Greece for First Timers

Greece › Travel Tips
By Santorini Dave

See Also

• Athens Travel Guide
• Mykonos Travel Guide
• Naxos Travel Guide
• Paros Travel Guide
• Santorini Travel Guide
• Mainland Greece Travel Guide
• Peloponnese Travel Guide

Book hotels in Santorini and Mykonos months in advance for visits between June and September.

Part 1: Planning Your Trip

Getting the essentials right before you travel is the key to a stress free experience.

Visa and Entry Requirements
Greece is part of the Schengen Area (as is Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland). For tourism, citizens of the United States, Canada, and Australia do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days within any 180 day period. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date. i.e., If your trip to the Schengen Area is from June 1 to June 20, then your passport must be valid until at least December 20 of the same year.

The Best Time to Visit
My favorite time to visit Greece is during the shoulder seasons: May and June, September and October. July and August are for the hardcore sun and nightlife lovers.

• Spring (April to June): The landscape is at its most lush and green, especially on the islands, and carpeted with wildflowers. The weather is comfortably warm and the sea is warming up for swimming by late May. It is the perfect time for hiking and sightseeing without the oppressive summer heat. Greek Easter, the most important holiday, often falls in April or May and offers a spectacular cultural experience.
• Summer (July to August): This is peak season. Expect intense sun, very high temperatures, and large crowds everywhere, especially on Santorini and Mykonos. All services, from restaurants to ferries, are running at full capacity. If you love a bustling, high energy atmosphere and don’t mind the heat, this is your time. Booking everything far in advance is not a suggestion; it is a requirement.
• Autumn (September to October): This is arguably the best period. The intense crowds of summer have departed, but the sea is at its warmest, perfect for swimming. The weather is still reliably sunny and hot, and the light takes on a beautiful golden quality. Prices for hotels and flights begin to drop.
• Winter (November to March): Most (but not all) tourist infrastructure on the islands shuts down. Larger islands like Crete, Rhodes, Santorini, and Corfu have a significant local population and plenty remains open throughout the year. This can be an excellent time to explore Athens and the mainland, with fewer crowds at major archaeological sites and much lower prices.

Booking Strategy and Timeline
• For summer travel, advance booking is not optional.
• Book international flights 6 to 8 months in advance.
• Book popular hotels in Santorini and Mykonos 6 to 10 months in advance.
• Reserve rental cars, especially automatic models, 2 to 3 months ahead.
• Book ferries 3 to 4 months out. For other times of year, a few weeks to a month in advance is sufficient.

Budgeting for Your Trip
• Budget Traveler (€75 to €125 per day): Stay in simple rooms, eat gyros and at basic tavernas, use slower ferries, and focus on free activities like beaches.
• Mid Range Traveler (€150 to €300 per day): Enjoy comfortable hotels, dine at a mix of tavernas and nicer restaurants, take faster ferries, and book organized day tours.
• Luxury Traveler (€400+ per day): Stay in suites with private pools, enjoy fine dining, and charter private boats.

Part 2: Health, Safety, and Packing

Health and Insurance
• Travel Insurance: This is essential. Purchase a comprehensive policy that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and baggage loss.
• Pharmacies: Greek pharmacists are highly trained and can offer advice and remedies for minor ailments. Look for the green cross sign; they are on nearly every corner.
• Sun and Hydration: The Greek sun is powerful. High SPF sunscreen, a wide brimmed hat, and sunglasses are non negotiable. Drink far more water than you think you need, especially on days with lots of walking.
• Emergency Number: The emergency number for police, ambulance, and fire services throughout Europe, including Greece, is 112.

Safety
Greece is a very safe country. The primary risk is petty crime, like pickpocketing in crowded areas of Athens (especially the metro) and tourist hubs. Keep your wallet and phone secure and be aware of your surroundings. Use extreme caution if you rent an ATV or scooter (especially if this is something you don’t do at home); roads can be unpredictable.

Comprehensive Packing List
• Documents: Passport, International Driving Permit (optional), flight and hotel confirmations, and a copy of your travel insurance policy. Take pictures of everything with your phone before the start of your trip.
• Footwear: Comfortable, broken in walking shoes with good traction are the most important item you will pack. The ancient sites have uneven, slippery marble. Also bring sandals for the beach and a smarter pair for evenings.
• Clothing: Lightweight layers are key. Pack hat, t-shirts, shorts, and sundresses for the day. Include a light jacket, sweater, or pashmina for cool, windy evenings, even in summer. Pack one or two nicer outfits for evenings out. Include modest clothing (covering shoulders and knees) for visiting monasteries.
• Medication: Bring any prescription medications in their original bottles, along with a copy of the prescription. Also pack a small kit with basics like pain relievers, antiseptic wipes, and blister plasters.
• Essentials: A reusable water bottle, a sun hat, sunglasses, and a universal power adapter (Type F). My favorite luggage are:
• My favorite bags are (smallest to biggest): Away Everywhere Zip Backpack, Briggs & Riley Travel Duffel Bag, Briggs & Riley Cabin Spinner, Peak Design Travel Backpack.

