Table of Contents
I've spent years exploring Greece — from the obvious postcard destinations to tiny islands most tourists never hear about. This guide distills everything I've learned into one place: the essential knowledge you need to plan an incredible Greek trip.
Whether you're dreaming of Santorini sunsets, Crete's wild beaches, ancient ruins in Athens, or discovering islands that haven't been overrun yet, this guide covers it all. Think of it as your Greece travel bible — start here, then dive deeper into the specific topics that matter for your trip.
Let's get into it.
Greece at a Glance
Why Visit Greece?
Greece delivers on almost every travel desire:
History and culture: The birthplace of democracy, Western philosophy, theater, and the Olympic Games. The Acropolis, Delphi, Olympia, and countless other sites make Greece a living museum of human civilization.
Islands: No country does islands quite like Greece. From jet-set Mykonos to undiscovered gems like Folegandros, there's an island for every personality and budget.
Beaches: Over 13,000 kilometers of coastline means beaches for every taste — pink sand lagoons, volcanic moonscapes, hidden coves, organized beach bars.
Food: Greek cuisine is having a moment globally, and eating in Greece is even better. Fresh ingredients, olive oil, seafood, local wine — simple but exceptional.
Value: Compared to Western Europe, Greece remains affordable. Your euros stretch further here than in France, Italy, or Spain.
Weather: Reliable sunshine from May through October makes planning easy.
Best Time to Visit Greece
Peak Season (July–August): Hot, crowded, expensive — but everything is open and the weather is guaranteed. Best for: beach lovers who don't mind crowds and heat.
Shoulder Season (May–June, September–October): The sweet spot. Warm enough for swimming, fewer crowds, lower prices, more pleasant sightseeing temperatures. Best for: most travelers.
Off-Season (November–April): Cool, potentially rainy, many islands partially close. But: empty sites, lowest prices, authentic local life. Best for: history lovers, budget travelers, those avoiding crowds.
Quick recommendations:
- Best overall: Late May, June, September
- Best weather: July–August (but very hot)
- Best prices: April, October–November
- Best for swimming: July–September (warmest water)
For month-by-month details, see our Best Time to Travel to Greece guide.
Where to Go in Greece
Greece divides into distinct regions, each with a different character:
The Greek Islands
Greece has approximately 6,000 islands (227 inhabited). The main groups:
Cyclades: The iconic Greek islands — whitewashed villages, blue domes, dramatic landscapes. Includes Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, Milos, Folegandros, Sifnos, Ios, Amorgos, Tinos, Andros, Syros, and more.
Dodecanese: Eastern islands near Turkey with diverse influences. Includes Rhodes, Kos, Patmos, Symi, Karpathos, Leros, Kalymnos, Astypalea.
Ionian: Western islands with Italian influence, greener landscapes. Includes Corfu, Kefalonia, Zakynthos, Lefkada, Paxos, Ithaca.
Saronic: Close to Athens, perfect for quick escapes. Includes Hydra, Aegina, Poros, Spetses, Agistri.
Sporades: Green, forested islands in the Aegean. Includes Skiathos, Skopelos (Mamma Mia!), Alonissos, Skyros.
Northeast Aegean: Off-the-beaten-path islands with distinct character. Includes Lesbos, Samos, Chios, Ikaria, Thasos, Lemnos, Samothrace.
Small Cyclades: Tiny, undeveloped islands for true escapists. Includes Koufonisia, Schinoussa, Iraklia, Donoussa.
Crete: Greece's largest island, practically a country unto itself — beaches, mountains, gorges, ancient sites, exceptional food. See our Crete travel guide and guides to Chania, Rethymno, Heraklion, and Agios Nikolaos.
For detailed island recommendations, see:
- Best Greek Islands to Visit
- Best Greek Islands for First-Time Visitors
- Best Greek Islands for Beaches
- Best Unknown Greek Islands
Mainland Greece
Don't overlook the mainland — it has some of Greece's most impressive sites:
Athens: The capital, home to the Acropolis, world-class museums, and an increasingly excellent food and nightlife scene. Essential for any Greece trip. See our Athens travel guide, 3 days in Athens, and best places to visit in Athens.
Peloponnese: Ancient sites (Olympia, Epidaurus, Mycenae), romantic towns (Nafplio), medieval fortresses (Monemvasia, Mystras), wild coastline (Mani Peninsula, Kardamyli). See our Peloponnese guide.
Delphi: The ancient oracle, dramatically perched on Mount Parnassus. Essential day trip from Athens. See our Delphi travel guide.
