Greece Travel Information

Greece is a country steeped in history and culture, with an abundance of ancient sites, charming villages, and beautiful beaches. From the iconic Acropolis in Athens to the picturesque Greek islands, there's no shortage of things to see and do in this beautiful country. Whether you're interested in exploring ancient ruins, soaking up the sun on a sandy beach, or immersing yourself in local culture, this list of top things to do in Greece has something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey through one of the most historically rich and beautiful countries in the world.

1. Walk Around the Streets of Plaka

Plaka is a charming neighborhood located in the heart of Athens. Known as the "Neighborhood of the Gods," it is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes. Visitors can stroll through the narrow streets and admire the traditional Greek architecture.

2. Take a Boat Tour of the Greek Islands

The Greek islands are famous for their crystal-clear waters, picturesque beaches, and charming villages. Visitors can take boat tours to explore the islands and experience the unique culture and lifestyle of the locals.

3. Visit the Meteora Monasteries

The Meteora Monasteries are a group of monasteries built on top of towering sandstone cliffs. Visitors can take guided tours of the monasteries and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

4. Walk along the ancient fortress of the city of Rhodes

The city of Rhodes is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to the ancient fortress of the Knights of St. John. Visitors can walk along the medieval walls and explore the castle, the palace of the Grand Master, and the street of the Knights.

5. Visit the Palace of Knossos

The Palace of Knossos is an ancient Minoan palace located on the island of Crete. Visitors can take guided tours of the palace and learn about the Minoan civilization and the myth of the Labyrinth and the Minotaur.

6. Take a dip in the therapeutic hot springs of Therma

Therma is a small village located on the island of Lesvos, and is known for its hot springs. Visitors can take a dip in the therapeutic waters and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

7. Visit the ancient city of Olympia

Olympia is the birthplace of the Olympic Games, and visitors can explore the ancient stadium, the temple of Zeus, and the museum.

8. Explore the ancient city of Epidavros

Epidavros is an ancient city located on the east coast of the Peloponnese. Visitors can explore the ancient theater, one of the best-preserved ancient theaters in the world, and learn about the history and mythology of the site.

9. Visit the Acropolis in Athens

The Acropolis is a must-see attraction in Athens. This ancient citadel is home to several iconic monuments, including the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Erechtheion. Visitors can take guided tours of the site and learn about the history and significance of these ancient structures.

10. Explore the Ancient City of Delphi

Delphi was once considered the center of the world by the ancient Greeks and was home to the famous Oracle of Delphi. Visitors can explore the ancient theater, the temple of Apollo, and the stadium, and learn about the rich history and mythology of the site.

Climate

Greece has a Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. The country's coastal areas typically experience the most moderate temperatures, while temperatures in the interior can be quite hot during the summer months. The Greek islands generally have a slightly milder climate than the mainland.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Greece depends on what you are looking for. For those interested in beaches and warm weather, the summer months (June to September) are ideal. However, these months can also be quite crowded and expensive. If you're interested in exploring ancient ruins and historical sites, the shoulder seasons (April to May and September to October) are a good choice as the weather is milder and there are fewer tourists.

It's worth noting that the peak tourist season runs from June to August, and many popular destinations can become very crowded during this time. If you're looking to avoid the crowds and save money, consider visiting Greece in the spring or fall.

Here are some general travel tips regarding entry requirements that apply across all countries:

Passport

Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in the country you are visiting. Some countries will not allow you to enter if your passport is set to expire within a certain period of time.

Visa

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if you need a visa. Some countries require a visa for entry, while others do not. Make sure to apply for a visa well in advance of your trip as the process can take several weeks. Check the latest Visa requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Health Requirements and COVID-19 Rules

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if there are any health requirements for entry. Some countries require vaccinations or proof of medical insurance. Check the latest health requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Travel Insurance

Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially if you are traveling internationally. Travel insurance can cover you in the event of trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events. Our travel insurance partner is SafetyWing. For dangerous activities and/or countries consider a rescue service like those offered by our partner, Global Rescue.

Customs

Be familiar with the customs and laws of the country you are visiting. Some countries have strict laws regarding drug possession, alcohol consumption, and dress codes.

Currency

Check the currency exchange rate and make sure you have enough local currency for your trip. Some countries may not accept credit cards or travelers cheques, so it is always good to have some cash on hand. At WhereNext we recommend use a Wise debit card, which provides low cost currency conversions and ATM withdrawals.

Research the country

Research about the culture, customs and laws of the country you are visiting. It will help you to understand the place more and also prepare you better for the trip.

Contact Information

Make a copy of your passport and keep it in a separate place from your passport. Also, leave a copy of your itinerary and contact information with a friend or family member at home.

Hotels

Greece offers a wide range of accommodation options, including luxury hotels, boutique hotels, and traditional Greek guesthouses. Many hotels are located in beach resorts and offer sea views, swimming pools, and other amenities. In the major cities, you will also find hotels that are more centrally located, providing easy access to cultural and historical sites.

Vacation Rentals

Vacation rentals, such as apartments, villas, and houses, are becoming increasingly popular in Greece. These properties offer more privacy and space than hotels and can be a good option for families or groups traveling together. You can find vacation rentals in most destinations in Greece, from the bustling cities to the quiet islands.

Traditional Accommodation

Greece is also known for its traditional accommodation options, such as cave houses, stone houses, and traditional houses. These types of accommodation can give you an authentic experience of the local culture and lifestyle. They are mostly found in the traditional villages and islands, and often offer excellent views of the surroundings.

