Greece Travel Guide
Country Historic country known for ancient civilization
In Greece, ancient ruins and azure seas offer more than just postcard views. Athens’ Acropolis stands as a testament to human achievement, while the islands of Santorini and Mykonos boast whitewashed architecture and vibrant nightlife. Taverna tables brim with dishes like moussaka and souvlaki, inviting leisurely meals.
Why Visit Greece #
Santorini and Mykonos are photogenic but busy - visit Naxos, Paros or Folegandros for calmer beaches and authentic island life. Take small ferries between Cyclades for simple island-hopping rhythms and focus on tavernas, local cheeses and wind-swept lanes rather than postcard-perfect sunsets alone.
The Acropolis in Athens is a must for context and views; pair it with the Acropolis Museum to make sense of what you see. Delphi and Epidaurus offer quieter, more atmospheric archaeology amid mountain scenery. Arrive early to avoid crowds and imagine the original civic dramas that played out here.
Eat like a local at family-run tavernas: grilled octopus, moussaka, souvlaki and island cheeses. Meals stretch long into the evening with wine or ouzo and small meze plates. Seek tavernas away from harbor frontlines for better cooking and friendlier prices.
Aegean sailing between islands reveals hidden coves, sea caves and off-the-beaten-track beaches accessible only by boat. Charter a small sailboat or join day cruises from Lavrion or Paros. Calm waters and short hops between islands make sailing a relaxed way to explore remote beaches.
Hike among Meteora’s monasteries perched on sandstone pillars for an otherworldly landscape and panoramic views. The sites are spiritual and scenic; combine monastery visits with nearby Kalambaka for local food and quieter hiking trails. Midday can be crowded, so morning light is best for photos.
Who's Greece For?
Santorini’s caldera views and Mykonos’ sunset lounges make for postcard-perfect honeymoons; quiet islands like Folegandros suit couples seeking fewer crowds and more privacy.
Crete and Rhodes host family resorts with calm beaches and shallow waters. Many archaeological sites have engaging storytelling for kids, though island ferries can be tiring.
Island-hopping routes, cheap hostels and lively youth scenes on Ios create a classic backpacker vibe. Summer crowds drive prices up, so shoulder seasons suit budgets better.
Athens and some islands have growing coworking hubs and relatively low living costs. Greece’s digital nomad visa options make longer stays more feasible than many European countries.
Fresh seafood, grilled octopus and regional specialties like Cretan dakos reward food lovers. Island tavernas serve simple, olive-oil-forward cooking and superb local wines.
Sailing between islands, rock climbing in Kalymnos and hiking Samaria Gorge offer diverse outdoor thrills. Windsurfing and diving are excellent in many Aegean spots.
Mykonos and Ios are famous for their party scenes, attracting international DJs and beach clubs. Athens offers a growing nightlife for an urban spin on the party circuit.
Meteora’s cliff-top monasteries, Vikos Gorge and the wild landscapes of Crete show Greece’s less-visited natural beauty. Coastal biodiversity and hidden coves reward exploration.
Regions of Greece #
Athens
Athens is a compact mix of ancient monuments and a lively urban scene. Visit the Acropolis and archaeological museums, then disappear into neighbourhood tavernas and rooftop bars. It’s the typical gateway to Greece-full of history, bustling markets and a forgiving city layout for short exploratory stays.
Top Spots
- Athens - Acropolis views, ancient ruins and buzzy tavernas.
- Plaka - Narrow lanes and souvenir shops.
- Monastiraki - Flea market and rooftop bars.
Cyclades
The Cyclades are quintessential Greek islandland: whitewashed houses, blue domes and dramatic sea views. Expect postcard sunsets, lively nightlife on some islands and quieter, agricultural interiors on others. Island-hopping here combines beaches, traditional villages and archeological sites-best explored by ferry or short flights.
Top Spots
- Santorini - Sunset caldera views and cliffside villages.
- Mykonos - Beach parties and whitewashed alleys.
- Naxos - Family beaches and fertile interior.
