Greece travel tips for first-timers: What to know

Greece looks easy on the surface – sun, sea, ruins – but first-timers still slip up. Most trips start in Athens: loud, gritty, and full of ancient swagger. But don’t stop there. Ride north to Meteora’s cliff-top monasteries, go west for slow island vibes in the Ionian, or ferry through the Cyclades chasing grilled octopus and sea views. English gets you far, but don’t expect signs to help in small towns. And Greek food? It’s not just moussaka – think bakery pies, charcoal-grilled meats, and just-caught fish. These Greece travel tips will help you skip the crowds, eat well, and travel smarter from the start.

When is the best time to visit Greece?

The best time to visit Greece depends on what you’re after. This is a country that runs on late lunches, slow ferries, and blazing sun – and the seasons shape everything. Whether you're here for island hopping, mountain hikes, or ancient ruins, timing makes a difference. Here’s what to know.

• Summer (June to August) is all heat and hustle. Islands are packed, prices spike, and Athens turns into an oven. But the seas are warm, beach towns buzz, and there’s no shortage of ouzo and late-night dancing. Book ahead, brace for crowds.
• Spring and autumn (April to June, September to October) are the real win. The sun’s out, ferries are running, and you won’t be elbowing for sunset views. This is the time for hikes in Crete, wine tasting in Nemea, or wandering Athens without melting into the pavement.
• Winter (November to March) is Greece in slow motion. Islands wind down, but the mainland comes alive. Think cozy mountain villages, quiet archaeological sites, and moody café culture in Thessaloniki. Not beach weather – but perfect if you like your ruins with elbow room.

Is Greece expensive?

Greece can be surprisingly affordable – but only if you know where to spend and where to save. Prices shoot up fast in tourist magnets like Santorini, Mykonos, and the center of Athens. But head to less-hyped islands or inland towns, and your euros stretch a lot further.

The basics are still good value. You can grab a fresh spanakopita and coffee for under €3, or sit down to a proper taverna meal – think grilled meat, salad, and house wine – for around €12-15. Public transport is cheap and reliable, especially in cities, and ferries are reasonably priced if you book in advance. Entry to major ruins and museums usually ranges from €6-12, with discounted combo tickets in Athens and Thessaloniki.

If you're traveling on a tight budget (€50-70 a day), you’ll manage just fine by staying in hostels or simple guesthouses, eating local, and using buses or ferries. Go off-season, and prices drop even more.

Mid-range (€90-140) gets you boutique hotels, car rental, guided tours, and a few splurges on seafood or wine tasting.

If you’re spending big, Greece delivers: sunset dinners on a private terrace, cliffside suites with caldera views, island-hopping yachts. It’s not cheap, but it often feels worth it – especially compared to other Mediterranean hotspots.

Is Greece safe for travelers?

Yes – Greece is generally a very safe country to visit. Crime rates are low, locals are friendly, and solo travel (including for women) is common and mostly hassle-free. You’ll see it in everyday life: people leave bags on chairs at cafés, kids play outside late, and strangers won’t hesitate to help with directions.

Petty theft is your main concern, especially in busy areas of Athens or on packed ferries. Pickpockets target metro lines, tourist hotspots like Monastiraki and Omonia squares, and crowded beaches during high season. They’re fast, quiet, and usually after phones or wallets.

Smaller towns and islands feel even safer – slower pace, fewer crowds, and a strong sense of community. Whether you’re in a mountain village in the Peloponnese or a beach town on Naxos, you’ll likely feel more watched over than targeted.

To stay safe, keep these Greece travel tips in mind:

• Keep bags zipped and in sight on metros and ferries.
• Don’t leave phones or wallets on café tables near the street.
• Avoid sketchy shortcuts at night in central Athens – stick to well-lit streets.
• In nightlife zones like Gazi or Mykonos Town, pace yourself and stay aware – drinks flow fast.
• Use taxis with meters or apps like Free Now for safer rides.

Do you need a visa for Greece?

For most travelers, no. Greece is part of the Schengen Zone, which means easy entry for citizens of the EU, UK, US, Canada, Australia, and many other countries. But don’t assume you’re covered – here’s what you need to know.

