Greece
Greece offers sunshine, whitewashed houses with bright-blue shutters, delicious food, and a relaxed lifestyle. At the eastern side of Western civilization, it has some of the world’s greatest ancient monuments. While the country as a whole are a little behind the modern age it retains a simpler, time-passed world. Greece has one of Europe‘s fastest-changing cultural landscapes.
On Greece’s mainland you will find breathtaking coastlines and delightful villages full of character. You will find miles of beautiful beaches, Halkidiki has an island feel with stylish hotels such as the Sani Club. Messinia in scenic Peloponnese hosts crumbling castles, coves and valleys dotted with lakes and waterfalls.
Don’t forget to visit the capital, Athens, and explore the Acropolis and the Parthenon!
Below you will find comprehensive guides to the country.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to travel to Greece is between April and June (16-25°C). The weather is perfect for outdoor adventures, not too hot, definitely not cold, and you’ll have the place pretty much to yourself before the summer crowds arrive.
If you plan to travel in the summer, expect lots of people and temperatures upwards of 35°C but averages around 29°C . It’s an incredibly busy time in the country and hotels are often booked up a few weeks in advance.
If you’re traveling Greece on a budget, the winter months are the best time to visit. The top attractions will have little tourists, and you won’t have a problem finding cheap flights or hotels.
For a month by month guide, click here
What To Expect
Capital: Athens
Language: The official language in Greece is Greek.. ‘Hello’ and ‘Thank You’ in German: “γεια” for hello (pronounced “geia”) and “σας ευχαριστώ” for thank you (pronounced sas efcharistó)
Currency: The official currency of Greece is the Euro (EUR). £1 GBP is equivalent to 1.18 EUR. 1 USD is equivalent to about 0.85 EUR. Check the latest rates here
Credit Cards & ATMs: You can find ATMs (cash machines) all over Greece. Every town and city will have a couple, and all the smaller islands will have at least one. You will be able to use your credit card to pay for most purchases at shops and hotels, but you might come across a few bars and restaurants that are behind the times. Always have cash on your person.
Plugs: For Greece there are two associated plug types C and F. Plug type C is the plug which has two round pins and plug type F is the plug which has two round pins with two earth clips on the side. Greece operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz. I recommend buying a universal adapter
Safety: Greece is a very safe country to visit. Tourists are unlikely to experience any crime or violence. The only concern is petty crime on the streets, but if you keep an eye on your belongings etc, your trip should go smoothly. Ranked 39th on the ranking of world’s safest countries, it is very welcoming towards its tourists.
Random useful tip: Always have Bottled Water! You can drink water from the tap in virtually any city in mainland Greece (I don’t recommend though), definitely don’t drink from the tap on the smaller islands, it’s best to stick to bottled water. The majority of Greek islands do not have sufficient water, and the little that they do have is used for hygienic purposes and laundry.
Travel Guides
Below you will find guides on places in Greece, reasons to visit Greece, and how to travel Greece on a budget.
Top 5 Things to See and Do in Greece
(Note: Greece is brimming with activities. Truly, there’s an abundance to explore and experience. The following are just a few of our top picks. For more country-specific activities, refer to the detailed guides linked to each country below!)
The Acropolis, perched high above the bustling city of Athens, is a testament to the grandeur of ancient Greece. Dominated by the Parthenon, this historic citadel has stood the test of time and witnessed the unfolding tapestry of Western civilisation. Walking through its marbled pathways, one can’t help but feel a connection to the philosophers, warriors, and artisans who once graced these grounds. Beyond the Parthenon, sites like the Erechtheion and the Temple of Athena Nike weave tales of gods, heroes, and legendary feats. As the sun sets, the city below lights up, framing the Acropolis in a golden glow and embodying the eternal spirit of Athens.
The Cyclades, a group of islands scattered across the Aegean Sea, are the quintessential image of Greece. White-washed buildings, azure waters, and golden beaches form the backdrop for countless postcards. Santorini, with its stunning sunsets and iconic caldera views, is a lover’s paradise. Mykonos, on the other hand, beckons with its vibrant nightlife and winding streets. Each island, from the serene Paros to the traditional Naxos, offers a unique blend of culture, cuisine, and coastlines, making island hopping an essential Grecian adventure.
Once considered the centre of the world in ancient Greek religion, Delphi was home to the famous oracle and was a significant religious sanctuary. Set against the slopes of Mount Parnassus, the archaeological site includes the Temple of Apollo, the ancient theatre, and the Athenian Treasury. The site is steeped in myth and legend, echoing tales of gods and mortals seeking prophetic wisdom. Nearby, the Delphi Archaeological Museum houses an impressive collection of artefacts and statues, shedding further light on this sacred place’s historical and spiritual significance.
Enclosed by imposing medieval walls, Rhodes Old Town is a labyrinth of history and charm. As one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe, it offers a journey back in time. Cobblestone streets, fortified gates, and grand palaces tell stories of knights, sieges, and bygone eras. The Palace of the Grand Master, with its impressive architecture and museum collections, stands as the town’s crown jewel. As evening descends, local taverns come alive with music, dance, and the tantalising aromas of Greek cuisine.
Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, is a tapestry of splendid beaches, ancient ruins, and picturesque villages. Its coastline boasts some of the most pristine beaches in Greece, such as Elafonisi with its pink sands and Balos with its turquoise lagoons. Away from the shore, the island’s rugged mountains and deep gorges, like the famous Samaria Gorge, invite nature enthusiasts and hikers. Meanwhile, ancient sites like the Palace of Knossos provide glimpses into the Minoan civilisation, adding layers of history to this sun-kissed paradise.
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