Crete
Crete is Greece’s largest island: rugged mountains, long beaches and a robust local cuisine anchored in olive oil and cheeses. Archaeological sites like Knossos and dramatic gorges meet relaxed coastal towns. Travel here for extended stays that mix hiking, sea time and a rich food culture with strong regional identity.
Top Spots
- Heraklion - Archaeological treasures and busy markets.
- Chania - Venetian harbour and winding streets.
- Rethymno - Ottoman and Venetian architecture.
Ionian Islands
The Ionian Islands are greener and more sheltered than many Aegean spots, with lush hills and turquoise bays. They’re ideal for relaxed sailing, picturesque harbors and calmer waters. Expect Venetian echoes in architecture and a gentler pace-perfect for families and anyone seeking scenic seaside tranquillity.
Top Spots
- Corfu - Venetian architecture and green landscapes.
- Zakynthos - Navagio Beach and dramatic cliffs.
- Kefalonia - Caves and rugged coastlines.
Peloponnese
The Peloponnese mixes ancient sites, olive groves and dramatic coastline. Drive winding roads past ruins and coastal towns, stopping for fresh seafood and local wines. It’s less island-centric and more road-trip friendly-archaeological highlights, fortified towns and quiet beaches reward a slower pace of travel.
Top Spots
- Nafplio - Seaside citadel town with narrow streets.
- Mycenae - Bronze Age ruins and tombs.
- Monemvasia - Medieval fortress on a rock island.
Northern Greece
Northern Greece offers a mix of Byzantine heritage, vibrant port culture and dramatic inland scenery. Visit Meteora’s cliff-top monasteries, enjoy Thessaloniki’s nightlife and sample rich northern flavours. The region feels more off-the-beaten-path for many visitors, with diverse landscapes from mountains to beach peninsulas.
Top Spots
- Thessaloniki - Lively port city and food scene.
- Halkidiki - Peninsulas with sandy beaches.
- Meteora - Monasteries perched on sandstone pillars.
Top Cities in Greece
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Best Things to Do in Greece
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Greece Bucket List
- Acropolis (Athens) - Ancient citadel crowning Athens with the Parthenon, archaeological museum, and panoramic city views.
- Santorini - Oia - Cliffside village of Oia with whitewashed houses, caldera sunset views, and volcanic beaches.
- Meteora Monasteries - Monasteries perched on sandstone pillars offering surreal landscapes and unforgettable hiking routes.
- Palace of Knossos (Crete) - Minoan palace complex near Heraklion revealing Bronze Age frescoes and mythic labyrinth associations.
- Delphi Sanctuary - Ancient sanctuary on Mount Parnassus, once considered the oracle center of the ancient world.
- Rhodes Old Town - Medieval walled city combining Crusader, Ottoman, and Byzantine architecture with lively harborside cafes.
- Zagori villages and Vikos Gorge - Stone-built villages in Epirus and deep Vikos Gorge offering dramatic gorges and hiking away from crowds.
- Monemvasia - Byzantine fortress town on a sea-connected rock, narrow lanes and preserved medieval atmosphere.
- Pelion Villages (Tsagarada, Makrinitsa) - Green mountain peninsula blending traditional stone villages, beaches, and mountain trails for varied exploration.
- Nisyros Volcano (Mandraki) - Small Dodecanese island with an accessible volcanic crater and sleepy whitewashed capital Mandraki.
- Chios Mastihohoria (mastic villages) - Southern Chios villages preserving medieval architecture and unique mastic trees producing prized resin.
- Peloponnese Circuit - Loop from Athens through Corinth, Nafplio, Mani, and Olympia; about 600-800 km over four to seven days.
- Cyclades island-hopping (ferry route) - Ferry route connecting Santorini, Naxos, Paros and Mykonos; ideal for a week-long island itinerary.
- Thessaloniki-Meteora-Zagori road trip - Thessaloniki to Zagori via Meteora and Pindos mountains, roughly 600 km and two to three days.
