me angry because it shows a lack of respect to culture as far as I’m concerned.

You might find this collaborative post interesting that I also have on my site:

https://www.lifebeyondbordersblog.com/cultural-faux-pas-around-the-world/ It talks about clothing ‘faux pas’ and others around the world.

Many thanks and happy travels!

Uhm, you are very wrong. First of all, covering up shoulders is only for the ladies and only in monasteries. Second of all, especially you who is a female you wouldnt go to egypt without covering up or else the locals would try to fondle you best case scenario ( b e s t). Its not a matter of conforming, its a matter of respect. Just because not obeying social rules in a country wont be dangerous to you (like many muslim countries) that doesnt mean you should respect them any less. And to be honest, if I saw an american man being shirtless I wouldnt give a shit, but only if they did it out of need, not if they knew its rude and still did it.

You recommend the metro, I have heard there are a lot of pick pockets on the metro, is this true? And if so, what is the best way to protect yourself from them.

Yes, there are lots of pick pockets on the metro – as with any big city. If you were travelling on the metro in another city, how would you protect yourself? I wouldn’t keep everything in one place – and usually travel with a hidden money belt that you can put under your clothes. I also wait to travel on less crowded metros so if the one coming is pretty jam packed, I wait for the next metro.

Thank you, had pick pockets in Rome as well – going to Athens and Santorini this August. Will most likely use Uber to be on the safe side. Pick pockets are not common in the US, so people who are not vigilant need to be warned. I like this blog and found it helpful for my upcoming trip, I am so looking forward to it.

I feel safer in Athens than I have done in a US city to be honest, but I guess it is all relative. When one travels, one gets used to being aware of surroundings, etc. I always recommend not ‘standing out’ as a tourist ie: huge camera hanging from neck, speaking loudly to each other in English so you stand out, looking at maps standing in the middle of a crowded, bustling market area, etc. Uber is not used in Greece (and quite a few other European cities). It’s been banned because the taxis in Athens are so cheap. You can download a App called Beat and link it to your credit card and order taxis from that. It’s basically an Uber but using the local taxis. I love using it. And the great thing is, you are using an actual taxi driver and here in Greece, to be a taxi driver is a huge investment in the car, licensing, etc so it’s not a profession that’s taken lightly. Just keep valuables hidden and be aware of your surroundings, but I will repeat again: I found travelling around Europe much safer than the U.S.

P.S. I think I mentioned it in this post already, but check out Scottavest. They offer travel clothes with hidden pockets and are a U.S. company. I am not endorsing them as I don’t have their products as they are U.S. based and shipping to Europe is more expensive than their products! But I have used products with hidden pockets in them before and found them useful

Can you recommend any public gardens that feature plants native to Greece?

Hi Nancy and thanks for your message,

The National Gardens in the centre near Syntagma Square has over 500 different plants, trees and bushes from worldwide – but the Botanical Gardens in the Athens neighbourhood of Halandri has more native species. I’ve never been, but it’s free (as is the National Gardens) and looks lovely. I should go and write a post about it.

Thanks for the helpful tips. Do you have any tips for traveling with kids 10 and 8? My husband and I are really good travelers, we are the type of people who love culture. We try our best to blend in. We will be in Athens and Santorini in August.

Thanks Tammy.

You and your family will have a wonderful time. Join in with as many activities that become available – sit in the squares at the small cafes and watch as the local families all gather. So much to do in both Athens and Santorini, but it will be very hot, so bring plenty of high sunscreen, especially for the children. I wouldn’t try to climb up to the Acropolis from midday onwards – make sure you aim to do it early morning or later in the early evening, it’s too hot. Most of all, enjoy your travels!

Very good information! It is always good to know and understand the culture of where you visit.

Thanks Lori. I believe that too

Tx this was most informative. I booked my trip for April 2020 not realising that there won’t be boats and a lot of places are closed during the Easter time. I was lucky in that one of my ,,”would be” hosts on Aegina explained it to me. I connected with Greece in Nov last year and fell in love with the country.

As a South African, I have never felt so free and safe & I still tell people about how I left my purse behind in a jewelery store on Hydra and the lady went to look for the boat that carried the South Africans & it was returned to me!

Here we get killed for a cheap cellphone, sometimes they don’t even take anything, they kill you for fun.

But I still have questions : I never saw beggars….an extremely weird thing for me….how come? Your economy is not that much stronger than ours?

I plan to have most of my future holidays there as it is safer & more affordable than SA. But I woukd stay in Plaka or near Plaka, am I safe to go out & have dinner by myself? I’m a 57yr old single lady NOT looking for my Shirley Valentine moment. I just want to be outside and lie on a blankie in a park reading a book without my head being cut off…advise pls?

Besides the Islands – where else in Greece should I go? I like cities, markets, etc…which smaller places would be good for me to visit?

Going to buy your book now!

Many thanks for taking the time to comment. I hope you enjoy ‘Girl Gone Greek’ I think homelessness is prevalent in many cities, not just in Greece but all over the world. So ‘beggers’ is a relative concept.

Enjoy your next trip to Greece

Enjoyed your post. I will be going to Greece mid-April 2020, and it will be my first time. I am retired and have always wanted to go to Greece. Are knee length dresses acceptable to wear in churches as long as arms are covered, or should I bring a maxi dress? What are the best foods to try? Is the weather nice that time of year? Thank you!

Thanks for your message Virginia. So long as your shoulders are covered, you’ll be fine. You seem a sensible individual. Naturally the churches get upset when people wander in off the beach just in their beachwear, which you will not do I assume.

Check out this post for some advice of Top Things to Eat and Drink in Athens and where to find it: https://www.lifebeyondbordersblog.com/greek-dishes-top-things-eat-drink-athens-greece/ and yes, April should be getting warmer but it won’t be warm enough to swim in the sea (sea temperatures are always 2 months behind land temperature, so the sea will be the equivalent of two months prior land temperature, so February weather. This is an occurrence wherever you are in the world). Greece tends to be a little humid as it’s by the coast, especially the islands so bring trousers and a long sleeved cardigan. You might like this post of mine: https://www.lifebeyondbordersblog.com/greek-island-all-round-packing-list/

Remember, all this is subjective and I am not a travel agent and as per my Disclosure and Privacy policy – which can be found here: https://www.lifebeyondbordersblog.com/privacy-policy/ “Any practical information – even though correct at the time of writing can change, so it is best to check and all information provided is for entertainment purposes only, I am NOT providing you with any medical, legal or other professional advice.”

Enjoy my adopted country!

Thank you so much for the fast reply. I am so looking forward to visiting your beautiful country. Being in my late 60s, I no longer wear shorts except around my own home or sleeveless blouses. I do wear knee length dresses and pants. I would not dream of going into a church or anywhere other than the beach in beachwear. LOL. I am reading all I can about visiting Greece so that I do not unknowingly offend anyone. I’m even trying to learn some phrases in Greek before I go.

Great you’re trying a few phrases. Even if you just manage Please and Thank you, the Greeks love it when one tries out their language…it shows appreciation in their eyes

This is a very helpful guide when you plan to vsit Athens. I went last year with my girlfriend and it was amazing tour. I chose a Classical Athens Tour and learnt so much about Greek history, tradition and food. I will go again for sure

Thank you Ismini. I am glad you enjoyed Athens, and enjoyed reading my post. I hope it gave some valuable tips.

Its almost impossible that the backpacker you met in the center of Athens was Greek. Greeks almost never back pack and those who do usually go to the islands and never hitchhike.

Thanks Mike. Yes, if you read the piece I think I mention that the person was not of Greek descent

Thank you for this guide, and advice! We will be traveling to Greece next year and I need to learn and understand a lot of things for our trip to Greece!!

I am sure you will love your time here Mike

I very rarely see men walk around shirtless in town…maybe when working in their yard at home on a hot day or after a long hot job. Not sure where you live! I’ve travelled pretty widely in the US and live in a major suburb of Washington, DC.

