Greece Travel Guide (Europe)

Introduction to Greece

Greece is one of the most historically and culturally rich countries in the world, blessed with a plethora of natural beauty, friendly locals, and delicious food. It is located in Southern Europe, at the crossroads between Asia, Africa, and Europe. Greece is home to over 2000 islands, ancient ruins, and stunning beaches, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations around the globe.

In this comprehensive guide, we will cover all the essential information for you to plan an amazing trip to Greece.

List of Places to Visit in Greece

Greece is famous for its white-washed buildings and blue-domed churches, ancient ruins, and stunning beaches. Here are some of the best places to visit in Greece:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Acropolis of Athens
Delphi
Thessaloniki Archaeological Museum
The Palace of Knossos in Crete
Mycenae

Natural Attractions of Greece: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Santorini Island
Mount Olympus
Vikos Gorge
Samaria Gorge
Meteora

Hiking/Biking Routes of Greece

Greece is a paradise for nature lovers offering numerous hiking and biking routes. Here are some of the best routes:

The Vikos Gorge Trail
The Samaria Gorge Trail
Mount Olympus Trail
Lousios Gorge Trail
Naxos Trails

Best Things to Do in Greece: Activities and Tours

Explore the Athens Food Tour
Enjoy the sunset at Santorini
Visit the Meteora monasteries
Cruise to the Greek Islands
Visit the ancient ruins

Week-Long Itinerary for Greece

Day 1: Arrival in Athens, explore the city’s ancient historical sites.

Day 2-3: Head to Naxos and experience the charming town’s local culture.

Day 4-5: Then proceed to Mykonos, soak in the nightlife and stunning beaches.

Day 6-7: Finally, visit Santorini, witness the beautiful sunset and unique geography.

Food and Drink Scene of Greece

The food and drink culture of Greece are as rich as its history and culture. Here are a few must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Moussaka
Souvlaki
Spanakopita
Tzatziki
Gemista

Local Beverages

Ouzo
Retsina
Tsipouro
Mastiha
Metaxa

Where to Stay in Greece: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Greece offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly hostels. Here are some of the best places to stay in Greece:

Athens: The Plaka Hotel
Santorini: Iconic Santorini
Naxos: Hotel Nikolas
Mykonos: Cavo Tagoo
Crete: Casa Delfino Hotel and Spa

What to Buy in Greece: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Olive oil
Jewelry
Feta cheese
Greek honey
Wine

Local Culture and Customs of Greece

The Greeks are proud of their cultural heritage and often display it through music, dance, and food. Here are a few customs and traditions to keep in mind:

Greek Orthodox traditions
Greek Independence Day Celebrations
Religious Festivals

Best Time to Visit Greece

The best time to visit Greece is from April to June and from September to November. The weather is mild and there are fewer crowds, making it easier to explore the attractions.

Do’s and Don’ts of Greece

Do:

Visit the ancient archaeological sites.
Try the Greek cuisine.
Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
Learn some Greek phrases.

Don’t:

Disrespect the Greek flag and symbols.
Visit religious sites while wearing inappropriate clothing.
Photograph locals without permission.
Cause harm to marine life.

Safety and Health

Safety in Greece

Greece is a safe place to visit and crime rates are relatively low. However, petty theft may occur in crowded areas, so it’s essential to keep an eye on your belongings and avoid isolated areas at night.

Health in Greece

Greece has an excellent healthcare system, and medical facilities are easily accessible. There are no mandatory vaccinations required for visitors to Greece, but it’s always good to consult your doctor before traveling.

Getting to Greece: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Greece

Athens International Airport
Thessaloniki Airport
Heraklion International Airport
Rhodes Airport

Bus Stations Near Greece

KTEL (Intercity Buses)
Kifissos Bus Terminal
Athens Central Bus Station

Other Options

Ferry
Car Rental

How to Get Around in Greece

The best way to explore Greece is by renting a car. The country has a well-established road network and scenic drives are a must-do. The public transportation system is also a reliable option and includes buses and trains.

Where to Go Next from Greece: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Turkey: Visit the nearby Turkish cities of Istanbul and Izmir.
Cyprus: Explore the ancient ruins of Cyprus.
Italy: Tour the cities of Rome and Venice.
Egypt: Visit the pyramids and Sphinx in Giza.
Croatia: Experience the beautiful coastline of Dubrovnik.

Conclusion

Greece is a paradise that combines stunning landscapes, delicious food, rich history, and culture. With this comprehensive guide, we hope you have all the essential information to plan your perfect Greek holiday.