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Greece

 Greece is a Mediterranean marvel, where ancient history meets crystalline waters and sun-drenched landscapes. Whether you’re strolling through the ruins of Athens, sailing around the Cyclades, or basking in the serene beaches of Crete, Greece offers an enchanting escape for every traveller. Its blend of culture, culinary excellence, and coastal charm makes it a dream destination for families, honeymooners, solo adventurers, and history buffs alike. The country's iconic white-washed villages with blue-domed roofs, especially in Santorini and Mykonos, are postcard-perfect. Inland, you'll find mountainous regions like Meteora and the Peloponnese, rich with mythological heritage and dramatic natural beauty. For food lovers, Greek cuisine is a standout – from souvlaki and moussaka to freshly caught seafood and local wines. Greece’s islands are diverse – some are party-centric like Mykonos, others tranquil like Naxos or Kos, and some, like Rhodes, offer a rich blend of medieval and modern experiences. Whether you’re relaxing under olive trees, hiking to monasteries, or island-hopping via catamaran, Greece delivers a multifaceted holiday with memories that linger long after the trip ends.  

Travila Greece Travel Guide

What to know before Travelleing

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Language: Greek
Peak Season: June to September
Time Zone: UTC+2 (EET)
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Travila

3–4 hours

Average Flight Time

€3–€4

Price Of Pint
Transport
Best time to visit

Why book Greece

Sun-Soaked Beaches

Greece boasts over 13,000 km of coastline with beaches ranging from golden sands to dramatic cliffs and turquoise lagoons. From Navagio Beach in Zakynthos to Elafonissi’s pink sand in Crete, there’s a perfect seaside escape for everyone

Rich History & Mythology

Walk in the footsteps of gods and philosophers in Athens, Delphi, and Olympia. Greece’s ancient ruins, temples, and UNESCO sites offer timeless insight into one of the world’s oldest civilizations

Delicious Greek Cuisine

Taste the Mediterranean through fresh salads, grilled meats, and delectable pastries. Local tavernas serve up traditional dishes that are as healthy as they are flavorful.

Island-Hopping Paradise

With over 200 inhabited islands, Greece offers endless opportunities for island-hopping, each with its unique charm, culture, and natural beauty.

Family-Friendly Destinations

Safe, welcoming, and full of activities, Greece is perfect for family holidays with plenty of kid-friendly beaches, historical landmarks, and resorts

Romantic Escapes

Greece’s sunsets, cliffside villas, and candlelit dinners on the Aegean make it a honeymoon and couples’ getaway favorite.

Top Destinations

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Your guide to the Greece

Best Greek Islands to Visit
Best Greek Islands to Visit

Greece is home to over 6,000 islands, around 200 of which are inhabited—each offering something distinct. The Cyclades, like Santorini and Mykonos, are among the most visited. Santorini is famed for its whitewashed buildings, volcanic cliffs, and legendary sunsets, perfect for honeymooners or romantic escapes. Mykonos contrasts this with a vibrant party scene, boutique shopping, and fine dining, making it ideal for trendsetters and nightlife seekers. Crete, the largest island, is a microcosm of Greece itself—offering everything from ancient ruins like Knossos to rugged mountains, olive groves, charming villages, and pristine beaches such as Elafonissi. Rhodes and Kos in the Dodecanese are rich in history, medieval architecture, and sandy shores. For a more laid-back experience, try Paros or Naxos, known for their authentic charm and fewer crowds. Corfu and Zakynthos in the Ionian Sea offer green landscapes and lush hills unlike the arid Cyclades. Corfu features Venetian-style old towns and historical mansions, while Zakynthos (Zante) is home to the iconic Navagio “Shipwreck” Beach. No matter your travel style—relaxation, history, adventure, or nightlife—the Greek islands cater to every taste. With easy inter-island ferry access, combining destinations into one unforgettable island-hopping holiday is effortless and rewarding.