That’s good to know, thank you Lynn

Loved your post!!We are planning a trip to Greece in June with our one year old son. Any tips for a family.

Thanks April. You and your family will love Greece. Try my Greece Travel App for some planning ideas: https://www.touchscreentravels.com/apps/greeces-best/

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10 of the best crowd-free Greek islands and coastlines

Greece is the word on everyone’s lips and, fingers crossed, its sun-kissed beaches will welcome us back soon. All these places offer a taste of true Greek culture

W ith the end of lockdown in sight, holiday bookings to Greece are surging, as people plan what will be some of the most-anticipated holidays ever. For a really restorative taste of Greek life, though, it’s worth swapping the limelight locations for places where mass tourism hasn’t obscured the essence of Greek culture: hospitality and a soulful way of life.

These 10 stunning island and mainland destinations offer a more nourishing side of Greece. These are places where people take pride in offering hospitality – in line with the ancient custom of filoxenia , love of strangers – and where things are done with meraki , love and soul.

These are the sort of locations that made people fall in love with Greece in the first place, where the Arcadian idea of the good life, pondered by the ancients, is still alive and well.

Two hours from the port of Rafina, near Athens, this mountainous island is the northernmost of the Cyclades archipelago and a favourite with holidaying Greeks for its food, beaches and pretty villages. More fertile and greener than the rest of the Cyclades, the island has a well-maintained network of trails,making it a hiker’s paradise.

What to do Rent a car that can go off-road, as some of the best places are reached down dirt tracks. The main town, Chora , is a cluster of neoclassical mansions that juts out to sea, with a marbled square and impressive museums dedicated to contemporary art, archaeology and folklore. The seaside town of Batsi is where most tourists stay, but it’s still relatively quiet, with a selection of tavernas and coffee shops.

Andros has a glut of stunning wild beaches, including Zorkos , Vitali , Achla (the most difficult to reach), and Pidima tis Grias (old woman’s leap). Those with facilities and watersports include Agios Petros , Xrisi Akti and Kypri .

Six kilometres from Chora, the village of Menites , at the foot of Petalo mountain, is famous for its spring waters. According to legend, in ancient times wine flowed from the mouths of the lion statues in the square, which was the setting for wine festivals called “Dionysus parties”. Paleopoli , Andros’s ancient capital, has the remains of the fifth-century fortified city, with its marketplace, theatre, altars and temples. Inland there are spectacular waterfalls at Pithara , and a famous gushing spring at nearby Sariza .

Where to stay On the outskirts of Chora, Small Paradis e (doubles from €110 B&B, two-night minimum) offers three suites with kitchen facilities on an organic farm. The owner is the embodiment of Greek hospitality, and the organic food is a particular highlight, made using ingredients from the farm such as olive oil, lemons, oranges, apricots, figs and peaches, as well as vegetables. By contrast Blu Enigma Hotel (apartment for two from €60) in the village of Apikia has its own skateboarding bowl and hosts artists, BMXers and skaters, with regular art installations and exhibitions.

Where to eat Balkoni tou Aigaiou (Aegean Balcony) offers lunch or dinner with 180-degree sea views. The meat is sourced from the owner’s farm and the menu also has vegetable specialities and froutalia (an omelette with potatoes and sausage). For fish, there’s Stamatis taverna in Batsi, Karavostasi s in Gavrio on the west coast, or Nonas on the seafront in Chora.

Greece’s second-largest island, Evia is often overlooked in favour of more glamorous destinations. But this gem within striking distance of Athens is worth exploring for the variety it offers: some parts feel like Switzerland-on-sea; others resemble the Caribbean. It’s a two-hour drive from Athens, or a one-hour ferry crossing from the port of Rafina – yet very rarely busy.

What to do In the north of the island the thermal springs of Edipsos are mentioned by Plutarch and Aristotle as the place Hercules went when he needed to restore his powers. More recent visitors have included Aristotle Onassis, Maria Callas, Winston Churchill and Omar Sharif. At the other end of the island, the Montofoli wine estate in Karystos offers tours and tastings of its four varietals including renowned dessert wines. Karystos hosts a wine festival at the end of August, and the estate has four pricey villas (€400 a night) for those who want to push the boat out. Hiking trails from Lamari or Stropones lead to the beach at Chiliadou on the east coast for a rewarding swim in clear waters framed by dramatic cliffs.

At Drakospita in the south, 23 megalithic structures with roofs made of huge slabs of limestone are known as dragon houses. They may have been sanctuaries to Zeus, Hera or Hercules, or ancient defensive structures. The mountain villages offer cool sanctuary in the height of summer, with lots of signposted hiking trails through the woods. Steni village is a personal favourite.

Where to stay The Old Stone Cottage (€150 a night for four) on the outskirts of Karystos is a secluded spot with two bedrooms and beautiful views across the bay and a ruined castle. Villa Averoff (from €1,850 a week for eight) in the hill village of Kirinthos, is a tranquil 19th-century estate in extensive grounds with two grand mansions each accommodating eight (which can be rented separately or together with three smaller buildings sleeping 26 people all together).

Where to eat Mouria grill (+30 2228 051234) in the leafy village square in Stení, in the middle of the island, serves hearty mountain food made with local produce such as kondosouvli (spit-roast pork), wild mushrooms and fried cheese bread. Gefsiplous , by the sea in Karystos, is a family-run restaurant serving simple salads, seafood and grilled meats.

Steeped in maritime history, this pretty little town on the Gulf of Corinth below ancient Delphi is an overlooked gem. Just three hours west of Athens, the elegant neoclassical resort curves around the seafront and has the atmosphere of a Greek island. It was one of the country’s wealthiest ports in its 19th-century heyday and an air of grandeur remains. It’s authentically Greek and popular with sailing folk, without the tourist crowds.

What to do The sleepy, unspoilt town centre is full of captains’ mansions with colourful facades, cobbled streets, traditional squares and seaside cafes (landmark church Agia Paraskevi and the Maritime Museum are worth checking out, too). The oracle of Delphi is half an hour’s drive away, with its temple complex and breathtaking views of the olive tree-covered valley below. On Clean Monday (Ash Monday, 7 March next year) visitors can join in Dyonisian Alevromoutzouroma (flour smudging), when locals in carnival costume throw coloured flour at one another to mark the start of Lent.

Where to stay Ganimede (doubles from €65 B&B), a family hotel in Galaxidi’s port, is big on traditional Greek hospitality. At breakfast, served in the flowery courtyard, everything is homemade – the jams, the curds, the chutneys. Owner Chrysoula’s husband is also a baker. Galaxa Mansion (doubles from €65 room-only, breakfast €10pp) in Galaxidi’s old port is a family-run hotel that also takes pride in traditional, homemade breakfasts. Local eggs, pies straight from the kitchen, and a famous take on strudel all feature.

Where to eat Maritsa’s on the waterfront is one of the best seafood restaurants in town. Bebelis , a bit further inland, offers consistently outstanding taverna food in a traditional setting (lace curtains, fresh flowers).

Folegandros

With just 765 inhabitants, and the feel of a less-discovered Santorini, Folegandros offers the chance to kick back and enjoy unhurried island life. The medieval Chora, the main town, is high on a rock, the scenery is dramatic, and the cobbled streets tranquil. The ferry from Piraeus takes about seven hours: good things really do come to those who wait.

What to do Stroll around whitewashed Chora ; follow the gently winding path to the top of the hill and watch the sunset from the Church of Panagia. There are boat trips to Chrysospilia cave on the north-east of the island (it’s one of the largest in Greece, with impressive stalagmites and stalactites) and scuba diving in clear seas. Beaches to check out include Vorina on the east coast (famed for its turquoise waters) and untamed Katergo on the island’s southern tip. Boats every hour from Karavostasis port or it’s a 20-minute hike from the road. Take water, as there are no facilities nearby.

Where to stay Meltemi Hotel ( doubles from €45) in Chora is unfussy and spotless, and the hosts make you feel so at home it’s hard to leave. Folegandros Apartments ( apartment for four from €126), also in Chora, make a comfortable base – and there’s a pool.