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Planning Your Trip to Greece #
1 Week Greece Itinerary
Arrive Athens: Acropolis, Plaka cafes, day trip to Delphi, then ferry to Santorini for caldera views, Oia sunsets and island walks and beach time plus local wines.
Show itinerary- Day 1 - Arrive Athens; evening in Plaka and Acropolis view.
- Day 2 - Acropolis, Acropolis Museum and Anafiotika quarter.
- Day 3 - Day trip to Delphi archaeological site.
- Day 4 - Ferry or flight to Santorini; Oia sunset.
- Day 5 - Explore Fira, caldera walk and wineries.
- Day 6 - Beach time or boat trip to volcano and hot springs.
- Day 7 - Return to Athens and depart.
2 Weeks Greece Itinerary
Start Athens, visit Delphi and Meteora, ferry through Cyclades including Naxos and Paros, then several days in Santorini and Mykonos with beach days and archaeological sites.
Show itinerary- Day 1-2 - Athens highlights and neighborhood exploration.
- Day 3-4 - Ferry to Mykonos: beaches and windmills.
- Day 5-7 - Island hop to Naxos and Paros for beaches and villages.
- Day 8-10 - Santorini: caldera, wineries and Oia sunsets.
- Day 11-14 - Ferry to Crete: Knossos, Chania and coastal time; return to Athens.
3-4 Weeks Greece Itinerary
Extensive Greek journey: Athens, Peloponnese (Nafplio, Olympia), Delphi, Meteora, Thessaloniki, Halkidiki beaches, Crete and a Cyclades island hop to Mykonos and Santorini with local tavernas and hiking.
Show itinerary- Day 1-3 - Athens extended and day trip to Delphi.
- Day 4-6 - Peloponnese: Nafplio, Epidaurus and Olympia visits.
- Day 7-9 - Meteora monasteries and cliff walks.
- Day 10-12 - Ferry north to Thessaloniki and local markets.
- Day 13-16 - Halkidiki beaches and coastal relaxation.
- Day 17-21 - Crete exploration: Chania, Rethymno and Knossos.
- Day 22-26 - Cyclades island hop: Mykonos, Naxos and Santorini.
- Day 27-28 - Return to Athens for last nights and departure.
Best Time to Visit Greece #
Greece has a Mediterranean climate: hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters, with notable regional differences between islands, the southern mainland and the mountains. Tourism peaks in summer; spring and autumn are popular shoulder periods for more comfortable sightseeing.
January
January is one of the coolest months with frequent rain on the mainland but milder conditions on southern islands. Many tourist services are reduced outside peak island season.
Events
- Epiphany (Theofania) - Orthodox Epiphany on January 6 is observed with local church services and coastal blessings in seaside towns.
February
February remains cool and wet in many areas; islands are relatively mild compared with the mainland. This is an off-peak time for most tourist areas, offering lower prices.
Events
- Carnival (various towns) - Carnival celebrations take place in some coastal and island towns in February or early March with parades and parties.
March
March is transitional: mainland hills can still be chilly while islands see improving weather. Fewer tourists make it a calm time to visit archaeological sites and cities.
Events
- Greek Orthodox Lent begins (date varies) - Religious observances and local church events mark the start of Lent ahead of Easter.
April
April usually brings spring warmth, blossoming landscapes and growing sunshine on islands. It's a popular shoulder month for visiting historic sites before the summer crowds arrive.
Events
- Easter (date varies) - Greek Orthodox Easter is widely observed with religious services and local customs across the country.
May
May offers reliably pleasant weather across much of Greece, ideal for island hopping and archaeological visits. Tourist numbers increase but are still lower than in peak summer.
Events
No major festivals this month.
June
June marks the start of reliably hot, dry weather-excellent for beaches and islands. Tourist flows increase markedly, so book ferries and accommodation in advance.
Events
- Athens & Epidaurus Festival - Performing arts festival running through summer with theatre and music events in Athens and Epidaurus.
July
July is typically the warmest month with long hot days across the islands and mainland lowlands; sea temperatures are inviting. Expect heavy tourist traffic and higher prices at prime resorts.
Events
No major festivals this month.