Visa-free entry for most travelers

If you’re from a visa-exempt country, you can enter Greece for up to 90 days within any 180-day period for tourism. You’ll need a passport valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure. There’s no visa paperwork – just a stamp on arrival.

Planning to stay longer?

That’s where it gets complicated. You can’t legally extend a short-stay tourist visit beyond the 90 days unless you apply for a national visa – which must be done before you arrive.

Some travelers try bouncing to nearby countries like Albania or Turkey to “reset” the clock, but Schengen rules don’t work like that. Overstaying can lead to fines, deportation, or travel bans.

Working, studying, or volunteering?

You’ll need the right visa in advance. Tourist entry doesn’t cover anything beyond holiday-level plans, and Greek bureaucracy moves slowly – start early if you're applying for a long-term stay.

How to stay healthy while traveling in Greece?

Staying healthy in Greece is usually easy, with clean water, solid food hygiene, and reliable medical care across the country. You’re not dodging dodgy tap water or mystery meat here. That said, don’t underestimate the Greek elements: serious sun, steep stairs, and more fried cheese than your digestive system might be ready for. A bit of prep and common sense go a long way.

Medical care and pharmacies

Healthcare in Greece is decent, especially in major cities like Athens and Thessaloniki. Pharmacies (look for the green cross) are easy to find and often double as mini clinics – pharmacists are well-trained and can usually handle basic issues without a doctor. Many speak English.

For emergencies, head to a hospital or private clinic. Public ones are free or low-cost but can involve long waits. Private clinics are faster but pricier – travel insurance is a must if you want stress-free care.

What to bring:

• Prescription meds and a copy of your prescription.
• Over-the-counter basics like painkillers, motion sickness meds, and antihistamines.
• Sunscreen – Greek sun is no joke.
• Blister plasters – especially if you're walking around on marble streets or island steps.

Vaccinations and health prep

No special vaccines required. Just make sure your standard shots – tetanus, measles, hepatitis A – are up to date.

• Tetanus is a good shout if you’re hiking or clambering around ruins.
• Hepatitis A is low risk, but worth considering if you’re venturing into rural areas.

Food, water, and stomach safety

Tap water is safe in most of Greece, including Athens, Thessaloniki, and many of the bigger islands. Some smaller islands use desalinated or delivered water, so locals often go for bottled water. Ask around before drinking from the tap.

Greek food is one of the best parts of traveling here – fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and plenty of variety. Grilled meats, seafood, stuffed vegetables, and flaky pastries are usually safe to eat, even in small tavernas or street spots. If you’ve got a sensitive stomach, take it slow. Dishes can be rich, oily, or heavy on cheese, and Greek food doesn’t do mild.

Cultural etiquette to know before visiting Greece

Greece is laid-back, but there’s an unspoken code: be polite, show respect, and don’t mistake casual for careless. A little effort goes a long way with locals.

• Dress smart, not sloppy. Greeks dress neatly – even on islands. Beachwear belongs on the beach. In churches and monasteries, cover your shoulders and knees. Loud outfits and gym gear stand out in the wrong way.
• Mind your manners. Say “Kalimera” (good morning) or “Kalispera” (good evening) when entering shops or cafés – it’s expected. Use “Kyrie” (Mr.) or “Kyria” (Mrs.) with older people or in formal settings. A handshake is standard; friends kiss on both cheeks.
• Public behavior. Greeks speak loudly, but it’s warmth, not aggression. Still, drunken antics or loud tourist behavior will earn you eye-rolls, especially in small towns. Public affection is fine, but don’t go overboard.
• Eating and mealtimes. Greek food is social. Meals are slow, shared, and often late; dinner rarely starts before 9 pm. Wait until everyone’s served before eating. Use a fork and knife, even for pastries, in more formal settings. If invited to someone’s home, bring wine or sweets.
• Religion and respect. Greece is culturally Orthodox. Churches and roadside shrines are everywhere – dress modestly and stay quiet inside. Religious festivals are important – watch, don’t perform.
• Tipping. Round up or leave 5-10% in restaurants. A small change is fine in casual spots. Tip hotel staff or guides if they’ve been helpful.

