Hey there! Are you gearing up for an epic adventure in Greece? Get ready to dive into a perfect world of ancient history, stunning landscapes, and endless sunshine. Before you jet off, let’s make sure you’re prepped and primed for the journey of a lifetime. Here’s everything you need to know before traveling to Greece.
Traveling to Greece: Picking the Perfect Time to Go
Planning your trip to Greece? Timing is everything! While Greece is a year-round destination, each season offers a unique experience.
- Summer (June-August) is peak tourist season, with warm weather perfect for beach activities and vibrant nightlife. However, expect crowded beaches and higher prices.
- Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) are ideal for fewer crowds, pleasant weather, and blooming landscapes.
- Winter (November-March) offers lower prices and fewer tourists but cooler temperatures and limited island services.
Consider your preferences for weather, crowds, activities, and budget when choosing the best time to visit.
Understanding Transportation Options
Greece has a well-developed transportation network, making it easy to navigate the country. In major cities like Athens and Thessaloniki, you’ll find efficient metro systems, buses, and taxis. Renting a car is ideal for exploring the countryside and remote areas, offering flexibility and access to hidden gems. For island-hopping adventures, ferries and hydrofoils connect the Greek islands, providing picturesque journeys between destinations. Consider pre-booking tickets for popular ferry routes, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred travel times.
We did all three. In Athens, we used the subway system, which Apple Maps made extremely user friendly. We used Ferry Hopper to book all of our ferries ahead of time for island hopping and found it extremely easy to use! They also had great customer service when one of our ferries was cancelled due to weather. In Naxos we rented a car to go on a hiking excursion and it was about $50 for the day. Just make sure your insurance at home has you covered! Also be aware that automatic cars will be more expensive than manual.
Finding Your Home Away from Home
Greece offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. From luxurious resorts and boutique hotels to cozy guesthouses and budget-friendly hostels, there’s something for everyone. Consider staying in traditional guesthouses or “pensiones” for an authentic Greek experience, or opt for beachfront accommodations for easy access to the sea. Booking accommodations in advance, especially during peak season, is recommended to secure your preferred choice and avoid last-minute stress.
We used both Booking.com and Airbnb for all of our accommodations. We looked for budget friendly options everywhere except Santorini – because Santorini is already so expensive (there aren’t many budget friendly options there), we went ahead and picked a nice place for one night there. It was such a nice treat!
Getting into the Greek Groove
Before you leave for your Greek adventure, familiarize yourself with Greek culture and customs. Greeks are known for their warm hospitality, so greet locals with a friendly “Kalimera” (good morning) or “Kalispera” (good evening) and a handshake. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, covering your shoulders and knees. Embrace the relaxed pace of life in Greece and enjoy leisurely meals with friends and family. Learning a few basic Greek phrases will also enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture.
Island-Hopping Like a Boss
With over 3,000 islands to explore, island hopping is a quintessential experience when traveling to Greece. Each island offers its own unique charm, from the cosmopolitan vibes of Mykonos to the tranquility of Milos. Research the islands that best align with your interests and preferences, whether you’re seeking vibrant nightlife, secluded beaches, or cultural experiences. Plan your ferry routes in advance to optimize your island-hopping itinerary and ensure smooth transitions between destinations. Consider purchasing island-hopping passes for discounted ferry tickets and flexible travel options.
Our travel route looked like this (HIGHLY recommend!):
- Fly into Mykonos, known for vibrant nightlife – spend one night
- Take a ferry to Athens – European city vibes and LOTS of amazing history – spend two nights
- Take a ferry to Santorini. Beautiful blue rooftops against stark white buildings everywhere you look – exactly what you think of when you think of traveling to Greece, but also extremely expensive and touristy – spend one night
- Take a ferry to Naxos, known for its slower pace and island vibes – spend two nights
- Take a ferry back to Mykonos to get one last night in exploring and getting ready to fly home – spend last night close to the airport
- Bonus: check out this article to find a perfect honeymoon itinerary in Greece!
Chowing Down on Greek Goodness
Greek cuisine is a highlight of any trip to Greece, with its delicious flavors and fresh ingredients. DON’T MISS traditional dishes:
- moussaka
- souvlaki
- spanakopita
- local wines or ouzo, an anise-flavored spirit.
Explore local markets and tavernas to discover regional specialties and savor authentic Greek flavors. Don’t miss the opportunity to dine al fresco overlooking the sea or enjoy a sunset dinner with stunning views of the Aegean. Whether you’re a foodie or simply appreciate good food, Greek cuisine will delight your taste buds and leave you craving more.
Staying Safe and Healthy
While traveling to Greece is generally safe, it’s important to take precautions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
- Stay hydrated, especially during the hot summer months, and protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen and appropriate clothing.
- Practice safe food hygiene and opt for bottled water in areas with questionable water quality. Make sure you check in every new location you visit if the tap water is safe or not – it’s not the same in every place!
- Carry essential medications and travel insurance to cover any unforeseen medical expenses or emergencies during your trip.
- Be vigilant of your surroundings and belongings, especially in crowded tourist areas, and trust your instincts if something feels off.
Engaging in Outdoor Adventures
Calling all adrenaline junkies! Traveling to Greece isn’t just about lounging on the beach (though that’s definitely part of it). Strap on your hiking boots and tackle the Samaria Gorge in Crete, a rugged canyon that’ll leave you breathless—in the best way possible. Prefer to make a splash? Kayak through the crystal-clear waters of the Ionian Sea or set sail around the Cyclades islands, hopping from one pristine beach to the next. And if you’re feeling really adventurous, why not try your hand at windsurfing or kitesurfing in destinations like Rhodes or Paros? No matter what outdoor adventure floats your boat, Greece has got you covered.
My personal favorite outdoor adventure: hiking Mount Zeus! Located in Naxos, it was the singular most incredible view of the whole trip. We did have to rent a car (mentioned above) but it was totally worth it. Make sure you download a route map beforehand, because you won’t have service once you get up there! We used this article and found it extremely helpful to prepare.
Discovering Ancient Marvels
Alright, history buffs, get ready to geek out! Greece is like a living, breathing history book, and you’re about to flip through some seriously epic pages. When it comes to ancient marvels, the Acropolis steals the show. Picture this: you’re standing atop the rocky hill, gazing up at the iconic Parthenon, with Athens sprawling out below you. It’s a moment you’ll never forget.
But the Acropolis is just the beginning when traveling to Greece! Delve deeper into Greece’s past at sites like Delphi, where the Oracle of Apollo once held court, or Olympia, birthplace of the Olympic Games. Want to take your ancient history game to the next level? Consider booking a guided tour with a local expert who can bring these ancient sites to life with their knowledge and passion.
My personal favorite tour: A Viator experience where we took a day trip from Athens to Corinth. I realize this tour won’t be best for everyone, but for me it was amazing to follow in the footsteps of the apostle Paul from the Old Testament. I highly recommend this tour if you have any religious affiliation at all!
Living Your Best Greek Life
Above all, embrace the laid-back Greek lifestyle and immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of Greece. Take time to relax and unwind on the beach, explore charming villages and hidden gems, and indulge in delicious cuisine and local wines. Engage with locals while traveling to Greece, learn about their traditions and customs, and forge meaningful connections along the way. Whether you’re lounging on a sun-drenched beach, exploring ancient ruins, or sipping coffee at a seaside café, savor every moment of your Greek adventure and create memories that will last a lifetime!