August
August remains peak season with hot, dry weather and widespread holiday crowds. Many Greeks take their own holidays in August, so expect busy transport and booked-out accommodation.
Events
- Assumption of Mary (15 August) - A public holiday with religious processions and local festivals, particularly on islands and in villages.
September
September often feels like a continuation of summer with warm seas and fewer crowds after August. It's an excellent month for combining sightseeing and beach time.
Events
No major festivals this month.
October
October brings milder temperatures and increasing rainfall on the mainland, though the islands often retain pleasant weather in early October. Crowds drop and prices fall compared with peak months.
Events
- Ohi Day - National holiday on October 28 commemorating Greece's refusal to surrender in 1940, observed with parades and ceremonies.
November
November is cooler with more frequent rain, especially in northern and mountainous regions. Many island facilities close for the off-season, though cities remain active.
Events
- Athens Marathon - Annual marathon around Athens held in November, attracting international runners.
December
December is cooler and wetter, with shorter daylight hours and quieter tourism outside urban centers. Coastal areas are milder than inland and mountainous areas, which can see snow.
Events
No major festivals this month.
How to Get to Greece #
Most visitors arrive by air at Athens Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH), Greece’s main gateway; Thessaloniki (SKG) handles northern routes and island flights. Many travellers to the islands arrive via ferry from Piraeus (Athens) or by air into regional airports; overland access is possible from neighbouring Balkan countries.
- Greece is in the Schengen Area: citizens of the EU/EEA/Switzerland and many other countries (including US, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea) can enter visa‑free for short tourism stays up to 90 days in any 180‑day period.
- Nationals who do not qualify for visa‑free entry must apply for a Schengen visa before travel.
- Schengen entry rules generally require a passport valid for at least three months beyond intended departure from the Schengen Area and travel insurance covering medical emergencies.
- Border officers may ask for proof of onward travel, accommodation details and sufficient funds for your stay.
International Airports
Border Crossings #
Greece ↔ Bulgaria
Greece-Bulgaria crossings are busy overland links between southern Greece (Thessaloniki region and central Macedonia) and western Bulgaria. Bulgaria is an EU member but not fully integrated into Schengen for all measures; however, routine passport-free travel is not in effect between Greece (Schengen) and Bulgaria for non-EU nationals-confirm visa requirements with both states. The main road crossings handle significant freight and passenger traffic; expect passport and customs checks at official checkpoints.
Crossings
- Promachonas (GR) - Kulata (BG) (Central Macedonia to Blagoevgrad Province) - The major motorway crossing on the E79 linking Thessaloniki with Sofia. Frequent commercial and private vehicle traffic; facilities include customs and tourist information. Useful for drivers and bus services between Greece and western Bulgaria.
- Ormenio (GR) - Svilengrad area (BG) (southern Evros) (Evros / North-eastern Greece to Haskovo region) - Northernmost land crossing on the Greek-Bulgarian border. Primarily used for regional trade and local traffic; services are more limited than at Promachonas.
Greece ↔ North Macedonia
Overland routes between northern Greece and North Macedonia are straightforward highway and secondary-road crossings used by tourists and truckers. Greece is in Schengen, North Macedonia is not; check both countries’ visa policies before travel. Bus services link Thessaloniki to Skopje and onward into the Balkans.
Crossings
- Evzoni / Promachonas area: Evzoni (GR) - Bogorodica (MK) (Central Macedonia (near Thessaloniki) to North Macedonia) - Main A1/E75 border crossing for traffic between Thessaloniki and Skopje. Frequent coaches and private vehicles use this route; expect immigration checks and possibly longer waits during holiday periods.
- Niki (GR) - Bitola region (MK) (Western Macedonia to southeastern North Macedonia) - Smaller crossing suitable for regional traffic and travellers heading toward Bitola. Less commercial traffic than Evzoni-useful for local journeys.
Greece ↔ Albania
Albania-Greece land crossings connect Epirus and western Macedonia regions with northern and southern Albania. Road infrastructure varies: some crossings are well-equipped for coaches and cars, others are mountain passes with limited facilities. Greece is Schengen; Albania has its own entry rules-many nationalities can enter visa-free, but check before travel.
