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"There is nowhere quite like Greece, there is something here for everyone; you can walk in the footsteps of the Ancient Greeks, dance the Zorba while indulging in a Greek feast or get lost in a maze of the whitewashed houses of Mykonos as the sun sets"
Evana, Travel Director
Explore the ancient capital of Athens
Often dubbed the cradle of Western civilisation, Athens was arguably the most influential city of ancient times. Contemporary meets antique in a city both drenched in world history and brimming with a modernity. You’ll discover thermal lakes, buzzing beachside neighborhoods and some of the world’s oldest ruins.
Visit the ancient Olympic site in Olympia
The birthplace of the Olympic Games, Olympia first became known to the world in 776 BC, when the very first games were held. Visit this world-famous ancient site that was also a holy place of worship for Zeus, the Greek god, surrounded by lush forestry in a rolling valley.
See the ruins of the Temple of Apollo
Reachable by a day trip from Athens, the Temple of Apollo at Delphi was rebuilt numerous times before settling into the historic site it inhabits today. Marvel at the remaining sandstone columns and decayed limestone that remind us of the past it endured over many thousands of years.
Dine 'Meze Style' in Psyri, Athens
Most travel guides will have you visiting Plaka for Greek food and nightlife, but authentic eateries are best found in the nearby neighborhood of Psiri. Between no-frills bars and dusty antique shops, you will find traditional mezze-style eateries and a boutique energy that pays tribute to Greece’s culinary heritage.
Visit Eastern Orthodox monasteries in Meteora
One of Greece’s most popular tourist attractions, it’s easy to see why so many flock to the spectacular rock formations of Meteora. Marvel at talents of both man and Mother Nature at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Byzantine monasteries that float around the summits.
Our top 5 things to do in Greece
Food and history form the basis of Greek culture and play a big role in all our trips to Greece. With Trafalgar, we'll showcase the best this country has to offer from sun up to dreamy sundown.
Acropolis Museum
The Acropolis Museum is found at the foot of the western world’s most important ancient site. Unpeel layers of history as you wander the halls of the past and gaze up at the dazzling site itself through glass walls. Allow yourself at least half a day to take in the enormity of this museum.
Remains of Agamemnon's Royal Palace
Tours in Greece are scarcely complete without a visit to this iconic archeological site, where you will find the remains of Agamemnon's Royal Palace, one of the world’s best-preserved fortresses. Glance up and admire unrivalled panoramic views of the countryside, once the Greek civilisation’s major military centres.
Athens War Museum
Opening its doors in 1975, the Athens War Museum documents the country’s past conflicts and military artefacts. In honor of those who fought for Greece’s freedom, the museum showcases four grand floors of past-to-present history. History enthusiasts will find no shortage of awe within these walls.
Best museums in Greece
Though often visited for Greece island hopping, the enchantment of this Mediterranean jewel extends beyond the sapphire waters. With Trafalgar, you’ll venture under the layers of Greek culture by visiting its many fascinating museums.
Standing its ground as one of Greece’s most famous main meals, moussaka is a wholesome and delectable combination of eggplant, ground meat, onion and béchamel sauce. Try this dish a few times during your visit; there are family variations that get passed through generations.
Souvlaki is street food at its very best. A simple preparation of skewered meats and vegetables, it’s the flavoring that makes this snack a pride of the nation. For the most authentic souvlaki, sample if from a street vendor wrapped up with condiments, salad and thick hot chips.
Kolokythokeftedes
The small fried balls of kolokythokeftedes can most aptly be compared to zucchini fritters with fetta cheese. Often ordered in summer with a side of tzatziki, these delicious bites are a great starter to any meal. Learn from the locals and snack on kolokythokeftedes alongside a glass of wine in the warm afternoon sun.
Best food in Greece
From an array of antipasto dips like taramasalata and tzatziki, to heavier main courses of grilled meats and fresh fish, Greek cuisine is internationally recognized for its deliciousness. Trafalgar will take you to the heart of Greece’s culinary traditions, each mouthful and mealtime an utter treat.
