Planning a Vacation to Greece on your own: The Easy A-to-Z Trip Guide

Calling All Mythological Masterminds and Sun-Kissed Sirens: Today, you will learn all the tips on planning a vacation to Greece by yourself and make it the very best!

Imagine your toes sinking into Santorini’s volcanic sand, the Aegean Sea shimmering sapphire under a cerulean sky, and the intoxicating aroma of spit-roasted lamb and honeyed baklava wafting through the air.

Sounds pretty darn close to paradise, right? That’s why I’ve visited Greece 4 times, and I plan to visit again in the future.

But hold your Pegasus, my lovely, anxious traveler (and myself, too)! Before you unleash your inner Zorba the Greek and dive headfirst into Grecian bliss, let’s take a moment to tame the travel anxiety beast with a bit of super-organized planning magic.

Let’s be honest: even the most blessed vacations can turn into a mess without a roadmap. This is your one-stop shop for crafting a Greek getaway so smooth it’ll make Zeus himself jealous. Think crystal-clear itineraries, stress-busting tips, and enough insider knowledge to navigate like a seasoned local (minus the questionable tan lines, of course).

So dust off your imaginary gladiator sandals, grab a metaphorical glass of ouzo (because planning a Greek vacation is thirsty work!), and get ready to embark on a mythological masterpiece of a trip.

We’ll conquer island-hopping logistics, decipher ancient ruins like linguistic detectives, and discover hidden tavernas where the food is so good that even the gods would beg for seconds.

Forget the Minotaur’s labyrinth, with my handy guide, you’ll navigate Greece like a sun-kissed siren, charming the locals and soaking up every delicious detail.

So, are you ready to swap travel-day jitters for Aegean Sea shimmers? Buckle up, my lovely travel anxious, because your Greece vacation plan is about to get seriously organized and seriously unforgettable. Opa!

Now, my lovely anxious traveler or super-organized travelers like me (did you get my guide to a super-organized trip by the way?), I know what you’re thinking: “But wait, Valentina, what about the inevitable hiccups? What if Zeus himself throws a lightning tantrum and cancels our ferry?”

Fear not, my travel butterflies! Remember, a well-planned trip is a weatherproof trip. With these tips tucked in your super-organized, packed carry-on like a lucky charm, you’ll be prepared for anything.

And guess what? Preparation breeds peace. No more panicking about lost luggage or forgotten sunscreen, just endless sighs of “Mythos-in-hand relaxation” under the Aegean sun. So, follow my lead, read my guide to plan a trip to beautiful Greece, embrace the organization, and write your Greek odyssey, one where the only drama is deciding between feta and moussaka for lunch.

Opa to stress-free adventures and memories that’ll make even the gods jealous! Now, who’s ready to go island hopping?

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European Travel Alert! If you are from the US and want to travel to Europe starting at the end of 2026, you must complete an ETIAS visa waiver form before your trip and pay the €7 ($7.25) fee. This easy-to-complete form should give you instant approval, but it’s recommended that travelers plan and submit their forms a few weeks before their departure date. 

Start planning a vacation to Greece

Essential things about visiting Greece

Where is Greece in Europe?

Greece, officially called the Hellenic Republic, is a stunning country in Southeast Europe. It sits at the southern tip of the Balkan Peninsula and shares borders with Albania, North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Turkey.

Which Time Zone is Greece in?

 Time zone stress is real, but let’s quickly conquer it. Greece is in the Eastern European Time Zone (EET). Generally, that means Greece is GMT +2. Easy enough, right?

But wait, there’s a tiny, organized hiccup: daylight saving time.

• During the summer months, from the last Sunday in March until the last Sunday in October, Greece moves ahead to GMT +3.
• The rest of the year, it goes back to GMT +2.

Just check your clock when you land, and you are good to go. Knowing this little detail ahead of time is one less thing to worry about when you’re busy sipping your first glass of ouzo.

What is the best time to visit Greece?

Let me save you hours of agonized research on how to plan a trip to Greece on your own. The truth is, the best time to visit Greece totally depends on what kind of vacation you are craving. Since you crave exploration without the shoulder-to-shoulder crowds, late spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October) are your sweet spot.

This is what the pros call the shoulder season, and trust me, it is the only way I plan my trips now. The weather is heavenly, warm enough for swimming by late May or early September, and you get lower prices on those luxury boutique hotels.