Crossings
- Kakavijë / Kakavia (GR) - Kapshticë (AL) (Epirus (Ioannina area) to Gjirokastër region) - One of the most frequently used southern crossings; it links Ioannina with southern Albanian towns. The road is mountainous; commercial services and occasional delays are common in winter.
- Krystallopigi (GR) - Bilisht / Pogradec area (AL) (Western Macedonia to eastern Albania) - Highway crossing used by buses and private vehicles travelling between central Greece and eastern Albania. Useful for travellers heading to Pogradec and Korçë regions.
Greece ↔ Turkey
Greece-Turkey border crossings (mainly across the Evros river and in the northeast Aegean) are key transits for land travellers and freight. Rail services between Thessaloniki and Istanbul exist but are limited and can be disrupted; road crossings are the most reliable option. Turkey has its own e‑visa system for many nationalities-verify eligibility and fees before travel. Given political sensitivities, border procedures can be stricter than with other neighbours.
Crossings
- Kipoi / Kipi (GR) - Ipsala (TR) (Evros / northern Aegean coast (near Alexandroupoli)) - The principal road crossing on the E90 linking northeastern Greece with Turkey. Used by buses and freight; passport and customs checks are in place and queues can form during peak times.
- Orestiada / Kastanies (GR) - Uzunköprü region (TR) (Evros border area) - Smaller crossing used for local traffic and regional journeys. Facilities are modest compared with the Kipoi-Ipsala crossing; travellers should prepare for limited services and possible delays.
How to Get Around Greece
Aegean Airlines and other carriers operate the bulk of domestic and regional flights; low-cost options such as Ryanair and easyJet serve many island routes and regional airports.
Athens (ATH) and Thessaloniki (SKG) have frequent connections to the islands and to major European hubs; expect higher fares in summer and lower off-season deals.
Ferries are the main way to reach the Cyclades, Dodecanese and many other island groups. Major operators include Blue Star Ferries and Hellenic Seaways. Fares vary by route and season-short island hops can be €10-€40, while longer vehicle ferries cost more.
Booking in high season is strongly recommended; high-speed catamarans save time but are pricier and more affected by rough seas.
Intercity rail is limited compared with other European countries but the national operator Hellenic Train runs mainline services (e.g., Athens to Thessaloniki). Prices and speeds vary; advanced booking can reduce costs.
Regional rail improvements are ongoing-expect faster and more frequent services on some corridors compared with a decade ago.
Long-distance bus networks (KTEL) cover almost every mainland town and are often the most reliable way to travel where rail doesn’t go; information is available via regional KTEL sites and a central directory KTEL. Typical long-distance fares are modest (e.g., €10-€40 depending on distance).
Local urban buses and trolleys link airports and suburbs but schedules can be less frequent outside peak times.
In Athens use the metro and bus network managed by OASA for fast city travel; single fares are inexpensive (typical urban fares under €2). Taxis and ride‑hail apps operate widely in cities and on islands during high season.
On smaller islands, car/moped rental is common-book early in summer. Expect to pay more for rentals and fuel during peak months.
Where to Stay in Greece #
Athens center (Plaka, Syntagma) has city hotels near archaeology sites; islands like Santorini (Oia, Fira) and Mykonos Town offer boutique hotels with caldera or sea views. Book early for high-season island stays.
Family-run pensions and small guesthouses are common on islands and in towns like Chania and Naxos. They provide simple rooms, local tips, and proximity to ports and town centers for island-hopping travelers.
Private villas and apartments are ideal for groups visiting Santorini, Crete and the Cyclades. Villas often include pools and direct sea access; summer demand is high, so reserve well in advance for peak months.
Camping and organized eco-camps are available on certain islands and in northern regions like Halkidiki and Pelion. Facilities range from basic tent sites to more equipped glamping options near beaches or trails.
