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Greece
Greece is renowned for its ancient ruins, stunning islands, and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore Athens' historic sites, such as the Acropolis, relax on the beautiful beaches of Santorini, and experience the charm of Crete. Its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes Greece a captivating destination.
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Summary
Overview
Months
05. May, 06. June, 07. July, 08. August, 09. September, 10. October
Vacation type
Beach, Couple, Family, Nature, Party, Sightseeing, Hiking, Mountains, Skiing
Expenses
<100€, <150€, <200€, Over 200€
Temperature
20-25°C, 25-30°C, Over 30°C
Rainfall
0-50mm
Safety
Safe
Continent
Europe
Currency
Euro
Languages
Greek
Currency Converter
When to visit
The best time to visit Greece is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October).
- Spring (April to June): Offers mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and fewer crowds. It's ideal for exploring ancient ruins, hiking, and enjoying the Greek islands and mainland.
- Autumn (September to October): Provides pleasant weather with warm temperatures and fewer tourists, perfect for sightseeing, beach visits, and experiencing local festivals.
- Summer (July to August) is peak tourist season with hot weather and crowded attractions, especially on popular islands like Santorini and Mykonos.
- Winter (November to March) is cooler and can be rainy, which might limit outdoor activities and beach visits, but it’s a good time for exploring cities and experiencing local culture with fewer tourists.
Weather, Crowds and Costs
Per one person
Tourist Season: June-August (Summer)
Budget Vacation ($50-120/day)
Accommodation: $25-50/night (budget guesthouses, hostels).
Food: $15-30/day (local restaurants, street food).
Activities: $20-30/day (sightseeing, beach activities).
Transportation: $10-20/day (public transport, ferries).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($150-250/day)
Accommodation: $50-100/night (mid-range hotels, Airbnbs).
Food: $30-50/day (restaurants, tavernas).
Activities: $30-50/day (excursions, island tours).
Transportation: $20-30/day (ferries, taxis).
Other Costs: $10-15/day (shopping).
Luxury Vacation ($300+/day)
Accommodation: $100+/night (luxury resorts, villas).
Food: $50+/day (fine dining).
Activities: $50+/day (private tours, yacht excursions).
Transportation: $30+/day (private transport).
Other Costs: $20+/day (luxury shopping).
Off-Peak Season: October-April (Winter)
Budget Vacation ($40-90/day)
Accommodation: $20-40/night (budget hostels, guesthouses).
Food: $10-20/day (local food).
Activities: $5-10/day (local sightseeing).
Transportation: $5-10/day (local transport).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (minimal souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($90-180/day)
Accommodation: $30-70/night (mid-range hotels).
Food: $15-30/day (restaurants).
Activities: $10-20/day (tours, cultural sights).
Transportation: $10-20/day (local transport, taxis).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (shopping).
Luxury Vacation ($200+/day)
Accommodation: $70+/night (luxury resorts).
Food: $25+/day (fine dining).
Activities: $30+/day (private tours, experiences).
Transportation: $15+/day (private transport).
Other Costs: $10+/day (luxury shopping).
Best Regions to visit
Cities
1. Athens
- The capital city, renowned for its ancient landmarks such as the Acropolis, Parthenon, and the Agora, as well as its vibrant neighborhoods and cultural attractions.
2. Thessaloniki
- Greece's second-largest city, known for its rich history, vibrant nightlife, and landmarks like the White Tower and the Rotunda.
3. Heraklion
- The largest city on the island of Crete, known for its historical sites including the Palace of Knossos and its vibrant market and harbor.
4. Chania
- A picturesque city on Crete known for its charming old town, Venetian harbor, and beautiful beaches.
5. Rhodes
- Located on the island of the same name, known for its medieval Old Town, ancient ruins, and beautiful coastline.
6. Nafplio
- A historic city in the Peloponnese region known for its well-preserved architecture, including the Palamidi Fortress and the charming waterfront.
