The ultimate bucket list for Greece
After having traveled to the mainland and islands, I should tell that the given final Greece travel bucket list is the one that will catch the highlights. The most entertaining spots to see in Greece are the Acropolis of Athens to sunsets in Santorini and are a blend of history, beaches and food. With over 6,000 islands and 18 UNESCO sites, Greece is an experience that no type of a traveler will forget.
You Must Try at-least Once
Moussaka
It was in a small taverna in Athens where I was introduced to moussaka that nothing that has followed it has been as good. It is soothing and laden with eggplant layers, minced meat and bechamel. Expect to pay EUR8-12. The picture menu restaurants should be avoided and instead visit the local tavernas where the taste is more authentic and the portions are big.
Gyros & Souvlaki
Gyros and souvlaki are the foods that I enjoyed in the big sightseeing days. The price of a warm pita with grilled meat, tzatziki, and fries is only EUR3-4. Street stands have a tendency of being more delicious than restaurants of the tourists. Order it apola to have all the mix of vegetables and sauces.
Fresh Greek Salad
The Greek salad is totally different in Greece. Tomatoes are sweeter, cucumbers crunchier and the feta is creamy and local. I ordered it almost daily. Prices range EUR6-9. Do not get too fancy ones, the most simple ones are the ones that contain olive oil, oregano and no lettuce.
Baklava & Loukoumades
As a dessert, I simply could not resist the flaky layers of baklava and loukoumades that were dipped in honey syrup. A portion costs around EUR3-6. Bakeries tend to prepare fresher ones compared to tourist cafes. The desserts are satisfying hence they can be shared after a large Greek meal.
Local Seafood by the Sea
The water seafood in Crete was a memorable experience to eat. Fresh fish is mostly sold on weight, often EUR40-60 per kilo. It is a good practice to always request to see the fish prior to cooking to ensure that one is not over charging. Grilled sardines and calamari are less expensive and equally good.
Best Time to Visit Greece
The ideal time to visit Greece is based on priorities. It receives over 30 million tourists every year largely during the months of July and August. I liked the seasons of May-June and September-October when the weather is warm, the seas are suitable to swim in, and the number of people is lesser. Prices at accommodation may fall by 20-40 percent to peak summer.
Visiting Greece in Summer
Summer has ideal beach conditions and night life however it has extreme heat and congestion. There is usually an elevation of temperatures to above 35degC. Hotels and book ferries book ahead particularly on the more popular islands. The best time to go sightseeing is early in the morning or late in the evening as not to get heat-exhausted and have to stand in long queues at the ticket desks.
Spring & Autumn – Best for Sightseeing
My favorite seasons to visit ruins and urban places were spring and autumn. Temperatures are 20-28degC- good walking temperatures. The number of tourists reduces greatly, and tourist attractions become more entertaining. The ferry times continue to go regularly and the cost of a hotel is significantly cheaper than high seasons.
Winter Travel in Greece – Is It Worth It?
In Greece, the winter is quiet and inexpensive, but various hotels and tours on the islands close down. Thessaloniki and Athens are livelier with fewer tourists and paying visits to the major attractions. It is the time to visit the island in order to make the cultural trips when they are not afraid of the cold weather and restricted access.
Budget vs Luxury Experiences in Greece
Greece is a low-budget destination. My average daily expense in the smaller Islands was EUR45 but luxury accommodation in Santorini is more than EUR500/ night. Finding not as popular islands, visiting off the high season, and getting ferry tickets ahead of time are all big money saves without much experience lost.
Greece on a Budget – Tips for Cheap Travel
Avoid travelling in July-August, travel by ferry rather than air, and dine locally. Hostels start around EUR15-25. Numerous historical sites and beaches are free or cheaper. Avoiding Santorini and spending time on such islands as Naxos or Paros does not make one short-changed, though none of these islands lacks the Greek island charm.
Luxury Resorts & Private Island Tours
To be luxurious, such islands as Mykonos and Santorini will provide cliffside suites, infinity pools, and personal boat tours. The prices are very high and service and scenery is outstanding. Adding the sunset cruises or sailing trips to the Greece bucket list itinerary will give your trip to Greece unforgettable sceneries and comfort.
Travel Tips for Greece First-Timers
The first timers bucket list of Greece made me not make any mistakes. Ferry on time, have a little money to spend on taxis just in case, and always wear sunscreen. English is common, and when one learns some Greek words he/she smiles. Popular places usually shut down at midday hence it is always good to remember to check seasonal time beforehand.
Getting Around Greece
Most of the islands are connected by ferries and buses are cheap and dependable on the mainland. Car rental assisted me to arrive at the beaches and mountain villages, which are hidden. Ferry schedules should always be checked a day before traveling because of wind and weather where cancellations or delays arise.
What to Pack for Greece
Light attire, comfortable to walk in shoes, a hat and reef safe sunscreen. Tough pavements and trenches require strong shoes. Bring a reusable water bottle – the tap water is safe in the cities, but not always in the islands.
Local Etiquette & Cultural Tips
Greeks are hospitable and appreciate courtesy. Wear loosely fitting clothes at the monasteries and churches by covering shoulders and knees. Tipping is welcome and not mandatory. Even a mere efharisto (thank you) is appreciated.
Safety & Travel Advice
Greece is as a rule a very safe place, and there is not much violent crime. Pick pocketing may occur in Athens metro and busy ferry ports, therefore ensure that bags are locked up. Emergency number is 112. It is more likely to get heat exhausted than to commit crime, therefore, drink.
Greece Bucket List for Different Travelers
Greece is the perfect choice of couples, families, and individual travelers. Having various islands, historical sites, and friendly inhabitants, all people can find their corresponding ideas of the Greece vacation. The scheduleing of activities according to the travel type can be used to prevent congested areas and make the journey better and smooth.
Greece Bucket List for Couples
Greek is very romantic with Santorini sunsets, Milos boat tour and dinners at the beach. Book sunset cruises in advance since they are fast sellers. Boutique cave hotels offer stays full of memories and view of the caldera.
Greece Bucket List for Families
Sandy beaches and calm waters make Crete and Naxos ideal with the family. A large number of museums and archeological sites provide cheaper access to children. Traveling through renting of a car is easier.
Greece Bucket List for Solo Travelers
It is easy to meet people at the Athens hostels and the island group tours. Transportation is good, and the English language is more popular. Travelling alone in Greece is not unsafe and lonely.
Final Thoughts – Is Greece Worth Visiting?
Greece is, however, a valuable destination. It is old, its waters are crystalline and its food is magnificent and more than two hundred populated islands hence it is a diverse location which hardly any country can match in terms of its diversity. Greece is where you can relax or have adventure holidays and it will always leave you with a memorable experience as a tourist destination.
FAQs About Traveling to Greece
How many days are enough for Greece?
The 10-14 days allow you the time to sightsee Athens and 2-3 islands without having to hurry around through ferry rides, sightseeing and having to spend time on the beach.
Is Greece expensive for tourists?
Costs vary widely. EUR40-70 per day will put budget travelers in control of their spending during the low season, and luxury stays at the islands will absolutely exceed EUR300 per night.
Do I need a visa to visit Greece?
Schengen Zone Greece is part of Schengen Zone. One of the things that the visitors can enjoy is spending up to 90 days in the country without a visa within a span of 180 days on many nationalities.
What is the most beautiful place in Greece?
Caldera views in Santorini and the outstanding beaches in Milos are usually ranked among the most beautiful places to be featured in your bucket list in Greece.
