Greece

What You Should Know More About Greece

• Travel Advice

  • Taxi drivers of the Greece are very smart. They have a habit of overcharging you. So, make sure you get a fair idea about the fare that you have to pay for traveling from one destination to another. This will prevent any chance or argument.

  • Thefts are a common site here. It is good to guard your cash and valuables. Do not flash your important stuff in the public. This can be an invitation for the pickpockets to cheat you.

  • If you are traveling via public transportation in Greece, you might experience traffic. So, do get yourself some patience!

  • If you have rented a vehicle here, make sure you know about the local rules.

  • Be wary of the touts.

  • Keep away from the drugs. If you are a tourist, you must particularly avoid landing up in a legal hassle because of the drugs.

  • Make sure you carry with you a copy of your passport, visa and license.

  • Check for the quality before you eat any street food. 

• Drinking Law

  There is no legal age for drinking in Greece. However, you need to be at least 18 years old to purchase alcohol.

• Our Recommendations: What you can’t afford to miss?

  Mount Athos

  Northern Greece has some amazing tourist places and one such interesting location is Mount Athos. This largest section of Halkidiki peninsula is home to 1,400 monks present in orthodox monasteries. The natural scenery present around Mount Athos is admired by tourists from different parts of the world. Entry in this region is strictly guarded and only males are allowed.

  Lindos

  Among the popular tourist resorts in Greece Lindos has its unique importance. It is basically a medieval village which is situated on the island of Rhodes. The whitewashed houses and cobbled streets present in this area will surely impress you. Lindos is quite fascinating due to the blue-green waters which attract numerous travelers. You can visit the harbors and other coastal sections in Lindos that are very majestic. Saint Pauls beach and Lindos beach can be easily reached after crossing the town.

  Mytros Beach

  Greece is a marvelous land for sightseeing but certain locations will entice you to the core. You can travel to the north-west of Kefalonia for reaching Myrtos Beach. This destination is world-famous for the magical blue and turquoise colors of the sea. The marble pebbles are very alluring which makes Mytros Beach truly exquisite. You will fall in love with the steep mountains and high cliffs present in the background. This beach has been officially awarded as the best beach in Greece for 12 times!

  Delphi Theatre  

  Delphi Theatre is one of the most amazing places to see in Greece. During the ancient era Delphi was valued as an important site for Greek religion.  It was the prime base to the oracle and sanctuary of Apollo. The ancient theatre of Delphi was constructed over a hill so that the spectators can view the sanctuary and other astonishing landscapes below. Originally built in the 4th century this theatre could easily accommodate 5,000 spectators.

  Meteora

  Metéora meaning ‘suspended in the air’ is situated in central Greece. This landmark is basically a collection of six monasteries which are located on top of different rock pillars. Such a structure is simply mind boggling. The very first monastery in Metéora was established in the 14th century. Reaching these monasteries is quite an adventure. In the past, people use to take the help of long ladders or nets for climbing up.

  Mykonos

  Mykonos is a renowned cosmopolitan region present among the Greek islands. You can tag it as one of the most recognized tourist spots in Greece. This town has amusing whitewashed houses and lanes which make the whole area appear artistic. The sandy beaches of Mykonos are also liked by locals as well as tourists. You will be shocked to know that, the nightlife of Mykonos keeps the people excited and charged up.

  Santorini

  Santorini being a volcanic island among the famous Greek islands is famous for its dramatic sunsets and serene views. You can check out the white-washed houses which add more beauty to this destination. The capital of Santorini, Fira is a classic location for examining several marvels that possess Cycladic and Venetian architecture. Tourists prefer accessing the streets which consist of tavernas, shops and cafes. You can plan your stay in any of the gorgeous hotels present in Santorini.

  Parthenon, Acropolis

  The Parthenon is located on the top of Acropolis and is one of exotic tourist places to visit in Greece. Travelers shouldn’t miss a chance to explore this temple on their way to Athens. The construction of this important structure began in 447 BC and was completed in 432 BC. This landmark has served different roles such as a temple, a church, a mosque and even a fortress.

  Samaria Gorge

  The Samariá Gorge is a naturally-rich area which is majorly accessed by tourists and adventure lovers. It is basically a 16 km long canyon situated in southwest Crete. The walk through this canyon is extremely popular and around quarter million tourists access this trip every year. It takes almost 4 to 7 hours for the completion of this route. You will have to cross forests filled with pines and cypresses. The patch close to the vertical cliffs covering the mountains is very exciting.  This walk will lead you to Agia Roumeli which is located on the Libyan sea.

  
  

• What will you like there?

