FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT GREECE FOR VISITORS

Planning

When is a good time to visit Greece?

Greece is a year-round destination, though the official Tourist Season runs from Orthodox Easter (usually in April) to mid-October. This mostly applies to the islands, although Santorini and the bigger, southern islands like Rhodes and Crete have large permanent populations and still have things open ( obviously not beach-related activities) all year.

More covered in When to Visit Greece.

Where should I go?

This question is very hard to answer. There are over 220 inhabited islands and a plethora of wonders to see on the Mainland as well. The country is brimming with history and also beautiful beaches, stunning vistas, quaint villages, waterfalls, national parks and wildlife. It has more mountains than Austria and a lot of diversity across the country due to its rich history.

Many first-timers go to Santorini and Mykonos or perhaps to Crete, Rhodes or Corfu. Naxos, Milos and Paros have also become very popular in recent years. But these are the busiest and most populated islands and can also be the most expensive, especially Mykonos, which has become a playground for the rich and famous. It is still possible to find small, authentic places on those islands, but there are hundreds of other islands to visit, with many off the tourist radar completely.

Have a look at 111 Amazing Places for your Greece Bucket List for a heap of ideas and inspiration!

Also:

Best Islands for Families

Best Islands for Couples

Top Greek Islands for Solo Travellers

Island Hopping in the Cyclades

Lesser Known Greek Island Alternatives

How many days do I need?

Anything less than one week in Greece will mean you will likely see one island and Athens. Or just Athens and some of the Mainland, if it is off-season. Two weeks is a good amount of time to see 4 or 5 destinations and three weeks is even better.

The reality is you could spend months in Greece and still not see all the highlights. It is a very diverse and very mountainous country and things are spread far and wide.

What is the weather like?

With a Mediterranean Climate, Greece has a dry, temperate climate with hot summers and cold, rainy winters. People are surprised to learn there are over 20 ski resorts on the Mainland, and it is actually a very nice and very affordable destination for a winter holiday.

Itis  important to know about the Meltemi Wind that blows from May to October and can cause disruption. It also has its benefits as well. 

Further Reading: Weather and Events in Greece

Do I need a travel agent?

Greece is not hard to plan and book yourself. Once you’ve got an idea of where you want to go and what you want to see and do, you book the hotels, transport and activities as well as your flights of course. 

Everything you need is on the Greece Travel Secrets website, including itineraries, accommodation guides, activities, transfers, packing lists, and more, and you can get lots of help from the Facebook Group as well.

If you are feeling really overwhelmed and/or just want someone to run over your plans with you, there is a face-to-face consultation service now available that has been very popular ( and has saved people many thousands).

Is a Cruise the best way to see Greece?

Doing a small cruise in a yacht or small ship can be a wonderful way to explore the Greek Islands, especially as they usually dock in ports and towns that are inaccessible to big ships. It’s especially good if you use a Greek-owned and operated company, such as Variety, so you have a Greek crew, Greek food, and a fully immersive experience. If you do book with them, use the promo code ( pop it in comments on their booking form) A1401 for 10% off!

Cruising on a huge ship can sound tempting, but the reality is you will see the least authentic places and be with thousands of others all at the same time—often over 15,000 people! Up to 4 or 5 ships can be in port in Santorini and Mykonos on any given day, and the social and environmental impacts are significant.

Further to that, few big cruises stay in port at night, which is when the islands really come alive, and you see them at their absolute best.

Transport

How much time do I need to connect with a domestic flight when I arrive on my international flight in Athens?

Two hours minimum. The airport is small and efficient but you do need to leave the International side arrivals downstairs and re-enter through domestic departures upstairs.

If you are changing airlines and checking bags and it is peak season – July to September, you may need more time.

Can I fly between islands?

Sometimes. Historically, the answer was usually no, but this is changing.

In summer there are sometimes charter flights between the Ionian islands ( Corfu and/or Kefalonia and even Zakynthos) and Crete and Santorini. Also Rhodes to Kastelloritzo.

There are also now some puddle jumpers running between the Dodecanese Islands with Sky Express and even Naxos and Crete, but not every day and not all year.

There are also now a few flights between some Cycladic Islands and also between them and Crete. Check with Aegean and Sky Express.