• Best for Mild Weather and Fewer Crowds: Late Spring (April to June) and Early Autumn (September to October). I love September trips. The intense summer heat is gone, the sea is still bathtub warm, and it feels like the islands are breathing a sigh of relief as the masses depart. Condé Nast Traveler agrees with me, too, noting that autumn is perfect for food and wine lovers.
• Best for Hot Weather and Beach Holidays: Summer (July and August). If your number one priority is a scorching hot, classic beach vacation, go for it. Just be prepared for the highest prices, the most brutal heat, and tourist crowds that will test your hard-won peace of mind.
• Best for Budget and Culture: Winter (November to March). If you are looking for a bargain and want to explore archaeological sites in total peace, this is your time. It will be cooler and rainier, but cities like Athens will be quiet, and the cultural immersion will be top-notch.

When I plan my Greek escapes with Lajos, we always target May, June, or late September and October. It keeps my anxiety in check because the ferry logistics are easy (you can check out ferry schedules on my favorite Greek ferry website), the sites are accessible, and the sun is beautiful without being aggressive. It is truly the perfect balance for the super-organized traveler.

How many days do you need in Greece?

The key to a stress-free trip is not over-committing your precious annual leave. When people ask me how to plan a Greece vacation, I always say that a 10-day to 2-week trip is the absolute sweet spot for your first time. This gives you enough time to combine the historical punch of Athens with the dreamy relaxation of one or two key islands, which is the perfect mix of exploration and comfort.

• If you can only spare a week, plan for 5 to 7 days. With this duration, you must be brutally organized and choose one primary focus: visit Athens and just one easily accessible island, like the famous Mykonos or Santorini; or a less crowded island like Paros or Ios; or stick to a few major spots on the mainland.
• A two-week trip is genuinely the ideal length. It allows you to slow down, explore more extensively, and gives you a buffer day or two, which is the ultimate anti-anxiety strategy. Trust me on this one. My husband, Lajos, and I love the two-week escape because it feels like a complete mental reboot, not just a frantic three-day weekend.
• Since I’ve been in Greece across May, June, September, and October, I know that two weeks in the shoulder season offers the highest quality relaxation. You are not battling crowds, and you have time to wander and discover those hidden gems without feeling rushed.

If you are going to commit the time, commit to the two weeks. It is worth every single day to ensure you return home feeling completely refreshed, which is the whole point of this meticulously planned adventure.

What is the currency in Greece, and how to pay?

Knowing your payment plan is crucial for a stress-free trip. The official currency of Greece is the Euro (€). Now, while Greece has modernized quickly, you will find plenty of shops, restaurants, and hotels that are well-equipped to accept card payments, you must always have cash on you.

• Even in major tourist hubs like Santorini, you will find tiny, charming bakeries or local tavernas where the machine is mysteriously “broken.” This is why I always bring a handful of Euros, especially in smaller towns.
• For card users, Visa and Mastercard are definitely your best friends. They are accepted pretty much everywhere. American Express is less common, so do not rely solely on it unless you enjoy unnecessary payment panic.
• The easiest plan is to pay for significant expenses, hotels, large dinners, and organized tours with your card and use cash for everything else. This includes small purchases like a bottle of water, a street gyro, or, most importantly, tipping your excellent server.

My travel anxiety melts away when I know I have a crisp €50 note ready for any eventuality. It just makes those small, quick transactions easier, especially when you are wandering around an ancient site and just need a quick coffee.
Check the actual currency change.

Is it easy to find an ATM in Greece?

Finding an ATM in Greece is generally easy, especially in a major city like Athens or on popular Greek islands. However, the secret to staying super-organized and avoiding a mini-meltdown over hidden charges is knowing which ATMs to use and which to sprint past.

• To secure the fairest exchange rates and lowest fees, you must stick to ATMs operated by major Greek banks. They are your reliable friends in this endeavor.
• I always look for: Alpha Bank, Piraeus Bank, National Bank of Greece (NBG), or Eurobank. Walk right into the bank lobby if you can. It’s often safer and less exposed.
• Now, here’s my crucial travel tip: Avoid non-bank ATMs. Independent companies like Euronet, Travelex, or Moneybox often operate these. They are usually bright blue or yellow, or sometimes a conspicuous gray, and they are notorious for charging outrageous fees and using terrible exchange rates.