  Refreshing Food Items

  Greece is an excellent place for trying out new dishes. The food & pastries offered in this land are high on taste and flavors. Do not miss a chance to try the freshly-caught seafood, roasted lamb with potatoes, a REAL gyro with tzatziki and varieties of goat cheeses combined with wine. This country is famous for vibrant fruits which are very sweet and riper. Figs, watermelon, grapes and pomegranates should be tried when visiting different regions. What more? Greek cuisine is incomplete without the dessert! Try out Greek iced Frappé with kataïfi or a baklava which is supremely delicious. This food exploration should be on every tourist’s ‘Things-to-do’ list.

  Charming Nightlife

  Greek people are fun loving and high on life.  They love to celebrate and this is quite evident through their nightlife culture. Visit Athens, and check out “bouzoukia” that are large concert halls which are basically the playgrounds for various artists.  You need to dress up glamorously so as to hit the dance floor and shake your body off until the wee hours of the morning. The beach bars or nightclubs are the perfect centers for jam sessions and dancing all night.

  Scenic Glory

  Greece is filled with architectural as well as natural greatness. The rugged mountains, olive groves, rolling hills and tranquil beaches are all part of this splendid country. Numerous bloggers and fashion enthusiasts access the Greek islands as part of their creative work. The geographical diversity in Greece is very sharp. You will get to check out the ancient regions that suddenly merge into the cosmopolitan cities like Athens, Heraklion and Thessaloniki. Greece is indeed a dream destination that will help you tour to beach-filled islands and agricultural plains loaded with fig trees. One must plan a longer stay in this country for unfolding some marvelous shades that are truly inspiring.

  
  

• Recommended reads for destination (govt. websites, travel forum articles)?

  Website: 

  Greece Travel Website

• When is the best time to visit Greece?

  • The best time to visit Greece is from late May to early October when the weather is sunny and warm with little or no rain.
  • The months of June to September make for a great beach holiday as the temperature is just warm enough to go swimming, suntanning and taking a stroll around at the beautiful beaches.
  • The months of April, May, October and November are great times for sightseeing with the weather being warm and pleasant with occasional rains. If you are in Greece for the nightlife then July and August are the main months.
  • The time from late June to early September is excellent with multiple ferries running between routes, sea water at its warmest and good for swimming and nightlife at its best.

• How to reach Greece?

  There are many ways to reach the commercial Islands in Greece.

  By Air: The two main Airports in Greece in Athens city and Thessaloniki city receives direct flights from all the major cities in the world. Several domestic and international flights run between the 15 international airports located on the most popular tourist destination islands in Greece.

   

  By sea: Greece is accessible via ferries from Italian ports like Trieste, Venice, Ancona, Bari and Brindisi that take a stop at Corfu or Igoumenitsa on the way.

   

  By Road: You can take a bus to reach Athens but there are very limited International bus services available. These can be availed for nearby countries including Albania, Macedonia, Georgia, Bulgaria, Serbia and Turkey.

• Do I need a visa for Greece? How does one get a Greece visa?

  Yes, you need a Visa to travel to Greece. You can apply for a short term tourist visa by filling up an online application form which is valid for upto 3 months. The necessary documents include 2 passport size photographs, a passport valid for at least 3 months beyond return date and 2 blank pages, travel medical insurance, flight and hotel itinerary specifying entry and exit from Greece and a bank statement of at least 6 months to prove that you have sufficient funds for your stay in Greece. Apart from these, you also need a document specifying leave permission from employer and a copy of your Income Tax Return. The visa fees is INR 4620 with an additional INR 1540 service charge.

• What is the currency of Greece and where can I get my money exchanged?

  The currency of Greece is the Euro. The currency can be exchanged at a bank or official exchange shop. You can also consider exchanging currency at the Airport but if you are getting a better deal at conversion rates elsewhere it is advisable to exchange only a small amount at the Airport desk. You can use the ATMs to withdraw Euros. If you are considering of exchanging your currency at banks, then it is worth noting that the banks are operational only during limited hours of the day and not at all in the weekend. Most banks shit by 14:00. It is easier to use ATMs and credit/debit cards.

• What are the things to do in Greece?

  Greece is one of the most popular holiday spots in the world and offers a classic combination of sun, sea and sand with stunning Islands, laid-back towns and beautiful beaches.

  Here is a list of things to do in Greece.

  • Visit Athens to See Parthenon
  • Explore Santorini with an ATV
  • Visit Medieval Castle Town of Monemvasia.
  • Get a Massage & Spa Treatment with exotic mineral oils at Greece’s highly sophisticated spas.
  • See 4Th Century's Delphi Theatre
  • Explore Antonis Benakis Museum
  • Go for Athens Food Tours
  • Bath In Crystal Blue Water oF Kolymbithres Beach
  • Go for Photography on Myrtos Beach (Kefalonia Island)
  • Swim in Volcano Red beach of Santorini
  • Go for Santo Wines Tour
  • Go Island hopping
  • Swim in the Amoudi Bay
  • Go for a Private yacht Trip
  • Take a horse carriage ride in Corfu Town.
  • Explore Green Island of Greece - Kefalonia

• What is the local food of Greece? Which are the best places to taste this food?