What to pack for Greece
Long, breathable pants or skirts
Often warm all year around, and extremely hot during summer, long, light clothing is ideal for daytime sightseeing in Greece – particularly when visiting historic religious sites that require modest attire.
A stainless steel water bottle
Whether you’re basking ocean-side beneath the hot sun or trekking the ancient monuments of this distinct country, you’ll need to stay hydrated. Stainless steel bottles keep your water cold for eight hours while treading lightly on the environment.
Walking shoes
Comfortable shoes are a must when you’re out from morning to night. Choose sturdy, open-toe walking sandals or closed toe sneakers to ensure you can walk effortlessly for hours.
A wide-lens camera
From coasts spanning miles of sea to some of the world’s most spectacular ruins, Greece is bursting with scenes you will want to remember forever. A wide-lens camera will make it easier to capture the views.
Sun protection
Whether it’s SPF50+ sunscreen, a wide-brimmed sun hat or long-sleeved clothing, some form of sun protection is crucial when visiting this popular summer vacation spot.
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Greece Tours & Vacations
Astounding archaeological sites, fresh flavors and idyllic islands – Greece has it all.
This charismatic nation continues to grace us with all the good things in life, from its rugged coastlines and postcard-worthy vistas to its beloved culinary traditions and fantastical myths that bring life to ancient monuments. Whether you're island hopping on a sailing trip through the Med , searching for answers at the Oracle at Delphi or enjoying the slower pace of smaller islands like Syros or Crete, a meal in a seaside taverna is non-negotiable. Befriend a few locals, tuck into a plate of baked feta and wash it down with a cloudy glass of ouzo. We promise you'll be saying 'opa!' in no time.
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Greece at a glance, capital city.
Athens (population 3.1 million)
10.6 million
(GMT+02:00) Athens, Bucharest, Istanbul
CALLING CODE
Electricity.
Type C (European 2-pin) Type F (German 2-pin, side clip earth)
Learn more about Greece
Best time to visit.
Greece generally has a mild, Mediterranean climate, with July and August being the busiest months for tourism. With warm weather and plentiful sunshine, this is a great time for visiting the islands, swimming in the sea and lazing on the beach. Summers are generally hot and dry, with daytime temperatures rising to 85°-100°F ( 30°-38°C ).
By mid-September, temperatures begin to fall and crowds thin, but it can still be hot. The weather remains generally calm and balmy well into October. If you can't get to Greece in the spring, and beaches are not your primary goal, this is a fine time to visit. By late October, ferry service and flights are cutting back and most facilities on the islands begin to close for the winter. But the cooler atmosphere makes Athens and the mainland all the more pleasant.
Read more about the best time to visit Greece
Culture and customs
Greece’s culture is very much influenced by its ancient past. The hallmarks of Western medicine, philosophy, drama, and government can all be attributed to the mighty ancient Greek civilization – which is an incredible source of national pride. Traditional music and dance are still valued and used to commemorate celebrations throughout the year. The circle dance, for instance, dates to the Byzantine period. Even contemporary cuisine has its roots in ancient tradition.
Greeks place a high amount of value on ‘kefi’, which loosely translates to joy or passion. Life is meant to be lived to the fullest. For this reason, meals are leisurely and social gatherings are frequent, typically involving drinking, dancing and lively discussion. Common Greek customs, like smashing plates and dancing with a glass of water on your head, are considered expressions of kefi.
With more than 90% of the population being Greek Orthodox, religion plays an important part in everyday life. Religious festivals and ceremonies are commonplace, both in the mainland cities and small rural villages. Christmas and Easter are particularly important dates on the calendar, although religious celebrations are not limited to these times as there are daily, weekly and annual rites and rituals performed all throughout Greece’s mainland and islands.
