Greece is one of the world's most visited countries — and one of the most rewarding. Ancient ruins, crystalline Aegean waters, extraordinary food, and some of the warmest hospitality in Europe make it endlessly compelling. But navigating Greece well — choosing the right islands, booking ferries in advance, understanding the rhythm of Greek daily life — makes the difference between a good trip and an unforgettable one. Here is everything you need for a brilliant Greece trip in 2026.
Visas & Entry
Greece is a member of the Schengen Area. Citizens of the EU, USA, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and most other developed nations can enter visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. From 2025, non-EU visitors require ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) pre-travel authorisation — a simple online application costing €7, valid for 3 years. Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure date. Post-Brexit, UK citizens are subject to the 90/180-day Schengen rule — keep track of your days if combining Greece with other Schengen countries. Greece uses 230V electricity with Type C/F plugs — bring an adapter if needed.
Currency & Money
Greece uses the Euro (€). Card payments are widely accepted in cities, tourist areas, and most island resorts. However, cash is essential in smaller villages, local tavernas, and on smaller islands — always carry some euros. ATMs are plentiful in Athens and on major islands but can be scarce on smaller islands — withdraw cash before heading to remote destinations. Budget: €60–80/day (hostel/guesthouse, taverna meals, local transport). Mid-range: €120–180/day (hotel, restaurant meals, ferry tickets). Santorini and Mykonos are significantly more expensive than the Greek mainland and most other islands — budget accordingly. Tipping: not mandatory but appreciated — round up the bill or leave 5–10% in restaurants. Taxi drivers do not expect tips but rounding up is customary.
Getting Around Greece
Island-hopping by ferry is the quintessential Greek travel experience. Hellenic Seaways, Blue Star Ferries, and SeaJets operate extensive networks connecting Athens (Piraeus port) to the Cyclades (Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros), Dodecanese (Rhodes, Kos), and Ionian Islands (Corfu, Zakynthos). Book ferry tickets in advance in peak season (July–August) — popular routes sell out. Use Ferryhopper or DirectFerries to compare routes and prices. High-speed catamarans are faster but more expensive and more affected by rough seas. Domestic flights (Aegean Airlines, Sky Express) connect Athens to major islands in 30–50 minutes — often cheaper than ferries when booked early. In Athens, the Metro is clean, efficient, and covers all major tourist sites (Acropolis station is a 5-minute walk from the Parthenon). Taxis in Athens are metered — use Beat (the local Uber equivalent) for transparent pricing.
Greek Dining Culture
Eating in Greece is one of life's great pleasures — and understanding the rhythm of Greek dining makes it even better. Greeks eat late: lunch is 2–4pm, dinner rarely before 9pm (often 10pm in summer). The mezze culture — sharing multiple small dishes — is the heart of Greek dining. Order a selection of dips (tzatziki, taramasalata, melitzanosalata), grilled octopus, saganaki (fried cheese), dolmades (stuffed vine leaves), and fresh bread to start. Main courses: moussaka (layered aubergine and minced meat with béchamel), souvlaki (grilled meat skewers), fresh grilled fish (priced by weight — always check before ordering), and slow-roasted lamb. Greek salad (horiatiki) — tomatoes, cucumber, olives, feta, olive oil — is a revelation when made with proper ingredients. Ouzo (anise-flavoured spirit) and tsipouro (grape pomace spirit) are the traditional aperitifs. Greek coffee (ellinikós kafés) is thick, strong, and served in a small cup — never ask for it "to go."
Choosing Your Islands
Greece has over 200 inhabited islands — choosing the right combination is the key to a great trip. Santorini: the most iconic — dramatic caldera views, extraordinary sunsets, excellent wine, and world-class restaurants. Expensive and crowded in peak season but unmissable. Best for: romance, photography, fine dining. Mykonos: glamorous, party-focused, beautiful beaches. Very expensive. Best for: nightlife, beach clubs, celebrity spotting. Naxos: the largest Cycladic island — excellent beaches, authentic villages, great food, and far fewer tourists than Santorini or Mykonos. Best for: families, authentic Greece, value. Paros: beautiful, relaxed, excellent windsurfing. A good base for island-hopping. Crete: Greece's largest island — ancient Minoan ruins (Knossos), dramatic Samaria Gorge, excellent food and wine, and diverse landscapes. Best for: history, hiking, food. Rhodes: medieval old town (UNESCO), good beaches, warm water. Best for: history, beach holidays. Corfu: lush, green, Venetian architecture, excellent food. Best for: culture, families.
Culture & Etiquette
Greeks are warm, hospitable, and proud of their culture and history — a genuine interest in Greece goes a long way. Dress modestly when visiting churches and monasteries — cover shoulders and knees (sarongs are often available at entrances). The Greek Orthodox Church is central to Greek life — be respectful at religious sites. Greeks are passionate about their food and will be genuinely offended if you don't eat enough. "Filoxenia" (love of strangers/hospitality) is a core Greek value — you will be offered food, drink, and help constantly. The Greek "no" is sometimes indicated by a slight upward tilt of the head and a click of the tongue — easy to miss. Bargaining is not common in shops but is acceptable at markets. Siesta (2–5pm) is still observed in many smaller towns and islands — shops close and the streets empty.
Practical Tips
Sun protection is essential — the Greek summer sun is intense (UV index 10–11 in July–August). Wear high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, and avoid the midday sun (12–4pm). Mosquitoes can be a nuisance in summer — bring repellent. The tap water is safe to drink in Athens and most of the mainland but not on all islands — check locally. Pharmacies (farmakeío, marked with a green cross) are excellent for minor ailments. The emergency number is 112 (general European emergency) or 100 (police), 166 (ambulance). Pickpocketing occurs in Athens (particularly on the Metro and at tourist sites) — keep valuables secure. The Athens airport (Eleftherios Venizelos) is connected to the city centre by Metro (Line 3, 40 minutes, €10.50) and express bus (X95 to Syntagma, 60–90 minutes, €6.20).
