Traveling in Greece: the complete guide to culture, sea, and gastronomy
General information about Greece
Greece is one of Europe’s most fascinating destinations, famous for its millennia-old history, breathtaking landscapes, and Mediterranean cuisine. The capital city, Athens, is home to iconic landmarks such as the Acropolis and the Parthenon. The official language is Greek, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. The currency is the euro (EUR).
The country enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. Greece is made up of over 6,000 islands, many of which are inhabited, offering an incredible variety of landscapes, from green mountains to volcanic beaches.
Road rules and transportation
If you plan to drive in Greece, it is essential to be aware of local traffic rules:
- Speed limits: 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on secondary roads, 120 km/h on highways.
- Seat belts: mandatory for all passengers.
- Alcohol limit: 0.5 g/l.
- Mobile phones: forbidden while driving unless using a hands-free system.
- Tolls: present on many major highways.
- Parking: follow signs and paid parking areas carefully; fines are common.
Other transportation options include:
- Flights: ideal for traveling between distant islands.
- Ferries: frequent connections between the main islands of the Aegean and Ionian Seas.
- Buses and metro: efficient in large cities such as Athens and Thessaloniki.
What to see in Greece
Greece offers a unique combination of culture, history, and nature. Some must-see attractions include:
- Athens: Acropolis, Parthenon, National Archaeological Museum, Plaka district.
- Santorini: breathtaking sunsets, white villages like Oia, volcanic beaches.
- Mykonos: vibrant nightlife, windmills, golden sandy beaches.
- Crete: Palace of Knossos, Samaria Gorge, traditional villages.
- Delphi: ancient sacred site with the Temple of Apollo and the Theatre.
- Meteora: monasteries perched on spectacular rock formations.
- Corfu: UNESCO-listed old town, coastline, and charming villages.
- Rhodes: medieval old town, beaches, and archaeological sites.
- Olympia: site of the ancient Olympic Games.
Recommended itineraries
Here are some suggested itineraries to explore Greece:
3-day itinerary
- Day 1: Athens – Acropolis and Plaka
- Day 2: Day trip to Delphi
- Day 3: Beaches near Athens or travel to a nearby island
7-day itinerary
- Day 1–2: Athens – Acropolis, Archaeological Museum, Plaka
- Day 3–4: Santorini – Oia, Fira, volcanic beaches
- Day 5–6: Crete – Palace of Knossos, beaches, and villages
- Day 7: Return to Athens or visit Mykonos
Greek culinary specialties
Greek cuisine is a celebration of Mediterranean flavors. Some of the most famous dishes include:
- Moussaka: baked dish with eggplant, meat, and béchamel sauce.
- Souvlaki: grilled meat skewers, often served with pita bread and tzatziki.
- Tzatziki: yogurt-based sauce with cucumber and garlic.
- Feta and olives: staples of the Mediterranean diet.
- Dolmades: vine leaves stuffed with rice and spices.
- Baklava: dessert made with filo pastry, nuts, and honey.
- Fresh seafood: calamari, shrimp, and grilled fish, especially on the islands.
Meals are often accompanied by local wines or the anise-flavored spirit ouzo.
When to visit Greece
The best time to visit depends on the type of vacation you are looking for:
- Spring (April–June): mild weather, blooming landscapes, fewer crowds.
- Summer (July–August): hot and dry, perfect for beach holidays, but very busy.
- Autumn (September–October): pleasant temperatures, warm sea, ideal for excursions.
- Winter (November–March): quieter atmosphere, ideal for cultural travel.
Practical travel tips
- Carry some cash, especially on smaller islands.
- Use sunscreen: the summer sun can be very strong.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking and sightseeing.
- Respect local customs, especially when visiting churches and monasteries.
- Download offline maps or use a local SIM card for navigation.
FAQ about traveling in Greece
Do I need a visa to visit Greece?
EU citizens do not need a visa. Travelers from other countries should check current entry requirements.
Which is the most beautiful Greek island?
Santorini is famous for sunsets, Mykonos for nightlife, and Crete for history and beaches.
Is it safe to drive in Greece?
Yes, as long as traffic rules are respected and caution is used on mountain roads and smaller islands.
Which traditional dishes should I try?
Moussaka, souvlaki, tzatziki, dolmades, feta cheese, olives, baklava, and fresh seafood.