Greece travel guide

Overview

Greece splits naturally into two kinds of trip: Athens and the mainland's ancient sites, or the islands. Santorini and Mykonos get the most attention for their whitewashed architecture and nightlife, but islands like Naxos, Paros, and Crete offer a quieter, less crowded version of the same appeal. Ferries connect the islands, and schedules become more frequent — and more essential to plan around — in peak season.

July and August are the hottest, busiest, and most expensive months, especially on the popular islands. Late May, June, and September offer warm weather, thinner crowds, and noticeably better prices on accommodation and ferries.

Getting around

• Athens International Airport is the main gateway; many islands also have their own airports for direct flights in peak season
• Ferries are the standard way to island-hop — book popular routes in advance during July and August
• Athens has a metro system that reaches the airport, the port of Piraeus, and most major sites
• Rental scooters and cars are common on the islands, where public transport is limited

Mobile data and connectivity

Compare live BrisqNet eSIM plans for Greece before you travel — useful for checking ferry schedules, translating menus, and navigating unfamiliar island roads. Install before you fly so it's ready the moment you land.

• Coverage is strong in Athens and on the more developed islands; smaller and more remote islands can have patchier signal
• Ferry journeys often pass through areas with weak or no signal — download maps and tickets offline in advance where possible
• If your trip continues to other parts of Europe, compare a regional plan against a Greece-only plan

Practical tips

• The currency is the euro; cards are widely accepted, but small tavernas and island shops often prefer cash
• Sun exposure is intense in summer — plan around the hottest hours of the day, especially on islands
• Book popular ferry routes ahead of time in July and August, as sailings can sell out
• A relaxed sense of timing is normal — service and schedules can run later than a strict itinerary expects

FAQs