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Greece is truly a destination that has it all – rich history, stunning natural beauty, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality. From the Acropolis of Athens to the turquoise waters of Santorini, and the olive groves of Crete, Greece offers an endless array of experiences to captivate the senses and nourish the soul.
Greece, the birthplace of Western Civilization, is renowned for its more than 6,000 lovely islands, beautiful beaches, crystal-clear seas, spectacular sunset spots, pleasant summer weather, and historic temples. The Greeks have a connection to the past thanks to well-known sites like the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion, the Acropolis, Delphi, and Epidaurus, while they throw the best parties in Europe on cosmopolitan islands like Mykonos. Absolute ultimate in diversity!
The Greeks’ superb sculpture and Cycladic architecture are well known. Numerous civilizations, including the Roman Empire, were influenced by Greek culture, which continues to shape contemporary societies.
Generally, the Mediterranean climate of Greece will give you a hot, dry summer with a moderate, wet winter in the southern lowlands and island regions. A cold, snowy winter can be expected in the central and northern mountainous regions.
The currency in Greece is the Euro (€), and credit cards are widely accepted.
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Greek, and English in tourism hot spots, and business services.
In case of emergency, the European emergency number is 112. For medical emergencies, you can go to the nearest hospital or medical center.
TIME ZONE: GMT +3 hours
Your travel budget will benefit when you visit the Greek Islands before and after the summer season. When you check availability on Booking.com you’ll find that the rates are much higher during the summer season when it is also the big annual school holiday. Thus, it is also more crowded.
Therefore, an enjoyable time to visit Greece and its spectacular Greek islands is towards the end of May, and the beginning of September. These months are also much cooler and usually do not go into the high thirties as we’ve seen the last few summers. For those who prefer a quieter experience, the months of May and September offer pleasant weather and fewer tourists.
That said and done, if you like the sizzling summer days, as I do, June to August are the months to consider, with August being the hottest month of the three months. However, this is also the busiest time of year, so be prepared for crowds and higher prices.
Build your holiday around Greece’s public holidays. You can travel for less outside of the peak seasons, which usually are around public holidays. That said, it remains the best option to check rates directly with your hotel of choice.
Greece can be as expensive or as budget-friendly as you make it! Major tourist destinations like Santorini and Mykonos are known for their luxury hotels, high-end restaurants, and upscale shops, which can make a trip pricey. However, if you explore lesser-known islands or mainland destinations, you’ll find more affordable accommodations, local tavernas with budget-friendly meals, and authentic experiences that don’t break the bank.
Tips for saving money in Greece include traveling during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall), using public transportation, dining at local tavernas, and exploring free or low-cost activities like hiking, visiting beaches, or exploring ancient ruins. With some planning, Greece can suit a variety of budgets!
Greece has some of the world’s busiest and most effective ferries. At any given moment during the summer, there are hundreds of them operating between Greek Islands and ports on the mainland.
The series of DK Eyewitness travel guides is a collection of superb travel advice. The result is that you can explore Greece like a local! With expert insider knowledge and stunning visuals, these guides will take you on a journey through Greece’s rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. You will discover the best sights, experiences, and hidden gems that Greece has to offer. With a DK Eyewitness travel guide in your pocket, you are about to make the most of your adventure by following the practical tips and advice. From Athens to Corfu and the Ionian Islands, DK Eyewitness has got you covered. So pack your bags, and get ready to go on an unforgettable journey.
The travel guides are available on Kindle, pc, or mobile phone. However, I prefer the printed pocket guide which is light and small enough to fit in your handbag. It was a great success discovering the Greek Islands with my guide in quick and easy reach. And, I had much fun in sharing the content with my friends!
May through October offers the best weather. For fewer crowds, visit in late spring or early autumn.
Santorini, Mykonos, Crete, and Rhodes offer iconic scenery, beaches, and rich culture.
Yes, Greece is generally very safe, especially in tourist areas. Still, be aware of pickpocketing in busy city centers.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a cultural journey, Greece is the perfect destination to escape and discover. So pack your bags, and get ready to experience the magic of Greece for yourself. You won’t be disappointed!