Where to eat Miss Irini’s cafe in hilltop Ano Meria does Folegandrian specialities, such as handpicked capers in a red sauce, that will have you dreaming of your next meal before you’ve even finished. Piatsa restaurant , in a sleepy square in Chora, is great for people-watching and traditional Greek dishes.

One of the Dodecanese islands, in the southern Aegean near the Turkish coast, this tranquil oasis is an eight-hour ferry trip from Athens, though there are shorter routes from islands including Rhodes and Kos). Said to be the favourite island of goddess Artemis, it’s lush and hilly with many beautiful pebbly coves, and has a colourful history.

What to do The Italian-influenced town of Lakki on the west coast was designed as a utopia by Mussolini’s architects during the occupation. Unusual buildings include a minimalist church and an art deco cinema. The larger town of Agia Marina in the east is known for its winding alleys, traditional houses and impressive mansions; nearby, 11th-century Panagia castle is a steep half-hour climb, and below it, Panteli is a fishing village with picturesque windmills. Secluded Dioliskaria beach, five miles north of capital Platanos, is one of the best, and for divers there are ship and plane wrecks to explore; book with Hydrovius Diving Centre (hydrovius.gr).

Where to stay Bella Vista Apartments (from €70 a night for two) at Panteli beach are elegant, affordable and a stone’s throw from the water. Camping Leros (tent and two adults €18 a night) in Ksirokambos is set in an olive grove, and has an on-site diving club.

Where to eat Taverna Zorbas in Panteli claims to be the oldest on the island and serves fish straight from the boat at tables overlooking the beach. A few paces along, El Greco is another place offering simple, delicious traditional fare.

Birthplace of Aphrodite, this island off the southern Peloponnese lives up to the goddess’s name. Waterfalls, gorges, medieval fortress towns, beaches – it has them all. And because getting there feels like travelling to the end of the Earth – it also offers a sense of adventure. You can fly from Athens in 45 minutes, but getting there the slow way – a four-hour drive from Athens, and a short ferry ride from the town of Neapoli – builds the anticipation.

What to do The most distinctive building on the island is the late 12th-century Venetian castle in Chora , the main town. Mylopotamos , in a wooded valley to the north, is named for the 23 watermills along its stream. From here a path leads up to the beautiful Neraida waterfall, in a designated area of outstanding natural beauty: its cool, crystalline pool is perfect for a dip. On Chytra island, reached by boat from Kapsali harbour in the south, there’s a seal colony and a cave with a stunning blue crystal pool.

Local walking guide Frank leads groups around Kythira’s abandoned villages and is a font of knowledge about flora and fauna, history, culture and daily island life. Kapsali or the family-friendly seaside town of Avlemonas on the east coast make a tranquil base for exploring the beaches and bays at Firri Ammos , Komponada , Kaladi , Sparagario , and Melidoni .

Where to stay Chora View (doubles from €50 B&B, self-catering studios for four from €90) is a renovated 17 th -century manor house beneath the Venetian castle and not far from Kapsali beach. The woman who runs it is contagiously upbeat, making this simple and traditional guesthouse a joy to stay at. Fos kai Choros guesthouse (doubles from €100 B&B, self-catering studios for two from €85) is owned by Albert and Anita, who moved from the Netherlands to start this boutique hotel between the picturesque villages of Aroniadika and Pitsinades.

Where to eat Familia in the 14 th -century village of Fratsia, specialises in Kytherian dishes such as aubergines with bulgur wheat, made with locally sourced ingredients. Skandeia in Paleopoli uses homegrown, organic vegetables, fish from nearby Avlemonas, and other island produce, and serves meals in a delightful former vineyard.

Astypalea is the kind of Greek idyll those who know the country well dream of escaping to. It’s safely off the beaten track thanks to its remoteness: ferries run three times a week from Piraeus and take nine hours. The whitewashed cubist villages have a hint of Santorini, the beaches are pristine and rugged – and the hospitality is generous and authentic.

What to do In the main town – called, you guessed it, Chora – sparkling houses cascade down the hillside from Venetian fortifications. Though little remains of the castle itself, the views are worth the climb. The Archaeological Museum in Gyalos offers a history fix, and handily, just opposite, the best street food is available at Turquoise .

There are countless great beaches: Vatses , Kaminaki , Agios Konstantinos , Plakes , Maltezana , and Tzanaki , to name a few. The nearby islets of Kounoupes and Koutsomitis also make for a lovely day trip. Be sure to pick up some local saffron to take home. It grows wild on the island and is much more flavourful and aromatic than cultivated varieties.

Where to stay Studios Kilindra (from €80 for two) in Chora offers four units under the castle with spectacular views. Akrotiri Studios (from €45 for two) in the resort of Maltezana offers traditionally charming, family-run studios, apartments and beachfront houses, with amazing views and well-equipped kitchenettes.

Where to eat Astifagia restaurant, by the sea in Maltezana, serves beach-side Astypalean specialities with an innovative twist. And don’t miss Kafenio Meltemi in Chora, for traditional Astypalean sweets.

Eat, beach, sleep, repeat might sound appealing from the confines of lockdown, but if you want a little more from a Greek island, head to Syros. A year-round population, non-touristy shops and a vibrant cultural life make for a fascinating insight into the local lifestyle, with all the quaint villages and charming trimmings you would expect from a Greek island.

What to do Lose yourself in the neoclassical main town, Ermoupoli . Swing by the impressive town hall, which was inspired by the palaces of Troy, and stick your head in the Apollon Theatre, a miniature of Milan’s La Scala. Ano Syr os , a medieval settlement in the hills behind, is more labyrinthine in character, and Vaporia is the beach area of Ermoupoli, where imposing mansions perch above the sea.

The island’s beaches are quieter than many, too. Take a day trip on a boat from Kini beach, on the west coast, to Syros’s remote northern coast, where Grammata beach has ancient rock engravings. The real reason to go Syros, though, is the island’s rich cultural offerings, including concerts, performances, art exhibitions and events such as the Syros International film festival .

Where to stay Wind Tales (doubles from €73 B&B), a boutique guesthouse in Ano Syros, oozes Cycladic charm and has terraces offering stunning views over the sea. Anemos kai Almyra (studios from €50) is a complex of clean, homely rooms with kitchens a few hundred metres from the west coast’s Delfini beach.

Where to eat Cantina Analogue in Ermoupoli is an artist-run Aegean grocer and bistro. Expect Cycladic dishes with a twist, such as roasted celery root with tahini and raisins, and regular live music. Dyo Tzitzikia (two cicadas), near Kini beach, is best for seafood with sunset views.

A mountainous mainland peninsula once known as the Greek gods’ summer retreat, Pilio (or Pelion) is a four-hour drive from Athens. Also known as the mountain of the centaurs, it’s a year-round destination offering mountain activities as well as coastal attractions, and was used as a location in the first Mamma Mia! film. Cliffs on its eastern side dip dramatically into the Aegean, to its west is the sheltered Pagasetic Gulf, and in between lie picturesque villages and green wooded valleys.

What to do Villages and more villages. On the eastern slope of the mountains, Tsagarada boasts one of the oldest (1,000 years) and largest plane trees in Europe, the deepest gorge in Pelion ( Koutra ), and the beaches of Milopotamos , Fakistra and Karavostasi a. Portaria and Makrinits a villages offer views across the city of Volos.

From 18-31 August, nearby Agios Lavrentios runs a Music Village festival that attracts international musicians and artists. The Little Train of Pilio is another highlight. It started operating in 1895 and still climbs the peninsula’s beautiful slopes on its 90-minute ride. On the southern tip of the peninsula is the cave of the centaur Chiron, and the sleepy villages of Trikeri and Agia Kyriaki .

Where to stay A stone’s throw from the square in Makrinitsa is Melanthi (doubles from €65 B&B), a 19th-century mansion with rooms overlooking the Pagasetic Gulf. Kritsa Gastronomy Hotel (doubles from €50 B&B) in Portaria is family-run, with its own organic farm and restaurant, offering cuisine including pies made with handmade filo pastry. Guests can take part in cooking lessons, pick the produce and learn about the history of the area through local dishes.