Camping

Camping is also an option in Greece, with many campsites located near beaches and natural parks. These sites offer basic facilities, such as toilets and showers, and often have a cafe or snack bar. Camping is a budget-friendly option and allows you to explore the outdoors and enjoy the natural beauty of Greece.

Air Travel

The main international airport in Greece is Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport, located in Athens. From there, you can fly to other destinations within Greece, including the Greek islands. The national carrier Olympic Air and Aegean Airlines are the main airlines in Greece and operate flights to various destinations in Greece, including many of the islands.

Ferry

Ferries are a popular and convenient way to travel between the Greek islands and the mainland. There are many ferry companies that operate regular services, and you can find schedules and book tickets online. Some of the most popular routes include Athens to the Cyclades, the Dodecanese, and the Saronic Gulf islands.

Bus

Buses are a budget-friendly option for traveling within Greece, with many companies operating services between major cities and towns. Bus travel is a good option for getting around the mainland, and there are also bus services that connect the mainland with the islands.

Car rental

Car rental is another option if you want to explore Greece at your own pace. Most major car rental companies have branches at airports and in major cities, and you can also find local car rental companies. Keep in mind that driving in Greece can be challenging, especially in the cities and on the islands, so make sure you are comfortable driving in these conditions before renting a car.

Taxis

Taxis are widely available in Greece and can be hailed on the street or called by phone. They are a convenient option for short trips, but they can be more expensive than other forms of transportation. Always make sure to agree on the fare before starting the trip to avoid any misunderstandings later on.

Money Tips for Travel

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid any potential issues with international transactions.
• Bring a mix of cash, credit, and debit cards--and possibly a travel money card.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.
• Make sure to have a backup option for accessing money in case your primary method doesn't work.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• NEVER accept currency conversion at ATMs! Always get your home bank to convert at much better rates.
• Think about getting a Wise or other travel debit card; these can provide much better rates and some free ATM withdrawals.

ATM and Credit Cards

• Research the availability of ATMs and credit card acceptance at your destination before you depart.
• Keep your ATM card in a safe place and be mindful of your surroundings when using it.
• Try to stick to using ATMs that are affiliated with major banks.
• Keep your credit card information safe and secure, and be aware of potential scams.
• Make sure your cards have the necessary security features, such as chip and pin.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.

Exchange Rates

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• Be careful of places that may offer to exchange money at rates that seem too good to be true.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It covers a wide range of needs--even some you might not expect!

Medical Coverage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling. This can include coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency medical transportation. It's also a good idea to ensure that your travel insurance covers COVID-19 related illness and delays!

Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Travel insurance can provide coverage if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unexpected events such as illness, weather, or travel bans. It can also provide coverage if your trip is delayed or if your travel provider goes out of business.

Lost or Stolen Luggage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for lost or stolen luggage, as well as personal items such as passports and electronic devices.

Emergency Assistance and Evacuation

Many travel insurance plans offer emergency assistance services, such as providing information on local hospitals and doctors, assistance with replacing lost or stolen documents, and help with arranging transportation in the event of an emergency. At WhereNext we have partnered with Global Rescue for evacuation services, which are highly recommended if you are undertaking dangerous activities or are travelling to dangerous parts of the world.

Liability coverage

Travel insurance can also provide liability coverage in case you cause an accident or harm someone while you are traveling.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It can help cover the costs of medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. It's always a good idea to review the coverage and compare the different options available before making a decision. At WhereNext we both use and have partnered with Safety Wing for general travel insurance.

When traveling, getting mobile access is very important these days. If you are working remotely, wanting to update social media, or need to access your banks SMS authentication messages having a reliable service is a must. At WhereNext we recommend:

eSIM

Services such as those offered by our partner, Airalo, allow you to easily order and install an eSIM for different countries or regions that you are traveling in.

Dual SIM phone

If you have a phone that supports dual SIM's then you can get a SIM on arrival for each country, this is probably better done at a telco store rather than at the airport.

Extend your home plan

Depending on where you live and your mobile service provider you may be able to extend your plan to cover mobile roaming at reasonable rates.

Keep your primary SIM

With the amount of accounts we all have that require two factor authentication via SMS, keeping a constant number for these accounts is a must.

There are several online communities and platforms that you can use to meet people while traveling, both for making new friends or for networking professionally. Some popular options include:

Facebook groups

There are many Facebook groups dedicated to connecting people while traveling, from expat groups and travel communities to groups specific to certain cities or regions of the country. You can search for groups based on your interests or location and connect with others who share similar interests.

Meetup

Meetup is a platform that allows you to find groups of people that share your interests in your local area. There are Meetup groups all around the world, and they cover a wide range of topics, such as language exchange, sports, and cultural activities.

Internations

Internations is a social network for people who live or work abroad. It has a large community of expats and organizes regular events, activities and gatherings that allow members to connect and socialize.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a platform that connects travelers with local hosts, who offer free accommodation and a chance to experience the local culture. It's a great way to meet locals and make friends!

Reddit

Reddit has a large community, and there are several subreddits dedicated to connecting expats and travelers. You can use it to ask questions, get advice, and connect with others who are also living or traveling in the country.

Linkedin

LinkedIn is primarily a professional network, but you can also use it to connect with people who work in the same industry or have similar backgrounds. It can be useful to connect with people before you arrive and establish a few professional contacts to help you get started.

At WhereNext, we use Nomad List as a global community and then research more local ones for our destination. These are just a few examples of online communities you can use to meet people; please suggest any others that you think are appropriate for this destination.