Greece

Travel to Greece

Greece is a beautiful Mediterranean country with a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. It is famous for its crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and beautiful islands like Santorini and Mykonos. Apart from the beaches, Greece is also home to ancient ruins, temples, and archaeological sites that offer a glimpse into its long and fascinating history. Visitors can explore the Acropolis and the Parthenon in Athens, the Palace of Knossos in Crete, or the Meteora Monasteries in Thessaly. The country is also known for its delicious cuisine, with fresh seafood, olive oil, and local wines being some of its signature dishes.

Greece is a destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an adventurous trip filled with history and culture, Greece has it all. The locals are warm and welcoming, and the country is easy to navigate, making it a great choice for travelers of all ages. Don't miss the chance to explore this beautiful country and experience the magic of Greece firsthand.

Getting to Greece

Greece is easily accessible by air, sea, and land. The main international airports in Greece are located in Athens, Thessaloniki, and Heraklion, with many direct flights from major cities around the world. Additionally, several airlines offer connecting flights from other cities within Greece.

If you're traveling from Europe, there are various low-cost airlines that offer affordable flights to Greece, making it a budget-friendly destination. Another option is to take a ferry from Italy, with frequent services connecting various ports in Greece.

If you're already in Europe, you can also consider taking a train or a bus to Greece. There are many trains and buses that connect major cities in Europe to Athens, as well as other Greek cities.

Once you arrive in Greece, it's easy to get around the country by public transportation, including buses, trains, and ferries. Taxis and car rentals are also widely available for those who prefer to have more flexibility and independence.

Alternative and off the beaten track stays and experiences in Greece

Greece is a country with a rich and diverse landscape, and there are many alternative and off-the-beaten-track stays and experiences that visitors can explore. One such option is eco-tourism, which offers a sustainable way of experiencing the country's natural beauty while supporting local communities.

One popular eco-tourism experience is hiking through the Samaria Gorge in Crete, which is one of the longest gorges in Europe. The hike takes visitors through stunning natural landscapes, with opportunities to see rare flora and fauna, as well as traditional Cretan villages.

For those interested in a more cultural experience, there are many homestay options available in Greece, where visitors can stay with local families and experience traditional Greek hospitality. This can include learning how to cook traditional Greek dishes, participating in local festivals and events, and even helping with farm work.

For those looking for a unique accommodation experience, there are also a number of cave hotels in Greece, particularly in the region of Cappadocia. These hotels offer a unique and cozy atmosphere, with many rooms featuring stone walls and cave-like interiors.

Another alternative experience in Greece is to visit some of the country's lesser-known islands, such as Ikaria or Kythira. These islands offer a more authentic and peaceful experience, with fewer tourists and a slower pace of life.

Overall, Greece has much to offer visitors who are willing to explore beyond the traditional tourist destinations. From eco-tourism and homestays to cave hotels and lesser-known islands, there are many alternative experiences to be had in this beautiful country.

Top 10 things to do in Greece

1. Visit the Acropolis and the Parthenon in Athens, one of the most iconic landmarks in Greece.
2. Take a ferry to the beautiful island of Santorini, known for its whitewashed buildings, stunning sunsets, and blue-domed churches.
3. Explore the ancient ruins of the Palace of Knossos in Crete, one of the oldest cities in Europe.
4. Hike through the Samaria Gorge in Crete, one of the longest gorges in Europe, offering stunning natural scenery.
5. Visit the monasteries of Meteora, built on top of towering rock formations in central Greece.
6. Go island hopping and explore the beautiful Greek islands, including Mykonos, Corfu, and Zakynthos.
7. Explore the ancient Agora of Athens, where ancient Greeks gathered to discuss politics, philosophy, and trade.
8. Relax on the beaches of the Peloponnese, one of the most picturesque regions in Greece.
9. Visit the National Archaeological Museum of Athens, one of the largest and most comprehensive museums in Greece.
10. Experience traditional Greek cuisine, including fresh seafood, moussaka, and souvlaki, along with local wines and spirits.

The climate of Greece

Greece has a Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. The climate is influenced by the country's location in the southeastern part of Europe and its proximity to the Mediterranean Sea.

In general, the climate of Greece is divided into three zones: the continental zone, the Mediterranean zone, and the mountain zone. The continental zone has colder winters and hotter summers than the other two zones, while the mountain zone has lower temperatures and more precipitation, especially in the winter months.

The summer months of June, July, and August are the hottest and driest in Greece, with temperatures reaching up to 40°C in some parts of the country. However, coastal areas are generally cooler due to sea breezes.

Winter months, from December to February, are mild, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C. Rainfall is common during this time, particularly in the northern parts of the country and on the islands.

Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. These seasons are considered the best times to visit Greece as the weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds than during the peak summer months.

Overall, Greece's climate is one of its most attractive features, with long periods of sunshine, mild temperatures, and a variety of landscapes that make it an ideal destination for visitors all year round.