Greece

Greece is a captivating blend of ancient legacy and modern vibrancy, where sun-bleached ruins stand against a backdrop of the shimmering Aegean Sea. Known as the cradle of Western civilization, this Mediterranean gem offers much more than just a history lesson; you will find some of the world's most iconic coastlines and a culture defined by warm hospitality. From the bustling streets of Athens to the quiet, azure-shored islands of the Cyclades, every corner of the country invites exploration. Travelers can expect a sensory feast of fresh flavors, lively local festivals, and landscapes that range from rugged mountains to pristine white-sand beaches. Whether you are trekking through olive groves or watching a sunset from a volcanic caldera, Greece provides a timeless escape that feels both legendary and deeply personal.

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We built this guide using official tourism data, local travel insights, and real pricing from our city guides, so you can plan your trip with confidence.

7 cities
21 guides
$101 – $158 Daily Budget

Quick Facts

Capital
Athens
Languages
Greek
Currency
Euro (EUR)
1 € ≈ 1.18 $
Plug Type
Type C/F (230V, 50Hz)
Driving Side
Right
Dial Code
+30
Entry Requirements
Check requirements →
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Time Zone
EET (UTC+2) / EEST (UTC+3 in summer)
Emergency
112 (all services); also 100 (Police), 166 (Ambulance), 199 (Fire), 171 (Tourist Police)

Why Visit Greece

Unrivaled Historical Sites

Walking through Greece is like stepping into a living museum where you can explore the Acropolis of Athens, the Temple of Apollo at Delphi, and the Minoan palaces of Crete. These landmarks represent the foundations of philosophy, democracy, and art that still shape the world today.

Spectacular Island Hopping

With over 200 inhabited islands, Greece offers a diverse range of escapes, from the glamorous nightlife of Mykonos to the dramatic volcanic cliffs of Santorini. Each island chain, like the Ionian or Dodecanese, possesses its own distinct architecture, local traditions, and maritime character.

Healthy and Vibrant Gastronomy

Greek cuisine is a highlight of any trip, focusing on fresh, seasonal ingredients like sun-ripened tomatoes, rich olive oil, and succulent seafood. Dining in a local taverna is as much about the social experience as it is about the flavor of the food.

Breathtaking Coastal Beauty

You can relax on some of Europe's most beautiful beaches, such as Navagio in Zakynthos or the pink-sanded Elafonisi in Crete. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for sailing, snorkeling, and swimming in secluded coves accessible only by boat.

The Spirit of Philoxenia

The local concept of philoxenia, or 'love for strangers,' ensures that visitors are treated with genuine warmth and generosity. It is common for locals to offer travelers coffee, snacks, or detailed directions with a friendly smile.

Rugged Mountain Landscapes

Beyond the beaches, mainland Greece is surprisingly mountainous, offering world-class hiking in the Vikos Gorge and the mystical rock-top monasteries of Meteora. These regions provide a cooler, greener perspective of the country far from the seaside crowds.

Top Experiences

Top-rated tours and activities in Greece

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Cities & Destinations

Regions

Attica and Athens

Centering on the capital, this region is the urban heart of the country where the majestic Parthenon overlooks a buzzing metropolis. It is the primary gateway for travelers, offering a mix of world-class museums, trendy rooftop bars, and the coastal beauty of the Athens Riviera.

The Cyclades

This is the most famous island group, characterized by its iconic whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches. It includes bucket-list destinations like Santorini and Mykonos, as well as the rugged landscapes of Naxos and the volcanic shores of Milos.

Crete

Greece's largest island feels like its own country, boasting a unique dialect, distinct music, and a mountainous interior dotted with caves. Visitors come here for the ancient ruins of Knossos, the Venetian harbor of Chania, and some of the most dramatic gorges in Europe.

The Peloponnese

Connected to the mainland by the Corinth Canal, this peninsula is a treasure trove of classical sites including Olympia, Epidaurus, and Mycenae. It offers a more authentic, less crowded experience with medieval castle towns like Monemvasia and vast olive groves.

The Ionian Islands

Located off the western coast, these islands like Corfu and Kefalonia are much greener and more lush than their Aegean counterparts. They feature heavy Italian influence in their architecture and history, along with dramatic limestone cliffs and neon-blue waters.

Central Macedonia

Home to the vibrant second city of Thessaloniki, this northern region is a hub for foodies and history buffs alike. It serves as a base for exploring the triple-pronged peninsula of Halkidiki and the legendary home of the gods, Mount Olympus.

Where to Stay

See hotels, apartments & rentals around Santorini, Greece – live prices from Booking.com, Expedia, Vrbo and more

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Cities & Destinations:

Best Time to Visit

Greece is best visited during the spring and early autumn when the weather is mild and the crowds are manageable. Coastal regions and islands are most vibrant from May through October.

Peak Season

Jul, Aug

July and August are the hottest months with temperatures ranging from 25–35°C (77–95°F). Expect heavy crowds, high accommodation prices, and vibrant nightlife, especially on popular islands like Mykonos and Santorini.