How do I get to the historical centre of Athens?

There are a number of ways, including private drivers, taxis, buses and the Metro.

When do the Ferry Schedules come out?

The full summer schedules used to come out by Easter, but they are getting earlier and earlier. You can usually book Seajets in the Cyclades by Xmas each year, with further schedules dribbling out over the following months. Some small operators and those on subsidised routes ( that are renegotiated each year) may come out quite late, even as late as June.

Schedules and ferries change each year, although you can see the previous year’s schedules at openseas.gr. This may, or may not, be an indication of next year’s schedules.

How do I buy tickets for the Ferries?

You can get them at the time at the ticket offices at the ports most of the year unless it is high summer ( July & August) or a public holiday weekend, in which case it is advisable to book in advance through Ferry Hopper.

Should I book fast ferries or slow ones?

We always choose the big, slower ones if they are available. These are like cruise ships with shops and restaurants, big outdoor decks and even cabins.

They are more stable in rough weather and better if you are prone to sea-sickness. This also makes them more reliable as they can handle inclement weather better.

How do I get to the Port in Athens?

There are 3 ports – Piraeus is the main one, but there are ferries from Lavrio and Rafina that are closer to the airport and they service the Northern Cycladic islands.

You can ge to them using private drivers, taxis, buses and the Metro, although the last two will require changes. 

How do I find my ferry at Piraeus Port?

This is one of the largest passenger ports in Europe, so it can be very busy and very overwhelming. This article explains everything you need to know about it including what Gate to go to for which location.

How do I get from the ferry port in Santorini to my hotel?

Buses meet all ferries. There are also taxis or you can pre-arrange a private transfer or hire car. We highly recommend booking Santo Luxury Escape who can take care of all your transfers and tours. Use the code ‘GTS’ for a 10% discount!

Do I need an International Drivers Permit?

Residents of the EU and UK can use their home license.

In November 2021, the law was changed so that residents of Canada, the USA, Australia and Gibraltar also no longer need an IDP.

Here is a link to the Greek Government Gazette legislation ( in Greek). Information regarding this can also be found on the US Embassy site (which does say ‘maybe’ as some people travel on more than one passport)

There is more detail in this article.

Should I rent a car, ATV/Scooter or Buggy?

All of these are available on many islands and are a popular way to explore. If you do not have a motorcycle license back home you will not be able to rent a scooter and ATV’s often struggle on hills. They can also be quite dangerous and there are many accidents ( and sadly deaths) each year. If you have never driven one before Greece is probably not the place to start.

Be sure to check your travel insurance too as many classify ATV’s and Buggies as adventure sports and do not cover them.

For cars, we have recommendations in the more popular spots in this article.

Further reading: 

Ferry Routes in Greece

Frequently Asked Questions about the Ferries

Driving and Car/ATV hire

The Ferry Ports in Athens

Worldchampion Jet

Seajets 2

Santorini Ferry port

Accommodation

Should I book a hotel or an Airbnb?

Greek hotels are probably not what you are used to. They have often been in families for many generations and have significant benefits including the legendary breakfasts. Many also have family rooms that can sleep 5 or more. Read more about the pros and cons of both in this article.

We partner with Booking.com to book hotels and apartments as they are the world biggest and most reputable booking platform and most rooms have free cancellation – very important in recent times.

If you would prefer to stay in one place a week or more and/or a travelling in a large group then we also recommend Vrbo who have great self-contained luxury, properties that need to meet numerous eligibility criteria.

What is the best part of Athens to stay in?

The ancient centre is very compact and you cant go wrong in any of the neighbourhoods around the Acropolis. Plaka is the most touristic but for good reason. You can also stay on the Riviera or near the ports which I cover more in Athens Airport Hotels.

What is the best part of Santorini to stay in?

This is covered in detail in this article which talks about the different towns and villages as well as recommended accommodation for various budgets and needs.

Which hotel should I stay in at Athens Airport?

The Sofitel is the only hotel AT the airport but there are other options, all covered here. We like to spend out last night by the sea if we can.

Should I book direct with the hotel?