7. Corfu
- Located on the island of the same name, known for its Venetian architecture, beautiful beaches, and lush landscapes.
Athens
Islands
1. Santorini
- Famous for its stunning sunsets, white-washed buildings with blue domes, and volcanic beaches. It's a popular destination for romance and luxury.
2. Mykonos
- Known for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and charming old town with traditional Cycladic architecture.
3. Crete
- The largest Greek island, offering a diverse range of experiences from ancient ruins like the Palace of Knossos to beautiful beaches and lively cities like Heraklion and Chania.
4. Rhodes
- Known for its medieval Old Town, ancient ruins, and beautiful coastline. It has a mix of historical and beach attractions.
5. Corfu
- An island with a mix of Venetian, French, and British influences, known for its lush landscapes, beautiful beaches, and charming old town.
6. Naxos
- Known for its sandy beaches, traditional villages, and ancient ruins, including the Portara, a massive marble gateway.
7. Paros
- Renowned for its charming villages, beautiful beaches, and vibrant nightlife. It's also known for its traditional Cycladic architecture.
Santorini
Things to see
Natural Attractions
1. Santorini
- Marvel at the iconic white-washed buildings with blue domes, enjoy stunning sunsets, and explore the volcanic beaches and caldera views.
2. Meteora
- Visit the monasteries perched atop towering rock formations, offering breathtaking views and a unique historical experience.
3. Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach)
- Relax on the famous beach with its clear turquoise waters and the remains of a shipwreck surrounded by dramatic cliffs on Zakynthos Island.
4. Mount Olympus
- Hike the trails of Greece’s highest peak, known in mythology as the home of the gods, and enjoy the diverse flora and fauna of the national park.
5. Samaria Gorge
- Trek through one of Europe’s longest gorges located in Crete, known for its impressive rock formations, diverse wildlife, and scenic beauty.
6. Delphi
- Explore the ancient archaeological site known for its Oracle and the Temple of Apollo, set against a backdrop of mountainous terrain and olive groves.
Cultural Attractions
1. Acropolis of Athens
- Visit the ancient citadel featuring iconic structures such as the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike, offering insights into classical Greek architecture and history.
2. Palace of Knossos
- Discover the ruins of the Minoan palace on Crete, known for its complex layout, frescoes, and significance in Greek mythology and ancient history.
3. Ancient Agora of Athens
- Explore the ancient marketplace and civic center of Athens, including the well-preserved Temple of Hephaestus and the Stoa of Attalos.
4. Mycenae
- Visit the archaeological site with its ancient ruins, including the Lion Gate and the Treasury of Atreus, representing the Mycenaean civilization.
5. Rhodes Old Town
- Wander through the medieval streets of Rhodes Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and historical significance.
6. Theater of Epidaurus
- Experience the well-preserved ancient Greek theater known for its remarkable acoustics and historical performances, set in a scenic natural setting.
How to get around
1. Domestic Flights
- Greece has numerous domestic flights connecting major cities and islands. Aegean Airlines and Olympic Air offer flights between Athens, Thessaloniki, Crete, Rhodes, Santorini, Mykonos, and other popular destinations.
2. Trains
- The Greek rail network, operated by TrainOSE, connects major cities such as Athens, Thessaloniki, and Patras. High-speed trains (Intercity) and regional trains serve various routes. The rail network is less extensive on the islands.
3. Public Buses
- Public buses are available for local and intercity travel. In Athens, the bus system is managed by OASA, covering numerous routes within the city. For intercity travel, KTEL operates bus services connecting cities and towns across Greece.
4. Trams and Metro
- In Athens, the Metro and Tram systems provide efficient transport within the city. The Athens Metro connects key areas including the airport, and the Tram system covers coastal routes.
5. Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps
- Taxis are widely available in cities and can be hailed on the street or booked by phone. Ride-hailing apps like Beat operate in Athens and Thessaloniki, offering a modern alternative to traditional taxis.