Where to eat Aleka’s House in Tsagarada serves Greek dishes with a slightly modern twist, such as stuffed zucchini flowers and pork with cardamom. The traditional Salkimi taverna in the village of Milies (end of the line for the Little Train) specialises in filo pies with cured beef.

Mani, Peloponnese

At the southern end of the Peloponnese, this is a wild, rugged region at times reminiscent of Tuscany. Medieval fortresses and tower villages dot the dramatic landscape, and olive groves run out to the horizon. Today the Mani offers peaceful sanctuary in a land once dominated by family feuds and vendettas.

What to do The remains of the ancient city of Messini , at the top of the peninsula, are as extensive as those of Olympia and Epidaurus. South round the coast, Kardamyli – first mentioned in Homer’s epic poem the Iliad – was once the main port of the Greek city-state of Sparta, but is today an upmarket resort, with boutiques, cafes and bars. Kardamyli was also home to the travel writer Patrick Leigh Fermor, and his beautifully restored house is a holiday let. Rent a bike to ride dedicated trails from Stoupa to Agios Nikolaos and the impressive Diros caves ; in the other direction are the Polylimnio waterfalls on the way to Pylos, and Navarino Bay for a cooling dip. The area’s best beaches are at Stoupa, Gerolimenas, Limeni and Kalogria.

Where to stay Zen Rocks ( doubles €186 room-only, cheaper dorm rooms also available), about 15 minutes from Kardamyli, is a peaceful retreat centre in an olive grove in the foothills of the Taygetos mountains and with views over the Messinian Gulf. Breakfast, dinner, yoga, zen meditation, massage and ayurvedic consultations are also on offer. Elies Hotel and restaurant (self-catering studio from €104 a night) by a pebble beach on the outskirts of Kardamyli has 24 secluded stone cottages also in an olive grove.

Where to eat Lela’s in Kardamyli is a family-run taverna right on the waterfront where local ingredients, including their own olive oil, shine through in dishes such as siglino , a traditional Maniot cured meat. Lofos tis Santovas near Megali Mantineia, with views of the Messinian gulf, is a favourite with Greeks from Kalamata city, a 20-minute drive away. Ingredients from the family farm are made into dishes such as roasted rooster with potatoes.

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

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

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

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

15 Essential Greece Travel Tips

Table of Contents

1. Don’t forget to buy Travel Insurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Consider visiting Greece in September or June 

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

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

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

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

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

5. Spend more than a week in Greece 

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

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

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

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

6. Learn a little Greek lingo 

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

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

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

7. Check out the less explored beaches in Greece

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

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

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

8. Consider visiting during an annual festival or event 

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

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

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

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

9. Bring a refillable water bottle 

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

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

10. Greece safety tips to be mindful about

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

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

11. Give Athens at least 3 days  

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

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

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

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

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

12. Don’t miss the Greek Islands 

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

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

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

13. Eat Greek Salad

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

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

It is not only refreshing but insanely delicious!

14. Try a Cappucino Freddo

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

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

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

15. Bring good shoes

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

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

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

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

You might also like:

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

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Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

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5 Of The Least Touristy Islands In Greece

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• Destinations
• Greek Islands

It’s imperative to feel comfortable and safe while traveling. Medjet provides premier air medical transport, travel security, and crisis response memberships, providing peace of mind for an affordable price.

Greece is famous for its idyllic islands with small villages full of gleaming white houses, pebble and sand beaches with crystal clear water, ancient churches, friendly natives, and delicious Greek cuisine.

The most popular Greek islands are Santorini, Mykonos, Corfu, Crete, and Rhodes, which are also some of the largest of the islands and ports for cruise ships. If you want to experience less crowded and more off-the-beaten-path Greek islands, here’s our list.

All of these destinations are reachable by ferry from either the mainland of Greece or from the bigger islands, and depending on the distance, travel can take up to eight hours.

The big advantage of Paxos is that it’s only a 90-minute boat ride from Corfu, which has a major airport. Paxos is too small to receive cruise ships but has a good selection of home and apartment rentals, restaurants, cafes, and hotels to fit almost any budget.

Paxos is comprised of three main villages on the sea: Gaios, which is the largest and the main entry port, Lakka, and Longos. The towns all have pebble beaches. and there’s also lots of nature and hiking trails surrounded by hills, forests, and trees. You will discover some primitive, centuries-old churches and chapels along the way.

The most beautiful beach in Paxos is on the tiny island of Antipaxos, just a 15-minute boat road from Gaios. Spend the day there and have lunch at the outdoor restaurant which serves fresh-caught, grilled seafood.

The lively center of Gaios is where the bulk of restaurants, cafes, and bars are, along with shops stocking local crafts and merchandise.

For some culture, the Paxos Music Festival is the big summer event, taking place all summer. Performances and activities include concerts, art exhibitions and lectures, video projections, and music workshops.

Where To Eat

The long waterfront has a varied selection of cafes and restaurants facing the scenic harbor dotted with boats.

Mambo puts a twist on traditional Greek food with dishes such as chicken marinated in lemon and cooked in a clay pot. If you make your reservation one day in advance, make sure to special order the catch of the day.

Where To Stay

Paxos Club Resort is a four-star hotel with reasonable rates. The hotel has spacious rooms with air conditioning, a spa and gym, an outdoor pool, an expansive outdoor deck with lounge chairs, and a complimentary breakfast buffet. A free shuttle service to Gaios is offered in the morning and the evenings, plus free transfers to and from the dock where the boats from Corfu land.

Heracles Kritikos / Shutterstock

Although it’s the second largest island in Greece, Evia is mostly unknown to foreign visitors. Just two hours by car from Athens or one hour by boat from the port of Rafina, Evia has a much-varied landscape, from sandy beaches with calm aqua blue waters to mountains with dense pine forests and simple villages.

Edipsos, a town on Evia, is the site of natural thermal baths. Temperatures in the baths range from 82 to 186 degrees Fahrenheit and purportedly have the ability to cure many common ailments and illnesses. The baths, which have attracted celebrities such as Winston Churchill, Greta Garbo, Maria Callas, Aristotle Onassis, and Omar Sharif, are accessible through a number of spa resorts throughout the town.

A local institution dating back from the 1820s, the Thermae Sylla Spa is a luxury hotel and wellness center with a broad range of treatments and facilities, including thermal baths, a swimming pool, a jacuzzi, an olive farm, detox treatments, thermal mud baths, massages, body sculpting and toning, and facials.

Eretria is a historic seaside village on Evia. Some of the most noted attractions are a mosaic house built in 4 B.C., the West Gate (which is the ancient central entranceway to Eretria), The Museum of Modern Art of Peace and Chalkidismos (which is filled with works from Greek artists and painters), and the 19th-century neo-classical villa formerly owned by Konstantinos Kanaris, a ship captain.

Cuban owned but serving Greek fare, La Cubana is a waterfront restaurant known for its quality seafood at fair prices.

Just in front of a sandy beach, the Eviana Beach Hotel has clean and well-kept rooms with flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and in-room coffee and tea. The hotel provides chaise lounges, chairs, and umbrellas on the beach.

Nejdet Duzen / Shutterstock

Closer to the Turkish coast on the Aegean Sea, Leros has steep hills with lots of greenery. Steeped in mythology, it was where Artemis, the Greek goddess of hunting, would hunt for deer.

One of the prettiest sites in Leros is the old windmills of white stones with red roofs and doors. Atop a rocky hill is a medieval castle constructed by the Byzantines on the base of an old temple. The History and Folklore Museum is in the Bellenis Tower , a former villa built in the 1920s. Take a Greek treasure home from Keramika Lerou, which has artisanal ceramics and pottery.

Leros has nine small beaches with either pebbles or sand and calm, clear waters. Alinda, which is a sand beach, is the most popular and has water sports, including scuba diving and fish stands.