This can sometimes mean you will get a better rate, but not always. But it is likely the hotel will ask for a large deposit, often by bank transfer, and the booking may not come with free cancellation. It is now illegal to ask for cash and you should should not feel pressured into doing this if you don’t want to.

Personally I would rather pay a few extra dollars and know I can cancel at late notice if I have to. Plus I have all my bookings in the one app and I’m not juggling multiple emails.

How come hotels are showing as fully booked for next year already?

Many hotels, particularly seasonal ones, do not open bookings until the current season is over or even until around Christmas. They often use that time to work on renovations, pricing and other logistics for the following season.

 Etiquette, Food & Culture

Do I tip in Greece and if so how much?

The USA has the biggest tipping culture in the world as people rely heavily on tips to subsidize the very low minimum wages. In Europe, people can be insulted when foreigners try and force their culture on them, although tips for good service are often appreciated. In the biggest tourist traps, you may even be asked for a tip but be mindful that there are service charges usually included in restaurant bills as well.

On portable EFTPOS machines now in some restaurants, you can choose a tip of 5%, 10%, or 15%. Ten per cent is perfectly acceptable and would be the most common tip made for Tour Guides as well.

Do I need to dress differently?

Greeks are stylish people and dress like many Europeans in a low-key, simple, and often elegant way. It is fine to wear your normal clothing but the people wearing things like active wear are either exercising or are tourists.

In places of worship, you need to dress conservatively and have your shoulders covered as well as anything above the knee. At Monasteries like Meteora, they can lend you scarves to wrap around yourself.

At the beach, people are very body-positive, and all women wear bikinis regardless of shape or age. Given the many steps and cobblestones, it is important to wear good shoes!

What time are mealtimes?

In Greece and across the Mediterranean, everyone tries to avoid the midday sun and eats late. This means rising late, with shops and businesses opening no earlier than 10:00 (except bakeries, coffee shops, some convenience stores, etc.), Lunch no earlier than 2, and Dinner after 9 pm. Many places will take bookings earlier for tourists.

Is Greece safe?

Greece is a very safe place to travel. It is clean, well organised, and the people are very friendly and helpful. Many women feel very comfortable travelling there on their own, particularly on the better-known islands, and there are some islands that are especially great for solo travellers.

Like in all big cities, petty crime can occur in Athens, and it always pays to be alert and sensible with your valuables and belongings.

Do they speak English?

Almost everyone under 60 speaks English; in fact, it is taught as a mandatory subject in most schools. It does help to learn a few common phrases if you can.

What’s the situation with the toilet paper?

Like many parts of the world, especially those with significant ancient history, the infrastructure, and indeed the plumbing, can be very old. This means pipes in many places are very small and do not cope well with modern sanitary products, including toilet paper.

You will find bins beside each toilet in most places. In some modern 4 & 5-star hotels, they often have replaced the pipes and/or have their own treatment plants, so it may not be an issue.

It can pay to carry a small pack of wipes with you.

Are there public toilets available?

They do exist, but they can be hard to find. You will find them at all major attractions and scattered across the country, but there is usually a small charge. If you are visiting Athens, there is one in Syntagma Square and another nearby in the National Gardens.

Of course, all tavernas, bars, and cafes also provide or have access to toilets.

What is the food like?

Greek food is considered some of the best in the world. It is fresh, delicious, and nutritious, and is a major reason why Greeks are among the oldest people in the world.

It is a myth that the diet is heavily meat-based. Many Greeks only eat meat on special occasions such as Easter, and in fact, they spend many weeks a year fasting when only Vegan-style dishes are consumed. Many dishes are vegetarian based and are very inexpensive too.

A lot of seafood is consumed on the islands and the coastal mainland, but this is often for tourists’ benefit too. Food of note that Greece excels in is Feta cheese, Olive Oil, and Honey.

Can I drink the water?

In Mainland towns and cities like Athens and Thessaloniki, the water is safe and of good quality. On smaller islands and those without a natural water source, like Santorini, water is often from a desalination plant or bought in bottles and tanks. It won’t kill you, but it doesn’t taste the best. Try using a reusable water bottle and refilling it regularly.

Further reading: Drinking water in Greece

Are they ok with allergies and fussy eaters? 

