How To Travel To Greece: The Ultimate Travel Guide

How to Travel to Greece: A Complete Guide

How to Get to Greece

If you’re wondering how to travel to Greece, the most straightforward method is by air. Greece is well-connected to the rest of the world via numerous international airlines. Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos) is the main hub, handling flights from Europe, Asia, and North America. Airlines such as Aegean Airlines, Ryanair, and British Airways offer frequent routes to Greece from various destinations. If you’re already in Europe, taking a ferry from Italy or Turkey is also an option, especially if you plan to explore the islands. For those considering traveling by train or bus, overland routes exist, though they are less direct.

It’s important to plan well in advance, especially during the high season (July to August), as flights and ferries can fill up quickly. Many budget airlines also offer cheap flights to Greece, particularly to island destinations like Santorini, Mykonos, and Corfu.

Best Places to Fly into When Traveling to Greece

Deciding on the best entry point is a crucial step in how to travel to Greece. Athens International Airport (ATH) is the primary gateway for most international flights and is the most convenient if you’re starting your trip with Athens or mainland Greece. From Athens, it’s easy to connect to domestic flights or ferries that take you to the islands.

Thessaloniki International Airport (SKG) is another great option for those heading to northern Greece, including the Halkidiki region. For island lovers, Heraklion Airport (HER) on Crete and Rhodes International Airport (RHO) are ideal for direct flights from European cities. Many travelers also choose Santorini (JTR) and Mykonos (JMK) airports for their famous island getaways.

When booking your flights, consider your itinerary. If you’re planning to island hop, flying into Athens and taking ferries to the islands might be the most convenient choice. Alternatively, you can fly directly to the islands from various European cities, saving time on internal travel.

When to Travel to Greece

One of the key decisions in how to travel to Greece is picking the best time to visit. Greece has a Mediterranean climate, making it a year-round destination depending on your preferences. For most travelers, the ideal time to visit is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). The weather is warm and pleasant, tourist crowds are smaller, and accommodations are more affordable compared to the peak summer months.

For beach lovers, July and August offer long sunny days and hot weather, perfect for island hopping and swimming. However, these months also attract the most tourists, especially to popular spots like Santorini and Mykonos, and prices can be significantly higher. Winters in Greece are mild, especially in the south, and this is a great time to explore Athens, Thessaloniki, and historical sites without the crowds.

Highlights of Traveling to Greece

When planning how to travel to Greece, it’s essential to know the country’s top highlights. Greece offers a rich blend of historical, cultural, and natural attractions. Athens is home to the iconic Acropolis and Parthenon, a must-see for history enthusiasts. The ancient city of Delphi, once considered the center of the world in Greek mythology, offers a fascinating glimpse into the country’s ancient past.

If you’re drawn to natural beauty, Greece’s islands are second to none. Santorini’s whitewashed buildings and stunning sunsets are world-famous, while Mykonos is known for its vibrant nightlife. For a more laid-back experience, head to islands like Naxos or Paros, where you can explore traditional villages and quiet beaches.

The mainland is equally captivating, with the monasteries of Meteora perched on towering rock formations, and the Peloponnese region, which boasts ancient sites such as Olympia and Mycenae. Whether you’re interested in archaeology, beaches, or hiking, Greece offers endless opportunities to explore.

Greek Culture and Religion

A key aspect of understanding how to travel to Greece is appreciating its deep-rooted culture and religious traditions. Greece is predominantly an Orthodox Christian country, and religious festivals and customs are an integral part of daily life. Visitors will often encounter beautifully ornate churches and monasteries, with many perched in scenic locations such as Meteora or the islands.

Greek culture is famous for its hospitality, known as “philoxenia,” which literally translates to “friend to a stranger.” This sense of warmth and welcoming is something travelers will experience throughout the country, whether in rural villages or busy cities.

Greece is also home to a vibrant arts scene, with music, dance, and theater being integral parts of Greek culture. Traditional Greek music, including the bouzouki, can be heard in tavernas across the country, adding a charming soundtrack to your culinary experiences.

Greek Food and Cuisine

No guide on how to travel to Greece would be complete without mentioning the incredible Greek cuisine. Greek food is rooted in Mediterranean traditions, featuring fresh ingredients such as olive oil, herbs, vegetables, and seafood. Popular dishes include moussaka, a baked dish with layers of eggplant and minced meat; souvlaki, grilled meat skewers; and spanakopita, a savory spinach pie wrapped in filo pastry.

Meze, small plates served as appetizers, are a staple of Greek dining and offer a variety of flavors including tzatziki (yogurt and cucumber dip), dolmades (stuffed vine leaves), and kalamata olives. Seafood is also abundant, especially in coastal areas and the islands, where freshly caught fish and octopus are grilled to perfection.

Greek cuisine is also closely tied to its wine and spirits, with ouzo, a strong anise-flavored liquor, being a popular choice. Don’t forget to try Greece’s famous desserts, such as baklava, made from layers of filo pastry, honey, and nuts.

Festivals in Greece

As you consider how to travel to Greece, keep in mind the country’s vibrant festival scene. Greece hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, most of which are rooted in its religious traditions. Easter is the most significant holiday, celebrated with elaborate processions, feasts, and fireworks. If you travel during Easter, you’ll witness local customs and celebrations that are deeply moving.

Summer brings the Athens and Epidaurus Festival, a highlight for art lovers. This festival showcases performances of ancient Greek drama in the historical theaters of Athens and Epidaurus. Carnival, or Apokries, is another lively event held in the lead-up to Lent, marked by street parades, costumes, and music in cities like Patras and Rethymno.

Whether you plan your visit around one of these events or simply stumble upon a local celebration, experiencing a Greek festival is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the country’s culture.