Meteora: Monasteries balanced on impossible rock pillars — one of Greece's most spectacular sights. See our Meteora travel guide.
Thessaloniki: Greece's second city, more relaxed than Athens, excellent food scene, Byzantine history. See our Thessaloniki travel guide.
Northern Greece: Mountains, lakes, traditional villages. Zagori villages and Vikos Gorge for hiking, Ioannina, Metsovo, Prespa Lakes for nature, Halkidiki for beaches, Mount Olympus for mythology and hiking.
Pelion Peninsula: The mythological home of the centaurs — stone villages, forests, beaches, and the gateway to the Sporades islands. See our Pelion travel guide.
Greece for Different Trip Types
Island-Hopping
Island-hopping is the quintessential Greece experience — combining multiple islands in a single trip.
Popular routes:
- Classic Cyclades: Athens → Mykonos → Paros → Santorini → Athens
- Beach lovers: Athens → Naxos → Milos → Santorini → Athens
- Off-the-beaten-path: Athens → Sifnos → Folegandros → Santorini → Athens
- Saronic (quick trip): Athens → Hydra → Spetses → Poros → Athens
Key tips:
- Allow at least 2 nights per island
- Check ferry schedules before planning
- Book ferries in advance during peak season
- Consider positioning (don't backtrack unnecessarily)
See our complete Best Way to See the Greek Islands guide.
Mainland Road Trips
For travelers who want ancient history, mountain villages, and fewer tourists.
Popular routes:
- Athens → Delphi → Meteora → Thessaloniki (history focus)
- Athens → Corinth → Nafplio → Epidaurus → Mycenae → Olympia (archaeology loop)
- Peloponnese circuit: Athens → Nafplio → Monemvasia → Mani → Olympia → Athens
See our Greece Road Trip guide.
Combined Mainland + Islands
The most satisfying approach for first-timers — get the history and the beaches.
Classic combination:
- Days 1–2: Athens (Acropolis, museums)
- Day 3: Day trip to Delphi
- Days 4–6: Santorini or Mykonos
- Days 7–9: Naxos or Crete
- Day 10: Athens and departure
See our 7-day and 10-day itineraries.
Greece + Italy
A popular combination for first-time Mediterranean travelers.
Options:
- Ferry from Italy to Greece (dramatic, slower)
- Fly between countries (efficient)
- Cruise covering both (most convenient)
Typical routing: Rome → Athens → Islands → back to Rome (or reverse)
See our Italy and Greece Trip guide.
Vacation Packages & Tours
Not everyone wants to plan independently. Greece has excellent tour options:
Organized tours: Companies like G Adventures and Intrepid offer group island-hopping and mainland tours with logistics handled.
Sailing tours: Multi-day sailing trips through the Cyclades — sleep on the boat, visit multiple islands, meet other travelers.
Cruise options: Greek islands cruises from major cruise lines or specialized operators like Celestyal.
Self-guided packages: Travel agencies pre-book your ferries and hotels while you explore independently.
See our Best Greek Island Tours guide and Greece Vacation Packages comparison.
How to Get to Greece
By Air
International airports with direct routes:
- Athens (ATH): Main international hub, most flight options
- Thessaloniki (SKG): Northern Greece, good European connections
- Heraklion, Crete (HER): Direct flights from many European cities
- Chania, Crete (CHQ): Good European connections
- Rhodes (RHO): Charter and European flights
- Corfu (CFU): Strong summer European connections
- Mykonos (JMK): Limited direct international flights
- Santorini (JTR): Limited direct international flights
From the US: Direct flights to Athens from New York (JFK), Philadelphia, and occasionally other cities. Most travelers connect through European hubs (London, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, Paris).
From the UK: Excellent direct connections to Athens plus many islands (Crete, Rhodes, Corfu, Kos, Zakynthos, etc.) — especially in summer.
Budget airlines: Ryanair, easyJet, Wizz Air, and Sky Express serve Greece extensively from European cities.
By Ferry (from Italy)
Ferries connect Italy to western Greece:
- Ancona/Bari/Brindisi → Patras: 15–20 hours
- Venice → Patras: 25–30 hours
- Bari → Corfu: 8–10 hours
Useful if combining Italy and Greece or bringing a vehicle.
Getting Around Greece
Ferries
Ferries are the backbone of Greek island travel. Understanding the ferry system is essential for island-hopping.