Yes, in tourist areas, they are very used to people with special dietary needs. They have many gluten-free options on all the menus as well as other things including dairy-free and even Vegan dishes. In fact, Tomato Fritters are the signature dish of Santorini.

For fussy eaters and some children, there are many western-style dishes available, including pizza, pasta, and fries ( although Greek ‘patatas’ are even better!). You will find McDonald’s all over the country, including in Santorini, or there is a ‘Greek’ McDonald’s, called Goodies.

Many children actually discover how much they love Souvlaki, which can often be sold to them as ‘chicken on a stick’.

The food is rarely spicy, but lemon, garlic, Olive Oil, and herbs are used generously.

Money

What sort of currency do I need?

The currency of Greece is the Euro. Please don’t use other currencies even if it’s just a tip. Many workers cannot exchange money, especially during the busy tourist season.

How much money do I need?

How long is a piece of string? This entirely depends on how you travel and what you like to see, do, and buy. Many people live comfortably on 100 euros a day, some even less. Some people may spend thousands a day.

You only need cash for things like tips, buying water and other small purchases and public bathrooms. Some places may ask you for cash for a discount, but we are aware this is usually a form of tax evasion, and if your preference is to pay by card, then insist on it. If you’re happy to pay cash, that’s fine too.

Do they accept credit cards?

Yes, Credit Cards and EFTPOS machines are commonly used, and in fact, it is now illegal for people in the service and hospitality industries not to accept cards. Visa and Mastercard are accepted, but American Express is accepted only by large companies like airlines and department stores.

Cash is always welcome. Please keep small denominations for tips and highway tolls. 

For many years now I have used a Wise Visa debit card which is an award-winning foreign exchange service with the lowest exchange rates I have found. Excellent customer service too.

Where can I get money from? 

The days of ordering currency from your bank at home are largely over. Even if they say this is ‘fee’ free, they will usually charge what’s called a DCC – a dynamic currency conversion rate, where they will build in a profit.  Banks do not do anything for free.

We also don’t recommend travelling with large sums of cash.

There are currency exchange/money changers in the main tourist areas, but you will usually get better exchange rates at ATM machines at well-known banks such as Alpha, Attica, Citibank, Eurobank, and Piraeus Bank. Avoid independent ATM machines where possible and ALWAYS accept the local currency (Euro) when the machine asks you – when the message comes up ‘ would you like us to convert the currency – Accept or Decline – always select DECLINE!

What is there to buy?

So much! The shopping in Greece is insane, especially in Athens, where we personally stock up each year on Olive Oil, herb mixes, beauty products and other items.

My trusty carry-on bag (see below) is usually unzipped to its full capacity by this point, and then I often check it and a cheap duffel, or even simply a cardboard box of stuff, home.

There are many other things that people love to buy in Greece ranging from common souvenirs like fridge magnets to artwork, cosmetics, clothing, food, wine and much, much more.

Packing

What is the best luggage to take?

This is a pretty personal thing but there are some considerations you should think about:

• Try to take the smallest suitcase you can so it fits into small cars & taxis and is easy to drag around on ferries and on cobblestone streets. Many island flights are on small propeller planes with limited overhead bins and strict carry-on restrictions.
• Make sure it is waterproof or at least water-resistant in case of sea spray or ferry mishaps.
• For the same reason, hardcover is often better in Greece than soft.
• Whatever you use, make sure it has very good quality wheels and/or is easy to carry and lift.

More information is in the What to Pack Article.

What should I pack?

Read What to Pack for Women, What to Pack for Men, as well as Best Walking shoes for Greece. Families will need to pack things for their kids, too, of course. Shops in Greece are very good, in fact, there are many gorgeous boutiques, so if you do forget something, all is not lost. Athens is a shopper’s paradise – there are a lot of great things to buy!

What adapters do I need?

Again covered in the What to Pack article. We find universal adapters are a good investment so you can use them anywhere in the world not just in Europe.

Will I need sunscreen?  

Definitely. Even in winter, the reflection from all the marble and pale surfaces can be brutal, so be sure to wear a hat AND sunscreen daily.

Sunscreen brands in Europe are very good, but they can be more expensive than you are used to. This is because of the EU’s strict regulations on many chemicals and the emphasis on natural, safe ingredients.  

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