With its ancient ruins, stunning beaches, and breathtaking landscapes, Greece is a destination that will leave you speechless. It’s a great place to explore and uncover the secrets of its rich history.
From its bustling cities to its idyllic islands, there is no shortage of things to see and do in the unique country. Take a look at this overview of Greece to get started on your journey!
Geography
Greece is located at the southern tip of the Balkan peninsula in southeastern Europe. It has hundreds of islands and maritime boundaries with Bulgaria and Turkey. Mountains, including Mount Olympus and Meteora, dominate the mainland area. The latter is a collection of hills and sandstone rocks ideal for climbing enthusiasts. The country enjoys a Mediterranean climate, and its landscape provides many different types of terrain, from mountain ranges to rivers, lakes, forests, beaches, and Aegean sea coves.
Greece is divided into 13 regions, subdivided into 74 provinces that administer all aspects of Greece’s local governance. Greater Greece consists only of the continental region, while Crete comprises the other major Island in Greece. Other notable islands include Rhodos (the largest Greek Island), Lesvos, an island renowned for its olive groves; Corfu; Kefalonia; Paros; Santorini; Mykonos; Skiathos & Syros, among many others numbered in thousands all along the Aegean Sea coastline.
Climate
The climate of Greece is typically Mediterranean, with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. The country experiences heavy snowfall in the winter in its mountainous regions, while the summer temperatures often exceed 30°C (86°F). Greece is divided into six major climate regions based on geographical features and varying weather patterns: mountainous, semi-arid, Mediterranean, semi-continental, alpine, and hot summers.
The mountainous region covers just two percent of the country and is characterized by a cold climate and winter snow due to its high altitude. This area lies primarily in the central part of Greece and along the northern border near Macedonia. The semi-arid region covers a larger area than the mountains, mainly forming part of Thrace down to Crete. Areas in this region tend to experience lower rainfall than average, with temperatures that are considerably higher during summer and cooler during winter.
The Mediterranean region encompasses much of coastal mainland Greece plus southern islands such as Crete and other Dodecanese islands like Rhodes. This generally mild climate features brisk winds occasionally blowing off North African deserts, which cause higher summertime temperatures than those found further north in Greece. In some areas near larger bodies of water, such as Lake Ioannina or the northern Aegean Sea coastlines, fog may be an issue from late fall to early spring.
The semi-continental climate is found mainly around mainland Greek towns like Ioannina or Platykampos, located east of Sparta. Winters here tend to be harsh, with snow sometimes lasting several days or even weeks at a time, while summers can have hot conditions, especially around mountain areas or those away from water sources like lakes or rivers.
The alpine zone stretches across most mountain tops, including the Olympus Mountain range throughout Central Macedonia Rhodope Mountains into Epirus near the Albanian border; temperatures here can fluctuate rapidly during any season, so visitors should always be prepared for inclement weather while trekking them high altitudes not only all times year round but especially through cold season between December April when heavy snow often accumulates even up top peaks above 2000 meters AMSL (1900 meters feet MSL).
The hot summer zone runs through most Cycladic Islands Crete, where the temperature drops a little at night, allowing optimal vacationing conditions party under the sun during the mid-season, passing September and October before retreat sunsets arrive ahead of winter months November, December, and January, February, March respectively whereby at this time same time ordinary yet infrequent tropical storms might strike islands off coast mainland increasing humidity higher temperatures short bursts lasting hours few days respective accordingly thus need protection against inclement weather experienced earlier mentioned periods!
Languages
Greece is primarily a Greek-speaking country, with almost all of its 11 million people speaking either Modern Greek or the related language of Pontic Greek. The country’s official language is Greek (Demotic or Katharevousa), which is spoken by 99% of the population.
Greek is an Indo-European language with its branch in linguistic studies, known as Hellenic; it was initially written primarily in Mycenaean Linear B language, which today can only be understood and read to some degree by modern linguists. Nevertheless, it has evolved, adapting to various changes in its use and preserving a linguistic continuity that remains strong even today.
In addition to Modern and Pontic Greek, English is widely spoken throughout Greece – especially in larger cities like Athens – as are Turkish, Italian, and French due to their shared history under Ottoman rule. German is also reasonably common due to the influx of German tourists each year. In certain areas, minority languages like Albanian and Macedonian are spoken among certain ethnic groups.
