Greece tours discovery guide

From the snow-capped mountains of the north to the sandy beaches of the south, Greece has something to offer everyone. Ancient cities, picturesque islands, and a stunning coastline along the Aegean Sea await. Whether you’re looking for a place to explore history, dive into local culture, or relax on the shore, Greece offers tempting options for travelers. On our guided tours of Greece, you’ll find itineraries for travelers of all types, making it easy to find the one that fits your interests.

• Meteora, Athens, or Delphi. Greece is home to some of the most important historical sites in the world, including the Acropolis, Parthenon, and Temple of Zeus. These sites offer a glimpse into the ancient world and its rich culture. If you’re a history buff, our Week in Ancient Greece: Athens, Delphi & Olympia tour is right up your alley.
• The Greek Islands or Pelion. If sunshine and coastlines are more your style, island-hopping in the Aegean Sea is a good option for you. Take two weeks to explore all they have to offer on our The Greek Islands: Mykonos, Santorini & Crete tour.
• Mykonos and Santorini. For first-time visitors and those who only have a week to get away, our shorter Greece tours are a great way to go. Our A Week in Greece: Athens, Mykonos & Santorini tour introduces you to the highlights of each location—and leaves you with vacation days to spare.

A Greek Islands tour has something for every type of traveler—beach lovers, foodies, hikers, and history buffs. Here are five of the best islands to visit in Greece (you can learn more about them in our guide to the Greek Islands):

• Mykonos. A favorite of jet setters, Mykonos has all the ingredients for a good time: gorgeous beaches, bohemian-chic restaurants, and lots of options for nightlife and entertainment.
• Santorini. The beaches here are famous not for their golden sand, but for their black-and-red-rock sand. Head to the hilltop town of Oia at sunset for the quintessential Santorini experience.
• Paxos. If you’re a beach lover, Paxos has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The sand is soft and white, and the water is clear, making it perfect for snorkeling or scuba diving.
• Naxos. Looking for stunning beaches, lush vegetation, and traditional villages? Naxos offers it all. The village of Apiranthos is known for its whitewashed houses and cobbled streets.
• Crete. The largest of the Greek Islands, Crete offers beautiful beaches, scenic hikes, and interesting history. It’s also considered the culinary hub of the islands.

There’s no question about it: This country always makes a great getaway. In recent years, especially, it’s become a clear favorite, with Greece travel packages in high demand. Summer is the most popular time for visitors, and the islands tend to become crowded with sun-seeking adventurers then.

If you have the flexibility to travel at other times of the year, the best time to visit Greece is in the off-season. When temperatures are cooler, you’ll be able to immerse yourself in the true essence of the country. Check out one of our Greece guided tours, A Week in Ancient Greece: Athens, Delphi & Olympia, which is specifically designed to make the most of the cooler months.

Certain islands aren’t accessible during the winter, but this time of year is excellent for visiting the mainland. Hop between Mykonos and Santorini in the fall and spring for the ultimate Greek getaway.

In a land of rich history, rugged ruins, and remarkable beauty, the must-see destinations on our trips to Greece focus heavily on ancient attractions. But it’s not all about history. The towns, cities, and islands where you’ll find the top attractions offer exciting venues to explore, both old and new.

