How many days do you need in Greece?

Plan at least 7 to 10 days to cover Athens plus one or two islands without rushing. Athens alone needs two or three days for the Parthenon, Acropolis Museum and ancient agora. Ferries can be slow and weather can change schedules, so add buffer days if you island hop. Two weeks suits mainland sites like Delphi and Meteora too.

Greece is generally good value, except on the popular islands in peak summer. Casual food such as pita souvlaki is cheap, and accommodation runs from hostel dorms to luxury hotels. Prices climb in July and August, especially on Santorini and Mykonos, so travel in spring or fall and book early. Check current rates before budgeting.

Do you need a car in Greece?

Usually not, unless you want to reach remote areas; Athens and other cities work fine on public transport. Athens has a metro, trams and buses, and ferries and flights link the islands. A rental gives flexibility off the beaten path, but roads can be narrow and winding, signs are inconsistent, and city parking is hard.

Is Greece safe for tourists?

Greece is generally safe for travelers, with petty theft the main concern in crowded tourist areas. Keep valuables secured in busy spots like central Athens and ferry ports. Driving also needs care, since roads can be narrow and winding and speed limit signs aren't always posted. Check your government's current travel advice before you go.

Is English widely spoken in Greece?

Yes, you can get by in English in most tourist areas, including Athens, hotels, restaurants and the popular islands. Learning a few Greek words is still appreciated, and you may find less English in small villages or at local tavernas. Carry cash too, since some eateries don't accept cards.

Which Greek island is best for a first trip?

Choose by travel style: Santorini for caldera views, Mykonos for nightlife, Crete for history and variety. Santorini's cliff-top towns Fira and Oia overlook the caldera, Mykonos has stylish bars and sandy beaches, and Crete offers Chania's Venetian harbor and Rethymnon's fortresses. Islands are busiest in July and August, so first-timers do well in spring or fall.

Greece Travel Guide: Islands, Ferries & Typical Costs

Greece Travel Guide Overview

Known for its history, lovely people, sun, sea, islands with perfect beaches, and tasty and quality dishes, Greece is a premier travel destination. The natural beauty of Greece with the largest coastline in Europe is unbeatable. Whether you are a history buff or prefer a quiet vacation lounging on the beach or maybe you are looking for an alternative extreme sport-filled vacation — whatever your pleasure, Greece is sure to please! In this Greece travel guide, you will find the top places to visit, Greece travel tips, and more.

Top Destinations in Greece

Athens – Referred to as the historical capital of Europe, Athens is an attractive modern city with unrivaled charm. This city has lots of tourist attractions which include the Parthenon, the Acropolis Museum, and the ancient agora.

Mykonos – This is the second most visited island. You can’t mention Mykonos without referring to the nightlife activities, which center around the town and are famous for their stylish eateries, bars, and clubs. You can also check out Paraportiani (a whitewashed church in Mykonos Town) and numerous sandy beaches along the island’s south coast.

Nafplio – Often cited as Greece’s most beautiful city, Nafplio is a car-free old city filled with neo-classical mansions, and churches and overlooked by the 18th-century Palamidi Fortress.

Crete – Known as the birthplace of both the king of the Olympian gods and of modern European civilization, Crete is a Mediterranean jewel. Soak up the charming atmosphere of Chania Town’s Old Venetian Harbor or the fortresses and monasteries of Rethymnon.

Thessaloniki – Known as the country’s second biggest city after Athens, this city is filled with attractions such as the Byzantine churches, the Triumphal Arch of Galerius and the 4th-century Rotunda and so much more

Santorini – Known as the best destination for most tourists and with such a picturesque backdrop, Santorini is best known for the cliff-top towns of Fira and Oia, which lie on the west coast, overlooking the deep, blue sea-filled caldera.

Best Times to Visit Greece

When planning your trip to Greece, timing can significantly enhance your experience. The best times to visit this stunning destination are during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm, and the tourist crowds are less overwhelming, allowing for a more authentic experience.

Spring is particularly enchanting as the landscapes burst into bloom, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The mild temperatures are perfect for exploring ancient ruins and enjoying the beautiful beaches without the summer rush.

Similarly, fall offers a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the harvest season, with local festivals celebrating wine and olive oil.