Part 3: Navigating Greece

• Flights: Athens International Airport (ATH) is the main international gateway. Domestic flights on Aegean Airlines and Olympic Air are an efficient way to travel long distances, like from Athens to Crete or Rhodes.
• Greek Ferries: The ferry system is the lifeblood of the islands. Your two main choices are large, conventional ferries, which are slower but have open decks for enjoying the view, and faster high speed catamarans, which are more expensive and have enclosed seating. Use a site like Ferryhopper to compare routes and book tickets.
• Renting a Vehicle: Renting a car is the best way to explore large islands like Crete, Naxos, and Rhodes. For U.S. citizens driving in Greece, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is not legally required, but it is strongly recommended by some sources, including the U.S. Embassy in Greece. Parking in the main towns of popular islands can be very difficult; use lots on the edge of town and walk in.

Part 4: The Destinations

While Athens and the Cyclades are the classic first timer’s route, Greece’s diversity is its greatest asset.

The Mainland: History’s Heartland
• Athens (2 to 3 Days): The essential starting point. Beyond the Acropolis and its magnificent Museum, dedicate time to the Ancient Agora, the birthplace of democracy, and get lost in the winding streets of Plaka and the more bohemian Psiri neighborhoods.
• Delphi: Once considered the center of the ancient world, the Sanctuary of Delphi on the slopes of Mount Parnassus is a breathtaking site. This was home to the Oracle of Apollo, the most famous priestess in history. Explore the Temple of Apollo, the ancient theater, and the stadium, then visit the on site museum to see masterpieces like the Charioteer of Delphi. The site is a popular, though long, day trip from Athens or a key stop on a mainland road trip.
• The Peloponnese: For a legendary road trip, head to this vast region. Visit Olympia, the site of the first Olympic Games; stand in the Lion Gate of Mycenae, the Bronze Age citadel of Agamemnon; and see the stunningly preserved theater at Epidaurus. Use the impossibly charming seaside town of Nafplio, Greece’s first modern capital, as your elegant base.
• Meteora: In central Greece, discover the surreal landscape of Meteora, where Byzantine monasteries are perched atop towering rock pinnacles. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site that looks like something from a fantasy novel. It can be visited as a long day trip or overnight trip from Athens. (I highly recommend overnight which allows for an early start the next morning before the tour groups from Athens arrive).

The Cyclades: The Iconic Greek Islands
• Santorini (4 Days): The superstar. Famous for the caldera, volcanic wines, and sunsets. For a more unique experience, hike the path from Fira to Oia and visit the Bronze Age city of Akrotiri.
• Mykonos (3 Days): The glamorous party island with world class beaches, designer shopping, and energetic nightlife. A day trip to the archaeological site of Delos is a must for a dose of history.
• Naxos (3 to 4 Days): The largest and most fertile Cycladic island. It offers the perfect blend of incredible sandy beaches (Agios Prokopios, Plaka), authentic mountain villages (Filoti, Apeiranthos), and fascinating history (Portara, Kouros statues). It’s more affordable and relaxed than its famous neighbors.
• Paros (3 to 4 Days): A perfect balance. The fishing village of Naoussa has a chic, sophisticated vibe reminiscent of Mykonos, while the main port of Parikia and the inland village of Lefkes offer authentic charm. It has great beaches and is a major ferry hub, making it an easy addition to any itinerary.
• Milos (3 Days): The island of color and adventure, famous as the home of the Venus de Milo statue. Its volcanic origins have created a spectacular coastline of colorful rock formations and sea caves. Rent a boat to explore the sea cliffs of Kleftiko and do not miss the lunar landscape of Sarakiniko beach.