• The Acropolis. One of the most important archaeological sites in the world and a masterpiece of classical Greek architecture, the Acropolis is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in Greece, including the Parthenon, Erechtheion, and Temple of Athena Nike. Its museum houses more than 3,000 artifacts, from sculptures to jewelry, and offers stunning views of the Acropolis and the city of Athens.
• Ancient Agora. Originally the center of political, social, and religious life in Athens, this site was home to significant buildings, including temples, stoas, and law courts (the trial of Socrates took place here). Today, it’s a popular tourist destination featuring museums, archaeological sites, shops, and restaurants.
• Temple of Olympian Zeus. One of the largest temples in the ancient world, this colossal temple in Athens is dedicated to Zeus. While only 15 of the original 104 marble columns remain standing, the ruins are among the most impressive in Greece.
• Panathenaic Stadium. The site of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896 and the 2004 Summer Olympics, this ancient stadium in Athens, made entirely of marble, was built in the fourth century B.C. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is also a popular venue for concerts and other events.
• Acropolis of Lindos. Set on a high cliff overlooking the Aegean Sea on the island of Rhodes, the Acropolis of Lindos is a beautiful and well-preserved archaeological site featuring a number of temples and other ruins.
• Palace of Knossos. This ancient palace located on Crete, with its amazing frescoes and artifacts from the Minoan civilization, is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece.
• Samariá Gorge. A national park located on the island of Crete, Samariá Gorge is one of the longest gorges in Europe and a popular destination for hiking and camping.
• Meteora monasteries. This group of monasteries, located in central Greece, is built on top of towering sandstone pillars and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
• Santorini. The island of Santorini is one of the most popular destinations on trips to Greece. It is known for its stunning caldera, whitewashed buildings, and blue-domed churches.

Want to know where to go in Greece? Here are six Greek hotspots that belong on your bucket list.

This is a country that truly has something to offer everyone. On our tours of Greece, you’ll hit the highlights but also have the opportunity to enjoy some under-the-radar experiences—like these five unique places to visit. On or off the beaten path, here are some unique experiences you can have in Greece:

• Travel to remote and charming villages, like Kalambaka in central Greece
• Take a cooking class and learn how to make traditional Greek dishes
• Go on a wine tasting tour of Santorini or another Greek island
• Hike to the top of Mount Olympus, the highest mountain in Greece
• Kick back on one of Greece’s beautiful beaches
• Visit a women’s co-op on Crete to support local women’s employment
• Step inside sky-high monasteries in Meteora
• Visit a family-owned farm on the island of Crete and sample local products
• Swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea

We recommend you spend at least six days in Greece. While our most popular Greece tours run for nine days or more, you can enjoy a shorter trip if you limit your tour to one or two cities or islands.

There are many popular activities to experience on our tours of Greece, considering the country’s rich history and culture. Some of the most popular things to do include:

• Visiting historical sites. Greece is home to countless historical sites, such as Delphi and the ancient Acropolis, as well as Olympia, where the Olympic Games were born.
• Exploring the countryside. Mountain villages, scenic peninsulas, and pine forests make Greece’s beautiful countryside a pleasure to discover.
• Enjoying the food. Greek food is famous for its use of fresh, seasonal ingredients and simple yet flavorful cooking methods. Wine and food tasting excursions on our Greece tours allow you to sample the best of Greek food and wine.
• Visiting museums and galleries. Greece’s museums and galleries are a testament to the country’s rich history and culture. You’ll find artifacts from Greece’s most important archaeological digs in the Acropolis Museum and the National Archaeological Museum.
• Taking a cooking class. Cooking classes are a hands-on way to learn about Greek cuisine and culture, and they’re also a lot of fun. Many of our Greece tour packages offer added excursions where you’ll learn how to make traditional foods and enjoy your creations.
• Tasting wines. Produced in a variety of climates and settings—from the hot, dry climate of the Peloponnese peninsula to the cooler, wetter climate of the northern regions—Greek wines are known for their variety of styles, which include light and refreshing whites and full-bodied reds. On our Food & Wine: A Taste of Greece tour, you can explore the country’s different varietals.
• Relaxing on the islands. There are more than 6,000 Greek islands; the best are home to stunning scenery, delicious food, and beautiful beaches. If you’re planning a trip to this Mediterranean nation, make sure you visit these six islands. (Our Greek Islands tour takes you to three of them!)

Greece has typical Mediterranean weather—usually mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. However, the weather can vary greatly depending on the region and time of year, so checking the forecast before traveling on any of our Greece tour packages is essential.