Summer (July to August) is peak tourist season in Greece, especially on the islands like Santorini and Mykonos. While the vibrant atmosphere and lively events are appealing, be prepared for higher prices and larger crowds. If you prefer a more relaxed vacation itinerary, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring or fall.

For those looking for a unique experience, winter (November to March) can also be a great time to visit, particularly for exploring the mainland and enjoying the local culture without the tourist influx. However, some islands may have limited services during this period.

In our opinion, for the best experience in Greece, refer back to this Greece travel guide and consider planning your vacation itinerary ideas around the spring or fall months. However if you’re interested in history, culture, or simply soaking up the sun, Greece has something to offer year-round!

How to Reach The Greece

By plane, train, car, ship, or even a combination of transportation means, traveling to Greece is relatively simple and quick.

By Plane: The easiest way to get to Greece is to fly, and there are direct flights to a variety of Greek airports from a lot of major European airports with the two 2 main and busiest airports being the Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH) and The Airport of Thessaloniki (SKG). If you are starting point is North America, Australia, New Zealand, or South Africa, the most cost-effective way to Greece may well be to get to London, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, another Northern European hub, or even Istanbul– and pick up an onward flight from there.

By Train: All international and some domestic Greek rail routes have been halted as a result of the economic crisis in Greece. You could still ride the train to one of the ferry port cities below in Italy the continue on via boat.

By Ferry: You can choose from four ports while sailing from Italy to Greece; although ferries operate all year long, services are reduced from December to April. Bari and Brindisi are connected to Corfu, Igoumenitsa (the port of the western Greek peninsula), and Pátra by the quickest and most frequent boats (at the northwest tip of the Peloponnese). Additionally, ferries operate between Ancona and Venice and Pátra via Igoumenitsa/Corfu.

By Car: If you have lots of time to take your time traveling, driving to Greece might be enjoyable. Only if you wish to explore along the way is it worth taking into account.

Getting Around Greece: Transportation Options

When planning your trip to Greece, understanding the various modes of transportation available is essential for a smooth travel experience. This Greece travel guide will help you navigate your way through this beautiful country, whether you’re hopping between islands or exploring the mainland.

Air Travel

Greece has several domestic airports that connect its many islands and cities. Here are some of the most popular ones:

Eleftherios Venizelos Airport (ATH) – Athens
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Thessaloniki Airport (SKG) – Thessaloniki
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Heraklion Airport (HER) – Crete
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Rhodes Airport (RHO) – Rhodes
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Corfu Airport (CFU) – Corfu
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Several airlines operate domestic flights within Greece, making it easy to reach your desired destination:

Aegean Airlines
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Olympic Air
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Sky Express
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Pros: Quick and efficient for long distances; connects to many islands and cities.

Cons: Can be expensive, especially during peak season; potential delays due to weather conditions.

Ferries

Ferries are a popular way to travel between the Greek islands. Major ferry companies include:

Blue Star Ferries
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Hellenic Seaways
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SeaJets
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Pros: Scenic views of the Aegean Sea; a chance to explore multiple islands in one trip.

Cons: Travel times can be lengthy; schedules may vary based on weather conditions.

Public Transportation

Within cities, public transportation is efficient and affordable. Options include buses, trams, and the metro system in Athens.

KTEL Buses – Intercity bus service
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Metro Athens
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Pros: Cost-effective; extensive network covering major areas.

Cons: Can be crowded during peak hours; limited service in rural areas.

Car Rentals

Renting a car is a great way to explore Greece at your own pace. Major rental companies include:

Hertz
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Europcar
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Sixt
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Pros: Flexibility to explore off-the-beaten-path locations; convenient for families.

Cons: Parking can be challenging in cities; additional costs for fuel and insurance.

With these transportation options, you can easily navigate Greece and make the most of your travel experience. Whether you prefer the speed of air travel, the scenic routes of ferries, or the freedom of a rental car, Greece has something to offer every traveler.

Top Greece Travel tips

1. Try to always have cash with you Unlike other European countries, Greece is big on cash, so make sure to have enough money with you as you may find Eat and Drinks and establishments that do not accept credit cards.

2. Book Early – The earlier you reserve your hotel or tickets during the busy season, the more affordable they will be.
Travelers should be aware that islands and ferries are congested during the summer season (mid-July to the end of August) because both Greeks and foreigners are on vacation.