Beyond the Cyclades: Other Island Gems
• Crete (5 to 10 Days): A giant, diverse island that is a destination in itself. For a first visit, focus on West Crete. Base yourself in the gorgeous Venetian harbor of Chania. From there, visit the world famous beaches of Elafonisi (pink sand) and Balos Lagoon, and hike the mighty Samaria Gorge.
• Corfu: Explore the UNESCO protected Corfu Old Town, a maze of elegant Italianate buildings. The island is covered in olive groves and cypress trees, offering a completely different feel from the arid Cyclades.
• Kefalonia: A rugged island of dramatic beauty, home to the stunning Myrtos Beach and the magical Melissani Cave.
• Rhodes: The main draw is the Medieval Old Town of Rhodes, one of the best preserved in Europe. Walk the Street of the Knights and explore the Palace of the Grand Master to immerse yourself in the history of the Knights of St. John.

Part 5: Culture, Food, and Shopping

Understanding the local customs is key to a richer and more respectful travel experience. Greek culture is built on a foundation of tradition, hospitality, and a passion for life that is both infectious and deeply rewarding to observe.

Understanding the Greek Mentality
• Philoxenia (Hospitality): This ancient concept of being generous and courteous to strangers, literally “friend to the stranger,” is a cornerstone of Greek identity. It is a genuine warmth that goes beyond simple politeness. Do not be surprised by offers of assistance from strangers or small, complimentary gifts from a taverna owner, like a piece of fruit or a small dessert. The best way to respond is with a simple, gracious “Efharisto” (Thank you).
• The Pace of Life (Siga Siga): The Greek ethos is often described as siga siga, meaning “slowly, slowly.” Life is meant to be savored, not rushed. This is most apparent in service, especially at restaurants where meals are a social event lasting hours. You must almost always ask for the bill; it is considered rude for a waiter to present it before you are ready, as it implies they are rushing you. Embrace this relaxed pace rather than fighting it.
• The Coffee Ritual: Coffee in Greece is a social institution, not a quick fuel stop. A “kafeneio” is a center of village life where people gather for hours over a single coffee to talk, play backgammon, and watch the world go by. Ordering a coffee means you are welcome to occupy that table for as long as you wish.

Etiquette and Social Norms
• Tipping: Tipping is common and appreciated but not obligatory or expected at the high percentages common in the United States. In restaurants and tavernas, rounding up the bill or leaving a cash tip of 5 to 10 percent for good service is a generous gesture. For taxis, simply rounding up the fare to the nearest Euro is standard. For hotel staff who assist with bags, one or two Euros per bag is appropriate.
• Dress Code for Sacred Sites: When visiting monasteries and churches, it is a strict requirement to dress modestly. This means covering your shoulders and knees. This applies to all genders. Many monasteries, like those at Meteora, provide wraps or skirts for visitors who are unprepared, but it is best to arrive with your own scarf or jacket and wear long pants or a long skirt out of respect.

The Food and Drink Scene
• The Taverna: This is a casual restaurant, often family owned, serving traditional Greek food. It is the heart of the Greek dining experience. The best approach is to order a variety of mezes (small appetizers) to share among the table.
• Must Try Dishes: Look for regional specialties wherever you go. In Crete, try dakos salad (a barley rusk topped with tomato and cheese). In Naxos, eat the local graviera cheese and potatoes. Everywhere, enjoy fresh grilled fish, horiatiki (the authentic Greek salad with no lettuce), and yemista (vegetables stuffed with rice and herbs).
• Drinks: Embrace the coffee culture by ordering a freddo espresso (iced espresso) or freddo cappuccino. With meals, the house wine (chima) served by the carafe is often excellent and a great value. For a classic aperitif, drink ouzo with a small plate of food. After dinner, you may be offered tsipouro (a strong pomace brandy, similar to grappa) on the house.

Shopping and Souvenirs: What to Bring Home
• Avoid the generic tourist shops and seek out high quality, locally made goods that reflect Greece’s artisan traditions.
• Edible Delicacies: Seek out high quality, cold pressed extra virgin olive oil, especially from Crete or Kalamata. A jar of fragrant thyme honey, a bag of wild oregano, or a vacuum sealed pack of local olives make for excellent, authentic gifts.
• Handmade Leather Goods: Greece is famous for its leather sandals. In Athens’ Monastiraki district, you can find workshops that will craft a pair for you on the spot. Look for quality leather belts and bags as well.
• Ceramics and Pottery: With a tradition stretching back millennia, Greek pottery is a beautiful souvenir. Look for handmade pieces that reflect ancient designs or the unique style of a specific island, like the famous pottery from Sifnos.
• Jewelry: In the Plaka or in island towns, you will find many jewelry shops selling beautiful pieces in silver and gold. Look for designs inspired by ancient Minoan frescoes, Byzantine crosses, or the classic Greek key (meander) motif.
• Natural Products: Bring back the scent of the Aegean with fragrant, handmade olive oil soap. Natural sea sponges, harvested from the sea floor, are another classic and useful item.
• Kombolói (Worry Beads): You will see these everywhere. Far more than a simple toy, kombolói are a cultural item used to pass the time and soothe the nerves. They come in a wide variety of materials, from simple wood to semi precious amber.