6. Car Rentals
- Renting a car is a great option for exploring Greece’s diverse landscapes, including the mainland, coastal areas, and islands. Driving is on the right side of the road, and major car rental companies include Hertz, Avis, and Europcar.
7. Bicycles
- In some cities and tourist areas, bike-sharing schemes and rental services are available. Cycling is popular for exploring urban areas and scenic routes, particularly in places like Athens and Thessaloniki.
8. Ferries
- Ferries are essential for traveling between the Greek islands. Services operate from major ports like Piraeus (Athens), Rafina, and Thessaloniki. Companies such as Blue Star Ferries and Hellenic Seaways provide routes to islands like Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete.
9. Boats
- In addition to ferries, smaller boats and water taxis are available for island hopping and exploring coastal areas. Many islands and coastal towns have local boat services.
For traveling around Greece, domestic flights and ferries are ideal for reaching islands and long distances, while trains, public buses, and metro systems provide local and intercity transport. Car rentals offer flexibility for exploring diverse landscapes, and taxis, ride-hailing apps, bicycles, and boats provide additional options for urban and scenic travel.
What to eat
1. Moussaka
- A baked dish made with layers of eggplant, ground meat, and béchamel sauce, popular in Greek cuisine.
2. Souvlaki
- Skewered and grilled meat, typically served with pita bread and tzatziki sauce.
3. Spanakopita
- Spinach and feta cheese wrapped in flaky pastry, often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer.
4. Tzatziki
- A refreshing dip made from yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill, commonly served with bread.
5. Baklava
- A sweet pastry made from layers of filo dough filled with nuts and honey syrup, enjoyed as dessert.
Flights
Flight prices are approximate and vary by departure city, airline, and booking time. Check airlines or travel platforms for the latest details.
Main Airport: Athens International Airport (ATH), Thessaloniki Airport (SKG)
Flight Prices and Seasons:
From Europe
- Average Round-Trip Cost: €50 to €150.
- Cheapest Months: November to March.
- Peak Prices: Summer (June to August) and December holidays.
From North America
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $400 to $900.
- Cheapest Months: March to May and September to November.
- Peak Prices: Summer and December holidays.
From Asia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $500 to $1,200.
- Cheapest Months: February to March and October.
- Peak Prices: Summer and December holidays.
From Australia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $1,000 to $1,800.
- Cheapest Months: February and October.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer months.
From Africa
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $300 to $700.
- Cheapest Months: February to March and September.
- Peak Prices: Summer and December holidays.
Visa
1. Visa Requirement
- Many travelers do not need a visa to enter Greece for short stays, including citizens of the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and Australia.
2. Visa-Free Entry
- Citizens from several countries can enter visa-free for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period, as Greece is part of the Schengen Area.
3. Visa Application
- Travelers from countries that require a visa must apply for a Schengen visa at a Greek embassy or consulate before traveling.
4. Types of Visa
- The most common visa is the Schengen short-stay visa (type C), valid for tourism, business, or family visits for stays up to 90 days.
5. Processing Time
- Visa processing can take from 15 days to several weeks, so it’s advisable to apply well in advance.
6. Duration of Stay
- Visa-free visitors can stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period; Schengen visa holders have the same allowance.
7. Health Requirements
- No specific vaccinations are required for entry, but travel insurance is highly recommended for Schengen visa applicants.
8. COVID-19 Regulations
- Check for any current COVID-19 entry requirements before traveling, as regulations may change.
Important things to know
1. Payments
- The local currency is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted.
2. Tap Water
- Tap water is generally safe to drink in urban areas, but it's advisable to check locally in rural areas.
3. Electricity
- The voltage is 230V, and plug types C and F (two round pins) are used. An adapter may be needed for devices from other regions.
4. Tipping in Restaurants
- Tipping is customary, with 5-10% being standard for good service.
5. SIM Cards
- Local SIM cards are available from providers like Cosmote and Vodafone. They can be purchased at stores.
6. Driving Side
- In Greece, people drive on the right side of the road.