Key points:
- Major routes run frequently; minor routes may be once daily or less
- Summer schedules are more frequent than winter
- Book popular routes (to/from Santorini, Mykonos) in advance during peak season
- High-speed ferries cost more but save hours
- Conventional ferries are cheaper and more stable in rough seas
Ferry booking: Use FerryHopper to compare and book all Greek ferries in one place.
For detailed ferry strategies, see our Best Way to See the Greek Islands guide.
Domestic Flights
Olympic Air and Sky Express connect Athens to major islands. Useful for:
- Skipping long ferry journeys (Athens–Crete, Athens–Rhodes)
- Reaching distant islands quickly
- Connecting islands without returning to Athens (some routes)
Cost: Often €50–150 one-way if booked in advance.
Rental Cars
Essential for:
- Crete (the island is huge)
- Peloponnese road trips
- Large islands where you want freedom
- Mainland exploration
Not necessary for:
- Small islands where walking/buses/taxis work
- Athens (traffic and parking are nightmares)
- Island-hopping (you'd pay to ship the car on ferries)
For driving tips and safety, see our Greece Safety Guide.
Buses
Greece has a comprehensive intercity bus network (KTEL). Useful for:
- Budget travel between major towns
- Reaching sites from nearby cities (Delphi from Athens, etc.)
- Islands where you don't want to rent
Limitations: Schedules can be infrequent. Not ideal for remote areas or flexible itineraries.
Taxis & Ride Apps
- Beat: The Greek alternative to Uber, excellent in Athens
- Uber: Works in Athens (uses regular taxis)
- Regular taxis: Available everywhere, agree on price or ensure meter is running
Greece Trip Planning Essentials
How Long to Stay
Minimum: 7 days (Athens + one island or region) Comfortable: 10–14 days (Athens + 2–3 islands, or Athens + mainland + islands) Ideal: 2–3 weeks (allows for deeper exploration, relaxed pace)
Sample itineraries:
Budget Planning
Greece offers excellent value compared to Western Europe. Budget ranges per day (per person, mid-range):
7-day trip estimate:
- Budget: €600–1,100 (excluding flights)
- Mid-range: €1,500–2,700 (excluding flights)
- Luxury: €4,000+ (excluding flights)
For detailed cost breakdowns, see our Greece Trip Cost Guide.
Booking Accommodation
Where to book:
- Booking.com — Widest selection, good cancellation policies
- Direct with hotels — Sometimes better rates, especially Greek family-run properties
- Airbnb — Good for apartments, longer stays, groups
When to book:
- Santorini/Mykonos peak season: 3–6 months ahead
- Other popular islands summer: 1–3 months ahead
- Shoulder season: 2–4 weeks often works
- Off-season: Usually available last-minute
For accommodation recommendations, see our Best Hotels in the Greek Islands guide.
Travel Insurance
Highly recommended. Greek healthcare is good and affordable, but medical evacuation, trip cancellation, and lost luggage can be expensive problems.
Cost: €30–80 for a two-week trip — worth it for peace of mind.
For detailed guidance, see our Greece Travel Insurance Guide.
Entry Requirements
US/UK/EU/Canada/Australia citizens: No visa required for stays up to 90 days.
What you need:
- Passport valid for at least 3 months beyond your stay
- Proof of onward travel (sometimes requested)
- Accommodation booking
- ETIAS (coming in 2025 for non-EU citizens — check current status)
For complete requirements, see our Greece Travel Requirements guide.
Greek Culture & Etiquette
Understanding Greek culture makes your trip smoother and more enjoyable.
Social Customs
Greeting: A handshake for first meetings, cheek kisses (both sides) among friends. Greeks are warm and often physically expressive.
Punctuality: Flexible. Greeks operate on "Mediterranean time" — don't stress about minor delays.
Conversation: Greeks are direct and enjoy debate. Don't take animated discussion as aggression — it's passion.
Personal space: Closer than Northern Europeans/Americans are used to. This is normal.
Hospitality (philoxenia): Greeks take pride in hospitality. If invited to someone's home, bring a gift (sweets, wine).
Dining Culture
Meal times: Lunch is 1–3pm, dinner is typically 9–10pm or later. Eating before 8pm feels early.
Ordering: Greeks share food — order multiple dishes for the table rather than individual meals.
Tipping: Service charge is often included. Round up or leave 5–10% for good service.
Coffee culture: Greeks linger over coffee for hours. Ordering one coffee buys unlimited time.
Eating pace: Meals are social events, not fuel stops. Relax and enjoy.