I once spent five extra minutes walking in the Greek heat to find a legit bank ATM, and it was worth every sweaty step. Remember, fighting travel anxiety is about eliminating the unknown and making wise, informed choices.

Do not let a sneaky ATM company chip away at your funds; you have boutique hotels to splurge on!

Do I need vaccinations to visit Greece?

Before you book that fabulous boutique hotel, you must call your family doctor and check out the Travel Vaccines and Advice. This is the ultimate move in fighting travel anxiety. While no vaccinations are required for Greece, authorities strongly recommend being up to date on your routine shots, like tetanus and polio.

A few years ago, I got the Hepatitis A vaccination, and it was one of the best preventative measures I ever took, specifically to combat the bad luck of drinking or eating something questionable while exploring.

Schedule your appointment at least a month before departure. By ticking this off your list, you ensure your health is under control, and your mind is clear to focus on the fun stuff, like which amazing Greek sweet you will taste first, which I cover in my best Greek sweets to try article. Being proactive is the key to conquering travel stress.

Do you want to know more about Greece? Check out “The Complete Guide of Greece“ and read all my articles. 

What is the best Travel Insurance to visit Greece?

I know you are all about meticulously planned fun when you plan your trip to Greece, but even I know that sometimes bad luck happens. That’s why your travel insurance needs to be your very first booking after your flights.

It’s the smart, super-organized way to safeguard your trip and eliminate worry about the unforeseen circumstances that could lead to a painful cancellation.

• For those shorter, two-week getaways Lajos and I love, VisitorsCoverage offers excellent plans designed to protect your investment in case of trip cancellation or interruption.
• If you are planning an extended stay, say, exploring all the Greek islands for a whole month, SafetyWings offers truly comprehensive coverage, especially popular with long-term travelers.
• Securing this insurance early ensures that all those boutique hotel deposits and pre-booked tours are protected from the start.

Do not skip this step. Paying a small fee upfront for protection means you can explore ancient ruins and wander charming streets with the ultimate peace of mind. It’s the essential final layer of organization that helps you fully relax.

European Travel Alert! If you are from the US and want to travel to Europe starting at the end of 2026, you must complete an ETIAS visa waiver form before your trip and pay the €7 ($7.25) fee. This easy-to-complete form should give you instant approval, but it’s recommended that travelers plan and submit their forms a few weeks before their departure date. 

Which voltage and adaptors are in Greece?

The standard voltage is 220-240 volts. Most of the sockets are European plugs of the two-round-pin variety. I recommend buying a universal travel adapter. You will need a voltage converter and plug adaptor to use other appliances.

• Invest in a voltage converter and a plug adapter specifically for your hair tools. This ensures compatibility with London’s voltage and keeps your mane looking fabulous.
• Opt for a travel-friendly hair tool kit with dual voltage capabilities. These clever gadgets work seamlessly across different voltage systems, saving precious suitcase space and ensuring good hair days no matter your adventure.

Shop the Plug adaptor that I use.

Travel Tip: If you arrive at your Destination too early for your check-in or your departure time is too many hours after your check-out, and you need a place to store your luggage, check out Radical Storage in Greece, a website that shows you all the safe places to keep your bags while still exploring.

​Is it easy to find wifi in Greece?

​Being able to map those charming side streets and look up the nearest taverna is essential to your exploration plan. You absolutely won’t have any problems finding fast WiFi in Greece. This isn’t a country where you’ll be endlessly searching for a signal.

• All those excellent boutique hotels you’re splurging on will have reliable, high-speed WiFi. Plan to upload all your gorgeous photos while relaxing in your haven of comfort each evening.
• You’ll also find fast WiFi available in most restaurants and bars, which is perfect for planning the next stage of your wandering while you enjoy some of the best local Greek food.

While relying on hotel and cafe WiFi is generally fine, my top tip for the super-organized traveler is to grab an inexpensive local data plan or use my favorite international eSIM.

That way, you’re never without connection when you need a sudden map check or translation, which completely eliminates that tiny spark of panic when you get wonderfully lost.

Is it easy to find Luggage storage in Greece?

