Greek Islands Travel Guide
Plan your perfect trip to Greek Islands with our helpful and informative travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, stay, eat, and more in the beautiful Greek Islands.
- Introduction to Greek Islands
- List of Places to Visit in Greek Islands
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Greek Islands
- Best Things to Do in Greek Islands: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Greek Islands
- Food and Drink Scene of Greek Islands
- Where to Stay in Greek Islands: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Greek Islands: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Greek Islands
- Best Time to Visit Greek Islands
- Do’s and Don’ts of Greek Islands
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Greek Islands: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Greek Islands
- Where to Go Next from Greek Islands: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Greek Islands
Nestled in the Aegean Sea, the Greek Islands is a cluster of 6,000 islands and islets. The islands have everything a traveler could ask for - breathtaking beaches, crystal clear waters, ancient ruins, and delicious food. It is no wonder why the Greek Islands have been a popular tourist destination for centuries.
List of Places to Visit in Greek Islands
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
The Greek Islands have a rich history and culture, and there are many historical places and museums to explore. Some must-visit places include:
- Acropolis of Rhodes: an ancient citadel built on a hill in Rhodes.
- Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes: a medieval castle also situated in Rhodes.
- Ancient Thera: an ancient city on the island of Santorini.
- Archaeological Museum of Mykonos: a museum showcasing the island’s history and culture.
Natural Attractions of Greek Islands: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Apart from historical places, the Greek Islands also boast stunning natural attractions. Visitors can indulge in watersports, hiking, or simply relax on the beautiful beaches. Some of the must-visit places include:
- Navagio Beach: a picturesque beach on the island of Zakynthos.
- Santorini Caldera: a natural caldera on the island of Santorini.
- Samaria Gorge: a national park in Crete with stunning hiking trails and nature views.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Greek Islands
The Greek Islands offer excellent hiking and biking trails. Here are some of the most popular:
- Agia Roumeli to Loutro Hike: a 5-hour hike on the island of Crete.
- Olympos to Diafani Hike: a 4-hour hike on the island of Karpathos.
- Mykonos Off-Road ATV Adventure: an off-road bike tour in Mykonos.
Best Things to Do in Greek Islands: Activities and Tours
Apart from hiking and biking, there are many other activities and tours available for visitors. Here are some must-do activities:
- Watch the famous Oia Sunset in Santorini.
- Take a boat tour to see the Blue Caves in Zakynthos.
- Go scuba diving in Mykonos.
Week-Long Itinerary for Greek Islands
Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip:
- Day 1-3: Explore the historical places and museums in Rhodes Island.
- Day 4-5: Relax on the stunning beaches of Zakynthos Island.
- Day 6-7: Discover the natural beauty and vibrant nightlife of Mykonos.
Food and Drink Scene of Greek Islands
Must-Try Dishes
The Greek Islands offer a variety of delicious local dishes that visitors should try, including:
- Moussaka: a baked eggplant and meat dish, similar to lasagna.
- Souvlaki: skewered meat and vegetables grilled to perfection.
- Dolmades: stuffed grape leaves with rice and herbs.
Local Beverages
The Greeks are passionate about beverages, and some must-try drinks include:
- Ouzo: a traditional Greek alcoholic drink.
- Retsina: a white wine with a hint of pine resin.
- Greek Frappé: a cold coffee drink made by blending instant coffee, sugar, and water.
Where to Stay in Greek Islands: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
The Greek Islands have a range of accommodation options to suit any budget. Here are some of the best:
- Island Blue Hotel in Rhodes: A luxurious hotel with stunning sea views.
- Zante Dolphin Hotel in Zakynthos: A budget-friendly hotel with excellent amenities.
- Mykonos Essence Hotel in Mykonos: A stylish hotel with excellent facilities.
What to Buy in Greek Islands: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Some of the local products and souvenirs that you can buy from the Greek Islands include:
- Olive oil and olives
- Greek honey
- Traditional Greek pottery
Local Culture and Customs of Greek Islands
Greek Island culture is unique and deeply rooted in history, and some cultural customs worth experiencing are:
- Traditional Greek dances
- Greek Orthodox Easter
- Sirma - the Greek custom of greeting friends and loved ones with a kiss on both cheeks.
Best Time to Visit Greek Islands
The best time to visit the Greek Islands is from June to September when the weather is warm and sunny, and the sea is calm. However, prices can be high during this period, and the islands can be crowded. If you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of April to May or September to October.
Do’s and Don’ts of Greek Islands
Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while visiting the Greek Islands:
Do:
- Respect the local customs and culture.
- Carry cash as many shops and restaurants may not accept credit cards.
- Wear decent clothing while visiting religious sites.
Don’t:
- Do not throw toilet paper, sanitary products, or anything other than toilet paper in the toilets as it can cause blockage.
- Do not be loud or unruly in public places.
- Do not litter on the beaches or in public places.
Safety and Health
Safety in Greek Islands
The Greek Islands are generally safe for tourists, with a low crime rate. However, visitors should exercise caution and follow the usual safety measures such as not carrying too much cash or valuables and keeping an eye on their belongings in crowded places.
Health in Greek Islands
The Greek Islands have an excellent healthcare system, and visitors can easily find pharmacies and clinics for minor illnesses. However, visitors are advised to take necessary precautions against the sun, such as wearing sunscreen and staying hydrated.
Getting to Greek Islands: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Greek Islands
The main airports in Greek Islands include Athens International Airport, Heraklion International Airport, and Rhodes International Airport.
Bus Stations Near Greek Islands
The Greek Islands are well-connected by bus services, with regular services between the islands and mainland Greece. The main bus stations are in Athens, Thessaloniki, and Heraklion.
Other Options
Visitors can also reach the Greek Islands by ferry services, which are abundant in the summer season.
How to Get Around in Greek Islands
The best way to get around the Greek Islands is by renting a car, scooter, or ATV. Public transportation such as buses and taxis are also available for visitors.
Where to Go Next from Greek Islands: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
There are many nearby destinations and excursions that visitors can explore after their trip to the Greek Islands. These include:
- Athens: the capital city of Greece with a rich history and culture.
- Crete: Greece’s largest island, known for its stunning beaches and mountain ranges.
- Delphi: an ancient site with a temple dedicated to Apollo on the mainland of Greece.
Conclusion
The Greek Islands are a paradise for nature-lovers, history enthusiasts, and foodies alike. With this travel guide, visitors can plan the perfect trip to the beautiful islands and experience everything that they have to offer.