Staying Connected in Greece #
Greece has good mobile service across the mainland and major islands, with strong urban speeds; fixed broadband and fiber are concentrated in cities. Island and remote areas often depend on mobile networks, where speeds can vary.
Tourist SIMs from Cosmote, Vodafone Greece and Wind are sold at airports and kiosks. Expect $10-30 for short‑term data bundles; eSIM options are available via some carriers and resellers.
Athenian cafés and hotels provide reliable Wi‑Fi; coworking spaces are available in Athens and Thessaloniki with day passes $8-20. Many islands and rural areas rely more on mobile data than fixed fiber, so plan accordingly.
Expect coverage gaps on smaller islands and rural mountain areas; buy SIMs at airports or city shops, and consider eSIMs or renting local pocket Wi‑Fi for island hopping.
Health & Safety in Greece #
Greece is a popular and generally safe destination, but travelers should watch for road hazards on islands, beach and sea risks, and seasonal heatwaves and wildfires. Seismic activity is possible; follow local emergency advice and practice basic earthquake safety.
- Road Safety - Driving on Greek islands and rural areas can be hazardous due to narrow, winding roads and fast local drivers. Watch for motorbikes and pedestrians, rent reliable vehicles, and avoid driving at night on unfamiliar routes.
- Scams & Petty Crime - Pickpocketing targets busy tourist spots and ferries; theft from unlocked vehicles happens on remote islands. Use hotel safes, keep valuables concealed, and be skeptical of unsolicited offers for tours or transport.
- Ocean Safety - Many beaches in Greece are exposed to strong winds and currents, especially in spring and autumn. Swim only in lifeguarded areas when flagged safe, heed local boat traffic warnings, and avoid isolated beaches after dark.
- Weather Hazards - Hot, dry summers bring heatstroke and increasing wildfire risk on islands and the mainland. Carry water, use sun protection, avoid strenuous midday activity, and follow local evacuation orders if fires occur nearby.
- Natural Disasters - Greece is seismically active; earthquakes are common and can affect islands and cities. Familiarize yourself with earthquake safety (drop, cover, hold) and follow guidance from authorities after significant tremors.
- Health Risks - Tap water is generally safe on the mainland but may be limited on smaller islands-use bottled water if advised. Bring medication for allergies, sunscreen, and insect repellent to reduce mosquito-borne nuisance and potential disease.
History & Culture of Greece #
Greece blends an extraordinary concentration of ancient monuments with living village customs and island cultures; its Orthodox traditions, strong hospitality, and regional foodways shape everyday life and what travelers experience.
History of Greece
Greece is the heir of ancient city-states whose literature, philosophy and political experiments - especially Athens’ 5th-century BCE developments - shaped Mediterranean antiquity; travelers encounter temples, theatres and museums that foreground that legacy. After Alexander the Great spread Hellenic culture across the eastern Mediterranean, the region became part of the Roman world and later the Byzantine Empire, whose Christian traditions and art survive in churches and monasteries.
Notable Figures
- Pericles - 5th-century BCE Athenian statesman who presided over the building of the Acropolis and the height of Athenian democracy.
- Alexander the Great - Macedonian king whose conquests in the 4th century BCE spread Hellenic culture across the Near East.
- Constantine XI Palaiologos - Last Byzantine emperor, killed during the 1453 fall of Constantinople to the Ottomans.
- Eleftherios Venizelos - Prominent early-20th-century statesman who advanced modernizing reforms and expanded Greek territory during the Balkan conflicts.
Key Dates
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776 BCETraditional date for the first Olympic Games, a pan-Hellenic festival held at Olympia.
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5th century BCEGolden Age of Athens: democracy, drama, philosophy and monumental architecture such as the Acropolis.
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323 BCEDeath of Alexander the Great; Hellenistic kingdoms extend Greek language and culture across the eastern Mediterranean and Near East.
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1453Fall of Constantinople to the Ottomans, marking the end of the Byzantine Empire and long Ottoman rule in the region.
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1821Greek War of Independence begins against Ottoman rule; independence recognized in the 1830s leading to the modern Greek state.