Part 6: Thematic Itineraries

Island Introduction (7 Days): Mykonos (2), Naxos (2), Santorini (3). This is a whirlwind tour of the absolute must-see islands. A bit of history, iconic nightlife, fantastic beaches, and unforgettable views – in a very short amount of time. Both Mykonos and Santorini have direct flights to European hubs (London, Paris, Rome, and Amsterdam are the most common) which allow you to bypass Athens and maximize time.

The Classic First Timer (12 Days): Athens (2), Mykonos (3), Naxos/Paros (3), Santorini (4). This is the ideal itinerary for a first visit, offering the perfect blend of Greece’s greatest hits. It combines the ancient grandeur of Athens with the glamour of Mykonos, the authentic charm and beautiful beaches of Naxos (or substitute with Paros if you want a more trendy vibe), and the epic romance of Santorini, providing a well-rounded and unforgettable experience.

The History Buff (15 Days): Athens (3), Nafplio (5), Delphi (2), Rhodes (5). This route is a deep dive into Greece’s layered past. It begins in Athens before exploring the Peloponnese from the charming base of Nafplio. The journey then moves north to the mystical sanctuary of Delphi before flying to the island of Rhodes to immerse in the history of the Knights of Saint John in its magnificent medieval city.

The Relaxed Beach Lover (15 Days): Mykonos (3), Naxos (5), Paros (5), Santorini (2). This itinerary is dedicated to experiencing some of the best islands in the Aegean. It starts with a bolt of energy in glamorous Mykonos before settling into a more relaxed pace on the classic Cycladic islands of Naxos and Paros, which are renowned for their sandy beaches and laid-back charm. Santorini doesn’t have the best sand (its volcanic) but the boat tours of the caldera are incredible. Bypass Athens by flying directly to/from the international airports in Mykonos and Santorini.

Off The Beaten Track (15 Days): Athens (1), Tinos (3), Syros (3), Sifnos (4), Folegandros (4). Designed for the traveler looking to escape the biggest crowds, this island-hopping itinerary spends just one night in Athens before heading out to the Cyclades. It focuses on authenticity and unique culture, starting with the spiritual and artistic island of Tinos, known for its marble villages. The route continues to the grand, non-touristy capital of Syros, the foodie paradise of Sifnos, and finishes on the rugged, dramatic island of Folegandros.

The Mainland Discovery (15 Days): Athens (3), Nafplio (4), Olympia (2), Delphi (3), Meteora (3). This road-trip itinerary focuses entirely on the historical and natural wonders of the Greek mainland. It begins in Athens before heading to the charming Peloponnese town of Nafplio to explore ancient Mycenae and Epidaurus. From there, it journeys to the birthplace of the Olympics, then to the mystical sanctuary of Delphi, and culminates in the surreal, monastery-topped rock spires of Meteora for a complete historical odyssey.

The Adventurer’s Dream (21 Days): Athens (2), Meteora (2), Syros (4), Crete (7), Santorini (3), Milos (3). This comprehensive journey is for the active traveler who wants to see the staggering diversity of Greece. It combines hiking among the monasteries of Meteora, experiencing the unique culture of Syros, trekking the gorges of Crete, and discovering the volcanic coastlines and sea caves of Santorini and Milos.

The Whole Souvlaki (6 Weeks): Athens (3); Mainland Road Trip (10) including Nafplio, Olympia, Delphi, and Meteora; Ionian Islands (5) like Kefalonia or Corfu; Crete (10); Cyclades island hopping (14) including Santorini, Naxos, and Mykonos. This is the ultimate deep dive for those with the luxury of time. The journey begins with a single, immersive stop in Athens before embarking on a grand tour. It covers the historical heartland, the lush Ionian isles, the vast landscapes of Crete, and a leisurely exploration of the iconic Cyclades, ending on an island like Santorini or Mykonos for an easy departure home. (Flying from the Ionians to Crete, via Athens, is recommended but will cost you most of a travel day.) It’s a truly comprehensive odyssey, allowing you to move beyond a tourist’s pace and deeply experience all that Greece has to offer.

Part 7: Money and Payments: Using Euros, Cards, and Cash

Navigating payments in Greece is straightforward, but knowing a few key rules will save you money and inconvenience.

