Travel to Greece — everything you need to know

When to go to Greece?

Weather in Greece

Check the weather city by city, starting with Athens.

What to do in Greece?

Greece is the cradle of Western civilisation. Between the Acropolis of Athens, the monasteries of Meteora, the white-washed Cycladic islands (Santorini, Mykonos) and the crystal-clear beaches of Crete, it combines ancient heritage with Mediterranean beauty.

Athens

One of the oldest cities in the world: the Acropolis and the Parthenon dominate the city, surrounded by bohemian districts (Monastiraki, Psirri) and lively taverns.

Highlights : Acropolis & Parthenon, Acropolis Museum, Ancient Agora, Monastiraki district.

Santorini

The world's most photographed island, with its white houses and blue domes clinging to a volcanic caldera. Legendary sunsets in Oia.

Highlights : Oia village at sunset, Fira — the island's capital, Perissa Beach (black sand), Akrotiri — the Pompeii of the Aegean.

Meteora

Byzantine monasteries perched atop giant rock pillars overlooking the Thessalian plain. A breathtaking landscape and UNESCO site.

Highlights : Varlaam Monastery, Great Meteoron (Transfiguration), Hiking among the rock pillars, Sunset over the monasteries.

Crete

The largest Greek island, with the Minoan palace of Knossos, the Samaria Gorge (the longest in Europe) and dream beaches like Elafonissi.

Highlights : Minoan Palace of Knossos, Samaria Gorge, Elafonissi Beach (pink sand), Old Chania.

Mykonos & the Cyclades

Mykonos is the queen of the Cyclades: white alleys with blue doors, iconic windmills, lively beaches (Paradise, Super Paradise) and some of the most intense nightlife in the Mediterranean. A few hours away by boat, Paros, Naxos and Ios offer a more authentic atmosphere to explore the Cycladic archipelago.

Highlights : Kato Mili windmills — the symbol of Mykonos, Little Venice — houses on the water in the old town, Paradise & Super Paradise Beach — beachside parties, Delos — Apollo's sacred island, UNESCO archaeological site.

Travel budget for Greece

Greece remains affordable despite tourist numbers. Local taverns are excellent and cheap. Santorini and Mykonos are significantly pricier than the rest of the country.

Practical tips for travelling to Greece

Compare Greece with other destinations