Religious Sites
Greece is predominantly Greek Orthodox. When visiting churches and monasteries:
- Cover shoulders and knees (both genders)
- Remove hats
- Speak quietly
- No flash photography
- Some monasteries have specific hours or gender restrictions
Beach Etiquette
- Nudist beaches exist and are marked
- Topless sunbathing is less common than it used to be
- Organized beaches charge for sunbeds (€8–20/pair)
- "Free" beach areas exist alongside organized sections
- Beach bars often provide free sunbeds if you buy drinks/food
Practical Information
Money
Currency: Euro (€)
Cash vs. cards:
- Cards widely accepted in tourist areas
- Cash still needed for small tavernas, taxis, markets, remote islands
- Carry €50–100 cash as backup
ATMs: Widely available. Use bank ATMs to avoid fees.
Tipping: Not mandatory but appreciated. 5–10% for good service.
Language
Greek is the official language. The alphabet is different (Cyrillic-looking), which can make signs challenging.
English: Widely spoken in tourist areas. Less common in rural areas and among older Greeks.
Useful phrases:
- Hello: Γεια σας (YAH-sas)
- Thank you: Ευχαριστώ (ef-hah-rees-TOH)
- Please/You're welcome: Παρακαλώ (pah-rah-kah-LOH)
- Yes: Ναι (neh)
- No: Όχι (OH-hee)
- Cheers: Στην υγειά μας (steen ee-YAH mas)
Connectivity
WiFi: Available at most accommodations and many cafes/restaurants.
Mobile data: EU travelers have free roaming. Others should consider:
- Local SIM cards (Cosmote, Vodafone, Wind)
- eSIM services (Airalo, Holafly)
- International plans from home carrier
Calling: Country code is +30.
Electricity
Voltage: 230V, 50Hz
Plugs: European two-pin (Type C and F)
US/UK travelers: Bring adapters.
Safety
Greece is very safe for tourists. Violent crime is rare. Main concerns:
- Pickpockets in Athens tourist areas
- Summer heat and sun exposure
- Occasional wildfires (follow local guidance)
- Scooter rental injuries (be careful)
For complete safety information, see our Greece Safety Guide.
What to Pack for Greece
Clothing essentials:
- Light, breathable fabrics (linen, cotton)
- Swimwear (2–3 for rotation)
- Cover-up for churches (scarf or cardigan)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sandals for beaches and casual wear
- One dressier outfit for nice dinners
Practical items:
- High-SPF sunscreen
- Sunglasses and hat
- Reusable water bottle
- Universal adapter
- Waterproof phone pouch
For complete packing guidance, see our What to Wear in Greece guide.
Greece by Travel Style
For Couples & Honeymooners
Greece excels at romance. Top picks:
- Santorini — Iconic sunsets, caldera hotels
- Folegandros — Intimate, uncrowded alternative
- Hydra — Sophisticated, car-free elegance
- Nafplio — Romantic mainland town
See our Best Greek Islands for Couples guide.
For Families
Greece is excellent for families — friendly culture, safe environment, beaches kids love. Top picks:
- Naxos — Best family beaches in Cyclades
- Rhodes — Excellent family infrastructure
- Corfu — All-inclusive options
- Crete — Everything for all ages
See our Best Greek Islands for Families guide.
For Solo Travelers
Greece is safe and welcoming for solo travelers, with good infrastructure and easy-to-meet communities. Top picks:
- Athens — Vibrant, social, excellent hostels
- Ios — Backpacker-friendly, social scene
- Naxos/Paros — Friendly, easy to navigate
See our Solo Trip to Greece guide.
For Beach Lovers
Greece has over 13,000 kilometers of coastline. Top beach destinations:
- Milos — Most unique beaches
- Naxos — Best all-around beaches
- Lefkada — Caribbean-like beaches
- Crete — Elafonissi, Balos, and dozens more
See our Best Greek Islands for Beaches guide.
For History Enthusiasts
Greece is a living museum of Western civilization. Must-sees:
- Athens Acropolis and museums
- Delphi — Ancient oracle
- Olympia — Birthplace of Olympics
- Epidaurus — Perfect ancient theater
- Mycenae — Bronze Age civilization
- Meteora — Byzantine monasteries
See our Best Historical Places in Greece guide.
Greece Food & Drink Guide
Greek Cuisine Essentials
Greek food is simple, ingredient-focused, and exceptional when done right.