Leros mostly has casual cafes and tavernas with outdoor seating in the summer.

Mylos has a spectacular view of the Agia Marina, just in front of an authentic windmill. Family owned, Mylos offers traditional-style Greek dishes and also has a cocktail bar. It is open for lunch and dinner.

Fancy staying in a windmill? Anemos Apartments rents four studios directly on top of a windmill. Apartments have full modern amenities, including a king-size bed, air conditioning, a kitchen, and Wi-Fi.

KatarzynaZakowska / Shutterstock

4. Alonissos

Alonissos is best known for the National Marine Park of Alonissos and Northern Sporades , the largest park of its kind in Europe, measuring 875 square miles. Pods of dolphins, an endangered species of a Mediterranean monk seal, turtles, whales, and rare seabirds populate the park.

The island has dramatic wildlife with pine-covered forests, rugged cliffs, and small inlets, some with old chapels on them. Eighteen beaches stretch over Alonissos, and if you are looking for something remote and private, Vrisitsa Beach is pretty remote, only reachable on foot. Chrisi Milia is a sand beach and has chaise lounges, umbrellas, and watersport rentals.

Seaside tavernas line the coast of Alonissos, serving the best of Mediterranean and Greek food along with excellent local wines.

Mavros Gatos is a tiny restaurant serving mostly small plates and mezze, but it also has heartier fare, such as burgers and club sandwiches.

Lithos is a popular, modern bar and cafe on a hilltop, spread out on three tiers and overlooking Patitiri harbor. They serve light food and have a big cocktail menu.

Alonissos Beach Bungalows and Suites Hotel is a luxurious, contemporary resort with upscale bungalows and rooms on the beach. It has an outdoor pool, beach bar, fitness room, spa with a steam room, pool bar, restaurant, and deck chairs and umbrellas by the pool and on the beach.

Milan Gonda / Shutterstock

5. Meganisi

If you are seeking a romantic getaway for two, Meganisi, one of the Ionian Islands, is super quiet and relaxing. The rugged island has mostly dirt roads, and many beaches are only reachable by small boats.

There’s not much to do in Meganisi except luxuriate on peaceful, sandy beaches, swim in the gentle, immaculate waters, and have a long lazy lunch at a taverna on the sea, but that’s the whole point. Hiking on the island is an alternative if you are feeling more vigorous.

Pro Tip: Meganisi is close to Skorpios, the private island once owned by Aristotle Onassis.

Gimlet Wine Bar has an extensive menu of wines and creative cocktails in an upscale setting. They have a raw bar with oysters and clams and serve a sushi-inspired menu of shrimp, lobster, crab meat, and crayfish.

Keromoussi Seaside Boutique hotel is the ultimate in luxury and privacy for adults only. Set on five beautifully landscaped acres with the beach below, there are only four suites, all with terraces, one with a private pool. There’s also an infinity pool, two private beaches, and an organic restaurant.

Most of these islands are hilly and sometimes require ascending some serious inclines. Best to wear rubber-soled shoes or sneakers when not on the beach.

All of the destinations above can be reached by boat or ferry, and a few have small airports with flights from Athens.

Related Reading:

• Why The Diapontia Islands Are Greece’s Best-Kept Secret
• 7 Fantastic Experiences On Beautiful Lefkada, Greece
• Mykonos Vs. Santorini: 6 Key Differences

Richard Nahem is an ex-New Yorker living in Paris since 2005. A travel writer and photographer, he’s been publishing his blog Eye Prefer Paris since 2006 and also writes for publications such as Travel Agent Central, Passport Magazine, The Guardian, Bonjour Paris, and Luxury Travel Advisor. He focuses mainly on luxury travel in Europe. Richard also leads private personalized tours of Paris for clients looking to explore the off the beaten path Paris they never usually see on their own.

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Greece travel advice

Latest updates: The Need help? section was updated.

Last updated: March 25, 2024 15:14 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, greece - take normal security precautions.

Take normal security precautions in Greece.

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Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, purse snatching and luggage theft occurs. Tourists are frequently targeted.

Organized groups of thieves often use distraction techniques and are particularly active:

• at tourist sites and attractions
• in restaurants, patios and bars
• in hotel lobbies
• on public transportation, including metro and trains to and from Athens International Airport
• at airports, bus and railway stations including Larissa and Peloponnese stations in Athens

While you’re in Greece:

• ensure that your belongings, including your passport, are secure at all times
• don’t keep your passport and other types of ID at the same place and carry a photocopy rather than the original
• avoid showing signs of affluence
• avoid carrying large sums of cash or unnecessary valuables
• pay attention to your surroundings, particularly in crowded and tourist areas
• be wary of unsolicited offers or advice from strangers
• avoid isolated areas, parks and down-market bars and restaurants, especially after dark

Violent crime

Violent crime, such as attacks committed by far-right extremists against individuals belonging to ethnic, religious or political minorities are uncommon, but do occur.

Always be vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Victims of crime

If you are a victim of a crime, go to the nearest police station to report it. Keep a copy of your report, as you may need it to make a claim to your insurance provider.

If you are a victim of sexual assault:

• seek medical assistance, whether or not you appear to have been physically harmed
• contact the local police immediately and ensure they file a report
• inform consular officials at the nearest Canadian embassy or consulate

The Greek police has a dedicated unit to assist foreign tourists and offers services in English and other languages.

You can contact the tourism police 24/7 anywhere in Greece by dialling the 1571 or the regular police at 100.

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs.

When using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overseas fraud

There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Be particularly vigilant if attending:

• sporting events
• religious holidays
• other public celebrations

Terrorists have used such occasions to mount attacks.

Extremist groups and organizations have used improvised explosive devices, bombs and arson attacks in urban areas to target:

• the Greek State and its institutions
• foreign commercial and diplomatic interests
• ethnic, religious and migrants’ centers and organizations

While tourists are not specifically targeted, you could find yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Demonstrations and strikes

Demonstrations.

Demonstrations take place regularly, particularly in Athens and Thessaloniki. They are usually held on days of social or historical significance, such as:

• Workers' Day on May 1
• the commemoration of the Athens Polytechnic uprising of 1973 on November 17
• the commemoration of the riots of 2008 on December 6

In Athens, demonstrations and marches occur primarily in areas around:

• Syntagma Square, in front of the Greek Parliament
• Omonia Square
• the National Technical University complex on Patision Avenue
• Exarchia neighbourhood

In Thessaloniki, they occur primarily in areas around:

• Aristotelous Square
• Egnatia Street
• the Arch of Galerius
• the campus of the Aristotle University

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. Demonstrations and strikes can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Strikes and pressure tactics occur regularly, particularly in key sectors such as transport and public health services. These strikes can disrupt travel and public services.

• Consult local media to be aware of strikes that may affect your stay or travel plans
• In the event of a transport strike, plan extra time to get to your destination

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Women's safety

Foreigners have been sexually assaulted, most often on the islands.

Don’t accept rides from strangers or casual acquaintances.

Advice for women travellers

Water activities

Many beaches in Greece are supervised and enforce excellent safety procedures.

However, tidal changes and strong winds can cause hazardous currents and riptides.

Coral, urchin, jellyfish and other aquatic life found along reefs can poison, sting or cause infection if touched or stepped on.

• Always obey warning flags at beaches
• Ask local authorities about the presence of dangerous species and immediately seek medical assistance if you get hurt
• Wear reef shoes to protect yourself against stone and coral cuts or urchin stings
• Keep a safe distance from boats and restricted areas
• Avoid visiting beaches or coastal areas during periods of severe weather warnings
• Look out for signs warning of cliff erosion and falling rocks
• Don’t dive into unknown waters, as hidden rocks or shallow depths can cause serious injury or death
• Exercise caution and follow the advice of the local authorities

Recreational boating

If you are planning to go boating:

• know the capacity of your boat and don’t exceed it
• know and respect the navigation rules
• follow safe practices for all activities on the water
• keep a safe distance from areas reserved for certain activities such as snorkeling
• carry a VHF marine radio that will generate your position in case of emergency
• be prepared for emergencies

Water safety abroad

Outdoor activities, such as hiking, can be dangerous if unprepared. Trails are not always marked, and weather conditions can change rapidly, even in summer.