• Respect for traditions. Greeks are very proud of their culture and history, so it is important to be respectful of their traditions. This includes dressing appropriately for visits to religious sites.
• Greeting people. It is customary to greet people with a handshake and a kiss on the cheek. Of course, you can choose what feels comfortable for you.
• Dining. While in some countries it is considered rude to not finish your meal, in Greece it is considered polite to leave some food on your plate at the end of a meal.
• Tipping. It is customary to tip in Greece, but the amount is up to you. A tip of 10–15% is generally considered acceptable.
• Greek Orthodox Church holidays and festivals. Pay attention to the calendar because many businesses are closed on these days.

Greek food is famous for its use of fresh, seasonal ingredients, its simple yet flavorful cooking methods, and its emphasis on healthy eating. Trips like our Food & Wine: A Taste of Greece tour are guaranteed to be full of meals featuring fresh, delicious fruits and vegetables. Some typical ingredients in Greek cuisine include olive oil and feta cheese, as well as grilled fish and meat. Some of the most popular dishes to try on Greece trips include:

• Souvlaki. A grilled skewer of meat, usually lamb or pork, served with pita bread, tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki.
• Gyros. This is a similar dish to souvlaki, but the meat in gyros is cooked on a vertical rotisserie. You can find this popular street food all over the country.
• Moussaka. A traditional Greek baked dish made with layers of eggplant, ground beef, béchamel sauce, and feta cheese.
• Spanakopita. Served as an appetizer or main course, this savory pie is created with fresh spinach and feta cheese enclosed in crispy phyllo dough. Spanakopita is best enjoyed warm.
• Tzatziki. On a hot day, this refreshing dip made from yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, and herbs hits the spot. Enjoy it served with pita bread, vegetables, or meats.
• Olives. Olives are grown in many parts of Greece, but the Peloponnese region is the largest producer. The dark purple Kalamata olive, famous for its rich flavor, is one of the most well-known varieties of Greek olives.
• Feta cheese. This traditional Greek cheese—salty, tangy, and crumbly—has been produced for centuries. Often used in salads, dips, and sauces, feta makes a delicious snack or appetizer.

Greek is the most widely spoken language in Greece; however, English is widely spoken in popular areas.

The euro. To stock up on local currency, order some euros from your bank before you go, or use your debit card at an ATM once you arrive. For tips on using the euro while on a trip to Greece, check out our blog on currency exchange.

We recommend packing light for your trip to Greece. One suitcase and one carry-on per person is a good guideline to follow; you should feel comfortable managing your baggage at the airport. If you’re visiting the islands, you’ll likely have to bring your bag with you on the ferry, so make sure you’re comfortable carrying it. After you’ve booked one of our Greece tour packages, we’ll give you information about how to prepare for your particular trip and even share a packing list in our mobile app. 

• Sun protection. For all our trips, especially during the summer months in Greece, we recommend bringing sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect your face and the back of your neck from the sun.
• Layers. We recommend packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily layered to accommodate varying temperatures, as well as a light jacket or rainwear.
• Comfortable walking shoes. Since you’ll be exploring new destinations with local guides, a comfortable pair of walking shoes is essential to have with you. Those walking shoes will come in handy while exploring the rugged ruins of Ancient Greece or the volcanic shores of Santorini.
• Dressier attire. If you plan to visit a high-end restaurant or attend a special performance on our trips to Greece, you may want to pack dressier attire.
• Full-coverage layers for religious sites. On our Greece tours, it is preferable not to visit churches, temples, or other religious sites with bare legs or shoulders, and staff at these sites may deny entrance on this basis.
• A small day bag. Many churches and museums will not allow you to bring in large backpacks for security purposes—you’ll need to check them at the door. However, you can wear a small day bag on your front, like a cross-body travel bag or stylish mini backpack.
• An RFID money belt or wallet. Greece’s city streets can get busy, and like in any country with many tourists, you’ll want to be wary of pickpockets. Radio-frequency identification (RFID) can protect your credit card info from electronic theft, and a money belt will conceal your cash without ruining your outfit.

Once you’ve reserved one of our tour packages to Greece, we’ll send you detailed information about what to bring with you. Don’t forget to download the Go Ahead app before you take off, so you’ll have all the info you need about your trip right in your pocket.