You have flown all that way, and you are ready to explore, but what happens if your excellent boutique hotel doesn’t offer a late checkout or your flight lands hours before check-in? Panic is not an option.

You should know that luggage storage facilities are conveniently located throughout Greece, in major cities and on many Greek islands. Use them! Drop your bags, secure in the knowledge they are safe, and start your exploration hands-free.

And speaking of keeping your mind at ease, here are the three essentials that help me keep my Type A anxiety in check:

• An anti-theft backpack for valuables. This gives me peace of mind when navigating crowded areas, allowing me to focus on the history rather than the hustle.
• A TSA-approved cable lock for your main luggage. It is a small investment that adds a giant layer of security, especially for those ferry trips.
• Luggage tags for easy identification. Lajos and I have these matching, bright ones—they are like little travel passports for our bags. They make spotting your suitcase at baggage claim instant and stress-free.

By planning these small details, you transform any potential travel stress into pure Greek excitement. It is the super-organized way to travel!

See luggage storage in Greece.

Visiting Greece?

The Complete Athens Travel Guide
The Complete Santorini Travel Guide
The Complete Mykonos Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Greece

How to get to Greece

By far, the fastest and easiest way to get to Greece is to fly. There are direct flights to many incredible Greek destinations from major airports all over the world, cutting down on those stressful layovers. So one of the essential things to know when you start to plan your holiday to Greece for maximum efficiency is knowing the best way to get there.

If you have more time and want to enjoy the slow journey, you can drive or take the train. While often more expensive than a cheap flight, it can be a beautiful, relaxing way to see Europe, so I include them all in this trip planner to Greece.

Here are the best ways to get you to your Greek escape:

Flying to Greece:

• Direct to Athens: Most international travelers land at Athens International Airport (ATH). This is the best hub for starting your trip before catching a domestic flight or ferry.
• Direct to the Islands: You can fly directly into many popular islands like Santorini (JTR), Mykonos (JMK), or Crete (HER, CHQ) from many European cities, which is an amazing shortcut.

See prices and schedules to fly to Greece.

Traveling by Land to Greece:

By Train or Bus: If you are coming from a nearby European country, you can catch international train or bus routes that will take you to Greece. This is a very slow but scenic route.

See prices and schedules for bus or train travel to Greece.

Traveling by Sea to Greece:

By Ferry: This is a classic European experience. You can arrive in Greece by ferry from countries that border the sea, such as Italy, Turkey, and Croatia. This is perfect if you are already touring those countries and want to seamlessly link your exploration.

See prices and schedule for ferry to Greece.

Cost of visiting Greece

Since we are planning a super-organized trip that minimizes stress while you plan a vacation to Greece, I highly recommend securing a direct flight into your central hub. It eliminates unnecessary transfers and gets you into your boutique hotel that much faster.

I know budgeting can be a huge anxiety trigger, especially if you are planning to splurge on luxury boutique hotels. While you can undoubtedly do Greece on a shoestring, budget travelers might spend $70 to $100 per person per day. We are focused on stress-free comfort, cultural immersion, and high-quality experiences.

• For a mid-range, organized trip that includes beautiful hotels and great food, plan for about $150 to $250 per person per day, excluding international flights.
• For the luxury traveler who wants those caldera views and private transfers, and who are we kidding, that’s you, a two-week trip can easily run over $7,200 before you even book your international flight.
• The total cost of your Greek escape varies hugely based on key decisions: your accommodation (Santorini resorts cost far more than mainland guesthouses), the transportation you choose between Greek islands (ferries versus quick flights), and the time of year you visit.

Since you are probably traveling with your partner or a friend, remember to double those daily costs.

However, by traveling during the shoulder season as I do, in May, June, September, or October, you automatically save money on those soaring July and August peak-season rates. This lets you reallocate those savings into a better hotel, which is precisely how a super-organized traveler controls their budget and their anxiety.

Tours and activities in Greece

Now for the part of planning that truly feeds the explorer in you: securing the amazing activities. While I love wandering and discovering things on my own, booking a few local tours is the ultimate way to ensure a deep cultural experience without the stress of logistics.

From guided tours of ancient ruins to food tours and cooking classes, there is an activity for every traveler.