If you intend to go hiking or mountaineering:

• never do so alone, and do not part with your hiking companions
• obtain detailed information on your activity and on the environment in which you will be before setting out
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• avoid venturing off marked trails
• ensure that you’re adequately equipped and bring sufficient water
• stay informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
• be aware of the presence of dangerous species such as snakes
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary
• dial 112 from a cellphone for any emergency

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety can vary greatly throughout the country.

Severe traffic congestion and difficult terrain may lead to hazardous driving conditions.

Accidents causing fatalities are common. Drivers often drive at excessive speeds and are reckless.

Drivers and speeding motorbikes don’t always yield to pedestrians or bicycles. Exercise caution when walking, crossing streets or biking.

Accidents involving tourists renting motorbikes, scooters or mopeds are common, especially on the islands.

Small, unlicensed rental agencies do not always offer vehicles that comply with up-to-date safety standards.

• Read the rental contract carefully
• Inspect the equipment before renting it
• Never drink and drive
• Reduce your speed on rough and uneven terrain
• In the event of an accident, wait for police to arrive

You may not be able to file an insurance claim without a police report.

Public transportation

Public transportation is generally safe and reliable. The bus network is extensive, and train services connect certain major cities. Athens has a modern metro system. Strikes may sometimes affect transportation services.

Taxis are generally safe. Metered taxis are widely available.

There are fixed rates for transportation to and from Athens International Airport. Confirm the rate before departure.

Ferries between mainland Greece and its islands meet European safety standards.

Weather conditions and strong winds can lead to cancellations or significant delays. Rough sea conditions may cause motion sickness, particularly on high-speed ferries.

• Pay attention to pre-departure notices from your carrier
• Always reconfirm departure schedule before heading to the port

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Greek authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

• Schengen area

Greece is a Schengen area country. Canadian citizens do not need a visa for travel to countries within the Schengen area. However, visa-free travel only applies to stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Stays are cumulative and include visits to any Schengen area country.

If you plan to stay in the Schengen area for a longer period of time, you will need a visa. You must contact the high commission or embassy of the country or countries you are travelling to and obtain the appropriate visa(s) prior to travel.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the date you expect to leave the Schengen area.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period Business visa: not required for stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period Work visa: required Student visa: required

If you must stay in Greece longer than 90 days due to serious and unforeseen events, such as a medical emergency, you may be able to seek an extension of your stay as a visitor.

Present your request to the office of the Greek police on aliens’ issues at least 15 days before your 90-day, visa-free period expires.

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.   Limited malaria transmission may occur in this destination, but risk to travellers is very low.    Antimalarial medication is not recommended for most travellers. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times: 

• Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.
• Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows.
• Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.
• Wear permethrin-treated clothing. 

If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

In this destination, rabies  may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. 

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife. 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Health care is adequate, but varies throughout the country.

Facilities are generally good in cities such as Athens and Thessaloniki and in towns that have large hospitals, such as Heraklion, Ioannina and Patras.

If you’re travelling to smaller islands or to remote areas, you may need a medical evacuation to a central hospital, in the event of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and Greece are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Greece to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Greece authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect prison sentences and heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Identification

Local police may ask to see your identification at any time.

• Carry adequate identification at all times, such as your passport or residence permit
• Keep a photocopy of your passport in a safe place, in case it is lost or stolen

Photography

There are restrictions on photographing and filming:

• military installations and military personnel
• border areas
• harbours, airports and other transportation hubs
• churches, monasteries and monks

In and around these areas, you should always:

• verify if photography is allowed or if a special permit is required
• request permission if individuals are involved
• refrain from photographing or filming if in doubt
• comply with all requests from local authorities

Recreational and commercial flying of drones is regulated.

You must register your drone to use it across the European Union. If you don’t comply, you may be fined and your drone confiscated.

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

Greece has strict laws regarding the possession and use of weapons and items that may be used as weapons, such as:

• knuckledusters
• pocketknife
• pepper spray

Do not buy or travel with these items.

Cultural heritage and antiquities

There are strict laws regarding:

• purchase and exportation of antiquities and objects of special significance to the country's cultural heritage
• excavation and on-site archaeological research
• access to underwater archaeological sites
• filming and photography of archaeological sites for commercial purposes
• protection of archaeological sites and monuments

To avoid any difficulties, make sure you:

• have the proper permit to conduct activities related to cultural heritage and archaeological sites
• obtain and carry the required legal paperwork to purchase or export antiquities

While visiting archaeological sites and monuments:

• don’t film or photograph unless it is clearly allowed
• stay on the dedicated paths and respect off-limits areas
• don’t touch statues and monuments
• don’t pick up rocks or any other artifacts found on site

Greek Cultural Heritage law - Hellenic Society for Law and Archaeology

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Greece.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Greece, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

National obligations

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Greece, or are eligible for Greek citizenship, you may be subject to compulsory military service and other aspects of Greek law.

Obtain a document certifying your status from the Embassy of Greece prior to travel.

• National service - Embassy of Greece in Ottawa
• Greek citizenship - Embassy of Greece in Ottawa

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Greece.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Greece, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Greek court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Greece to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If you plan on entering Greece by sea on your boat or a rented boat of a total length of over 7 metres, you must pay the Recreational and Daily Tour Cruise Ships fee (TEPAI). This must be done online prior to arrival.

Recreational and Daily Tour Cruise Ships fee - Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE) (in Greek)

As a tourist or temporary resident, you can drive with a valid Canadian driver’s licence.

You must have valid insurance coverage.

You must wear a helmet when driving or as a passenger of a motorcycle, a scooter or a moped. You may be fined if you fail to comply.

Carrying an individual in an irregular migration situation in your vehicle, even without your knowledge, is a criminal offence. Don’t pick up hitchhikers.

Driving in Greece - European Commission

The currency of Greece is the euro (EUR).

ATMs may not be easily available in remote areas or may be out of cash. Make sure to carry some money if you plan on visiting small islands and remote regions.

If you are carrying €10,000 or more, or the equivalent in other currencies, you must make a declaration to customs when you enter or leave the European Union. It includes sums in:

• banknotes and coins
• bearer negotiable instruments such as cheques, travellers’ cheques, promissory notes and money orders
• bonds, shares
• gold coins with a gold content of at least 90 %
• gold bars, nuggets or clumps with a gold content of at least 99.5 %
• any other convertible asset

This does not apply if you are travelling within the European Union or in transit to a non-EU country.

EU cash controls - European Commission

Seismic activity

Greece is located in an active seismic zone. Major earthquakes could occur and can cause significant damage.

Santorini and Nisyros islands have active volcanoes.

If you’re travelling near an active volcano or are practising volcano tourism:

• closely monitor volcanic activity levels through local media and official sources
• ensure that you’re well informed about conditions that may pose a hazard
• follow the advice of local authorities
• Earthquakes - What to Do?
• Latest earthquakes - National Observatory of Athens
• Volcanic eruptions - Ministry for climate crisis and civil protections

Seasonal storms and flooding

Seasonal storms and heavy rains can cause severe flooding and landslides particularly during the spring and winter months. Roads may become impassable and infrastructure damaged.

• Stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• Follow the advice of local authorities, including evacuation orders

Weather forecast and alerts - Hellenic National Meteorological Service

Meltemi wind

The Meltemi or Etesian is a strong wind that regularly sweeps the Aegean and the eastern Mediterranean seas from May to September. It can blow uninterruptedly for several days. This wind may bring high waves, strong currents and may disrupt transportation.

If you travel to Greece during this period:

• expect possible transportation delays or cancellations
• be very cautious if sailing or boating
• avoid swimming during rough sea conditions
• monitor the latest regional weather forecasts

Wildfires are common between July and September, particularly in:

• the Peloponnese
• Central Greece
• Eastern Macedonia and Thrace
• the northern areas of Athens.