Currency
Greece is part of the Eurozone, and Circular 500 of the Bank of Greece regulates money circulation in the country. As of January 1, 2019, Greece adopted the euro (EUR) as its official currency. The euro replaced the Greek drachma, which had been in use since 2001 and since 1832.
Greece has no restrictions on taking cash into or out of the country. So travelers are free to bring any amount when visiting and must declare any amount exceeding €10,000 (or equivalent) upon departure. Visitors are advised to exchange their currencies at hotels rather than banks for more competitive exchange rates.
The country also accepts major credit cards (Visa and MasterCard). ATM locations are available in urban cities and rural regions, with some support for international cards. Traveler’s checks are also accepted in many tourist spots across the country but incur fees when exchanging them into euros, so they may not always be a practical option.
If you’re visiting Greece, it is wise to carry a combination of
- cash
- debit/credit cards
- some emergency euros
In case you need them while traveling around the country. Remember that exchanges between currencies can incur significant conversion fees, so plan accordingly if that’s what you intend to do!
Getting Around
Greece has an extensive public transportation system that consists of trains, buses, taxi services, and ferries. Taking public transportation is a great way to explore Greece, as it allows you to get around to different cities and towns quickly. In addition, you can purchase tickets for most transportation services online in advance or at the station, so it’s easy to get around Greece without getting lost.
Let’s dive into the details of traveling around Greece in this section:
Transportation Options
Greece has a good bus system, especially in Athens and other large cities, and it’s economical and efficient. Regularly scheduled ferries are another popular form of transportation in Greece, regularly ferrying passengers between the mainland and many Greek islands. You can also take planes between places or charter a boat to travel among some of the island villages.
The best way to get around is a car rental – it may be a bit expensive, but it allows you to explore all of Greece without relying on public transportation. If you rent a car, have an international license, as most car rental companies require.
In larger cities such as Athens, public transportation is more frequent, and the number of vehicles vying for road space increases exponentially during peak hours; traffic brings along pollution and delays, so it is better to avoid commuting during these peak hours whenever possible. The metro in Athens is where many commuters prefer because there are limited stops around the city – good for those looking for convenience. Taxis are plentiful in most larger towns but can prove costly over time; however, you can try local ridesharing apps such as UESRIDE for cheaper rates.
Car Rentals
To rent a car in Greece, you must first familiarize yourself with the road rules and regulations. Unfortunately, the most common problem for tourists is not being aware of the local traffic laws.
The minimum age for car renting in most areas of Greece is 23. In addition, international drivers must have a valid driving license from their home country and an International Driving Permit (IDP). In some cases, getting both documents translated into Greek may be necessary before being allowed to drive.
Cars manufactured after 1994 must have an identification sticker showing the vehicle’s type, year, make, and model. All vehicles should also have adequate insurance coverage when driven outside of Athens – including Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) coverage – as Greek law mandates third-party liability insurance coverage at all times.
In addition to following Greece’s road rules, drivers should also make sure that their hired car has the following:
- Working seat belts for all passengers
- Functioning headlights and brake lights
It is best to make safety your top priority when traveling around Greece!
Public Transportation
Public transportation in Greece is convenient and affordable. One of the most popular modes of transport is the bus, which can connect you to almost any destination around Greece. In addition to buses, ferries from the mainland to islands, regional trains connecting major cities and nearby villages, and an underground system in Athens.
Buses: Most Greek cities have at least one form of bus service, connecting areas that are not within walking distance. Bus stops are typically found near major tourist attractions, shopping areas, and residential neighborhoods in most larger cities. Depending on where you’re traveling to/from, different types of buses may be available – express (Volos–Athens), air-conditioned (Thessaloniki–Athens), mini (Urban networks). Each bus will usually list its route on the front windshield or side door glass.
Ferries: Ferries provide convenient transportation between mainland Greece and its many island interiors. The schedules vary depending on weather conditions, but generally, off-season ferries depart during the day and run on reduced hours during the peak season due to increased activity. Consequently, the fares rise accordingly during the high season (July – August).
Regional Trains: Regional trains offer a more comfortable way to travel over 100 km without driving or busing between destinations like from Thessaloniki to Athens or Meteora Monasteries. These routes run daily with departure times usually at 10 am & 8 pm – this route is dependent upon object times and availability, i.e., it could take anywhere between 4 – 7 hours depending on the type of ticket purchased & connection changes along the route taken as well as rush hour/traffic/weather conditions encountered along way which can significantly increase travel time allowing for delays or cancellation if need be which is why it’s best to purchase tickets far ahead of time during peak season months & check weather updates before travel dates accordingly so plan accordingly!