• For the History Lover: You absolutely must book a guided tour of the Acropolis in Athens. Having an expert explain the history not only saves you from reading endless signs but also makes the ancient ruins come alive.
• For the Explorer: If you are visiting an island, a boat trip in Greece is essential. Think sunset catamaran cruises in Santorini or sailing to the secluded beaches of Mykonos. Lajos loves these because the exploration is completely organized for us.
• For the Culture Seeker: You cannot visit Greece without diving into the cuisine. Look for food tours in Athens or a Greek cooking class on the islands. Learning to make Spanakopita is far more fun than trying to figure out the recipe on your own.

Also, a fantastic way to explore Greece is by boat, if you travel with your family or are planning a romantic Greece vacation. This way, you can visit more Greek islands and little secluded bays and have fun on a private boat with your friends. Look at Searadar, a fantastic website for booking private sailing boats and yachts worldwide for an unforgettable vacation with your friends.

Remember, pre-booking these experiences not only guarantees your spot but is a massive anxiety-buster. You have your voucher, you have your time, and the exploration is entirely handled.

How to move around Greece

How to move around Greece by Ferry

Island hopping is the heart of any Greek escape, but I know the logistics of ferries can spark that familiar travel panic. Let’s eliminate that stress right now. To move around Greece, I highly recommend using my favorite online booking website to find routes, compare prices, and plan your organized itinerary along major ferry lines.

• Ferryhopper is my favorite ferry website. It’s a super-organized platform that lets you check multiple ferry companies and routes all in one place, which is so much easier than checking each company individually.
• Book in advance. For the best prices and to secure your spot, especially if you might be traveling in the warm months, book tickets online in advance. This is a non-negotiable step in planning a trip to Greece that prevents last-minute stress.
• Check the schedules periodically. Ferry schedules can change and are often only released a few months in advance.

At the port and on board

Arriving at the port on time is critical. Since ferries will not wait for you, you need to be a super-organized machine.

• Arrive early: As a foot passenger, you need to arrive at the port at least 30 to 45 minutes before departure for a smooth boarding process. If you are traveling with a rental car, arrive 1.5 hours early.
• E-Tickets: Many companies now offer e-tickets, which are a lifesaver. You often do not need to pick up a physical ticket, which eliminates a whole layer of port anxiety (but always check the confirmation email after purchase).
• Speed vs. Cost: High-speed ferries are often more expensive, but they are much faster than conventional boats. When Lajos and I are on a tight itinerary, we always choose the speed to save precious exploration time.

Remember to stay flexible and pack a jacket to protect yourself from air conditioning. Ferry schedules can be affected by high winds, and the air conditioning on board can be pretty intense, even on a hot day.

How can I go from the Airport to the city center?

​It is always wise to check how to get from the airport to your accommodation. There are always many ways to choose. There are shuttle buses that go to the city center and train lines (like in Athens), or you can book a private taxi in advance that will take you to your accommodation. 

In every article, “How to plan a trip to (a city or an island),” I listed all the ways to go from that specific city’s airport to the city center and how to move around. I always think booking a private transfer from the Airport to the hotel is better.

So, you can start your holiday right upon arrival and save time and energy.

See my favorite private airport transfer.

Travel Tip: Greece is a beautiful country, and like any other country, you need to plan your travel, even if you travel with your partner or your friends, especially if you are visiting Greece with kids.

By Bus:

You can travel by bus, every city is very well connected, and there is a bus company to take you anywhere. I always advise booking bus tickets in advance to plan your holiday as best as possible.

See bus ticket options and prices.

By Train:

Not every Greek airport has a connection to the central city by train, but luckily, most do. I always use Omio while traveling; it is an excellent website for booking buses and train tickets. 

See train ticket options and prices.

By Taxi:  

The best website I have always used to book a private airport taxi is KiwiTaxi, where I have always found great prices. KiwiTaxi is a site where one can book a transfer from or to the airport in 98 countries between tourist destinations or other popular tourist locations.

See taxi options and prices.

Do you want to know more about Greece?  Check out “The Ultimate Guide to Greece“ and read all my articles. 

How to rent a car to visit Greece?

If you are like Lajos and me, you love driving. Renting a car gives you ultimate control, which is the gold standard for fighting travel anxiety and making sure you get to all those secluded spots the big buses miss.

