Greece, a nation deeply rooted in history, stands as a sentinel at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa. It’s not just a country but an experience, shaped by golden sunlight, a storied past, and the warm embrace of the Mediterranean Sea. This land, where myths come alive and modern life mingles with ancient wonders, beckons travelers from across the globe.
History and Culture
Ancient Civilizations and Their Mark
Greece’s history is a tapestry woven over millennia, bearing the marks of mighty civilizations such as the Minoans of Crete, the Mycenaeans, and the classical Greeks. Ruins like the Palace of Knossos on Crete or Mycenae on the mainland stand as silent witnesses to their grandeur. And, of course, who could overlook Athens? As the cradle of Western civilization, it was here that democracy, philosophy, and the arts took root, blossoming into wonders that the world still reveres today.
The Odyssey of Greek Mythology
The realm of Greek mythology is as vast as the seas sailed by Odysseus and as captivating as Medusa’s gaze. Tales of gods and heroes, love and betrayal, ambition and tragedy, have been passed down through generations. These myths are not just stories but are deeply interwoven with the Greek psyche and landscape. From the heights of Mount Olympus to the depths of Hades, these tales have shaped art, literature, and culture far beyond Greece’s borders.
Byzantine Brilliance and Ottoman Influence
Following the decline of the ancient Greeks came the Byzantine Empire, bringing with it a new wave of art, architecture, and the spread of Christianity. The Byzantine legacy is particularly evident in cities like Thessaloniki. The period of Ottoman rule that followed introduced new cultural and architectural elements, leaving an indelible mark on the Greek landscape and its traditions.
Modern Greece: A Blend of Old and New
Today’s Greece strikes a harmonious balance between its rich past and the vibrant present. While deeply respectful of its history, Greece is not trapped by it. Athens buzzes with contemporary energy, with bustling cafes and modern art scenes. Festivals across the country celebrate everything from ancient drama to modern music. This seamless blend of eras makes Greece a unique and endlessly fascinating destination for travelers.
Top Destinations
Athens: The Heartbeat of Ancient and Contemporary Greece
Athens, the capital, offers a sublime juxtaposition of ancient ruins and dynamic urban life. The Acropolis, crowned by the Parthenon, watches over a city filled with lively markets, contemporary museums, and vibrant neighborhoods. Wander through Plaka’s cobblestone streets or explore the edgy arts scene in Metaxourgeio. Athens is not just a gateway to Greece but a destination in its own right.
Santorini: A Cycladic Dream
Known for its dramatic sunsets, iconic blue-domed churches, and breathtaking caldera views, Santorini is a postcard come to life. The island’s unique volcanic landscape is a spectacle, and its cliff-perched towns like Oia and Fira offer panoramas that seem to belong to another world. Beyond the views, Santorini boasts ancient ruins, delightful wineries, and black sand beaches.
Mykonos: The Island of Winds and Nightlife
Mykonos has earned its reputation as the party capital of the Greek islands, but it’s so much more than its nightlife. With maze-like streets in Mykonos Town, iconic windmills, and idyllic beaches like Paradise and Super Paradise, it’s a haven for both the laid-back traveler and the party-goer.
Delphi: The Navel of the Ancient World
Perched on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, Delphi was once considered the center of the world in ancient Greek religion. The Oracle of Delphi, set within a sanctuary, was a major site for the worship of the god Apollo. Today, its ruins stand as a testament to its spiritual and cultural significance.
Crete: A Mosaic of Beaches, Mountains, and Myths
Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, offers a diverse tapestry of experiences. From the Palace of Knossos, linked to the legend of the Minotaur, to the pristine beaches of Elafonisi and the rugged landscapes of the Samariá Gorge, Crete is a microcosm of everything Greece has to offer.
Meteora: Monasteries Suspended in the Sky
Meteora, with its gravity-defying monasteries perched atop towering rock pillars, is both a spiritual and natural wonder. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it provides a glimpse into monastic life and offers breathtaking vistas of a unique geological phenomenon.
Local Cuisine
A Feast Rooted in Antiquity
The Greek culinary tradition, spanning thousands of years, is a celebration of the Mediterranean’s rich bounty. From the freshest olive oil, often described as ‘liquid gold’, to the catch of the day from its azure waters, every meal is an ode to simplicity and flavor.
Olive Oil and the Greek Philosophy of Food
No dish in Greece is complete without the touch of olive oil. Produced from groves that have existed for centuries, this essential ingredient is more than just a staple—it encapsulates the very essence of Greek cuisine. Whether used in salads, drizzled over grilled fish, or as a base for iconic dishes, its presence is ubiquitous and revered.
Mezedes: The Joy of Sharing
Mezedes are small dishes, akin to Spanish tapas, meant for sharing. Often accompanied by ouzo or tsipouro, these can range from simple olives and cheeses like feta and kasseri, to more elaborate preparations such as saganaki (fried cheese) or dolmades (stuffed grape leaves).
The Timeless Trio: Moussaka, Souvlaki, and Gyros
Moussaka, with its layers of eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce, is a rich and satisfying staple. Souvlaki, skewered and grilled meat, and gyros, meat roasted on a vertical spit, are beloved street foods that have found fame well beyond Greece’s shores.
A Taste of the Sea
Given its extensive coastline, it’s no surprise that seafood holds a special place in Greek cuisine. From grilled octopus drizzled with lemon and oil, to rich fish stews and fresh mussels, the Aegean and Ionian seas offer a plethora of delectable choices.
Sweets and Pastries: A Delightful Conclusion
Greek desserts are a fitting end to any meal. Baklava, with its layers of phyllo pastry, nuts, and honey, is perhaps the most iconic. Other delights include kourabiedes (almond cookies) and loukoumades (honey-soaked dough balls).