Cultural & Historical Wonders
Cultural & Historical Wonders

Greece is the cradle of Western civilization, and its history stretches back over 3,000 years. From ancient ruins to Byzantine monasteries and Ottoman influences, the country's cultural fabric is woven with multiple eras. Start in Athens with the Acropolis and Parthenon, where democracy and philosophy were born. Nearby sites like the Ancient Agora and Temple of Hephaestus give deeper insight into daily life in classical times. Delphi, once home to the Oracle of Apollo, offers mystical energy and stunning views over Mount Parnassus. Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games, connects sport and spirituality in the lush Peloponnesian countryside. Mycenae and Epidaurus are essential stops for archaeology enthusiasts. The monasteries of Meteora, perched on towering rock pillars, are both spiritual sanctuaries and architectural marvels. Thessaloniki, Greece’s second city, showcases Roman forums, early Christian churches, and Ottoman baths. In Crete, explore the Minoan palace of Knossos, a labyrinthine site linked to the legend of the Minotaur. Greek heritage is not confined to ruins; it lives on in traditions, festivals, and everyday life. Whether you're walking through the streets of a medieval town or enjoying a village celebration, the richness of Greece’s history is always close.

Outdoor Adventures in Greece
Outdoor Adventures in Greece

Greece offers more than beaches—it’s a playground for adventurers. Whether you're hiking ancient trails or diving into hidden coves, nature here is vast and inviting. One of the most rewarding hikes is the Samaria Gorge in Crete, Europe’s longest gorge, which winds through 16 km of dramatic cliffs, pine forests, and riverbeds. Equally scenic is the Vikos Gorge in Epirus, considered the world’s deepest by the Guinness Book of Records. Mount Olympus, the mythical home of the gods, beckons climbers and trekkers. The national park features alpine lakes, diverse flora, and challenging routes to its 2,917m summit. For milder terrain, the Pelion Peninsula offers forests, waterfalls, and scenic mountain villages like Tsagarada. Coastal areas are perfect for watersports. Windsurfing and kitesurfing are big in Naxos and Paros. Scuba diving reveals shipwrecks and caves in areas like Halkidiki and Kalymnos. Sea kayaking around the Sporades or sailing through the Ionian Islands is a serene way to explore remote beaches. Cycling enthusiasts can pedal through vineyard-dotted countryside, while rock climbers flock to Kalymnos for its limestone routes. Greece’s varied geography offers limitless adventures, ensuring every outdoor lover finds their perfect terrain.

Greek Food & Wine Experiences
Greek Food & Wine Experiences

Greek cuisine is an expression of its culture—simple, seasonal, and incredibly flavorful. It’s built on the Mediterranean triad: olive oil, wheat, and wine. Begin your culinary journey with meze—small dishes like tzatziki, dolmades, and grilled halloumi. Main courses often include slow-cooked meats, seafood, and vegetarian options like moussaka and gemista (stuffed vegetables). Each region has its own specialities. In Crete, try dakos (barley rusk salad) and lamb with stamnagathi greens. In the Cyclades, seafood is king—think grilled octopus and sea urchin pasta. Northern Greece features heartier dishes influenced by the Balkans and Asia Minor. Don't miss the wines. Santorini’s volcanic soil produces Assyrtiko, a crisp white wine ideal with seafood. Nemea in the Peloponnese is known for robust reds like Agiorgitiko. Local distillates like ouzo, raki, and tsipouro are served before or after meals and are perfect for toasting with friends. Tavernas and kafeneia (coffee houses) are more than eateries—they’re social hubs. Greek hospitality shines through in every bite, and visitors are often treated like family. From street food in Athens to luxury dining in Mykonos, Greece is a gourmet’s paradise.