• I always look at my favorite rental car websites, where I consistently find the best deals for my trip. I usually compare prices on RentalCars and EconomyBookings to see which offers the better car rental deal.
• Pro-tip: Getting an International Driver’s Permit is a must. It is just a quick translation of your license, but without it, you might (or might not, it depends on the rental car shop) be denied the rental car you meticulously planned for.

Having a rental car means Lajos and I can explore for hours, uncover hidden gems, and drive straight back to our accommodation without relying on anyone else. It is the perfect blend of freedom and control.

See rental cars in Greece.

Sunburn got you feeling fried? Don’t fret! Learn how to cure sunburn quickly and get back to your adventure!

Drinking and eating in Greece

What food is Greece famous for?

Greek cuisine is a world of incredible, fresh flavors, and tasting everything is a massive part of the exploration that Lajos and I adore. Greece is famous for classic dishes like hearty moussaka, juicy souvlaki, and the perfect, fresh Greek salad with creamy feta, olives, and lashings of olive oil.

And do not skip the incredible street food like warm gyros wrapped in soft pita. But my favorite part? The pastries and appetizers!

• Greek savory pies and meze: You will find countless savory pies like the classic spanakopita (spinach and feta) and tiropita (cheese pie). For appetizers, or meze, you must try tzatziki (cucumber yogurt dip), dolmades (stuffed grape leaves), and, my favorite, saganaki (fried cheese) with a squeeze of fresh lemon!
• Greek sweet delights: Beyond the famous baklava and honey-soaked loukoumades (doughnuts), you must seek out other incredible sweet pastries and desserts. I highly recommend Galaktoboureko, a creamy custard pie encased in crispy phyllo and soaked in syrup, and Portokalopita, a fragrant orange cake made with shredded phyllo. These are perfect whether you are having a decadent breakfast or a wonderful dessert after a long day of exploring.

Lajos fell in love with Greece for its food and the sheer variety of flavors. By reading my articles on Greek food and drinks and the best Greek desserts to taste, while getting all the info on how to plan a trip to Greece, you will always know the best thing to order at every taverna!

Are tap water and food safe in Greece?

It’s safe to drink water in the Greek mainland from taps and also from drinking fountains that you will find, especially in the major cities and parks. I always carry a reusable bottle so I can fill it up anytime I have the chance. It would be better for you to avoid tap water on the little islands instead.

​If you are not sure, it’s always safe to ask locals, or if in doubt, drink bottled water. This is vital information to remember when you plan a vacation to Greece.

About food, Greece has so much to offer that the only problem you will have is that your stomach is not big enough to eat everything you wish. 

​That’s why I always carry with me some Milk Thistle, just in case I overeat because, as my mom always says, “I eat with my eyes and not with my mouth.”

​Unfortunately, bad luck happens everywhere, sometimes is not the food but just our stomach that needs to get used to the new cuisine (and let’s be honest, we all eat and drink more than usual when on holiday). I always take these natural remedies with me if I have stomach upset or food poisoning. 

My favorite Natural remedies for stomach upset or food poisoning that I always have with me when traveling:

​Milk Thistle: Milk thistle has a long history of traditional use for relieving digestive discomfort associated with occasional overindulgence in food and drink, such as indigestion and upset stomach. It may be a helpful option to consider supporting digestive comfort while traveling.

Charcoal capsules: Activated charcoal has a history of traditional use for managing occasional digestive upset. Some studies suggest it may be helpful in certain cases of digestive discomfort related to food. While I personally keep charcoal capsules in my travel kit, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for advice on using them, especially for persistent or severe symptoms.

​Probiotics: Probiotics are often discussed for their potential to support gut health, especially when traveling. My doctor has suggested that taking probiotics a few days before and during travel to certain destinations may be a helpful strategy for maintaining digestive balance. It’s important to consult with your own healthcare professional for personalized advice on probiotic use, especially if you experience digestive upset.

Before using any of these natural remedies, talk to your doctor.

​How is eating and drinking out in Greece?

​In Greece, you will find various foods, from meat to fish and delicious vegetables. Check out my articles about food and drinks you have to try in Greece. If you love sweets as much as I do, don’t forget to read my most amazing sweets to eat in Greece.

You will find everything you need about the delicious Greek cuisine there and all the info you need to l ow about Greek food when planning a Greek vacation.

