Greece is one of those rare destinations that exceeds its considerable reputation. The light here is different — golden and clear in a way that makes every whitewashed building, every ancient stone, every shimmer of Aegean water look like it belongs in a painting. Add to that some of the world's most important historical sites, a food culture that has been influencing Western cuisine for three millennia, and an island-hopping infrastructure that makes exploration genuinely easy, and you have one of travel's great experiences.
When to visit
May, June and September are the perfect months — warm enough for swimming, not oppressively hot, and the crowds are manageable.
July and August are peak season — extremely hot (often 35°C+), very busy and expensive, especially on Santorini and Mykonos. Worth it if you love the energy; avoid if you don't.
April and October offer mild weather and dramatically lower prices. Some island businesses close by late October.
Winter is fine for Athens and mainland Greece but most islands essentially shut down from November to April.
Top destinations
Athens — Give it at least two days. The Acropolis is more powerful in person than any photograph can convey — allow a full morning and go early. The National Archaeological Museum is world-class. The neighbourhoods of Monastiraki, Psiri, Exarchia and Koukaki reward exploration on foot. The food scene has dramatically improved in recent years.
Santorini — The iconic caldera, the white and blue architecture of Oia, the volcanic beaches at Perissa and Kamari, and the sunset views that are genuinely as spectacular as advertised. Stay at least two nights — it's expensive but worth it.
Mykonos — Greece's party island. Little Venice, the windmills, the beach clubs of Paradise and Super Paradise Beach. Glamorous, expensive and enormous fun if that's what you're after.
Crete — Greece's largest island deserves at least a week. The Minoan Palace of Knossos is one of Europe's most important archaeological sites. The Samaria Gorge is one of Europe's great hikes. Chania's old Venetian harbour is exquisite. The food — particularly the cheese, olive oil and fresh seafood — is exceptional.
Rhodes — The Old Town, enclosed within medieval walls, is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe. The beaches on the east coast are excellent.
Corfu — The greenest of the Greek islands, with Venetian architecture in the main town, forested mountains and clear water. More low-key than Santorini or Mykonos.
The Peloponnese — The ancient sites of Olympia (birthplace of the Olympics), Mycenae and the remarkably preserved Byzantine city of Mystras are among the most significant in the Mediterranean. Nafplio is the most charming town in mainland Greece.
Meteora — Extraordinary monasteries perched on top of towering rock formations in central Greece. One of the most otherworldly landscapes in Europe.
Island hopping
Greece's ferry network connects the islands efficiently. Ferries from Athens' Piraeus port reach most Aegean islands. Blue Star Ferries and Hellenic Seaways are the main operators. Book in advance in July and August. Domestic flights with Olympic Air and Sky Express are worth considering for longer distances.
Food you must try
- Spanakopita — Flaky filo pastry filled with spinach and feta. Perfect at any time of day.
- Grilled octopus — Eaten with a glass of ouzo at a waterfront taverna. The definitive Greek experience.
- Souvlaki — Grilled meat on a skewer, served in a pita with tzatziki, tomato and onion.
- Moussaka — Layers of aubergine, minced lamb and béchamel. Rich and deeply satisfying.
- Fresh Greek salad — Tomato, cucumber, olives, feta and oregano. Extraordinary when made with good local ingredients.
- Loukoumades — Honey-soaked doughnuts. Greece's greatest street food.
- Local wine — Greek wine has improved dramatically. Assyrtiko from Santorini is world-class.
Practical tips
- Greece is cash-friendly but most tourist businesses now accept cards.
- Ferry timetables change seasonally — always check times locally and book in advance in summer.
- Sunscreen is essential — the Mediterranean sun at midday is ferocious.
- Siesta time (roughly 2–5pm) sees many shops close, particularly outside Athens.
- Tipping: 10% in restaurants is appreciated but not expected.
Staying connected in Greece
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