How to Travel in Greece
When thinking of Greece travel, most people think first of ferries soaring across the Aegean Sea. But there are also numerous other forms of transport available – planes, trains and even walking!
Learning Greek will make an impressionful first impression and strengthen relationships within the local community.
Athens
Athenians will recognize you as a tourist quickly unless your skin tone is exceptionally pale; this may make it more challenging to fit in, so learning some local customs will help make things more seamless for you.
Greece does not flush their toilet paper–instead they place it in a bin to be disposed of properly. Flushing toilet paper could lead to clogged pipes, so ensure its proper disposal.
Avoid June through August
Summertime in Athens can be exceptionally hot, crowded and expensive if you visit during its peak tourist season (June to August). Instead, opt for visiting in spring or fall when temperatures are milder and crowds thinner, not only saving money by avoiding expensive peak-season airfares and hotel rates but also shorter lines at popular attractions.
Mykonos
Mykonos is accessible and cost-effective year-round; regular ferries run between Athens and Mykonos while there are direct flights in summer months. Or rent a car or scooter at Mykonos Airport and explore other islands nearby!
The main town (Chora) is an iconic Cycladic village featuring whitewashed cubist houses with wooden-colored doors and windows, narrow streets leading to charming churches and chapels framed with bougainvillea flowers, windmills that stand as symbols of tradition, as well as sunset drinks at picturesque spots.
High season in Mykonos runs from June to September and its beaches, restaurants and nightclubs can become very crowded during this period. Shoulder seasons such as April to May and late September to October tend to be less crowded. Cavo Tagoo and Santa Marina hotels provide luxury accommodations at great rates with seaside views for less crowding compared to other options like Cavo Tagoo. Also remember comfortable footwear – Mykonos’ cobblestone streets do not lend themselves well to heels – instead bring sandals you can slip off quickly when going to or from beach or restaurants!
Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki, one of the most iconic cities in Greece, combines old world ambience and contemporary vibes for an unparalleled travel experience. Travel back in time as you wander ancient ruins or marvel at Mount Olympus from Ottoman White Tower’s viewing platform; then come up-to-date while window shopping or relaxing at waterfront restaurants.
For optimal sightseeing of Thessaloniki, April through October is ideal as beaches remain relatively uncrowded while hotel accommodations remain less crowded. To protect against heart or lung complications, July and August should be avoided as their scorching heat may prove dangerous to visiting guests.
Athens and some mainland towns use tap water for consumption, while islands and many smaller ports should use bottled water instead. Businesses tend to start operating around 8 or 9am but often take an afternoon siesta between 2-6pm which leaves town centers and restaurants quiet or closed altogether; on the plus side however this also often results in lower prices at this time of year.
Crete
Greeks are well known for their hospitality and generosity. A great way to experience this is to visit local churches or monasteries; additionally it’s essential that one understands Filotimo; an umbrella term which encompasses various values and principles of Greek culture.
Buses are an inexpensive and popular form of travel in Greece. Most towns and islands feature bus stations in their center; most buses on both mainland Greece and its islands are run by regional collectives operating under KTEL’s umbrella name.
Ferries may make more sense than flights when visiting multiple island groups, though safety considerations and worker strikes should always be factored into your itinerary planning process.