Shoulder Season

Apr, May, Jun, Sep, Oct

April to June and September to October offer pleasant temperatures of 15–25°C (59–77°F). This period is ideal for hiking and sightseeing with fewer tourists and more competitive pricing for hotels.

Off-Peak

Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar

Winter is cool and occasionally rainy with temperatures averaging 10–15°C (50–59°F). While Athens and Thessaloniki remain fully operational, many island hotels and ferry routes close or reduce frequency during these months.

Getting Around

Greece has a well-developed transportation network consisting of regional buses, a mainland rail system, and extensive ferry connections between the islands.

Ferry

The primary way to reach the islands, with options ranging from high-speed catamarans to large overnight car ferries departing from Piraeus, Rafina, and Lavrion.

Bus

KTEL is the national intercity bus network, reaching nearly every village on the mainland and operating local routes on larger islands.

Train

Hellenic Train operates the main rail corridor connecting Athens and Thessaloniki; typical journey time is about 5 hours. Timetables/frequency may be reduced during infrastructure works.

Metro

The Athens Metro is efficient and connects the city center to the airport and Piraeus port. Validate your ticket; fare-evasion fines are set at 60× the standard 90-minute ticket (amount depends on current fare).

Food & Drink

Greek food culture is centered on the 'meze' style of eating, where small plates are shared among friends over long, leisurely afternoons. The focus is on simplicity, allowing high-quality ingredients like wild herbs, honey, and feta cheese to be the stars of the meal.

Must Try

Moussaka

A rich, baked casserole featuring layers of sautéed eggplant, minced meat, and potatoes, all topped with a thick, creamy layer of béchamel sauce.

Souvlaki

Small pieces of grilled meat, usually pork or chicken, served on a skewer or wrapped in pita bread with tomatoes, onions, fries, and tzatziki.

Choriatiki

Known globally as Greek Salad, this dish consists of chunks of tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, olives, and a large slab of feta cheese dressed in olive oil and oregano.

Spanakopita

A savory spinach pie made with layers of crispy phyllo pastry, feta cheese, and onions, often eaten as a breakfast or a quick snack.

Tzatziki

A refreshing dip made from thick Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, and dill, perfect for pairing with grilled meats or warm bread.

Baklava

A sweet pastry made of many layers of paper-thin phyllo dough filled with chopped nuts and held together with honey or syrup.

Ouzo

The national drink of Greece, this dry, anise-flavored aperitif is typically served over ice and turns a milky white when water is added.

Frappé

An iconic Greek iced coffee drink made from instant coffee, water, and sugar, shaken until a thick foam is created and served over ice.

Money & Costs

Greece offers good value for money, with an average daily budget of ~$118 / €100 for mid-range travelers. Prices are notably higher in peak season on luxury islands like Santorini.

Tipping

Tipping is not mandatory but expected; 5–10% is standard in restaurants, and rounding up the fare is common for taxis.

Cards

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist hubs, but cash is still necessary for small tavernas, kiosks, and some smaller islands.

ATMs

Since Aug 2025, DIAS interbank ATM withdrawals are fee-free and third-party ATM withdrawal fees are capped at $1.77 / €1.5; your own bank may still charge fees.

Culture & Etiquette

Greeks are expressive and social, often engaging in lively debates that might sound like arguments to outsiders but are simply passionate conversations. Respect for religious traditions and elders is deeply ingrained in the local social fabric.

✓

Dress modestly when visiting churches or monasteries by covering your shoulders and knees; many sites provide wrap-around skirts for tourists.

✕

Don't flush toilet paper down the toilet; because of the narrow and old sewage pipes, you must place all paper in the provided bin next to the stall.

✓

Accept hospitality when offered, even if it is just a small glass of water or a sweet, as refusing can sometimes be seen as a slight to the host.

✕

Don't use the 'mountza' gesture, which involves extending your palm with fingers spread toward someone's face, as it is a highly offensive insult in Greece.

✓

Learn a few basic Greek phrases like 'Efcharisto' (thank you) and 'Yassas' (hello), as the effort is greatly appreciated by the locals.

✕

Don't expect shops to stay open between 14:00 and 17:00 in smaller towns, as many owners close for a midday siesta known as 'mesimeri'.

✓

Tipping is not mandatory but is standard practice; leaving 5–10% at restaurants or rounding up for taxi fares is a good way to show appreciation.

✕

Don't be alarmed by late dining hours; it is very common for Greeks to start their dinner at 21:00 or 22:00, especially during the warm summer months.

Safety & Health

Greece is generally very safe for travelers, though petty crime like pickpocketing is common in crowded areas of Athens. Strikes and demonstrations occur frequently and can disrupt transport.

Tap Water

Use caution

Vaccinations

No vaccines are required for entry. CDC advises considering Hepatitis A for most travelers; Hepatitis B may be recommended depending on activities/length of stay.

Common Scams

  • ⚠ Pickpocketing on Athens Metro Line 1 and in crowded squares like Syntagma and Monastiraki.
  • ⚠ Taxi drivers refusing to use the meter or claiming it is broken to charge an inflated flat rate.
  • ⚠ The 'Friendly Local' trap where a stranger invites you to a bar and leaves you with an exorbitant bill.
  • ⚠ Street vendors placing 'free' bracelets or flowers on you and then aggressively demanding payment.
  • ⚠ The broken camera scam where a stranger asks you to take their photo and then claims you broke their pre-damaged device.

