Greece is a rich concoction of ancient and modern, sun and wind, mountains and sea, with an intellectual and mythological heritage that has impacted the Western world’s thinking in subtle and lasting ways.
Nestled in southeastern Europe, the peninsula rests between the Aegean, Ionian, and Mediterranean Seas. One fifth of the country’s land area is scattered among the Greek islands, the majority of which are in the Aegean between the main Greek coast and Turkey. Mostly mountainous, even on the islands, Greece’s lands are varied and divided by natural water and land barriers. The capital, Athens, is the economic and administrative center.
Greek tourism attracts windsurfers and kitesurfers, particularly to the Aegean Sea, where the Meltemi—the name of the strong summer winds—blow steadily, especially during July and August. One of the windiest regions is the Cyclades, the large, scattered group of islands in the Aegean.
Visitors to Greece can explore natural beauty and ancient architecture steeped in a blend of cultures and civilizations. When not enjoying the sun, Greece offers elegant museums, luxury resorts, gentle vineyards and plenty to see and do.
There are 16 international airports in Greece; however, only those in Athens, Ir?klio (Crete), Rhodes, Thessalon?ki, and Corfu accept scheduled flights. Athens orchestrates the majority of flights with its main airline, Olympic Airways, and its subsidiary, Olympic Aviation.
Departure tax
None
Greece’s climate is close to that of other Mediterranean areas. Summers are hot and arid in the lowlands; its winters can be mild and sometimes wet. Snow, frost, and sleet are prevalent in the cooler mountainous regions but rare in the lower elevations. Still, precipitation differs from region to region.
Country code: 30. Network coverage is good in all areas of the country except in the mountains and a few small islands. The main operators are Cosmote, Vodafone, and Telestet. Also, Internet is available in all of Greece’s major cities and touristy areas.
Currency: Euro (?)
Meals
- Low-end: ?5-15
- Middle: ?15-30
- High: ?30-40
- Gourmet: ?40+
Lodging
- Low-end: ?20-80
- Middle: ?80-200
- High: ?200-450
- Gourmet: ?450+
Most banks are open from Monday to Friday, 0800-1300. All major credit cards and Eurochecks are accepted in most shops, hotels, car rental agencies, and restaurants. Each establishment should have signs or stickers with such information. As for travelers checks, they are exchangeable in all Greek and foreign banks; however, make sure your passport is handy.
Passport and Visa
Travelers require a passport or National Identity Card.
Nationals of the following countries may stay in Greece for up to three months without a visa: Australia, Canada, Cyprus, EU countries, the European principalities of Monaco and San Marino, Iceland, Israel, Japan, Malta, New Zealand, Norway, Switzerland, the USA, and most South American countries. Most others are allowed to enter Greece for up to two months without a visa.
Greece operates on a 220V/50Hz AC. Devices working on a 120V current need a voltage adapter.
Visitors to Greece require no vaccinations prior to arrival, but it is wise to ensure that all typhoid, polio, tetanus and hepatitis A and B inoculations are recent. Tap water is generally safe to drink, but bottled water is always available and probably the better choice. As for food, restaurant cuisine is usually safe; however, to be careful you may wish to avoid meals made with ground meat.
Official language: Modern Greek. English, French, Italian, and German are also spoken in tourist areas. About two out of five people in the major cities are able to speak English and/or French.
Compared to most of the world, Greece is a rather safe country. All travelers are advised to take necessary precautions, be aware of their surroundings, and use common sense. A money belt that fits under the clothes is definitely recommended, and special care should be taken to protect cash, passports, and other valuables?especially in crowds and on public transportation.
Standard time zone: GMT +2
Tips are a normal practice in restaurants and for tour operators, however there is not generally tipping for hotel staff.
