Greece is a country where ancient history meets stunning landscapes and rich culinary traditions. Known for its archaeological sites, beautiful islands, and vibrant cities, Greece offers a journey through time from the Acropolis of Athens to the serene beaches of Santorini. The country’s cuisine, with its emphasis on fresh ingredients and traditional dishes, is a delight for food lovers. For planning your visit, plan your trip to Greece and enhance your knowledge about the country with a travel to Greece quiz. For more detailed information, visit the official tourism website.

Transportation

Public Transit

Public transportation in Greece includes buses, trains, and in Athens, a metro system. The services are reliable and cover major cities and towns, with the KTEL bus network connecting more remote areas. Fares are relatively low, providing an economical way to travel around the country.

Taxis

Taxis in Greece are plentiful and can be hailed on the street or booked via phone or app. They are metered, with charges based on distance and time. Ensure the meter is running to avoid being overcharged. Taxis are considered safe and reliable.

Driving

Driving in Greece offers the freedom to explore at your own pace, especially on the islands and in rural areas. Traffic drives on the right. Be aware of narrow roads and tight parking spaces, particularly in older towns and on islands. The alcohol limit is 0.05%, and speed limits are generally 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas, 90-110 km/h (56-68 mph) on open roads, and 120 km/h (75 mph) on highways.

Attractions and Shopping

Shops in Greece typically open from 9 am to 9 pm on weekdays, with shorter hours on Saturday and closed on Sunday. Museums and archaeological sites usually open from 8 am to 3 pm, though hours can vary by season. Greek dining times are later than in many countries, with lunch around 2 pm and dinner often after 8 pm.

Tipping Culture

Tipping is customary in Greece for good service. In restaurants, it’s common to leave 5-10% of the bill. For taxis, rounding up the fare is appreciated.

Duty Free

Travelers from outside the EU can claim a VAT refund on purchases over a certain amount made in one store. Keep your receipts and look for the “Tax-Free Shopping” logo.

Safety

Greece is generally safe for travelers. The emergency number is 112. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur in crowded tourist areas, so it’s wise to take standard precautions with valuables.

Water & Food Quality

Tap water is safe to drink in most of Greece, though bottled water is recommended on some islands. Greek cuisine is known for its high-quality, fresh ingredients, and food safety standards are well enforced.

Crime

Be cautious of common tourist scams, especially in crowded places and near major tourist attractions. Always keep an eye on your belongings and be wary of distractions.

Healthcare

Healthcare in Greece is of a good standard, though facilities on remote islands may be limited. Travelers from the EU should carry a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), and all travelers are advised to have comprehensive travel insurance.

General Tips

Language

Greek is the official language. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, making communication easy for most visitors.

Currency

The Euro (€) is the currency of Greece. Credit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, but it’s a good idea to carry cash for small purchases, especially on smaller islands.

Electrical Outlets

Greece uses Type C and F electrical outlets, with a standard voltage of 230 V and a frequency of 50 Hz.

Weather

Greece enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers (temperatures around 28°C/82°F) and mild, wet winters. The best time to visit for warm weather and sunshine is from late spring to early autumn.