Prices may vary from locations and bars and restaurants, but these are the approximate prices for the most common foods and drinks in Greece:

​In Supermarket                                                 

• Bottle 1.5 L water: around 0.70-0.80 Euro                   
• Local Beer 0.33 L: approximately 1.90-2.00 Euro                     
• Bottle of Wine: 5-8 Euro                                 

At a Bar:

• Coffee latte: 2.80 Euro
• A glass of domestic beer 0.5 L: around 3.00-4.00 Euro 
• A bottle of wine: 12-20 Euro
• Coke in a Can: Around 1.70-1.80 Euro                                                    
• A glass of Wine: Around 4.00-6.00 Euro

At a restaurant:

• Restaurant on a budget per person: Around 7/10 Euro        
• Restaurant medium-range per person: Around 15-20 Euro
• Fine dining Restaurant per person: From 60 Euro

In Greek restaurants, a 10-20% gratuity is often added to the bill, so check that you’re not already paying the tip before adding more. If it’s not, a tip of 10-15% is encouraged, primarily in tourist places. The tip should reflect the customer service you received, so it is up to you to decide how much to give.

Want to become a SUPER-ORGANIZED TRAVELER and fight TRAVEL ANXIETY? Check out my Travel Anxiety Tips Page, where you will find all the help, tips, tricks and guides to plan your next adventure in the most organized way!

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Finding all my free tips & info useful and want to thank me for them?
Doing it in the Italian way by buying me a coffee ⤵️

Shopping and souvenirs in Greece

​The options are limitless in a culturally rich country like Greece, and you will find many shops selling arts and crafts wherever you go. Locally handcrafted ceramics, wood carvings, textiles, and jewelry make perfect souvenirs.   

If you want to buy antiques, please be careful, beware of fakes, and stick to reputable sellers. Please read my article to know what is worth buying in Greece. Also, liquors and food are excellent ideas to take home, like Ouzo, the famous anise-flavored spirit; honey; herbs for cooking, like thyme or oregano; olive oil; and olives.

Check my article on the most authentic things to buy in Greece to understand better what’s worth buying.

Is Greece safe for a solo female traveler?

​This country is pretty safe. During the day, with tourists and locals around the streets, the only thing you will have to worry about is pickpockets, which can unfortunately be present in every tourist city. 

​So I advise having an antitheft purse or an antitheft backpack with you. Prudence is never enough when you are far from home, even in the safest place in the world.​ Overnight, I advise a solo female traveler to keep her eyes open wherever she goes, because bad things can happen anywhere, anytime, to anyone. Please prioritize safety first.

​I always contacted locals through travelers’ Facebook groups during my solo travels. I have been lucky to meet people who took me around and showed me their city, so I felt pretty safe being out late at night because I wasn’t alone.

Travel Anxiety Tip: Ditch the map panic & embrace Greek dreams! Skip the “where am I?” freakout & join a multi-day Greece tour – think chariot ride to relaxed bliss, not lost-in-translation tears. Available for tours from 3 to 27 days in Greece!

Important Greek telephone numbers:

• Emergency 112
• Ambulance 166
• Fire Department 199
• Police 100
• Coast Guard 108
• Tourist Police 171
• Forest Fire Authority 106
• International Phone Assistance 139

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Before you go…

I know what you’re thinking: “Did I just absorb an entire Greek alphabet’s worth of travel tips for Greece?” And the answer is, “Yup, you did!” But guess what? You won’t collapse under the weight of all this knowledge!

Instead, picture yourself as a super-organized traveler who fought travel anxiety for good, who learned how to navigate cobbled streets, order mouthwatering moussaka like a Greek, and know exactly where to find the best beach for that Instagram-worthy snap.

With these super-organized tools in your travel belt, anxiety will be as out of place as a parka in Santorini. You’ll be so prepared and in control that deciding between that extra scoop of gelato or another dip in the Aegean Sea is the only stress you’ll feel.

So, follow my lead, my organized little olives, and get ready to experience Greece like a pro without the pre-trip jitters. Remember, a little planning goes a long way, and with these tips, your Greek getaway will be smoother than Aphrodite’s silk robes.

Opa to stress-free adventures and memories that make you want to Zorba the night away! Now, book everything you need for your holiday in Greece, and prepare for the time of your life!

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