Greece Guide

Know Before You Go...®

Greece and its beautiful islands have long been a popular destination for travelers seeking stunning landscapes, rich history, and warm Mediterranean culture. Located in southeastern Europe, Greece is known for its ancient ruins, picturesque beaches, and delicious cuisine. The Greek islands, scattered throughout the Aegean and Ionian Seas, offer a unique blend of traditional charm and modern luxury. From the bustling streets of Athens to the serene beaches of Santorini, there’s something for every type of traveler in Greece. Whether you’re interested in history, relaxation, or adventure, Greece and its islands are sure to captivate you with their beauty and charm.

Why Greece?

Greece is the world's most popular tourist destination.
The Greek islands are spread across the Aegean and Ionian seas.
Greece is home to 18 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The ancient Olympic Games originated in Greece.
Greece is home to the world's oldest wine-producing region.

History

Watching the sun sink below the fiery Aegean from our hilltop palace, we felt like Gods and Goddesses in this fabled landClayton Moss

Transportation on Greece

Getting to Greece and getting around. Our transportation tips will help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.

Entry Documents

Valid Passport: Ensure it’s valid for at least 3 months beyond departure.
Visa: Check Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs for visa requirements based on nationality.
Proof of Accommodation: Have confirmation of hotel or lodging.
Proof of Funds: Be ready to show you can cover your stay (bank statements or sponsorship letter).
Return Ticket: Show onward travel plans.
Travel Insurance: Recommended for health coverage.
Arrival Form: Complete if required.
COVID-19 Documents: Check latest travel advisories and COVID-19 requirements from reliable sources.

Departure Tax

No specific departure tax in Europe for American citizens; European countries typically include departure taxes in airline ticket prices, applying to all passengers, to fund airport services. Best to check with airline or airport website for any updates.

Driving

Non-EU/EEA tourists may need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Ensure all occupants, including passengers in the back seat, wear seat belts.
Children under 12 or less than 150 cm in height must use an appropriate child safety seat.
Adhere to speed limits: Urban areas: 50 km/h; Open roads: 90 km/h; Rural highways: 110 km/h; Motorways: 130 km/h
Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited unless you have a hands-free system.
Overtake on the left, and keep to the right unless overtaking on multi-lane roads.
Roundabouts: Yield to traffic already in the roundabout and use your indicator when exiting.
Many highways have tolls; pay attention to toll booths and consider electronic toll devices available with some rental cars.
In case of an emergency, call 112 and familiarize yourself with emergency service numbers.

Greece Weddings and Honeymoons

Vacationers don’t just stay in Greece villas - they come to paradise to get married and celebrate their honeymoons!

See our favorite villas for weddings.

Know Before You Go...® - Greece Travel Tips

Before making their way to Greece villas, vacationers like to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a look at our travel tips to make your time in villas in Greece even more relaxing.

Capital:

Athens

Population:

202110.7 million

Size:

2019Approximately 50,000 square miles.

Electric Current:

220/240

Time:

12:20 pm zone:+2 (GMT/UTC +2)

Official Language:

English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but learning a few basic Greek phrases can be helpful, especially in rural areas.

Currency:

Greece's official currency is the euro (€), which was adopted in 2002. It is the second most widely used currency in the world and is accepted throughout the country. Most businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and shops, only accept payment in euros, so it is recommended to exchange currency before your trip or withdraw money from ATMs upon arrival. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Greece, especially in larger cities and tourist areas. Visa and Mastercard are the most commonly accepted, followed by American Express and Diners Club. However, it is always advisable to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases and in case of any issues with card payments. ATMs can be found throughout Greece, even in smaller towns and villages. They usually offer the best exchange rates and are a convenient way to withdraw cash. However, some ATMs may charge a fee for foreign cards, so it is important to check with your bank beforehand to avoid any surprises. Traveler's checks

Tipping and Taxes:

Tipping and taxes in Greece are important aspects of the country's service industry and overall economy. Tipping, or leaving a small amount of money as a gratuity for good service, is a common practice in Greece. However, it is not mandatory and is largely based on personal discretion. In general, tipping in Greece is not as common or expected as in other countries, such as the United States. A 10% tip is considered generous, and anything above that is considered very generous. Tipping is more common in tourist areas where service industry workers are used to receiving tips from international visitors. In restaurants, it is common to round up the bill or leave a small amount of change as a tip. In hotels, it is common to leave a small amount for housekeeping and for porters who help with luggage. When it comes to taxes in Greece, the country has a value-added tax (VAT) system, which is a consumption tax added to most goods and services. The standard VAT rate in Greece is 24%, but

Dress Code:

The dress code in Greece is typically casual and relaxed with a focus on comfortable and breathable clothing.

Topography:

Greece is a mountainous country with rugged terrain, scattered islands, and a long coastline along the Mediterranean Sea.

Telephone:

Country code: +30 Area code: 2

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