Is Greece a good destination for families?

Absolutely – if your family trip wishlist includes ancient ruins, beach days, island ferries, and plenty of food, even picky eaters will love it. Greece with kids is surprisingly easy: it’s welcoming, safe, and full of low-key adventures. You won’t find big theme parks, but you will find castles to climb, myth-filled ruins to explore, and boat rides that double as sightseeing.

Where to go with kids in Greece

• Athens – The Acropolis, open-air playgrounds, and hands-on museums like the Hellenic Children’s Museum. Plus, the metro makes getting around easy.
• Nafplio – A charming coastal town with a car-free old town, a castle on a hill, and family-friendly beaches nearby.
• Crete – Great for active families. Beaches, ancient palaces like Knossos, and hikes through gorges and mountain villages.
• Naxos – One of the most family-friendly islands. Shallow beaches, quiet villages, and room to breathe.
• Rhodes – Medieval castles, beach resorts, and day trips to butterfly valleys and boat-accessible bays.

Getting around Greece and where to stay

In cities, metros and buses are reliable, but busy. Ferries are fun, but long rides can test younger kids – choose shorter hops or splurge on a cabin. A rental car is handy on the mainland or larger islands like Crete.

Strollers work in some places, but not on cobbles, steps, or ruins. A baby carrier is a smart backup.

Family-friendly accommodation in Greece is easy to find – apartments, guesthouses, beach resorts, or rural stays (agrotourismos). Many places offer cribs, kitchens, or adjoining rooms – just ask in advance.

Food, supplies, and eating out with kids

Greek food is made for families: grilled meats, fries, bread, cheese pies, and lots of sharing. No kids’ menus, but portions are huge and the staff are happy to split or adjust dishes. Tavernas are casual, and kids are always welcome, even late.

Supermarkets and pharmacies are well stocked with diapers, formula, and baby food – though in smaller villages, it’s smart to plan ahead.

High chairs are common in mid-range tavernas, less so in tiny local joints. And yes, someone will probably sneak your kid a piece of cake or a free juice – Greeks love kids.

What are the best places to visit in Greece?

Greece isn’t just ruins and beaches – it’s mountain villages, island ferries, volcanic craters, and cities that never sleep. From ancient temples to off-grid coves, these are the best places to visit in Greece – and why they’re worth your time.

• Athens – Chaotic, historic, and buzzing with energy. Climb the Acropolis early, then lose hours in the backstreets of Plaka or grab souvlaki in Psiri. Ancient meets anarchic – and somehow, it works.
• Santorini – Yes, it’s touristy. Yes, it’s still worth it. Come for the volcanic cliffs, cave hotels, and sunsets that live up to the hype. Stay for the wineries and quiet mornings in Pyrgos or Emporio.
• Crete – Big, bold, and full of contrast. Hike the Samaria Gorge, explore the Palace of Knossos, or just park yourself at a taverna on Elafonissi or Balos – two of the best beaches in Greece. Crete is its own universe, and locals like it that way. 
• Naxos – An island for travelers, not influencers. Soft beaches, hilltop villages, ancient ruins, and food that rivals anywhere in the country. Quiet, but never dull.
• Meteora – Monasteries perched on rock pillars like something out of a fantasy film. Hike at sunrise, stay in nearby Kalambaka, and don’t skip the smaller, less-visited monasteries.
• Thessaloniki – Greece’s second city, but first for food and nightlife. Roman ruins, Ottoman baths, and all-day coffee culture. Grittier than Athens, and way more relaxed.
• Peloponnese – Castles, vineyards, mountains, and myth. Visit Nafplio for neoclassical charm, Monemvasia for a medieval island town, and Mani for wild coastline and stone towers.
• Rhodes – Medieval walls, beach resorts, and a mix of Greek, Turkish, and Crusader history. Some of the best beaches in Greece are tucked into Rhodes’ quieter southern coast.
• Corfu – Lush, green, and Venetian at heart. The old town is postcard-perfect, and the north coast still hides sleepy villages and proper family tavernas.
• Zagori – Deep in the northwest, this region is pure mountain magic. Stone bridges, alpine hikes, and no crowds – just fresh air and serious views.

