Greece Travel Guide and TipsStart your tour of Greece of right by reading our Greece travel guide before you travel

Zakynthos

What vaccinations do I need before visiting Greece?

You should speak with your medical provider to see if there are any vaccinations you need before travelling to Greece. Generally speaking, if you are up to date on all of the recommended vaccines of your home country, they should be enough to keep you healthy in Greece.

Can I drink the tap water?

This depends on where you are in Greece. In large cities, such as Athens, the tap water is generally safe to drink and there will be readily available water fountains. In the countryside and on the Greek islands, bottled water is recommended. It is readily available across Greece, so if you are more comfortable drinking bottled water throughout your stay in Greece then this is fine.

What is the food like in Greece?

Greek food has a rich history dating back to ancient times. Although the country’s rocky terrain limits its agricultural output, cooking and cuisine are essential to its culture. Olives, cheese, and wheat are integral parts of the local diet, appearing in salads, stews, and breads. Seafood at restaurants – often squid, octopus, mussels, and fish - is likely to come fresh from the Mediterranean, especially on the Greek islands.

Greek cuisine is simple but incredibly varied. In terms of popular dishes, you will find moussaka (aubergine & lamb casserole), souvlaki (spit-roasted meat), and dolmades (vine leaves stuffed with meat & herbs) in many tavernas and restaurants, sometimes with regional variations. Meat-free options include briam (roasted vegetables in tomato sauce), and of course, Greek salad with olives & feta cheese. For indulging your sweet tooth, pastry shops serve delicacies such as Turkish-inspired baklava (filo pastry layered with honey and chopped nuts). Ice cream and honey with yogurt are also common sweet snacks.

Is Greece safe for solo female travellers?

Greece isn’t a dangerous country for women to travel in although solo travelers are advised to have their wits about them, particularly in larger cities like Athens or popular island resorts like Mykonos. Travelers are advised to stick to main streets, well-lit areas, stay in groups where possible, take taxis over walking late at night, and keep an eye on their drink when out in bars & clubs. Women may be subjected to unwanted attention from men when travelling alone but ignoring this will often mean the men stop. As for pickpocketing, like any tourist destination, keep an eye on your things. On the whole, Greece is a safe and wonderful country to visit as a solo woman.

Is Greece family friendly?

Greece is a wonderful family-friendly destination, offering sandy beaches, bright blue waters, and iconic historical sites like the Acropolis. Its cuisine, with simple and delicious options like souvlaki and pita, appeals to children, and locals are known for their warmth toward families. Activities like hiking, exploring caves, and boat trips add adventure, while the safe and relaxed atmosphere ensures a stress-free vacation. From stunning scenery to rich culture, Greece is perfect for a memorable family trip.

What currency does Greece use?

The currency used in Greece is the Euro. Credit cards such as Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in most major hotels, restaurants and shops, but keep some cash on hand, especially on the islands and in smaller towns. Use of American Express is not as common.

What is the duty free allowance in Greece?

If you are travelling from within the EU, there is no limit on the amount or value of goods you may import, providing your goods are for personal consumption. Goods imported for commercial purposes are subject to duty and the following guideline amounts are in place to determine whether this is the case:

How much do things in Greece cost?

Although Greece has become a hugely popular tourist destination in recent years, it remains relatively affordable. We recommend if you are on a budget that you avoid the often-overpriced restaurants and cafes that line the main squares and chose places to eat a few streets back. A meal in an inexpensive restaurant with drinks will cost around USD $12, and a pint of domestic beer costs about USD $4.10, while a one-way ticket on public transport will only set you back about USD $1.65.

Is tipping customary in Greece?

Tipping customs in Greece vary widely. Service charge may be included in the bill, but tipping remains a common practice, especially in popular tourist destinations. Your tip should reflect the service so if it was excellent, 10% is an added bonus. At some restaurants, a small mandatory ‘cover charge’ for bread & water is also included in the bill (usually about one Euro per person). Taxi drivers usually expect tips and it is also standard to tip hotel porters and local tour guides. If the concierge is particularly helpful, people often tip 1 to 2 Euros.

What should I shop for in Greece?

Greece is a cultural haven, and you will find a wide range of arts and crafts wherever you go. Locally hand-crafted ceramics, textiles, wood carvings, and jewelery make for wonderful souvenirs, especially from the Greek islands. Many destinations pride themselves on specific products – for instance, the monasteries at Meteora are famed for hand-painted religious icons. If you are shopping for antiques, do beware of fakes and stick to reputable traders.

In Athens, the ancient tradition of the agora (public forum) continues today in spaces such as the Monastiraki market, where you will find souvenirs for all tastes, ranging from tailor-made leather sandals to mass-produced Parthenon replicas. Another popular shopping option nearby is Ermou Street, which offers a wide selection of local and international brands. The island of Thessaloniki also caters to shoppers with its boutique–filled main square and a variety of malls near the city center.

What kind of plugs do they use in Greece?

Standard voltage is 220-240 volts. Primary sockets generally require European plugs the two round-pin variety, the most common plug types in Greece are type C and F. We recommend that you pack a universal travel adaptor. You will need a voltage converter and plug adapter to use U.S. appliances.

Is WiFi readily accessible?

Greece is a modern, developed country, and Wi-Fi access is the norm in most hotels, restaurants, cafes and bars. Connection may be a bit patchier in rural areas, but this is to be expected in most places. And some hotels may charge for Wi-Fi access in hotel rooms, but it will generally be free to use in the lobby.

What time zone is Greece in?

Greece is in the Easter European Time Zone and they observe daylight savings time.