  The local food of Greece is Greek Cuisine or Mediterranean Cuisine which includes Souvlaki, gyros, pita, olives, cheese, bread, yoghurt and wine.

  The best places to taste Greek Cuisine are:

  • Silence of the Fish, Paros, Naoussa
  • Strofi, Athens
  • Nammos, Mykonos, Psarrou
  • Etrusco, Corfu
  • Bratsera, Hydra Town
  • Kuzina, Athens
  • Archipelagos Restaurant, Santorini, Fira
  • Alefkandra Restaurant, Mykonos
  • Barbarossa Restaurant, Paros, Naoussa
  • Varoulko restaurant, Piraeus

• What is the best public transport to commute around Greece?

  The best public transport to commute around Greece is a ferry. Although Greece has an extensive domestic air network and convenient buses for moving across the country, ferries are most common and easiest. Most of the ferries depart from Piraeus, the central port of Athens and Rafina and Lavrion. Ferries are most popular if you want to go Island hopping.

  If you want to travel on land, buses are the standard overland public transport in Greece. Trains do run in the northern and central Greece but the networks are limited and the infrastructure is old. It is best to take a flight or ferry if you want to travel from one island to another.

• What is the local language in Greece and which are the most commonly used greetings? (mention at least 4) (Hello, Thank you, Good morning/night, What is the price of ____?, How far is _____?)

  The local language in Greece is Greek. Here is a list of most commonly used phrases to help you communicate better with the locals.

  • Hello- Χα?ρετε pronounced as Chaírete
  • Thank you- ευχαριστ? pronounced as efcharistó
  • Good morning- Καλημ?ρα pronounced as Kaliméra
  • Good Night- ΚΑΛΗΝΥΧΤΑ pronounced as KALINIHTA
  • What is the price of __? - ποια ε?ναι η τιμ? του pronounced as poia eínai i timí tou
  • How far is__? - π?σο μακρι? ε?ναι pronounced as póso makriá eínai

• Which are the best shopping places in Greece and what are they famous for?

  The shopping streets and small shops in Athens offers everything from Greek spices, designer labels to traditional antiques. Here is a list of best shopping places in Greece for great buys.

  • Kolonaki, Athens famous for Greek designer boutiques and international labels such as Armani, Bvlgari and Gucci.
  • Fanourakis, Athens famous for finely crafted gold jewelry by Greek designer Lina Fanouraki.
  • Ermou, Athens famous for high-street fashion brands such as Mango, Zara, and Marks and Spencer.
  • Plaka, Athens famous for ceramics, Antiques, religious icons and flokati rugs.
  • Psirri, Athens famous for Pantelis Melissinos that sells handmade leather sandals.
  • Bahar, Athens famous for traditional Greek mountain tea and ground spices, and dried herbs.
  • Pantapoleion, Athens famous for honey, olive oil and stocks wine.
  • Korres pharmacy, Pangrati famous for herb-scented toiletries with funky Greek writing on the bottles.
  • Sofokleous and Evripidou street, Omonia famous for dried figs, apples and fish.
  • Monastiraki Flea Market famous for antiques and old books.

• Here are the best tips Thrillophilia has to offer for your trip to Greece

  Here are some exclusive traveling tips that thrillophilia would like to offer for your vacation to Greece.

   

  • Always carry some cash with you. Most of the restaurants do not accept credit cards and the banks get closed as early as 14:00 pm.

  • Stay well informed about the opening hours of Museums and Archeological sites. They have different opening and closing hours and you obviously do not want to end up at the wrong time.

  • The Greece are much bonded with religion so it is advisable to wear modest clothes while visiting a church or monastery.

  • Always make advance bookings for flights, hotels and even ferries when you are traveling in the peak tourist season that is mid July to the end of August.

  • Make sure you always carry your passport and other necessary documents with you. Carry the number of your Embassy in Greece.

  • Drink a lot of water if you go to Athens during summers. The temperature can get high sometimes causing dehydration.

   

  • Carry a camera with you always to capture the beautiful country that Greece is.

   

  • Instead of hopping on to every island possible, take time to stay on an Island for at least one day to get the feel of the place and relax.

• What all destinations are must visit in Greece during honeymoon?