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1941-1944Axis occupation during World War II and a strong resistance movement with major human and material costs.
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1967-1974Military junta rules Greece until restoration of democracy in 1974.
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1981Greece joins the European Economic Community (now the EU), increasing economic and political integration with Europe.
Greek cuisine centers on olive oil, fresh vegetables, seafood and simple preparations; meze culture and shared plates are common across islands and mainland tavernas.
Language
Modern Greek is the official language and is used nationwide; you will also encounter local dialects and some minority languages in border areas, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Useful Phrases
- Hello / Goodbye (formal or plural) - Γειά σας YAH-sahs
- Good morning - Καλημέρα kah-lee-MEH-rah
- Thank you - Ευχαριστώ ef-ha-rees-TOH
- Please / You're welcome - Παρακαλώ pah-rah-kah-LOH
- Where is the …? - Πού είναι το …; Poo EE-neh to …?
- How much does it cost? - Πόσο κοστίζει; POH-soh koh-STEE-zee?
- I would like a ticket - Θα ήθελα ένα εισιτήριο Tha EE-theh-lah EH-nah ee-see-TEE-ro
- Where is the bathroom? - Το μπάνιο πού είναι; To BAH-nio poo EE-neh?
- The bill, please - Τον λογαριασμό, παρακαλώ Ton loh-ya-ree-ah-SMOH, pah-rah-kah-LOH
- It's very tasty - Είναι πολύ νόστιμο EE-neh poh-LEE NOHS-tee-mo
- I am allergic to … - Έχω αλλεργία σε … EH-ho ah-ler-YEE-ah seh …
- Can I have … without meat/vegetables? - Μπορώ να έχω … χωρίς κρέας/λαχανικά; Boh-ROH na EH-ho … kah-REE-eez KREH-as/lah-khah-NEE-kah?
- Help! - Βοήθεια! Voh-EE-thee-ah!
- Call the police - Καλέστε την αστυνομία Kah-LEH-steh teen as-tee-no-MEE-ah
- I need a doctor - Χρειάζομαι γιατρό Khree-AH-zo-me yah-TROH
- I've lost my passport - Έχασα το διαβατήριό μου EH-khah-sah to thee-ah-vah-TEE-ree-oh moo
Responsible Travel in Greece #
Greece’s archaeological treasures and sensitive island ecosystems require careful behaviour around ruins, marine habitats and small island communities to keep them intact for the future.
- Respect archaeological sites: Do not climb or remove stones from sites like the Acropolis or Delphi; follow site rules, use licensed guides and avoid commercial sellers offering antiquities.
- Protect marine ecosystems: Help preserve Posidonia seagrass by using authorised dive operators, avoiding anchoring on meadows, and choosing beaches with Blue Flag accreditation.
- Manage island pressure: On islands such as Santorini and Mykonos visit outside peak hours, stay in lesser‑visited islands where possible, and be mindful of water scarcity by minimising use.
- Support traditional fisheries & tavernas: Eat at family‑run tavernas and buy fish from local markets to support sustainable livelihoods; ask where seafood is sourced and favour seasonal catches.
- Responsible boating & anchoring: When chartering boats use designated moorings near marine parks and follow local regulations to avoid damaging reefs and seagrass beds.
Travel Resources for Greece #
Official
- VisitGreece - Official Tourism Official Tourism
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Greece) - English Government
- Greece - Official travel/entry information portal Consular/Travel
Travel Advisories
Greece Embassies Abroad
- Embassy of Greece - Washington, D.C. USA
- Embassy of Greece - London UK
- Embassy of Greece - Ottawa Canada
- Embassy of Greece - Canberra Australia
- Embassy of Greece - Dublin Ireland
News & Media
- Ekathimerini (English) English
- Greek Reporter (English) English
- Kathimerini (Greek) Greek
Useful Links
Useful Apps for Greece
- Ferryhopper - Search and book Greek island ferries and timetables.
- Hellenic Train - Official app for Greece's national rail services.
- Moovit - Local transit routing across Greek cities and islands.
- Google Translate - Translate Greek text and signs when needed.