Plan Your Dream Trip to Greece

April–June and September–October deliver sunny weather, fewer crowds, and up to 40% lower hotel rates than mid-summer. Spring offers blooming wildflowers and perfect hiking weather, while autumn provides warm seas and harvest season. Peak summer (July-August) brings hottest weather and highest prices but guaranteed sunshine.

Most travelers spend €800–€1,400 per person for a comfortable 7-day trip. Budget travelers can manage on €500-700, while luxury seekers may spend €2,000+. Use our Budget Calculator for personalized estimates based on your travel style, accommodation preferences, and chosen destinations.

For peak-season sailings (June–September) and popular routes like Athens–Santorini, book online 2–4 weeks in advance. Car ferry reservations are essential year-round. Shoulder season and less popular routes can often be booked 1-2 days ahead, though advance booking ensures better prices and cabin choices.

For first-time visitors, 2-3 islands in 7-10 days provides the perfect balance. Spend 3-4 nights per island to avoid constant packing and ferry travel. Island hopping works best when choosing geographically close islands like Mykonos-Paros-Naxos or staying within one island group like the Cyclades.

EU citizens need only a valid ID card. Non-EU visitors require a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond travel dates. Most nationalities can visit visa-free for up to 90 days. Travel insurance is recommended but not mandatory. Check current entry requirements on official government websites before traveling.

Cars are excellent for exploring mainland Greece and larger islands like Crete, Rhodes, or Corfu where they unlock hidden beaches and mountain villages. On smaller islands like Santorini or Mykonos, ATVs or scooters are more practical. Many Cycladic islands are best explored on foot or by local bus. Always check driving requirements and insurance coverage.

Book 2-3 months ahead for peak season (July-August), especially for Santorini and Mykonos where the best hotels sell out quickly. Shoulder season bookings can be made 4-6 weeks in advance. Last-minute deals exist but limit your choices significantly. Always book directly with hotels for better rates and perks when possible.

Take the metro (Line 3) from Athens airport to Piraeus port for most island ferries - it's cheap (€10) and takes 45 minutes. For Rafina port (serving Cyclades), take the KTEL bus (€3). Taxis cost €35-50 but avoid during rush hour. Some islands like Santorini and Mykonos have direct flights from Athens (45 minutes).

Travel insurance is highly recommended for medical coverage, trip cancellation, and ferry strike protection. European Health Insurance Cards (EHIC) provide basic medical coverage for EU citizens. Look for policies covering water sports, moped accidents, and ferry disruptions - common issues in Greece. Comprehensive coverage typically costs 4-6% of total trip cost.

Tipping 10-15% at restaurants is standard for good service, though Greeks often round up to the nearest euro. Tip taxi drivers 5-10% and hotel staff €1-2 per day. Beach bars expect small tips for table service. Many restaurants include service charges, so check your bill. Cash tips are preferred over adding to credit card payments.