Must-try dishes:
- Moussaka — Layered eggplant, minced meat, béchamel
- Souvlaki — Grilled meat on skewers (pork, chicken, lamb)
- Gyros — Rotisserie meat in pita with tomato, onion, tzatziki
- Greek salad (Horiatiki) — Tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, feta, olive oil
- Spanakopita — Spinach and feta pie
- Grilled octopus — Fresh, charred, simple
- Saganaki — Fried cheese (often flambéed)
- Dolmades — Stuffed vine leaves
Seafood islands: Sifnos for mastelo, Lesbos for sardines, Crete for dakos and kalitsounia.
Drinks
Wine: Greek wine is having a renaissance. Assyrtiko from Santorini, Xinomavro from Naoussa, and countless local varieties.
Beer: Fix, Mythos, Alpha — light lagers perfect for hot weather.
Ouzo: Anise-flavored spirit, served with water and ice (turns cloudy).
Raki/Tsipouro: Strong grape spirit, often served free after meals.
Frappe: Iced instant coffee — Greeks drink this everywhere, all day.
Freddo: Cold espresso (freddo espresso) or cappuccino (freddo cappuccino).
Dining Tips
- Lunch: 1–3pm
- Dinner: 9–10pm or later
- Tipping: Round up or 5–10% for good service
- Bread/cover charge: Usually €1–2 per person (normal)
- Water: Usually not free (bottled water is standard)
Special Interest Travel
Honeymoon & Romance
Greece is one of the world's top honeymoon destinations. Top romantic picks:
- Santorini — Iconic caldera suites
- Folegandros — Intimate and uncrowded
- Hydra — Elegant and car-free
- Milos — Unique beaches, rising boutique hotels
See our Best Greek Islands for Couples guide.
Nightlife & Young Adults
Greece has excellent nightlife, from beach clubs to late-night bars:
- Mykonos — World-famous beach clubs and nightclubs
- Ios — Backpacker party scene
- Athens — Diverse nightlife districts
- Rhodes — Faliraki party strip
See our Best Greek Islands for Nightlife guide.
All-Inclusive Vacations
For stress-free beach vacations:
- Crete — Most all-inclusive options
- Rhodes — Excellent family all-inclusives
- Corfu — Good variety
- Kos — Value all-inclusives
See our All-Inclusive Trip to Greece guide.
Luxury Travel
For those seeking the finest experiences:
- Santorini — Caldera cave hotels
- Mykonos — Designer hotels, beach clubs
- Elounda, Crete — Greece's most exclusive resorts
- Athens Riviera — Five-star coastal properties
See our Luxury Trip to Greece guide.
Girls' Trips
Popular destinations for groups:
- Mykonos — Beach clubs and nightlife
- Santorini — Photos and wine tasting
- Athens + Islands — Culture and beaches
See our Girls Trip to Greece guide.
Book Your Activities
Pre-booking is recommended for popular tours and experiences:
Athens:
Santorini:
Crete:
Milos:
Browse all Greece tours on GetYourGuide
Plan Your Trip
Ready to start planning? Here are your next steps:
1. Get personalized recommendations: Try our free AI trip planner — Answer a few questions and get a customized itinerary based on your interests, dates, and budget.
2. Dive deeper into specific topics:
- How to Plan a Trip to Greece
- How Much Does a Trip to Greece Cost
- Best Greek Islands to Visit
- Best Time to Travel to Greece
3. Book your essentials:
FAQ
Is Greece expensive to visit?
Greece offers excellent value compared to Western Europe. A mid-range trip (comfortable hotels, restaurant meals, activities) costs approximately €150–250 per person per day, excluding flights. Budget travelers can manage on €80–120/day with hostels, simple meals, and selective activities. Luxury travelers will spend €400+ daily. The most expensive destinations are Mykonos and Santorini; better value is found on Naxos, Crete, mainland Greece, and lesser-known islands. See our Greece Trip Cost Guide for detailed breakdowns.
How many days do you need in Greece?
Seven days is the minimum for a satisfying trip (Athens + one island or region). Ten to fourteen days allows for Athens plus 2–3 islands or a combined mainland and island itinerary. Three weeks lets you explore deeply without rushing. For first-time visitors, we recommend at least 10 days — Greece rewards slower travel, and rushing between destinations misses the point. See our 7-day and 10-day itineraries for detailed planning.
Which Greek island should I visit?
It depends on what you're looking for. For iconic scenery and romance: Santorini. For nightlife and beach clubs: Mykonos. For beautiful beaches at good value: Naxos or Milos. For families: Rhodes or Corfu. For everything in one place: Crete. For avoiding crowds: Folegandros, Sifnos, or Ikaria. Take our free quiz for personalized recommendations.