Food and drink
Greek cuisine favors simplicity and relies primarily on fresh local produce. Think vegetables, beans, nuts, and grains; grilled meats and fresh fish; parsley, garlic, dill, and mint; and punchy cheeses such as feta, kefalotyri, and halloumi. Drinks-wise, locals will savor a Greek coffee at a kafeneio (coffeehouse) or glass of anise-flavored ouzo (diluted with water) at an ouzeri – along with a couple of mezedhes (appetizers) – for hours. There’s also tsipouru (fermented distilled grape skins), raki (a tsipouru from Crete), and retsina (white wine flavored with pine resin).
Read about what to eat in Greece
Read about what to drink in Greece
Geography and environment
Sharing land borders with Albania , Bulgaria , Turkey, and Macedonia , Greece is located in Southern Europe and is surrounded by the Ionian, Mediterranean, and Aegean Seas. Consisting of the mainland peninsula and an archipelago of more than 3000 islands, Greece is typically mountainous, containing peaks, karsts, and canyons all over. Despite the mountainous topography, there is much arable land in Greece with small-scale farms successfully producing olives, peaches, melons, grapes, tomatoes, and grain for export and local use.
Greece’s highest peak, Mount Olympus, is famed for being the dwelling place of the 12 ancient gods in Greek mythology. The islands are mostly uninhabited and are formed in small chains (called archipelagos) within the Aegean Sea. Santorini , Mykonos, and Corfu are among the more popular islands with tourists, though Crete and Evia are the largest islands.
History and government
Early history.
The early history of Greece is among the world’s most fascinating, and like the other ancient civilizations of Egypt and Rome, Greece has many monuments still standing after centuries. The Greeks have been both the conquerors and the conquered, withstood the Plague and other natural disasters, and birthed some of the greatest literature, scientific developments, mathematical formulas, and thought movements.
Recent history
In 1821, the Greeks fought against Ottoman rule during the Greek War of Independence, which resulted in Greece being recognized as an autonomous region in 1828. This was a time of great upheaval for the Greek people, with political assassinations, battles, and plundering. After autonomy was granted, many years of change followed, with continued war and confrontation alongside intermittent periods of relative peace. The two World Wars had a profound effect on Greece, with many battles fought in Greece during the early 1940s (during the Axis occupation). Athens was liberated from this occupation in 1944 and the Greek government was restored. Greece joined the United Nations (as a founding member) in 1945 and NATO in 1952. During this time, many Greeks started moving to other parts of the world in a mass wave of widespread migration. The USA , Australia, and Europe were popular destinations in this move, which saw hundreds of thousands of Greeks immigrate to other lands. In 2004, Athens successfully hosted the Summer Olympics once again. Yet more recently, Greece has come under the shadow of the European debt crisis which has crippled the economy. Despite this, the spirit of the Greek people endures as it has for eons.
Top 10 experiences in Greece
1. hike in syros.
Cruise around the Greek Islands and stretch your legs with a hike on the island of Syros. Discover golden beaches and sparkling blue water as you traverse the spectacular landscapes of one of Greece's most underrated islands. And, after all that exploring, treat yourself to some truly authentic Greek food at restaurants serving up tasty and fresh local produce.
Uncover one of Greece's best kept secrets on our 15 day Best of Greece Tour.
2. Swim in the Aegean Sea
Cross off another thing on your Greek bucket list by swimming and snorkeling in the azure Ionian Sea. Share the water with slow-moving sea turtles and catch a glimpse of playful dolphins as you effortlessly glide over colorful coral on a marine adventure you'll remember forever. While there are perfect locations to snorkel all over Greece, the best places include Corfu, Paxos and Lefkada.
Cruise the Ionian Coast on our 8 day Greece Sailing Adventure: Kefalonia to Corfu.
3. Discover Santorini
Greek islands don't get more picturesque than Santorini. From the epic sunsets that bathe the whitewashed buildings and volcanic-sand beaches in a golden glow each night to the clifftop villages full of ancient churches, quaint cafes, and neo-classical architecture sitting on cobbled streets, this island is like something straight out of your wildest dreams.