Currency and Cash
The official currency of Greece is the Euro (€). While credit cards are widely used, carrying a reasonable amount of cash is essential. You will need Euros for small purchases at kiosks and bakeries, for many taxi fares, for leaving tips, and for buying from small vendors at local markets. Some family run tavernas, especially in more remote villages, may also be cash only. The best way to get cash is to use your home bank’s debit card at an ATM attached to a major Greek bank (like Alpha Bank, Piraeus Bank, or National Bank of Greece). This will give you a much better exchange rate than currency exchange counters at the airport.

Using Credit Cards
Visa and Mastercard are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, shops, and travel agencies. American Express is accepted less frequently. Before you travel, make sure you have a credit card that does not charge foreign transaction fees, as these can add up significantly. It is also wise to inform your bank of your travel dates to prevent your card from being frozen for suspicious activity.

The Golden Rule of Paying by Card: Always Choose Euros
When you pay with a credit card, the terminal will often present you with a choice: pay in your home currency (e.g., US Dollars) or pay in the local currency (Euros). You must always, without exception, choose to pay in Euros. Choosing to pay in your home currency is a system called Dynamic Currency Conversion. It may sound convenient, but it is a trap. It allows the merchant’s bank to perform the currency conversion on the spot using an inflated exchange rate with hidden fees. By choosing to pay in Euros, you allow your own bank or card network (Visa/Mastercard) to handle the conversion later at a much more favorable, near wholesale rate. The difference can be 5 to 10 percent of your purchase total. Insist on being charged in Euros.

Part 8: For the Return Visitor

Once you have experienced the magnificent headline acts of Greece, a world of deeper, quieter, and equally beautiful destinations awaits. This is for the traveler looking to escape the crowds or plan a second journey.

• Syros: The capital of the Cyclades, Syros feels completely different from its neighbors. Its main city, Ermoupoli, is a grand neoclassical port town with an Italianate elegance and a vibrant, year round local culture largely independent of tourism.

• The Lesser Known Cyclades: Visit Sifnos, the foodie capital of the Cyclades, renowned for its pottery, stylish villages, and ancient walking trails. Or choose Folegandros, a small, rugged island with one of the most beautiful and dramatic Chora (main town) settings in all of the Aegean.

• The Ionian Islands Beyond Corfu: While Corfu and Kefalonia are well known, the smaller Ionian islands are gems. Paxos and its tiny sister island Antipaxos offer impossibly turquoise waters and a sophisticated, low key Italian vibe, accessible by ferry from Corfu.

• The Sporades Islands: A short trip from the mainland, these islands are exceptionally green and lush. Explore Skopelos, famous for its Mamma Mia filming locations and beautiful pine fringed beaches, or the lively island of Skiathos, which boasts over 60 beautiful sandy beaches and a vibrant nightlife.

• The Zagori Region: For a complete change of scenery, head to the Zagorochoria villages in the Pindus mountains of northwestern Greece. This is a hiker’s paradise, famous for its pristine stone villages, arched stone bridges, and the spectacular Vikos Gorge.

• Thessaloniki: Discover Greece’s vibrant second city, often called its culinary capital. Explore millennia of Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman history, walk the long seaside promenade to the iconic White Tower, and dive into its energetic nightlife and world class food scene.

Part 9: Greek Language Essentials

While English is spoken in nearly all tourist areas, making an effort with a few Greek words will be met with warmth and appreciation. It shows respect and an interest in the culture. Here are some essential phrases with a simple phonetic guide.

Greetings and Basics
• Yia sas (YAH sahs) – A polite and universal hello or goodbye.
• Kalimera (kah-lee-MEHR-ah) – Good morning.
• Kalispera (kah-lee-SPEH-rah) – Good evening.
• Efharisto (eff-hah-ree-STO) – Thank you.
• Parakalo (pah-rah-kah-LO) – Please and you’re welcome.
• Ne (neh) – Yes.
• Ochi (OH-hee) – No. Note that Greeks often signify “no” with a slight upward nod of the head.
• Signomi (see-GHNO-mee) – Sorry or excuse me.

At the Taverna or Shop
• Ton logariasmo, parakalo (ton loh-gah-ree-ahz-MO, pah-rah-kah-LO) – The bill, please.
• Poso kani? (POH-so KAH-nee?) – How much is it?
• Thelo afto (THEH-loh ahf-TOH) – I want this. (While pointing).
• Orea (oh-REH-ah) – Beautiful or delicious. A great compliment for food.
• Ena kafe, parakalo (EH-nah kah-FEH, pah-rah-kah-LO) – One coffee, please.