What should I know before visiting Greece?

Direct answer

Greece is a safe, historically rich Mediterranean destination—plan for entry requirements, seasonal crowds, hot summers, island hopping logistics, and polite local customs to get the most from your trip.

Visa & entry requirements

• EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: no visa, valid ID card or passport required.
• US/Canada/Australia/NZ citizens: visa-free for short stays (Schengen area rules) up to 90 days in any 180-day period; passport valid for at least 3 months beyond intended departure recommended.
• Other nationalities: check the Greek MFA or embassy website for visa rules; some need Schengen visas.
• Passport control: Greece is in Schengen; if arriving from outside Schengen, expect passport checks.
• Health: no mandatory vaccines for most travelers; carry proof of COVID vaccination/test only if required by changing rules—verify before travel.

Best time to visit

• High season: June–August — warmest, busiest, most expensive, ideal for beaches and island nightlife.
• Shoulder seasons: May–early June and September–October — best balance of good weather, fewer crowds, lower prices; great for sightseeing and hiking.
• Low season: November–March — cooler, many islands have reduced services, but mainland cities and cultural sites remain accessible and cheaper.

Safety tips

• Greece is generally safe. Common issues: pickpocketing in crowded areas (Athens, tourist sites, buses), petty theft on beaches.
• Keep copies of documents, use hotel safes, avoid leaving valuables in parked cars.
• Follow sea-safety advice: check weather for ferries, be cautious with swimming on exposed beaches or strong currents.
• Emergency numbers: 112 (EU emergency).

Local customs & etiquette

• Greeks are warm and hospitable; greetings are typically a handshake or kiss on both cheeks among acquaintances.
• Dress modestly when visiting churches or monasteries; shoulders and knees should be covered.
• Mealtimes: lunch often 13:00–15:00, dinner 20:00 onwards; save time for long, social meals and ordering multiple small plates (meze).
• Tipping: appreciated but modest—round up or leave 5–10% in restaurants if service is good; small tips for taxi drivers and hotel staff.
• Respect religious and cultural sites: no loud behavior, obey signs and staff instructions.

Currency & money matters

• Currency: Euro (EUR).
• ATMs widely available in cities and major islands; smaller islands/villages may have limited cash points—carry some cash.
• Credit cards accepted in many places, but cash is preferred for small tavernas, remote islands, markets, and buses.
• Notify your bank of travel to avoid card blocks and check foreign transaction fees.

Transportation

• International: Athens (ATH) and Thessaloniki (SKG) are main airports; many islands have airports with seasonal flights.
• Ferries: primary way to island hop. Book ahead in high season, check schedules (weather can cause cancellations). Fast ferries save time but cost more.
• Domestic flights: useful for long island hops or/time savings; book early for best fares.
• Trains/buses: KTEL regional buses connect many towns; trains are limited but useful for some routes (Athens–Thessaloniki slower than flying).
• Rental cars/mopeds: recommended for exploring islands and rural areas; drive cautiously on narrow or winding roads; check insurance and extra driver rules.
• Taxis and ride apps: taxis abundant in cities; agree on meter use or fare up front in tourist areas.

Must-know tips & local insights

• Plan for heat: bring sun protection, reusable water bottle, and lightweight clothes; many shops close for siesta in smaller towns midday in summer.
• Book popular archaeological sites (Acropolis) and ferries in advance during summer to avoid queues and sell-outs.
• Try local cuisine: fresh seafood, mezze, moussaka, Greek salad, local cheeses, and regional wines/spirits (ouzo, tsipouro, raki). Visit family-run tavernas for authentic food.
• Island choice: Santorini for views/sunsets, Mykonos for nightlife, Crete for diversity (beaches, ruins, gorges), Naxos/Paros for family-friendly beaches, lesser-known islands (Milos, Folegandros) for fewer crowds.
• Cultural sites: Acropolis (Athens), Delphi, Meteora monasteries, Knossos (Crete). Combine mainland cultural visits with island relaxation.
• Connectivity: SIM cards available at airports and shops; consider a local data plan for maps and ferry updates.
• Language: Greek is official; English widely spoken in tourist areas. Learning simple Greek phrases (please, thank you) is appreciated.

Quick checklist

• Passport & visa (if needed), travel insurance, copies of documents
• Euros and card, notify bank
• Ferry/flight bookings, accommodation confirmations
• Sun protection, comfortable walking shoes, modest clothing for churches
• Local SIM or roaming plan, charger and adapters (Type C/F sockets)

Enjoy Greece’s mix of history, cuisine, islands, and warm hospitality—plan seasonally, book key transport and sites in advance, and respect local customs for a smooth trip.