See Santorini from land and sea on our 8 day Sail Greece: Santorini to Mykonos trip.
4. Explore Mykonos
Claiming the title of 'most famous Greek island', Mykonos is a party-goers dream with bars and clubs scattered throughout the island. To make your trip to this magnificent island as memorable as possible, dine on traditional Mediterranean cuisine, lay out on beaches that look as if they've been created by the Gods themselves, and dance the night away with a cocktail in hand at a club by the water.
Enjoy the island's electrifying party scene on our 8 day Athens to Santorini trip.
5. Uncover Greek history in Athens
Athens can sometimes be overlooked in favor of islands boasting pristine beaches and crystal-clear water but this ancient city is well worth a visit in its own right - especially if you're a history buff. Wander the glorious marble citadel, home to the renowned Parthenon, and take in its impressive structure and significant history as one of the most important ancient sites in the Western world.
History buffs, this one's for you: explore Athens and beyond on our 8 day Classic Greece tour .
6. Marvel at Meteora
While there are thousands of impressive rock formations scattered throughout the world, none of them quite compare to the majesty of the Meteora. Suspended more than 1,000 feet in the sky and perched atop soaring karst pinnacles, these 14th-century masterpieces are a must-visit. Home to monks for hundreds of years, this unique attraction has been recognized as a UNESCO World-Heritage listed site and remains important to the historical significance of the area today.
See these sky-high monasteries on our 8 day Mainland Greece Discovery tour.
7. Visit the ruins of Delphi
Turn your Greek adventure from a good one into a great one by visiting the sacred sanctuaries of Apollo and Athena among the mountaintop ruins of Delphi. Once considered the center of the Greek world, this UNESCO-listed site is not only incredibly beautiful with breathtaking views of the surrounding region but also offers an understanding of ancient rituals and worship undertaken by the people of Greece as early as 4,000 BC.
Step back in time on our 16 day Premium Greece in Depth tour.
8. Taste your way through Thessaloniki
This lively port city is the perfect combination of a thriving cultural scene, pulsing nightlife, delicious traditional cuisine, and storied historic sites, including the White Tower (which is a former prison and torture chamber) and the Arch of Galerius (part of Emperor Galerius's complex palace during his rule in 297-311 AD).
Explore the gastronomic capital of Greece on our 8 day Mainland Greece Discovery trip.
9. Get a classic Greek experience on Crete
Between Europe's oldest city, Heraklion, the rugged shores, forests and gorges, and the quaint and sleepy fishing villages, a visit to Crete will give you the quintessential Greek experience. As one of the sunniest places in Greece (and possibly Europe), Crete is perfect for hiking, swimming and enjoying an outdoor meal at a local taverna.
Explore this sun-kissed island on our 7 day Highlights of Crete tour.
10. Sail around Greece
You know those moments in life when you wonder, is this even real? On a sailing trip in Greece’s Cyclades Islands, that happens a lot. Learn more about our sailing tour in Greece .
From public markets and designer boutiques to European chain stores, Greece has every aspect of retail cornered.
If you are in the market for traditional Greek handicrafts, consider supporting the local economy by purchasing goods in the region that produces them. This includes silver from Ioannina; ceramics from Sifnos and Skopelos; and embroidery and lace from Crete, the Ionian Islands, Rhodes, and Skiros.
Shopping hours vary throughout Greece. Stores in large cities and tourist areas are typically open from 9 am to 9 pm, while shops in other areas close around 2 or 3 pm and reopen between 6 and 9 pm three days a week (Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday). Most stores are closed on Sundays.
Things to buy in Greece
1. Komboloi (Worry Beads)
These stress-relieving resin beads are meant to be turned through your fingers as you muse over life. With roots deep in ancient Greek cultural tradition, they make a great souvenir for friends wanting a slice of authentic Greece.
2. Botanical Skincare
Greece is home to many brands of premium, organic skincare. Stock up on luxurious olive oil soap or enriching yogurt-based moisturizers before you head home.