Athens Metro: The best way to get around Athens’ city centers is through the metro system, which connects downtown with surrounding suburbs and outlying area locations. Passes & Tickets for the metro can be purchased easily – those cost 3€ per person, each valid only single journey. Numerous entrances and metro exits give access to landmarks like Acropolis Parthenon, multiple ancient sites, rich tourist attractions, many museums, great nightlife, colorful districts, foodie havens, breathtaking seaside beaches, and adventure activities, providing a complete experience of history journey its right!
Accommodations
Greece has a wide array of accommodations for all types of travelers. From budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts and even yachts, there is something for everyone. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can decide to stay in a hotel or a villa.
Accommodations in Greece range from beachfront villas with stunning views to cozy guesthouses in traditional villages. No matter your choice, you will find a great spot to rest and enjoy your time in Greece.
Hotels
Hotels in Greece can vary widely depending on the city, location, or region you visit. From luxury resorts to modern high-rise buildings and ever-changing boutique hotels, there is something for everyone. For those looking for a more relaxed and traditional experience, Greece offers numerous traditional village-style accommodations such as converted mansions (known as ‘monasteries’) and whitewashed Greek island villas.
In most cases, hotel rooms will be equipped with air conditioning and private showers or bathtubs. Many hotels also provide swimming pools, fitness centers, spa facilities, and other amenities like free Wi-Fi internet access. Additionally, some hotels provide transfer services from major airports or bus stations to the city center, so you don’t have to worry about how to get around once you arrive.
From budget studio apartments to luxurious five-star accommodation options with stunning viewpoints overlooking towns and countryside alike, there is something for all price ranges regarding hotel recommendations in Greece. Take your pick of world-class resorts on popular beaches in Crete or Mykonos, alongside smaller boutique options in more rural areas.
Hostels
Hostels in Greece offer a great combination of comfort, convenience, and affordability. Perfect for travelers on a tight budget, they provide the basics, such as bedding and a private room or bunk bed in a dorm setting with a shared bathroom. Some hostels may even offer breakfast and/or dinner at an extra cost.
The cost of staying in a hostel can be as low as €10-€15 per day for most cities, but prices vary depending on the size and location. However, the greatest value of staying in hostels is that many extras like Wi-Fi and car parking are usually included in the price.
When looking for hostel accommodations, be aware that some may require reservations or payment online before check-in, while others prefer to take walk-ins. Also, many hostels are located near airports or major train/bus stations, making them convenient for those who need quick access to transportation services before their next destination! Hostel websites typically include details on availability so you can plan your travel around them and book rooms when necessary.
Airbnb
Airbnb is available in major tourist cities throughout Greece, offering a mix of modern apartments and traditional “Επαρχιακά σπίτια” (provincial houses). Airbnb is an attractive option for budget travelers who want the privacy and convenience of their living space after a day of sightseeing.
The selection of accommodations on Airbnb will depend on the city you’re visiting. In Athens, you’ll find dozens of modern apartments perfect for business travelers or couples. You can also opt to stay in one of the many traditional houses with Greek tiled floors and whitewashed walls filled with colorful art.
Smaller towns like Arachova, Delphi, Kalampaigos, Mycenae, and Nafplio also offer plenty of Airbnb options ranging from cozy studios to villas with private swimming pools. Many are located in scenic hilltop villages or close to beaches and ancient ruins – ideal for adventurers who want to explore off the beaten path. Depending on location and size, prices range from €40 – €200 per night.
Whether looking for modern amenities or a more traditional experience, Airbnb offers something for every traveler to Greece. With so much selection, it can be hard to choose – but that gives you more time to plan your next Greek getaway!
Must-See Attractions
Greece is a beautiful country with great sights and attractions to experience. From stunning views of the Aegean Sea to the Acropolis in Athens and the archaeological sites in Crete, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
In this guide, we will look at some of the top must-see attractions in Greece that you should make sure to visit during your trip:
Acropolis of Athens
No trip to Greece would be complete without a visit to one of the most iconic landmarks in modern civilization, the Acropolis of Athens. Built in the 5th century BC atop an ancient fortress, this incredible structure stands majestically above the Greek capital, a visible reminder of Athens’ long and eventful history.