The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.

In case of a major fire:

• stay away from affected areas, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• follow the advice of local emergency services personnel, including evacuation orders
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

Latest information on fires - General Secretariat for Civil Protection

Local services

• 112 for emergency assistance
• 1571 for tourist police
• 100 for police

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Greece, in Athens, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

Understanding Medication Restrictions When Traveling To Greece

• Last updated Sep 08, 2023
• Difficulty Advanced

• Category United States

Planning a trip to Greece? Before you start packing your suitcase, it's important to familiarize yourself with the country's medication restrictions. As a popular tourist destination, Greece has specific rules and regulations in place when it comes to bringing medications into the country. Whether you're someone who relies on daily medication or simply want to be prepared for any unforeseen medical needs, knowing the ins and outs of Greece's medication restrictions can save you a headache (literally and figuratively) during your travels. So, let's dive into the fascinating topic of Greece travel medication restrictions and ensure that you're well-prepared for a smooth and stress-free journey!

What You'll Learn

What types of medications are restricted or prohibited for travelers to greece, are there any exceptions or allowances for certain medications, how can i obtain necessary medication while traveling in greece, are there any specific documentation or paperwork requirements for bringing medication into greece, are there any over-the-counter medications that are also restricted in greece.

When traveling to Greece, it is essential to be aware of any restrictions or prohibitions on medications that may be applicable. Greece has certain regulations in place to ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens and visitors. It is crucial to familiarize oneself with these regulations to avoid any unnecessary complications during travel.

Certain medications that are considered restricted or prohibited in Greece are:

• Narcotics: Greece, like most countries, has strict regulations on narcotics. Medications containing narcotics, such as opioids like codeine or morphine, are tightly controlled due to the risk of abuse and addiction. Travelers should carry valid prescriptions for these medications and should be prepared to present them if asked by border authorities or when purchasing additional medication in Greece.
• Psychotropic Drugs: Certain medications used for psychiatric conditions or disorders fall under the category of psychotropic drugs. These include medications such as benzodiazepines (e.g., Valium, Xanax) and antidepressants. Similarly to narcotics, these medications carry a higher potential for abuse and are closely regulated. Travelers should ensure they have valid prescriptions for these medications and carry them along with any necessary documents in the original packaging.
• Prescription Medications: Even if a medication is generally not restricted, it is still important to carry a valid prescription for any prescribed medication when traveling to Greece. This applies to both over-the-counter and prescription medications. While it is unlikely that travelers will encounter issues with common medications such as antibiotics or painkillers, customs officers have the authority to inspect and question the contents of a traveler's luggage, especially when carrying a large quantity of medication. To avoid any difficulties, it is best to have prescriptions readily available to verify the medical necessity of the medication.

It is essential to note that these restrictions and regulations vary depending on the specific medication and the country of origin. Travelers should always consult their physician, pharmacist, or the Greek embassy or consulate in their home country for specific information regarding their medication and any necessary documentation required for travel to Greece.

In conclusion, when traveling to Greece, certain medications are restricted or prohibited. These include narcotics, psychotropic drugs, and any prescribed medication without proper documentation. To ensure a smooth travel experience, it is crucial to carry valid prescriptions, keep medications in their original packaging, and consult the appropriate medical and governmental authorities for specific information and guidance.

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When it comes to medications, there are often exceptions or allowances for certain drugs. This can vary depending on the specific medication, the condition being treated, and the individual patient's circumstances.

One common exception is for patients with allergies or intolerances to certain medications. For example, if a patient has a known allergy to penicillin, their healthcare provider will avoid prescribing that medication and instead opt for an alternative antibiotic. This is done to prevent an allergic reaction, which can range from mild rashes to life-threatening anaphylaxis.

Another exception is for patients with chronic conditions who require ongoing medication. In some cases, insurance providers may have restrictions or limitations on certain medications, such as coverage limits or prior authorization requirements. However, in certain situations, these restrictions can be waived or allowances can be made if the patient's healthcare provider deems it necessary for their treatment.

There can also be exceptions or allowances for medications that are considered "off-label" usage. Off-label usage refers to the use of a medication for a purpose other than what it was originally approved for by regulatory agencies, such as the FDA. This can be necessary if there are limited treatment options available for a particular condition, and if there is evidence to support the use of the medication in this off-label capacity.

In addition, there may be exceptions or allowances for medications during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Some medications may be considered unsafe during these times, as they can potentially harm the developing fetus or pass through breast milk to the baby. However, in certain situations where the benefit outweighs the potential risk, healthcare providers may make an exception and prescribe a medication that is typically not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

It's important to note that exceptions or allowances for medications should always be made under the guidance and supervision of a healthcare professional. They will consider the individual patient's specific circumstances, medical history, and any potential risks or benefits associated with a particular medication. It is never recommended to make exceptions or allowances for medications without consulting a healthcare provider first.

In conclusion, there can be exceptions or allowances for certain medications, such as for patients with allergies or intolerances, chronic conditions, off-label usage, or during pregnancy or breastfeeding. These exceptions are made based on the individual patient's circumstances and under the guidance of a healthcare professional. It is important to always consult with a healthcare provider before making any exceptions or allowances for medications.

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When traveling to Greece, it is important to plan ahead and ensure that you have access to necessary medication. Whether you have a pre-existing condition or simply need access to over-the-counter medication, here are some tips on how to obtain necessary medication while traveling in Greece.

• Carry a Sufficient Supply: Before traveling to Greece, make sure you have enough medication to last you for the duration of your trip. It is always better to have extra medication in case of any delays or emergencies. Before leaving, consult with your doctor to determine the appropriate amount of medication to carry.
• Pack Medication in Your Carry-On: When traveling by air, it is advisable to pack your medication in your carry-on luggage. This way, you will have easy access to it during the flight and it will be less likely to get lost or damaged in checked baggage.
• Research Prescription Requirements: If you are traveling with prescription medication, ensure that it is legal to bring it into Greece. Some medications that are legal in your home country may be considered controlled substances in Greece. Check with the Greek Embassy or Consulate in your country to confirm the rules and regulations regarding prescription medication.
• Carry Prescription Documents: It is always a good idea to carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor, stating the necessity of the medication. This can be helpful if you are questioned by customs officials or need to get a refill abroad.
• Pharmacies in Greece: Greece has a large number of pharmacies, called "pharmakeio" or "Farmakeio". These establishments are usually marked with a green cross sign and can be found in most towns and cities. Pharmacies in Greece are usually well stocked and can provide a wide range of medications. It's important to note that some drugs that are available over-the-counter in other countries may require a prescription in Greece.
• Language Barrier: English is widely spoken in Greece, especially in tourist areas. However, it is still a good idea to write down the name of your medication or carry a picture of it to show to the pharmacist in case of any communication difficulties.
• Emergency Services: In case of a medical emergency, you can call the European emergency number 112 for assistance. They can direct you to the nearest medical facility or provide further guidance.
• Health Insurance: Check with your health insurance provider to understand what coverage you have while traveling abroad. It is advisable to carry travel insurance that provides coverage for any medical emergencies or unexpected healthcare costs.

While traveling in Greece, it is important to prioritize your health and take all necessary precautions. By planning ahead and following these tips, you can ensure that you have access to necessary medication and enjoy a safe and healthy trip.

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Many people rely on medication to manage their health conditions. If you are planning to travel to Greece and need to bring medication with you, it is important to be aware of any specific documentation or paperwork requirements in order to ensure a smooth entry into the country.