3. Eat and drink like a local Eating is invariably a casual affair in Greece. Look out for the Eat and Drinks that the locals dine in as the food will be much better. Just remember that Greeks eat late – often after 10 pm. Also, try the lamb shank!

4. Don’t Be Afraid To Ask For WiFi Except in remote and isolated places, you can get an internet connection virtually anywhere. WiFi spots are available in many public spaces, as well as in hotels and cafés/bars. Don’t be afraid to ask for the password if the connection is secured; this is common practice in Greece.

5. Taste Raki or Ouzo You can shoot it, drink it, or in the most popular manner, combine it with water so it goes down a little easier.

6. Driving in Greece can be wild The roads are often narrow and if you are on the coastline very windy. The speed limit signs aren’t always available so sometimes you don’t even know what the speed limit is.

7. Step back to ancient times There are so many fantastic Greek ruins that it would be impossible to see them all in one trip but you should be sure to visit a few.

8. Try to island hop there is no reason you have to limit yourself to just one island. You can organize an island-hopping excursion. While island-hopping can complicate tourism in Greece, it is possible and can result in a richly varied cultural experience.

Greece Typical Costs

Price Range for Hotels
Depending on the area of Greece you are traveling to, the cost of accommodation varies. You can find dorm rooms in hostels for about 10-35 EUR per bed a night. Hotels and guesthouses cost 40-100 EUR per night while luxurious hotels can cost 150-300 EUR per night. On Airbnb, you can find shared rooms or apartments for as low as 10 EUR in many cities and entire homes (including studio apartments) can be rented on the low-end for 50 EUR.

Cost of Meal
Food in Greece is quite affordable and shouldn’t eat into your budget too much. The cheapest meal in Greece is one pita souvlaki (wrapped souvlaki) that costs about 3 EUR and you can even take it to-go. Most cafes will cost you around 12 EUR for a meal. A meal at a very luxurious Eat and Drink will begin at 30 EUR. A three-course meal with bottled wine starts from 50-70 EUR per person or more. However, if you cook your meals, expect to pay 35-45 EUR per week for groceries that will include pasta, vegetables, chicken, and other basic foods.

Must-Try Foods and Drinks in Greece: A Culinary Journey

Delicious Foods to Savor in Greece

Moussaka: A classic Greek dish, moussaka is a layered casserole made with eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce. Each bite offers a rich blend of flavors that perfectly encapsulates Greek cuisine.
Souvlaki: These skewered and grilled pieces of meat, often served with pita bread and tzatziki sauce, are a popular street food. Souvlaki is not only delicious but also a quick and satisfying meal on the go.
Dolmades: Grape leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice, pine nuts, and herbs, dolmades are a traditional appetizer that showcases the fresh flavors of Greek cooking. They are often served with a side of lemon for added zest.
Spanakopita: This savory pastry filled with spinach and feta cheese is a must-try. The flaky phyllo dough combined with the rich filling makes spanakopita a delightful snack or appetizer.
Baklava: A sweet dessert made of layers of phyllo pastry, filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with honey syrup. Baklava is a heavenly treat that perfectly balances sweetness and texture.

Refreshing Drinks to Enjoy in Greece

Ouzo: This anise-flavored aperitif is a staple in Greek culture. Often enjoyed as an aperitif, ouzo is typically served with meze (small dishes) and is known for its strong, aromatic flavor.
Retsina: A unique Greek wine that is flavored with pine resin, retsina has a distinctive taste that pairs well with many traditional dishes. It’s a refreshing choice for wine lovers looking to try something different.
Greek Coffee: Strong and rich, Greek coffee is brewed in a special pot called a briki. Served unfiltered, it’s often enjoyed with a glass of cold water and is a perfect way to start your day or take a break.
Frappé: This frothy iced coffee drink is a popular choice, especially during the hot summer months. Made with instant coffee, sugar, and milk, frappé is a refreshing pick-me-up that’s loved by locals.
Tsipouro: A strong distilled spirit, tsipouro is often enjoyed after meals. It can be served neat or with a variety of meze, making it a great way to experience Greek hospitality.

We hope you have enjoyed our Greece Travel Guide and that it helps you plan your trip to Greece. Below are some of the most popular destinations, attractions and places to eat and drink in Greece.