Located on the rocky slopes of the Acropolis hill, it is easy to see why this popular tourist attraction has become a major part of Greek culture and mythology over time. Its impressive monuments and stunning views make it well worth visiting if you’re in the area.
The Acropolis houses many different structures within its walls, each with its distinct purpose or role in classical antiquity. Notable among these include:
- The Parthenon – Built in 500 BC, this large temple dedicated to Athena is one of the most recognizable structures of ancient Greece. It stands as an impressive symbol of democracy and Western Civilization.
- Propylaea – Constructed in 437 BC by Mnesicles to provide access for visitors to The Parthenon area.
- Temple of Athena Nike – This small temple was dedicated to Victorious Athena and built on top of an earlier Propylaea structure around 427–424 BC. It is considered one of the first use examples of Ionic Order architecture on a temple building (as well as other early Greek temples).
- Erectheion – Built upon old foundations from 510–406 Bc by architect Kallikrates, this complex building was created as a worship place for Poseidon and Athena Polias guarding city walls (of course, highly related so their mother goddess Pandrosos). Thus together, connected, legendary mythical figures such as Theseus(Athens founder), Mnemosyne(divine remembered), etc., with thematic legacy, used already in those times covering memory attribution skill(rhetoric art claim ).
Fun fact: It has been estimated that more than 30 million visitors come every year to explore The Acropolis!
Meteora Monasteries
Meteora is a spectacular area of Greece in the Thessaly region, comprising dramatic natural rock formations topped by ancient monasteries of stunning architectural beauty. These cliff-top monasteries date back to the 11th century when hermits first made their homes in Meteora’s caves, buildings were constructed on high rocks, and over twenty eastern Orthodox monasteries began operating. Nowadays, six remain Agios Stefanos, Varlaam Monastery, Megalo Meteoro (Great Meteoron), Yunogoikovo Monastero (Holy Trinity), Roussanou Monastery, as well as Agii Pantes.
The Meteora monasteries are one of the country’s major attractions for tourists who come to explore its outstanding scenery and incredible history. Just over two hours from Athens by car or bus and with an impressive array of activities that can be undertaken within Meteora’s UNESCO World Heritage site, it is well worth spending at least a day here.
- Climb up the steps leading up to one of the monasteries or take a guided tour around some of them;
- Enjoy breathtaking views as you walk between small churches perched on top of giant rocks;
- Participate in religious services conducted inside some ancient architectural monuments;
- Make sure not to miss out on exploring adjacent areas such as nearby villages or climbing some inaccessible rocks; and
- Let yourself be mesmerized by a beauty that can only be experienced rather than described.
Delphi Archaeological Site
The Delphi Archaeological Site is considered one of Greece’s most important ancient sites. Located in one of the steepest areas of Mount Parnassus centuries ago, it was praised as an oracular sanctuary where any individual wanting to consult the Oracle would spend days walking around its ruins.
Today, the ruins have a unique atmosphere that takes visitors back to Ancient Greece. The fan-shaped theatre built with limestone is placed at the highest point and offers fantastic views over olive groves, plane tree forests, and house rooftops. Also, in Delphi, you can find temples such as the 5th century Temple of Apollo dedicated to Apollo, where it stands today. On every side of this awe-inspiring temple, there are sets of deep stoas (colonnades).
Archaeological exhibitions are spread across multiple rooms inside Delphi archaeological Museum located just outside the actual site, and collections, including sculptures, coins, and vases collected over two centuries by French archaeologists, will give visitors a complete glance at those times. Oracles’ prophecies were written on sheets of lead that have been preserved until today, giving researchers hands-on information on ancient Greek culture and its active role during those centuries.
Food & Drink
Greek cuisine is one of the most cherished cuisines worldwide and is often referred to as the ‘jewel in the Mediterranean.’ From sweet pastries to feta cheese, you can find food and drink to suit every taste. With a wide selection of fresh seafood, succulent meats, and savory spices, there’s something to tantalize your taste buds.
In this guide, we’ll explore traditional Greek food and drinks in more detail:
Traditional Greek Cuisine
Greece is known for its tasty traditional cuisine – but don’t underestimate its culinary diversity. This southeastern European country is home to several beautiful flavors, from savory moussaka and spanakopita to peppery meat platters.
Traditional Greek food consists of healthy, fresh ingredients – such as olive oil, fresh vegetables, and proteins like fish or pork. Many dishes are cooked in the oven at low temperatures, which allows them to bake slowly and enrich with flavor. Dishes also often have an interesting combination of Greek spices, herbs, lemon juice, and oregano; you will find these elements in many Greek recipes.