Greece has certain regulations when it comes to bringing medication into the country. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Carry a prescription: It is always advisable to carry a prescription for your medication, especially if it contains drugs that are considered controlled substances. The prescription should include the name of the medication, the dosage, your personal information, and the prescribing doctor's information.
• Check if your medication is legal in Greece: Some medications that are legally available in your home country may be considered illegal in Greece. It is important to verify the legality of your medication before traveling. You can consult the Greek Embassy or the Hellenic National Organization for Medicines for more information.
• Obtain a medical certificate: If you are carrying a significant amount of medication or medication that requires special handling, it may be useful to obtain a medical certificate from your doctor. This certificate should detail the necessity of the medication and clarify any special requirements for its storage or administration.
• Pack medication in original packaging: When packing your medication, it is recommended to keep it in its original packaging. This helps to establish its authenticity and makes it easier for customs officials to identify the medication. If you need to take multiple medications, it may be helpful to separate them into individual labeled containers to avoid any confusion.
• Declare your medication at customs: Upon arrival in Greece, you will need to declare your medication at customs. You may be required to present your prescription and any supporting documents, such as a medical certificate. It is important to be honest and forthcoming about the medication you are carrying to avoid any potential legal issues.
• Carry a letter of intent: If you are carrying medication that is not commonly available in Greece or is used for a specific medical condition, it may be helpful to carry a letter of intent. This letter should outline your medical condition, the necessity of the medication, and the duration of your stay in Greece.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your medication is legally brought into Greece without any complications. It is always a good idea to check the latest regulations and requirements with the Greek Embassy or consulate in your home country before your trip. Additionally, consulting your healthcare provider can provide further guidance on how to safely travel with your medication.

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In Greece, certain over-the-counter medications that are readily available in other countries may be restricted or require a prescription. The Greek government has placed these restrictions in an effort to regulate the use of certain medications and ensure the safety of its citizens. It is important for travelers to be aware of these restrictions before visiting Greece to ensure they have access to the medications they need.

One example of an over-the-counter medication that is restricted in Greece is codeine-based pain relievers. In many countries, codeine is available without a prescription, but in Greece, it is classified as a prescription-only medication. This means that travelers who rely on codeine-based pain relievers for pain management may need to make arrangements with their doctors or find alternative medications before traveling to Greece.

Another example of a restricted over-the-counter medication in Greece is ibuprofen. While ibuprofen is widely available without a prescription in most countries, in Greece, it requires a prescription for quantities above a certain limit. This restriction is in place to prevent the abuse of ibuprofen and to ensure that individuals are using it at the appropriate dosage.

Antibiotics are another group of over-the-counter medications that are restricted in Greece. In many countries, antibiotics can be easily purchased without a prescription, but Greece has strict regulations in place to control their use. This is due to the rising issue of antibiotic resistance, which occurs when bacteria develop the ability to resist the effects of antibiotics. To combat this problem, Greece requires a prescription for all antibiotics to ensure they are used appropriately and effectively.

It is important to note that these restrictions may vary depending on the specific medication and the dosage. It is always recommended to check with a healthcare professional or pharmacist before traveling to Greece to ensure you are aware of any restrictions that may apply to your medications.

In conclusion, Greece has restrictions on certain over-the-counter medications that are readily available in other countries. Codeine-based pain relievers, ibuprofen, and antibiotics are among the medications that require a prescription or have quantity limitations in Greece. Travelers should check with healthcare professionals or pharmacists to ensure they have access to the medications they need while visiting Greece.

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Frequently asked questions.

Yes, you are allowed to bring prescription medication with you to Greece. However, it is recommended that you carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating the need for the medication.

There are no specific restrictions on over-the-counter medications in Greece. However, it is always a good idea to check the list of prohibited and restricted items before traveling.

It is generally recommended to bring only the necessary amount of medication for the duration of your trip. However, if you need to bring a larger quantity, it is advisable to carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor explaining the need for the higher quantity.

There are no specific medications that are prohibited in Greece. However, certain medications may be subject to restrictions or require a special permit, so it is important to check with the Greek customs authorities or your airline before traveling.

If you forget to bring your medication to Greece, you should consult a local doctor or pharmacist to see if it is possible to obtain a replacement. It is also a good idea to contact your healthcare provider in your home country for any guidance or assistance.

• Melissa Carey Author Reviewer Traveller

• Pop Panupong Author Reviewer Traveller

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How many Greek islands can I see in a week?

Feb 15, 2024 • 4 min read

It's not hard to visit two or three Greek islands like Little Venice in Mykonos in one week © Cosmin Voinea / 500px

Helen Iatrou, who considers herself a full-blooded Greek islander shares some ideas for planning an island-hopping trip.

Question: I’m planning a vacation to the Greek islands this summer but don’t know where to start. Which islands should I visit, and how many can I fit into a week-long trip? 

Helen Iatrou:  Sailing is my great passion, which makes the islands my literal playground . I prefer to take my time to get to know one island at a time, usually over one week. You’d be surprised how much there is to see, even on the tiniest specks. 

With dozens of islands in Greece to choose from, it’s a tough decision – trust me, I know. Every year I wrack my brain and spend hours researching my next island adventure. I’ve lost count of the number of times my husband has asked, “Why did you book that island?!” But every single time we return, we always bask in that glow of having explored somewhere new and intriguing. 

How to travel around the Greek islands 

While ferries are still the main mode of transport between the islands, these days it’s much quicker and easier to reach them via air. While not all of them have airports, you can usually fly into one of the larger islands with domestic carriers such as Aegean Airlines (check their handy low-fare calendar), Olympic Air , or Sky Express and take a short ferry to smaller isles nearby. If you do travel via ferry from port hubs  Piraeus or Rafina, choose the fast ferry options, which cost a little more but get you there faster. Ferryhopper is one of the best booking platforms, as you can map out your full inter-island journey. 

My favorite mode of travel is (you guessed it) by sailboat. If you charter a yacht with a skipper, you can hop between islands at your pace – unless you or your companions possess a skipper’s license and have sufficient experience to captain your craft yourselves.

Planning your island-hopping getaway 

May to October is prime time for the Greek islands , particularly if you want to soak up all the sunshine and swim in the glorious Aegean. Keep in mind that June through August can be hectic, particularly on the most popular islands, and flights and accommodation are at their most expensive, too. And who wants to wait hours for that restaurant table?

Start by thinking about what interests you and what you’re looking for. Beaches with all the amenities or hidden rocky coves? High-end restaurants or toes-in-the-sand tavernas? Ancient sites or late-night bars? Do you want to chill on one or two islands and see as much of them as you can? Or would you prefer to see multiple islands? 

I suggest taming your ambitions, and focusing on one island group, visiting no more than two to three islands in total. If you’re sailing, you can certainly drop anchor at a different island each day.

Take your pick of Greek island jewels

Most first-timers choose the Cyclades , homing in on Santorini for its cliffs dripping with whitewashed cubic buildings, and Mykonos for its charismatic appeal. Once you’ve had your fill of Mykonos, take the ferry to nearby Tinos . This low-key island has quietly earned itself a reputation for exceptional farm-to-fork fare, hiking trails and boutique wineries.

If you’ve got kids in tow, you might prefer to fly or ferry your way to Naxos , where kids can safely swim in shallow waters amid golden sands or learn to windsurf. From there, couples desperately seeking serenity and umbrella-free beaches can board the hardy Express Skopelitis for the Small Cyclades isles of Schinoussa, Donousa, Iraklia or Koufonisia. 

If verdant hillsides, turquoise seas and stark white pebble beaches sound dreamy, the Ionian Islands beckon. Fly into Corfu , where you can cool off at sandy beaches and stroll the emerald isle’s romantic, cobblestoned capital. From there, take a hydrofoil to the twin isles of Paxi (or Paxos), whose unpruned olive trees deliver delicately flavored olive oil. From Paxos, hire a motorboat and scoot over to Antipaxos to dive into translucent aquamarine waters.

Down south in the Dodecanese , fewer travelers venture beyond Rhodes and its medieval old town, where you can envision knights thundering down flagstoned alleyways and wander through the seaside village of Lindos. Yet a short flight away is remote Karpathos . In hillside Olympos, women still don lavish traditional costumes for special occasions and celebrate with all-night panegyria (feast days). 

Mapping out a Greek-island getaway might seem daunting, poor travelers – but rest assured that whichever destinations you decide on, you’re guaranteed to return home with memories that will remain in your mind for years to come.

This article was first published March 2023 and updated February 2024

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