Travel safely and ward off evil by attaching a Mati (an ‘Evil Eye’) to your backpack. They’re cheap, available almost everywhere in Greece, and are a great reminder of your travels in the Aegean.
Whether you prefer gold, silver, amber resin or colorful beads, Greece has a huge variety of jewelry on offer. Prices are typically lower than in many other parts of the world, so it’s likely you’ll be able to snap up a few bargains.
Festivals and events in Greece
The Greeks have been partying since the dawn of Western civilization. Take Epicurus – he dedicated his life to seeking out pleasure, creating a philosophy now known as Epicureanism. As you travel through Greece you’ll encounter religious celebrations – Greek Orthodox is the main player here – that span the nation, as well as smaller celebrations that are regional affairs or isolated to particular islands. Expect food, drink, dancing and music, and plenty of throwbacks to the ancient Greeks. The only Greek tragedy is that you can’t fit every festival in.
Read more about festivals in Greece
Further reading
Greece travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.
Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards
From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).
However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.
Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.
When is the best time to visit Greece?
Greece is best experienced outside of winter for most travelers. The best time of year depends on what kind of holiday you’re after – whether you’re more interested in soaking up the island sun or ancient history.
Is it safe to visit Greece?
Greece has historically been a very safe place to visit though petty crime, like pickpocketing, can be an issue in well-touristed areas. Travelers should remain alert when visiting crowded places and keep an eye on their belongings.
Do you need a visa for Greece?
Greece is a member of the Schengen Convention, which means that if you travel to an EU member country or countries, like Greece, for a total of less than 90 days, a visa is not required. Citizens of Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the US, the UK and other member countries of the EU and Schengen area are included under this arrangement. Other countries do require a visa to visit Greece.
Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveler. Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important that you check for the latest information. Please visit the relevant consular website of the country or countries you’re visiting for detailed and up-to-date visa information specific to your nationality. Check the Essential Trip Information section of the itinerary for more information.
Is tipping customary in Greece?
There is not a strong tradition of tipping in Greece, particularly among the locals, but it’s become expected that tourists leave small tips while traveling through the country.
What is the internet access like in Greece?
You’ll be able to find wi-fi at most hotels, cafes, bars and restaurants throughout the well-touristed areas of Greece. Alternatively, you can pick up a local SIM card with a data package for continued access.
Can I use my cell phone in Greece?
If you wish to use your cell phone while in Greece and you are not from an EU country, you’ll need to pick up a local SIM card or activate global roaming before you leave home.
What are the toilets like in Greece?
Flushable, Western-style toilets are the norm in Greece. You may need to pay a small fee to use public toilets in some areas. Keep in mind that the Greek plumbing system isn’t the greatest and you may be asked to put toilet paper in the trash rather than flushing it.
What will it cost for a...?
Greece’s unit of currency is the euro:
- A takeaway souvlaki or gyros = EUR € 3-6
- Bottle of wine from the supermarket = EUR € 5–8
- Meal in a local cafe = EUR € 15
- Meal in a nice restaurant = EUR € 20+
- Ticket for the Acropolis (including other ancient sites) = EUR € 10-20
- Domestic beer (Mythos or similar) at local bar = EUR €3-4.50
- Espresso coffee = EUR €1.50
Can I drink the water in Greece?
Drinking the water in Athens and Thessaloniki is safe unless otherwise marked. On the islands, however, the water may not be suitable to drink.
For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water instead.
Are credit cards widely accepted in Greece?
Credit cards are widely accepted in Greece , particularly in the tourist areas. It’s actually a legal requirement, as a response to the financial crisis, that working Greek citizens aged below 65 have a credit card so most hotels, shops, cafes and restaurants should offer the option of paying by credit card.
It’s still worth having some euros on hand, if only to tip the bartender at your favorite island bar and guarantee quick service all evening.
What is ATM access like in Greece?