Healthcare is generally good on the mainland but can be limited on islands; ensure you have appropriate travel insurance. Private hospitals usually require proof of insurance or upfront cash payment.

Language

Greek is the official language, but English is spoken fluently by most people in the tourism industry and by the younger generation in urban areas.

English Spoken: Widely spoken

Key Phrases

Key Phrases
Meaning Local Pronunciation
Good morning Kaliméra kah-lee-MEH-rah
Thank you Efcharistó ef-hah-rees-TOH
Please / You're welcome Parakaló pah-rah-kah-LOH
Hello / Goodbye Yia sas YAH-sas
Yes Nai neh
No Ochi OH-hee
Excuse me Signómi see-GHNO-mee
How much? Poso kanei? POH-soh KAH-nee

Visa & Entry

Greece is in the Schengen Area. Short stays are limited to 90 days in any 180-day period. The EU Entry/Exit System (EES) began rolling out on 12 Oct 2025. ETIAS travel authorisation is scheduled to start in the last quarter of 2026. Travelers must declare currency amounts exceeding $11,780 / €10,000 upon arrival.

Max Stay

90 days in 180-day period

Passport Validity

3 months beyond planned departure from the Schengen Area (and issued within the last 10 years)

Visa-free for

USA, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Israel, Japan, South Korea

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Greece safe for travelers?
Greece is generally very safe, with low rates of violent crime. However, travelers should remain vigilant against pickpocketing in crowded tourist areas of Athens, such as Monastiraki and Omonia. Additionally, strikes and public demonstrations are common in the capital and can occasionally disrupt transportation schedules, so checking local news before traveling between cities is highly recommended.
How expensive is a trip to Greece?
The average daily budget for a comfortable trip is approximately $118 / €100. This includes mid-range accommodation, meals at local tavernas, and some site entries. While islands like Mykonos and Santorini are significantly more expensive with high-end dining and hotels, the mainland and less-visited islands offer excellent value for money with street food like gyros costing only $4.71–$7.07 / €4–€6.
When is the best time to visit Greece?
The ideal time to visit is during the shoulder seasons of May–June and September–October. During these months, temperatures are pleasant at 20–25°C (68–77°F), and the crowds are far smaller than in the peak season of July and August. Visiting in early autumn also means the sea remains warm enough for swimming while flight and hotel prices begin to drop.
Do I need a visa for Greece?
As a member of the Schengen Area, Greece allows citizens from many countries, including the USA, Canada, and Australia, to enter for tourism without a visa for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. You must ensure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date. Travelers from other regions should check specific Schengen visa requirements.
Is English widely spoken in Greece?
English is spoken to a high standard in most tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants across the country. Younger Greeks and those working in the hospitality industry are typically fluent, making it very easy for international travelers to navigate. In remote villages on the mainland, English proficiency may be lower, but locals are usually very helpful and will use gestures to assist you.
What should I eat in Greece?
You should definitely try local staples like Moussaka, Souvlaki, and fresh Choriatiki. Seafood is a must on the islands, especially grilled octopus and calamari. For a quick and affordable meal, a Pita Gyros is the ultimate Greek street food. Don't forget to sample local cheeses beyond feta, such as Graviera or Saganaki, which is delicious when fried and served with lemon.
How do I get around Greece?
Greece has an extensive transportation network. Ferries are the primary way to travel between islands, with options ranging from high-speed catamarans to slower, more affordable car ferries. On the mainland, the KTEL regional bus system is efficient and reaches almost every village. The rail network connects major cities like Athens and Thessaloniki, but for exploring rural areas, renting a car is often the best choice.
Can I drink the tap water in Greece?
Tap water is safe and of high quality in Athens and most major mainland cities. However, on almost all the Greek islands and in some remote coastal areas, the tap water is not potable or has a high mineral content that may cause stomach upset. In these locations, you should always stick to bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth to avoid any issues.
What is the deal with toilet paper in Greece?
Due to the narrow and ancient plumbing systems across much of the country, especially on the islands, you cannot flush toilet paper down the toilet as it will cause immediate clogs. Instead, every bathroom is equipped with a small pedal bin specifically for used paper. This bin is emptied daily by housekeeping staff, and adhering to this rule is essential for maintaining local infrastructure.
Are Greek islands open in the winter?
While islands like Santorini, Rhodes, and Crete have permanent populations and remain partially open, many smaller islands virtually shut down from November to March. Most seasonal hotels, restaurants, and ferry routes stop operating during this time. Winter is a better time for exploring the historical sites of Athens or the mountain villages of the Peloponnese, where you can enjoy cooler weather and significantly lower prices.

Why you can trust this guide

Headshot of Jan Křenek, founder of GoTripzi
Jan Křenek

35+ countries • 8 years analyzing travel data

Independent developer and travel data analyst based in Prague. 35+ countries visited across Europe and Asia, 8+ years analyzing flight routes, accommodation prices, and seasonal weather patterns.

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