Welcome to Greece 😊
Greece is a beautiful country that is full of history, culture and stunning scenery. If you love the sun, sea and sand, then the Greek Islands are a paradise that you have to visit. With over 6,000 islands to explore, Greece has something for everyone.
One of the most impressive features of Greece is its ancient history. You can see ruins and artifacts from a whole range of civilizations, including the ancient Greeks and the Byzantine Empire. Whether you want to explore Athens and its famous Acropolis, or travel to the stunning island of Crete to witness the ruins of Knossos, you'll be amazed at how much history Greece has to offer.
Another thing that makes Greece such a special destination is its food and drink. Greek cuisine is renowned for being delicious and healthy, with plenty of fresh vegetables, grilled meats, and seafood. And when it comes to drinking, there are plenty of local wines and ouzos to try.
Overall, Greece is a destination that you really can't miss. It's friendly, welcoming, and full of natural beauty and cultural treasures. So why not book a trip and experience it for yourself?
Quick Facts About Greece
- Currency: Euro
- Population: 10722816
- Languages: Greek
Money and Finances
The official currency in Greece is the Euro. The coins come in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents, and 1 and 2 Euros. The banknotes come in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 Euros.
ATM Network
ATMs are widely available in Greece, especially in urban areas and tourist hotspots. It is recommended to use ATMs inside banks or in well-lit and crowded areas to avoid any security risks.
Credit Cards
Credit cards are widely accepted in Greece, especially in larger businesses and tourist areas. Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere, while AMEX may have more limited acceptance. However, cash is still preferred in smaller stores and markets, so it's recommended to have some on hand.
Internet and Phones
Greece has an average internet speed of 28 Mbps for downloads and 6 Mbps for uploads. There is no government interference in internet use.
Phone Plans and SIM Cards
The major telco companies in Greece are Cosmote, Vodafone and Wind. The average cost of a mobile phone plan is around 25 Euros per month. There are no known sim compatibility issues.
Dialling to Greece
To call Greece from another country, dial +30 followed by the desired number. Within Greece, the area code is required when dialling landline numbers.
Transport Around Greece
Air Travel
Greece has 15 international airports, with Athens, Thessaloniki and Heraklion being the largest and busiest.
Train Travel
Greece has an intercity train network connecting major cities, with example ticket prices ranging from €20-€50 and journey times varying from 2-6 hours depending on the route.
Metro / Local Trains
Athens has a metro system, with three lines connecting key areas within the city.
Buses
Greece has an extensive bus network connecting cities and towns, with example ticket prices ranging from €5-€15 and journey times varying depending on the distance of the trip.
Rideshare
Rideshare companies like Uber and Beat are available in Athens and Thessaloniki, with average travel prices ranging from €5-€15 depending on the distance of the trip.
Driving by Car
Driving in Greece can be challenging due to narrow roads and aggressive driving. The speed limit on highways is 120 km/h, while local roads vary from 50-90 km/h. Greece drives on the right-hand side of the road.
Local Customs
In Greece, tipping is a common practice, with a usual amount of 10-15% of the total bill. Locals typically greet each other with a kiss on the cheek, and it is customary to address elders and authority figures with respect. When speaking with strangers, it is polite to use formal language and avoid interrupting. Men and women generally address each other using formal titles or by their first name, depending on the level of familiarity.
Health and Diseases
Medical System
Greece has a public healthcare system that provides free or low-cost medical care, but the quality of care can vary depending on the region. Private healthcare also exists and is generally of a higher quality. A visit to a doctor can cost around 20-40 euros. It is recommended to have travel insurance when visiting Greece.
COVID Situation
Greece has implemented strict measures to control the COVID-19 virus, including mandatory mask-wearing and social distancing. The country has had a relatively low number of cases and deaths, with a current rate of approximately 400 cases per day.
Common Health Risks
Common health risks in Greece include mosquito-borne diseases such as West Nile virus and malaria, as well as food and water-borne illnesses like travelers' diarrhea. Heat stroke and sunburn can also be a concern during the summer months. It is recommended to take necessary precautions, such as using insect repellent and practicing good hygiene and food safety practices.
Laws and Regulations
Alcohol Consumption
In Greece, the legal drinking age is 18 years old. Alcohol is widely consumed and available in most places. However, drunk driving is strictly prohibited and severely punished.
Recreational Drugs
Recreational drug use is illegal in Greece, with stiff penalties for possession or use of any illicit substances. Cannabis use is illegal and can result in imprisonment.
Pre-Marital Relationships
Pre-marital relationships are widely accepted in Greece and there are no legal restrictions on them.
LGBTQ and Same-Sex
In Greece, same-sex marriage is not recognized, but same-sex couples can still register their partnership. Homosexual acts are legal but discrimination and hate speech against LGBTQ individuals is still a problem in some areas.
Firearms / Guns
Gun ownership is legal in Greece, but highly restricted and regulated. A license is required for possession, and only specific types of firearms are permitted. The use of firearms in self-defense is not allowed, and the punishment for any illegal use is severe.
Regions in Greece
There are many wonderful regions to visit in Greece, browse through each to see what to visit.
1 Popular Travel Destination in Greece