ATMs can be easily found in cities and towns across Greece, including on the Greek Islands.
What is the weather like in Greece?
Greece’s coast and islands enjoy a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and windy, rainy winters, while the inland regions have a more continental climate with cold winters and hot summers. In the northern mountains, close to the Bulgarian border, the winters are cold with heavy snowfall , while the summers are relatively mild.
What public holidays are celebrated in Greece?
- 1 Jan: New Year’s Day
- 6 Jan: Epiphany
- Feb/Mar: Clean Monday
- 25 Mar: 25th of March
- Mar/Apr: Good Friday/Easter Monday
- 1 May: Labor Day
- June: Orthodox Holy Spirit Monday
- 15 Aug: Dormition of the Holy Virgin
- 28 Oct: The Oxi Day
- 25 Dec: Christmas Day
- 26 Dec: Synaxis of the Mother of God
Please note that Greece public holidays may vary.
Is Greece safe for LGBTQIA+ travellers?
Greece is one of the most popular LGBTQIA+ holiday destinations in the world, with a long history of same-sex relationships dating back to Sappho, the Greek poet, whose home island of Lesvos has become a pilgrimage site for lesbians. Though same-sex marriage is not legal, marriages performed in the EU have been recognized since 2018 and discrimination against sexual orientation or gender identity is banned by law.
For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting Equaldex or ILGA before you travel.
If you are traveling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at the time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travelers who do not wish to share a room.
Is Greece accessible for travelers with disabilities?
Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.
Though access to sights and hotels has improved in Athens over recent years, Greece is a difficult destination for travelers with disabilities. It’s a hilly, rocky place covered in cobblestones, particularly on the islands, and the economic situation has meant that there are minimal public funds to improve the situation.
If you do live with a visual, hearing, or other impairment, let your booking agent or group leader know early on so they’re aware and suitable arrangements can be made. As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you, and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.
What should I wear in Greece?
What to pack for Greece will depend on where you're going and what time of year you decide to visit. Comfortable walking shoes are essential all year round, as is a jumper in case a cool wind blows.
If you visit in summer, you’ll need light, breathable clothing, sunglasses, a hat, swimwear and sandals.
If you’re heading to the mountains on the mainland, it’s best to be prepared for everything as the weather can change quickly.
What are some common phrases to learn before traveling to Greece?
Greek is a very difficult language to learn. However, it's easy enough to master a couple of common words such as 'hello' (yah-soo) and 'please' (para-kah-LOE). Not only will this help you communicate with the locals, but it'll allow you to form a deeper connection to the places you're visiting and the people you meet along the way.
How many islands are there in Greece?
There are roughly 6,000 islands and islets in Greece, of which only about 200 are populated. Each island offers spectacular views of the surrounding seas, golden beaches to lie out on, and ancient old towns full of fascinating sites.
How will I travel around Greece?
Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.
Depending on which trip you're on while in Greece, you may find yourself traveling by:
Live like a local resident by hopping on a local bus. Cheap, efficient and fast, it’s a great way to get around Greece’s busy cities.
Some of Greece’s most postcard-worthy scenery is best viewed from the water. Take in awesome views of quaint fishing villages, gorgeous beaches and the turquoise Aegean Sea as you hop between Greece’s famed islands aboard a ferry.
How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?
From Australia?
Go to: Smart Traveller
From Canada?
Go to: Canada Travel Information
From the UK?
Go to: UK Foreign Travel Advice
From New Zealand?
Go to: Safe Travel
From the US?
Go to: US Department of State
The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.
Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?
Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.
For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance
What is it like traveling on a small group tour?
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or you’re about to embark on your first trip, traveling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organizing amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), traveling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.
Does my trip to Greece support The Intrepid Foundation?
Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveler. Trips to Greece directly support our foundation partner, Amurtel .
Amurtel provides a safe space for refugee and migrant women and children in Greece. Donations from our trips help Amurtel provide displaced women and children with crucial education, emotional support and antenatal and postnatal care programs run by qualified midwives and expert consultants.
Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.
Does my Intrepid trip include airfare?
While our Intrepid trips include many modes of transport, from tuk-tuks to overland vehicles, bullet trains and feluccas, airfare to and from your home country is not included in your tour package.
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Fit for the gods
From the coasts of the Mediterranean to the top of Mount Olympus, Greece is a place grand enough for mythical gods and friendly enough for travelers alike. Uncover its ancient ruins and relics and take in an iconic landscape of whitewashed homes. This is only the beginning of the endless wonders you’ll find when you first set foot on Greek soil.
Destination Must-See's
This is the most spectacular destination in the Mediterranean and holds the most prehistoric settlement in the region. The ancient town of Akrotiri was once destroyed and consequently preserved by a volcanic eruption around 1450 B.C. The excavation site of this city is known as the “Minoan Pompeii.” But perhaps the island’s greatest draws are its vineyards, whitewashed chapels, volcanic cliffs, and famous wines of Santorini.
Known as the “whitewashed jewel of the Cyclades islands” or the “Island of the Winds,” it is said that the island was formed from the petrified bodies of giants killed by Hercules. It also gets its name from the grandson of Apollo - “Mykonos.” In the island’s capital town you will find the church, town hall, castle, the Archaeological, Folklore, and Maritime Museums, and a shopper’s paradise – Matoyianni Street.
Athens is the capital city of Greece and the historical capital of Europe. It is home to many celebrated ancient monuments including the imposing Acropolis, the ruins of the Temple of Zeus, the Royal Palace, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the Olympic Stadium, and Hadrian’s Gate – the symbolic entrance to the city. It also has the charming Plaka neighborhood which has been without interruption since antiquity.
One of the most well-known tourist destinations in Greece, Olympia is located in the western Peloponnese, known as the “Valley of the Gods.” Surrounded by beautiful scenery from the Arcadian Mountains, it is home of the first Olympic Games that were held in 776 B.C. You can walk through the ruins of the ancient Olympic stadium, witness amazing sculptures at the museum, or even attend one of the many festivals held throughout the year.
Destination Must-Do's
Meteora Monastery:
Over 600 years ago Byzantine monks chose to build their monastic community atop limestone rock “towers” that extend nearly 900 feet into the air, making them virtually inaccessible. It is one of the greatest monuments in the world, and is the most important monastic center in Greece. You can climb these rocks and travel the paths hidden behind the massive rocks.
Delphi ruins:
Delphi was regarded as the center of the world and had the most famous oracle of ancient Greece. The site includes two sanctuaries dedicated to Apollo and Athena, and other buildings that were mostly intended for sports. The earliest finds in Delphi date back to 4000 B.C. from the Korykeion Andron, a cave where the first rituals took place. The ruins are filled with an enormous amount of history and beauty.
Greek Olive Farm:
Olives and olive oil are staples of the Mediterranean diet, and Greece is a major grower and producer of olive products. A visit to a Greek olive farm can provide a taste of Greek culture and serve as a window into everyday life in the country. Tours, tastings, meals, and cooking classes hosted at olive farms are all wonderful options on the table when venturing into Greece’s countryside.
Travel back in time with a visit to Athens’s old city – the Plaka. The hilly cobblestone streets are lined with historic buildings housing small shops, sidewalk cafes and family-owned restaurants making this neighborhood Athens’ crowned jewel. The neighborhood comes alive at night. The alleyways fill with music and dancing and locals and visitors alike dine on their favorite traditional dishes.
Expert Advice
Getting around is easier than you would expect. Greeks can speak English enough to assist travelers, and street signs are in both Greek and English.
Much of your trip may focus on the ancient past yet I suggest you also take time to explore the vibrant traditions that still live in today’s Greek culture.
Greece is a welcoming destination year-round. Consider visiting October through May to beat the summer bustle, and with Greece’s 250+ days of sunshine in an average year, don’t forget your sunglasses.
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