Ancient Olympia

Entry requirements depend on your passport. Check your specific requirements on the Greece page at Yoogo.

Greece uses the euro (EUR). ATMs are widely available, and cards are accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, and tourist-facing shops. Cash is still useful at smaller tavernas, local markets, and on the islands.

Greece is generally safe for tourists. Targeted crime against visitors is not widespread, though you should take usual precautions in crowded areas. Road travel carries higher accident rates than the EU average, so drive carefully. The extremist Golden Dawn party was declared a criminal organisation in 2020.

The KTEL bus network is reliable and covers most of the mainland. Ferries are essential for island travel, radiating from the port of Piraeus; always have a backup plan as weather can cause delays. Taxis are available in cities, with fixed fares from Athens Airport (around €38 during the day). Car hire is an option, though be prepared for manual transmissions and narrow roads.

May to June and September to October offer the most pleasant weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities while avoiding the peak-season crowds. July and August are the busiest months, with high temperatures and prices. Winter (November to February) is quiet and cheaper, though beach conditions are poor.

Greek is the official language. English is the most widely studied and understood foreign language, followed by French, Italian, and German. Road signs include Latin-script transliterations. Learning a few basic Greek phrases will be warmly received.

No specific vaccinations are required for standard travel to Greece. EU citizens should carry their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for access to state healthcare. It is sensible to ensure routine vaccinations are up to date before travel.

Tipping is not obligatory in Greece but is appreciated for good service. Rounding up the bill at a restaurant or leaving a small amount for your server is common practice. For taxis, rounding up to the nearest euro is the norm.

Mobile coverage is good in cities and on major islands. Free Wi-Fi is common in hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas. EU travellers can use their home data allowances without roaming charges. Visitors from outside the EU may want to purchase a local SIM for data and calls.

Greek Orthodox traditions are central to local life; dress modestly and behave respectfully when visiting churches and monasteries. Attempting a few words of Greek is always appreciated. Avoid raising sensitive national or political topics. On narrow island streets, give way courteously to other drivers.