Greece Trips and Tours

Although Greece favors cash transactions, credit cards are still widely accepted by most establishments. Tourism businesses such as travel agencies, hotels, and car rental businesses are actually required by law to have a POS machine. However, small businesses may not have one. So, ask beforehand.

Greece is the ideal summer destination, so you are more than likely to spend most of your time outdoors. So, do not forget your summer essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and comfortable hiking boots. Also, many cruise ship casinos and restaurants require formal dress at night. Thus, you may want to bring a jacket or dinner dress along.

English is widely spoken in Greece. About half of the Greek population speaks English, and you should not have any problems communicating in tourist hotspots like Athens, Santorini, Rhodes, etc. You will find road signs, metro stops, and menus in these places written in both Greek and English. However, you will meet fewer English speakers as you move further inland.

If you are visiting Greece for Athens and a bit of island hopping, a five-day itinerary should be just perfect. However, if you desire to explore Greece's storied mainland cities and breathtaking islands, you will need more time. You can read our in-depth guide to learn more about how long you should spend in Greece.

The shoulder season (April to May and September to October) is the best time to visit Greece because of the pleasant weather and fewer crowds. You can read our guide to learn what to expect from each season in Greece.

EU/Schengen citizens don't need a visa for Greece. UK, Australian and NZ citizens can visit for up to 90 days visa-free. Others need a Schengen visa. As entry rules can change, always verify current requirements with your nearest Greece consulate.

Trying out local dishes in Greece is a great way to get intimate with the local culture and heritage of the country. Start with moussaka, a baked dish of eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce. Enjoy souvlaki, skewered and grilled meat often served in pita with tzatziki. Try spanakopita, a crispy spinach and feta pie, and dolmades, grape leaves stuffed with rice and herbs. Indulge in fresh seafood, like grilled octopus or fried calamari, especially on the islands. Don’t miss baklava, a sweet phyllo pastry with honey and nuts, or sip on ouzo, an anise-flavored aperitif. 

Tipping isn’t expected or customary in Greece but it is always appreciated. Leaving 10% for good service and food in restaurants is a good practice. It's best to tip in cash to ensure it reaches the staff. For other services, EUR 1–2 is appropriate.

Getting around Greece is fairly easy, thanks to a variety of transportation options it offers. For intercity travel, luxury air-conditioned buses provide efficient and affordable services across the mainland and islands. The train network, though limited to major cities, offers scenic and fast routes, such as the 90-minute journey from Athens to Chalkida in Evia. Exploring remote areas is possible in rented cars and adds flexibility. The roads are well-maintained but drivers should be wary of the narrow roads in rural areas and traffic congestion in cities and towns. Ferries are essential for island hopping, connecting major islands with regular schedules. In cities like Athens, public transport includes buses, trams, and a metro system, facilitating convenient urban travel.

Greece is a safe travel destination with minimal risks. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur in busy tourist areas and public transport, so stay vigilant. Political protests occasionally happen, especially in Athens, but are usually peaceful. The country is also prone to earthquakes and summer wildfires—follow local advisories. Tap water is drinkable in major cities like Athens and Thessaloniki but may not be suitable on some islands. We suggest carrying a refillable water bottle to have easy access to clean, safe drinking water at all times.

Absolutely! Bookmundi always recommends purchasing travel insurance for any trip, including one to Greece. A good policy covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and unexpected incidents. If you plan to rent a car or engage in adventure activities, ensure your insurance includes proper coverage. World Nomads is a good insurance provider for comprehensive plans, but compare options to find the best fit for your needs. 

Even though Greece is still a fairly religious country, it is considered a safe and welcoming destination for LGBTQIA+ travellers, especially in large towns and cities. Rural areas can be more conservative, but there’s generally an accepting attitude toward LGBTQIA+ people. Use of discretion is advised.

The Greeks are very warm and polite people. Learning to greet people with a friendly "Kalimera" (Good morning) and saying "Efharisto" (Thank you) will go a long way. Handshakes are common for initial meetings, while close friends may kiss on both cheeks. It's polite to address people with their titles and last names until invited to use first names. Avoid discussing sensitive topics like politics unless well-acquainted. Dress modestly when visiting churches. Lastly, Greece is not a country for parties and drinking. Don’t get intoxicated as it isn’t appreciated. 

Greece is relatively affordable compared to many European destinations. Budget accommodations are widely available in major cities, while costs can rise in tourist-heavy areas, particularly on islands like Santorini and Mykonos. Public transport is reasonably priced, and local tavernas offer affordable, high-quality meals. To give you some idea, here is a list of budget Greece holidays. Alternatively, Greece won’t disappoint those looking for something high-end. Check out our luxury group tours in Greece for some inspiration.