Family Holidays in Greece
Family Holidays in Greece

Greece is one of the most family-friendly destinations in Europe. The people are welcoming, the pace is relaxed, and there's an abundance of activities to entertain all ages. Shallow, sandy beaches like those in Naxos, Halkidiki, and Corfu are ideal for children. Many resorts offer family suites, kids’ clubs, and babysitting services. Beyond the beach, the adventure continues. Take the kids to explore ancient ruins like the Acropolis or Delphi, where mythology comes alive. In Crete, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum offers engaging exhibits, while the Cretaquarium introduces marine life in interactive ways. Boat trips, glass-bottom tours, and pirate-themed cruises add excitement to island visits. Animal lovers can visit donkey sanctuaries in Santorini or turtle nesting sites in Zakynthos. Hiking trails, cave tours, and biking are great for older children. Dining is stress-free—Greek food is healthy and kid-friendly. Pitas, grilled chicken, and feta cheese are hits with young eaters, and you’ll always find a warm welcome in family-run tavernas. With direct flights and short travel times from many European cities, Greece makes travelling with children easy and enjoyable.

Romantic Greek Escapes
Romantic Greek Escapes

Few places offer the romantic allure of Greece. From iconic sunsets in Santorini to candlelit dinners on a Mykonos terrace, love is in the air. Greece’s combination of natural beauty, ancient ambiance, and intimate hospitality creates the perfect setting for romance. Start with the Cyclades—Santorini’s caldera views, white cave houses, and infinity pools are honeymoon dreams. Mykonos offers couples a blend of relaxation and chic nightlife. For a quieter escape, head to Folegandros or Milos, where secluded beaches and cliffside chapels await. Couples can enjoy private boat tours, wine tastings in boutique vineyards, or spa treatments overlooking the sea. In Nafplio, neoclassical architecture and romantic promenades set the stage for peaceful strolls. The Pelion region offers a blend of sea and mountain with hidden beaches and boutique guesthouses. Greece’s love for celebration makes it ideal for destination weddings and anniversaries. Whether you're watching the stars from a rooftop in Athens or enjoying breakfast in bed on a quiet Aegean island, Greece offers the perfect romantic backdrop..

Budget Travel in Greece
Budget Travel in Greece

Greece proves that unforgettable holidays don’t need a hefty price tag. Backpackers and budget-conscious travellers will find affordable accommodations, meals, and transport throughout the country. Hostels, guesthouses, and Airbnb options abound in cities and islands alike. Mainland destinations like Thessaloniki, Ioannina, and Volos offer rich cultural experiences at a fraction of island prices. Free or low-cost attractions—such as ancient ruins, public beaches, and hiking trails—are plentiful. Many museums offer discounted or free entry on specific days. Inter-island ferries, especially when booked in advance, make affordable travel between islands possible. Budget airlines and buses also help keep costs low for inland travel. Street food like gyros, koulouri, and souvlaki are tasty, filling, and cost less than €3. Travelling outside peak summer months can also significantly reduce costs. May, June, and September still offer great weather with fewer crowds and cheaper rates. For those willing to explore beyond the typical tourist trail, Greece rewards with authentic, budget-friendly adventures.

Festivals and Events in Greece
Festivals and Events in Greece

Festivals in Greece are more than just events—they are expressions of history, faith, and community spirit. Each celebration offers a glimpse into Greek traditions and invites visitors to join in the fun. The Athens Epidaurus Festival is one of Europe’s most prestigious cultural events, showcasing ancient plays performed in historic amphitheatres. Religious festivals like Greek Orthodox Easter are grand affairs, celebrated with candlelit processions, fireworks, and feasting. In island villages, panigiria (local feasts) honor saints with dancing, music, and home-cooked food—open to locals and tourists alike. Carnival (Apokries), held before Lent, brings parades, masquerades, and festive chaos to cities like Patras. The Thessaloniki International Film Festival and Kalamata Dance Festival are major cultural events that attract international artists and audiences. Summer is rich with music festivals, including the Rockwave Festival near Athens and the Sani Festival in Halkidiki. Wine and food fairs, art exhibitions, and sailing regattas dot the calendar, making every visit a chance to experience something unique. Participating in a Greek festival is a celebration of life and a chance to connect with locals in the most joyous way possible.

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