Festivals and Events
Celebrating the Seasons: Easter and Apokries
Easter, or ‘Pascha’, is arguably the most significant celebration in Greece, even surpassing Christmas in its grandeur. From the midnight church services to the symbolic cracking of red-dyed eggs, it’s a festival that combines deep religious sentiment with lively communal gatherings. Preceding Easter is Apokries, the Greek carnival season, a time for masquerades, dancing, and revelry, especially vibrant in cities like Patra, known for hosting one of Europe’s largest carnival events.
Drama and Arts: Epidaurus and Athens Festivals
The ancient theaters of Greece come alive during the summer months, especially the one in Epidaurus, hosting performances of classic Greek plays. Meanwhile, the Athens Festival, spanning from June to August, showcases a plethora of arts, including music, theater, and dance, featuring both local and international artists.
Musical Echoes: The Thessaloniki Song Festival
Greece’s longest-running music festival, the Thessaloniki Song Festival, has been celebrating the best of Greek music since the 1960s. With a focus on showcasing new talent and promoting Greek music, it’s an event that draws both locals and visitors in droves.
Dance of the Aegean: Ikarian Panigiria
On the island of Ikaria, summer is marked by panigiria, village feasts that blend religious observance with communal celebrations. While they occur in honor of saints, these events transcend religious boundaries, turning into night-long celebrations with traditional music, dance, and food.
A Toast to Tradition: Ochi Day
On October 28th, Greece celebrates Ochi Day, commemorating the nation’s resistance during World War II. Parades, both military and student-led, are common, particularly in Athens, Thessaloniki, and other major cities.
The Magic of Christmas: Lights and Festivities
While Easter might be the principal religious festival, Christmas in Greece is equally enchanting. From Athens’ Syntagma Square to the island of Rhodes, cities and towns are adorned with lights, and nights are filled with the scent of melomakarona (honey cookies) and the sound of carols.
Reveling in the Isles: Santorini Jazz Festival
For those who prefer a blend of scenic beauty and soulful music, the Santorini Jazz Festival, usually held in July, offers the perfect combination. With artists from around the globe, it’s a treat for jazz enthusiasts.
Greece’s festivals and events mirror the nation’s spirit, blending deep-rooted traditions with modern expressions. Whether you’re drawn by history, arts, music, or simply the allure of collective celebrations, there’s an event in Greece that promises to be a memorable experience.
Travel Tips
Currency and Payments
In Greece, the official currency is the Euro (€). It’s advisable for travelers to have some cash on hand, especially when visiting smaller villages or remote islands where card facilities might be limited. ATMs are widely available in cities and major tourist areas. While most hotels, restaurants, and shops in urban and tourist centers accept credit and debit cards, it’s always a good idea to inquire beforehand.
Euro current exchange rates
- 100 EUR = $107.84 or $1 = 0.93 Euro
Other currencies:
- 100 EUR = 85.71 British Pounds
- 100 EUR = 163.20 Australian Dollar
- 100 EUR = 146.38 Canadian Dollar
- 100 EUR = 1,123.41 Swedish Krona
- 100 EUR = 433.58 Polish Zloty
- 100 EUR = 2,435.07 Czech Koruna
- 100 EUR = 141,315.35 South Korean Won
- 100 EUR = 770.19 Chinese Yuan
- 100 EUR = 15,576.08 Japanese Yen
Best Time to Visit
While Greece is beautiful all year round, the months between April and June (spring) and September and October (early autumn) are ideal. The weather is pleasant, and these periods avoid the peak tourist season, ensuring a more relaxed experience.
Local Etiquette and Behavior
Greeks are known for their warmth and hospitality. A simple “Kalimera” (good morning) or “Kalispera” (good evening) can go a long way in making connections. Respect local traditions, especially in religious sites—modest clothing is appreciated.
Transportation
Greece boasts an extensive network of buses and ferries, especially vital for island hopping. While major cities like Athens have efficient public transport systems, including buses, trams, and a metro, renting a car might be a good idea if you’re keen on exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations.
Health and Safety
Tap water is generally safe to drink in cities and most parts, but bottled water is recommended in some islands or rural areas. Ensure you have travel insurance, and always keep essential medications with you.
Connectivity
While Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, restaurants, and cafes, it’s a good idea to get a local SIM card if you plan on staying for more than a few days. This will help you remain connected and access essential services, especially if you’re traveling to more remote areas.
Sustainable Travel
Greece’s natural and cultural wonders are its treasure. Travel responsibly by minimizing waste, respecting local habitats, and supporting local businesses. Opt for eco-friendly accommodations and consider off-peak travel to reduce the strain on popular destinations.
Useful Websites
- Visit Greece – The official tourism website for Greece, offering comprehensive information on destinations, activities, events, and more.
- Ferries in Greece – A reliable platform to check ferry schedules and book tickets for traveling between the Greek islands.
- Greek National Tourism Organization – An official source for travel advisories, brochures, and other essential details for tourists visiting Greece.
- Athens Guide – A detailed guide focused on Athens, providing tips on attractions, accommodations, and local insights.
- The Mani – An in-depth guide to the Mani region in the Peloponnese, offering historical context, travel tips, and accommodation options.
- Greek Travel Pages – An essential resource for travel professionals and individual travelers, listing accommodations, transport options, and tourism services throughout Greece.
- Blue Flag Beaches – A global site where you can find certified clean and environmentally-friendly beaches in Greece.
- Matt Barrett’s Greece Travel Guide – A personal guide by Matt Barrett, providing in-depth advice based on his own experiences traveling throughout Greece.
Greece is a traveler’s dream, and with a little preparation, it promises a journey filled with memories that will last a lifetime. Always remember: the joy of travel lies as much in the journey as in the destination. Enjoy every moment of your Grecian odyssey!