How long to spend in Greece?

Greece might look like a quick hop between ruins and islands, but don’t let the size fool you. Ferries, mountains, and slow meals stretch the pace. You can hit some of the best things to do in Greece in a week – the Acropolis, a beach or two, maybe Meteora – but the real magic kicks in when you slow down.

How long you stay shapes the trip. Try to cram in too much, and you’ll miss the point. That’s a rookie mistake. Greece rewards time to linger over lunch, to detour down a back road, or to watch the light change on a temple stone.

Ask yourself:

• Are you island-hopping or sticking to the mainland?
• Do you want history, beaches, mountains, or all three?
• Are you renting a car, relying on ferries, or flying between spots?

Rough timing breakdown

• 1 week in Greece – Stick to a region. Explore Athens and a nearby island like Hydra or Aegina. Or head straight to one island – Crete or Naxos gives you beaches, hikes, and history without needing to move around.
• 10 days in Greece – The sweet spot. Start in Athens, add a mainland gem like Delphi or Nafplio, then hit an island or two. The best Greek islands for a trip like this? Try Naxos for easy beaches and hill villages, Paros for charm without the crowds, or Hydra for a no-cars, all-character experience close to Athens.
• 2 to 3 weeks – Now you’re traveling properly. Explore Athens, road-trip through the Peloponnese or northern mountains, and island-hop through the Cyclades or Dodecanese. You’ll see big hitters and hidden corners.
• 1 month+ – Greece was made for long stays. Rent a place, learn some Greek, and find your favorite beach taverna. With time, the best beaches in Greece, the lesser-known ruins, and the slow rhythms of local life start to feel like your own.

What’s the best way to plan a Greece itinerary?

Planning a trip to Greece isn’t about hitting every ancient site or ticking off islands like a checklist. It’s about choosing the right mix – history, beaches, slow meals – and leaving space to wander. The best Greece itinerary doesn’t rush. It moves with the ferry schedule, the village rhythm, and the late-night dinners. Less is more.

Start with how long you’ve got

Greece is spread out – mountains, islands, ruins – but it’s manageable if you don’t overpack your schedule. Here’s how time shapes your trip:

• Under a week – Stick to Athens plus one spot. Try Athens and Naxos for a hit of history and island time, or pair Athens with Nafplio and the ancient sites of the Peloponnese.
• 7-10 days – A classic combo. Visit Athens, Delphi, and a Cycladic island like Paros or Milos. You’ll get ruins, coast, and small-town Greece. This is a sweet spot for sampling a couple of the best Greek islands without ferry fatigue.
• 2 weeks – Go deeper. Start in Athens, road-trip through the mainland (think Meteora, Ioannina, or the Mani peninsula), then hop to Crete or two smaller islands for beaches and local food.
• 3-4 weeks – Now you’re traveling slow. Island-hop through the Dodecanese or the Cyclades. Linger in mountain villages. Stay a few nights in Thessaloniki and catch the northern vibe. Greece opens up when you stop chasing it.

Match your route to your travel style

Greece has layers. Match your route to what you’re actually into, not what the tour books say.

History + cities

• Athens – Ruins, street art, rooftop bars.
• Thessaloniki – Byzantine churches, edgy cafés, and epic food.

Landscapes

• Meteora – Monasteries on rock pillars.
• Pelion – Forested coastlines, mountain villages, and hidden beaches.
• Crete – Gorges, caves, and some of the best beaches in Greece.

Islands

• Naxos – Kid-friendly and laid-back.
• Paros – Stylish, easygoing, and ferry-friendly.
• Ikaria – Where time slows down—literally.
• Santorini – Yes, it’s crowded. Yes, it’s stunning.

Food + wine

• Peloponnese – Wine, olive oil, and traditional tavernas.
• Crete – Raki, cheese pies, and strong flavors.
• Tinos – Quiet, foodie island with serious local pride.