The most popular types of food are:
- Mezedes (Greek Tapas): A great way to sample a variety of small plates that could include kalamarakia (fried squid), tyropita (cheese pie), saganaki (pan-fried cheese), yiapraki (stuffed grape leaves) and skordalia served with grilled calamari.
- Grilled Meat & Fish: Souvlaki is the best-known dish – small chunks or strips of pork or chicken marinated with oregano, garlic, lemon juice, and yogurt stuffed into a warm pita with lettuce, tomato, and tzatziki sauce – delicious! Other wonderful grilled meats include lamb chops served with braised artichokes or slow-cooked lamb stifado. Grilled sardines are also another delicacy usually enjoyed during the summer months.
- Pastitsio & Moussaka: These two dishes look similar but taste entirely different! Pastitsio consists of layers of macaroni noodles cooked in a cream sauce and topped with another layer of beef mince before being baked in the oven. Moussaka is also layered – eggplant slices alternating with beef mince – all baked together in a rich tomato sauce till golden brown.
- Traditional Greek Salad: Probably the most famous dish associated with Greece, it’s made up of crunchy cucumber slices tossed through diced tomatoes, feta cheese, olives, onion, red pepper capers, salt pepper, and oregano before being finished off with a generous portion of high quality extra virgin olive oil. It is delicious and eaten on its own, but it can also be used as an accompaniment for other dishes!
Local Wines
Greece is home to a vibrant wine culture, with nearly 300 unique grape varieties and numerous regions popular for producing local and international styles of high-quality wine. Greek wines are often blended from different varietals to create complex flavors, aromas, and textures, often made in the dry style that has become much sought after globally. Wines made in the country range from light, crisp whites to full-bodied reds that combine flavors of cherries, earth, and even tobacco. The most famous wines hail from Crete, where rose varieties are favored, and Santorini, where Sauvignon Blanc is the star of their vineyards.
Greece has long been celebrated as an ideal terroir due to its diverse growing climates ranging from Alpine up in the mountains to hot coastal areas along sparkling waters. Due to the mild weather, Greek wine grapes can remain on the vine longer, contributing valuable sugars for fermentation and complex flavor components typically lost when harvested early. In particular, sparkling wines shining with bright minerality have become increasingly popular throughout Greece.
The history of winemaking in Greece goes back centuries, and it’s easy for visitors to enjoy modern iterations all over the country today – whether through restaurant pairings or within a visit at stand-by wineries such as Gentilini on Kefalonia or Papagiannakos on Santorini. Other smaller artisanal producers worth seeking out include:
- Skouras from Peloponnese;
- Boutari, which produces fine label xinomavro;
- Tsantalis outside Thessaloniki;
- Gaia Wines’ go-to varieties are assyrtiko;
- Hatzimichali Estate creates imaginative blends between two vastly different appellations found on mainland Greece near Naoussa Patras on one side and Nemea Corinthia on the far end of the Peloponnese peninsula – among many other names loved by oenophiles both nearshore or abroad!
Greek Coffee & Desserts
Coffee lovers rejoice when visiting Greece! The Greeks are renowned for their love of coffee, or ‘kafes‘ as it’s known locally. Greek coffee is usually made with Mastiha liqueur or brandy, as it is believed that these ingredients give the beverage medicinal qualities – perfect for fighting Greek tradition. This aromatic beverage is served thick and sweet, usually sprinkled with cinnamon or sometimes lemon zest.
Classic desserts from the region are a must-try to accompany a steaming cup of Greek coffee. Kourabiedes and Melomakarona are two of the most popular recipes that can be found in many Greek homes over the holiday season. Kourabiedes – almond cookies dusted heavily with powdered sugar – burst with flavor thanks to an aromatic combination of orange zest, mastic liqueur, and ground almonds, while Melomakarona – decadent olive oil honey cakes spiced with cloves and cinnamon – have been enjoyed since antiquity.
But don’t overlook modern creations like kataifi – creamy custards made from sheep’s milk wrapped in layers of golden shredded pastry – or portokalopita – a ‘hidden orange’ cake soaked in a syrup made with fresh oranges and spices! Whatever you choose to enjoy for dessert, it’s guaranteed to be delicious. So don’t miss out on all the treats Greece has to offer.