  The beautiful beaches, breathtaking Greek sunsets, remarkable ancient architecture and crisp Santorini wines makes Greece one of the most sought after honeymoon destinations. Here is a list of must-visit destinations in Greece during Honeymoon.

  • Thission Open Air Cinema, Athens
  • Lighthouse of Akrotiri, Thira.
  • Kamari and perissa beach, Santorini
  • Fira, Santorini
  • Caldera cliff, Santorini.
  • Philopappou Hill, Athens.
  • Samariá Gorge, Crete Island.
  • Myrtos Beach, Kefalonia Island
  • Mount Athos
  • Lindos, Rhodes Island.
  • Kolymbithres Beach, Paros
  • Delphi Theatre, Delphi, Sterea
  • Island of Palea Kameni.
  • Santo Wines Winery, Thira
    The Kamari Open Air Cinema, Thira

• Which are some of the famous beaches in Greece?

  Greece has an excellent weather and beautiful beaches to make for a perfect beach holiday. Here is a list of famous beaches in Greece.

   

  • Super Paradise beach on Mykonos island.
  • Kolimbithres beach on Paros island
  • Myrtos beach on Kefalonia island
  • Lalaria beach on Skiathos island.
  • Navagio Beach on Zakynthos island
  • Sarakiniko bay on Milos island.
  • Red Beach on Santorini
  • Kamari and Perissa beach in Thira Island.
  • Elafonisi and Balos in Crete
  • Amoudi Bay, Santorini

• Which are must visit islands in Greece?

  Here is a list of some of the must visit Islands in Greece with Beautiful unspoilt beaches and breathtaking scenery.

  • Corfu Island, Northwest coast
  • Island of Crete
  • Island of Delos, Cyclades.
  • Symi, Dodecanese island
  • Santorini, Thira
  • Kefalonia Island
  • Ionian Island
  • Mykonos Island, Cyclades
  • Chios Island
  • Kos, Dodecanese, South Aegean
  • Lefkada Island
  • Zakynthos Island
  • Rhodes Island
  • Skiáthos, Sporades

• Which are the famous hiking destinations in Greece?

  Greece is all about beaches and mountains which makes it a hiker’s paradise. Here is a list of Famous Hiking Destinations in Greece.

  • The Menalon trail, Gortynia, Arcadia
  • The Viros Gorge, Peloponnese
  • Pelion Peninsula, Pagasetic Gulf
  • Vikos Gorge, Pindos Mountains
  • Corfu Trail
  • Mount Olympus, between Thessaly and Macedonia
  • Samaria Gorge Trail, Crete
  • Hiking on Tilos, Agios Ioannis, Ghera.
  • Andros Hike, Cyclades.

• Which are some best places for vineyard tour in Greece?

  Best places for Vineyard tour in Greece.

  The wine culture of Greece can be best experienced by taking a Wine tasting tour to the popular vineyards. Here is a list of best places for Vineyard Tour in Greece:

  • Lyrarakis Winery, Crete
  • Douloufakis Winery, Crete
  • Anoskeli Winery, Crete
  • Manousakis Winery, Crete
  • Hatzidakis Winery, Santorini
  • Domaine Sigalas, Oia, Santorini
  • Gaia Wines, Santorini
  • Manalis Winery, Sikinos Island
  • Moraitis Winery, Paros Island
  • Santorini Wine Tour, Fira

• What all water sports can be done in Greece?

  Greece with its wonderful sea beds and emerald blue seas, is a paradise for watersports fanatics. For all those who are bored of sunbathing, suntanning and swimming, Greece offers a variety of watersports like Jet Skiing, wakeboarding, Parasailing, Stand-Up-Paddling, Windsurfing, Catamaran sailing, snorkeling, Tube or Banana Riding, Scuba Diving, Yachts Surfing, Diving and Canoeing. Almost all the islands of Greece offer water sports facilities that are reliable and uses the latest equipment. Whether you are a first timer or experienced, the certified staff makes your activities safe and fun.

• Which destinations are famous for nightlife in Greece?

  If there is one thing that the Greeks know best, it is how to party. From Athens, Thessaloniki, the Cyclades, Crete, Rhodes to the Corfu, and santorini, Greek islands offers a scintillating nightlife. Here is a list of destinations famous for nightlife in Greece.

   

  • Crete, Greece.
  • Hersonissos, Heraklion Prefecture, Crete.
  • Kos, Dodecanese, South Aegean
  • Zakynthos, Ionian Islands, Greece.
  • Rhodes, Dodecanese, South Aegean.
  • Mykonos, Cyclades, South Aegean
  • Kavos in Corfu and Kos Town
  • Thessaloniki, Aegean.
  • Faliraki, Rhodes Island.
  • Athens
  • Ios, Cyclades Island.