Relaxing

• Hydra – No cars, just donkeys and sea views.
• Sifnos – Sleepy beaches, local pottery, and top-notch food.
• Corfu – Green hills, clear water, and Venetian charm.

Getting around Greece: plan this early

Getting around Greece takes a bit of planning – but it’s part of the adventure. Ferries link the islands, but they don’t always match up with your ideal schedule. In high season, book early to avoid getting stuck.

Trains are limited, so buses and rental cars are better bets on the mainland. Roads are in good shape, but expect hairpin turns, mountain routes, and tight squeezes in old villages. If you’re not into manual gearshifts, reserve an automatic well in advance.

Flights can save you serious time for longer distances, like Athens to Crete, Rhodes, or Lesvos. Book ahead, especially in summer.

Taxis and ride apps like Free Now work well in cities. But once you leave urban areas, you’ll want your own wheels. Getting around Greece is easier when you can go at your own pace, especially in remote villages, archaeological sites, or hidden beaches that buses don’t reach.

How to slow travel in Greece?

Greece was made for slow travel –  ferries that take their time, meals that stretch into sunset, and places where the clock doesn’t matter. Skip the bucket list and settle in.

In Athens, pick a local neighborhood like Koukaki or Mets. Walk to your morning bakery. Visit the ruins in the late afternoon. Sit at a café in a shady square and do absolutely nothing. Watch the city breathe.

The Peloponnese is perfect for slow road trips. Stay in Nafplio or a village in the Mani. Drive winding roads past olive groves and stone towers. Stop when you feel like it. Eat where the locals eat.

On the Greek islands, base yourself somewhere with rhythm. In Naxos, stay in a small village and take the bus to the beach. In Ikaria, time is flexible – dinners start late, and no one’s in a hurry. On Sifnos, you’ll spend days doing little more than swimming, snacking, and walking between sleepy villages.

In Crete, pick a base in the west like Chania or Paleochora. Explore slowly – gorges, beaches, mountain plateaus – and stay in family-run places where breakfast is still homemade.

Tips for slowing down

• Stay longer in fewer places –  skip the island-hopping sprint.
• Use buses or ferries –  let Greece set the pace.
• Eat like a local –  meze, slow-roasted lamb, long lunches with house wine.
• Wander side streets. Talk to strangers. Accept the second round of raki.

How to handle money and payments in Greece?

Greece keeps things fairly straightforward, but a little know-how goes a long way – especially when a taverna tells you it’s “cash only” after the meal.

The currency is the euro (€), and cards are widely accepted in cities, islands, and larger towns. Visa and Mastercard are safest. But always carry some cash – especially for rural villages, small bakeries, kiosks, or beach tavernas where the Wi-Fi (and card machine) may or may not work.

• ATMs are easy to find, but not all are equal. Stick to machines from Greek banks like Alpha Bank, Piraeus, or National Bank of Greece for better rates and fewer fees. Avoid Euronet or other standalone machines – they’ll hit you with high fees and bad conversion rates.
• Contactless payment is common – most places take tap, and mobile payments like Apple Pay or Google Pay work in urban areas. Still, don’t assume every shop in a mountain village is up to speed.
• Tipping is casual but appreciated. In restaurants, round up or leave 5-10% if the service was good. No tip is expected for a quick coffee or snack. In taxis, just round up. Hotel staff and guides appreciate small tips if they’ve gone the extra mile.

Always choose to pay in euros, not your home currency, when using a foreign card. Dynamic currency conversion sounds helpful, but it’s always the worst deal.

What are the most common scams?

Greece is generally safe and laid-back, but tourist areas still attract a few classic scams. Most are small-time and easy to dodge if you know what to look for.

• Taxi overcharging – It doesn’t happen everywhere, but watch for it in Athens and at ferry ports. Always ask for the meter to be turned on. Some drivers may try to add fake fees for luggage, tolls, or “night rates.” When in doubt, use apps like Free Now for fair, trackable rides.
• Restaurant extras – Bread, dips, or bottled water might land on your table unasked, and show up on the bill. It’s legal, but not always made clear. If you don’t want them, politely send them back untouched.
• Overpriced souvenirs – In touristy spots like Plaka in Athens or around island ports, watch for inflated prices on things like sponges, olive oil, and handmade goods that aren’t actually handmade. Compare before you buy.
• ATM fees – Stick to ATMs from Greek banks (Alpha Bank, Piraeus, National Bank). Avoid Euronet and other stand-alone machines – they charge sky-high fees and offer poor conversion rates.
• Street distractions – People asking for donations, surveys, or selling bracelets may just be distracting you for a pickpocket. Keep your bag closed and walk on.
• Tuk-tuk tours in Athens – Yes, they exist. They’re fun but not cheap – agree on the price beforehand and don’t expect a guided history lesson.

How to travel responsibly and ethically in Greece?

Greece is warm and welcoming, but that hospitality runs both ways. Responsible travel here means respecting local rhythms, traditions, and the places that make Greece more than just a holiday backdrop. These Greece travel tips will help you do it right.

• Dress appropriately at religious sites – Many monasteries and churches (especially on Mount Athos, Meteora, or in Orthodox villages) require modest dress. Some have signs, others don’t – but it’s always better to cover shoulders and knees. Women may be offered skirts to wear at the door.
• Understand, island life isn’t for show – Greek islands aren’t theme parks. Locals live and work there year-round, often with limited water, slow deliveries, and fragile ecosystems. Respect the pace, the people, and the space.
• Support Greek-owned businesses – Eat at local tavernas, buy from village markets, and choose small, Greek-run hotels or rooms. On islands like Ikaria or Naxos, this makes a real difference to families who rely on seasonal income.
• Be mindful during festivals and name days – Orthodox Easter and name days are deeply rooted traditions. If you’re invited to join, follow the locals' lead. Show up respectfully – not like you’re crashing a party.
• Don’t touch ancient ruins – It’s tempting, but those stones aren’t souvenirs. Stick to marked paths at sites like Delphi, Epidaurus, and Knossos – erosion and wear are real problems.
• Watch your impact in nature – On hikes through Zagori, the Samaria Gorge, or the Cycladic hills, stay on marked trails. Don’t light fires. And if you’re snorkeling or sailing, don’t touch marine life – especially in protected areas like Zakynthos, where sea turtles nest.
• Ask before taking photos of locals or their homes – In small villages, it’s polite to ask. Some people may wave you off, others will invite you in.
• Tipping is appreciated, not expected – In tavernas, rounding up or leaving a few euros is enough. Don’t tip extravagantly – it distorts expectations in places where tourism is still low-key.

Don’t expect air conditioning in every stay

Greece gets brutally hot in summer – especially inland or in Athens – but not all accommodations come with air conditioning. Older neoclassical buildings in Athens or Thessaloniki, and traditional homes on islands like Hydra, Ikaria, or the Mani, often rely on thick stone walls and ceiling fans. On islands with narrow power grids, like Kythira or Amorgos, AC may be limited to evenings. If you’re traveling from June to September, check before you book. Coastal breezes are great – until they vanish.

Sundays in Greece are still sacred

While Athens shops might open, villages, mountain towns, and most islands still treat Sunday as a proper day off. Expect bakeries, petrol stations, and supermarkets to close by midday, or not open at all. Planning a Sunday in Zagori, Ikaria, or Tinos? Pack snacks, fuel up early, and pepare to slow down. That said, tavernas will be full of locals out for Sunday lunch, especially in family-run spots.

Don’t underestimate Greek beaches

Greece has some of the best beaches in Europe, but they’re not always gentle. On windy islands like Mykonos, Andros, or Karpathos, strong meltemi winds create rough surf and riptides. Lifeguards are common at big resort beaches, but many of the country’s best spots – remote coves in Crete, the Mani, or the Ionian coast – are unguarded. Greece uses a flag system (green, yellow, red), but not everywhere. If there’s no flag, assume there’s no lifeguard. Locals often know which beaches are safe that day, so ask.