A Comprehensive Guide to a First-Time Visit to Greece

Language

Greek is the official language of Greece. However, most people in Athens and those that interface with guests at resorts and restaurants speak fluent English.

Tipping

Tipping in Greece is not as customary as it is in the United States, but it is appreciated, especially by those working in the tourism industry, which is mainly active for only about half of the year. A good guideline is to tip around 10 percent for tour guides and five to 10 percent at restaurants. For transfer services, a 10 percent tip is suitable, whereas tipping taxi drivers is less common. Notably, when paying taxi fares by card, there is often no option to add a tip.

Transportation

Driving in Greece presents some challenges due to its narrow, one-way streets and the presence of pedestrians walking on the road, particularly outside larger cities like Athens where sidewalks are often absent. Additionally, the roads are bustling with motorcycles that weave around vehicles, adding to the complexity. For families, larger vehicles like vans are necessary to accommodate luggage but can make maneuvering even more difficult. Most town centers, with their narrow streets, often restrict automobile access, necessitating parking outside the center and walking in. While renting a car — or motorcycle or ATV, especially on the islands — is an option, be prepared for a demanding driving experience if you choose to do so. Transfers, ride shares and taxis are plentiful, even on the islands. Be advised though that toward the height of the season, there will be more visitors on the islands than on-demand rides can accommodate.

Athens: Two nights

While it may be tempting to bypass Athens in favor of the idyllic Cycladic islands, the city offers a remarkable opportunity to immerse yourself in history. Begin by exploring the charming neighborhood of Plaka, which boasts everything from unique souvenirs and boutiques featuring Greek designers and jewelry to a variety of delightful restaurants.

No visit to Athens is complete without a trip to the Acropolis Museum, where you can admire an extensive collection of artifacts and meticulously restored pieces from the Acropolis and the Parthenon. Afterward, make your way up the hill to the Acropolis itself to marvel at the ancient ruins.

Conclude your day with a memorable dinner overlooking the illuminated Acropolis. For an even more magical experience, check the schedule for the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, a historic amphitheater at the base of the Acropolis, to see if you can attend a live performance under the stars.

Next, head to the islands of Greece. You can fly from Athens to the islands but you will need to take the ferry between islands. While the islands have permanent residents, the resorts and most restaurants close from November to April or May. Keep in mind that the sea water is going to feel cool through May, and July and August are the busiest and most crowded months. In September, you will find fewer tourists, while the ocean water will still be warm from summer. When choosing a hotel on the islands, pay close attention to whether it has its own beach, if that’s important to you — otherwise, you will need to pay for chair service at a public beach as well as transportation to and from.

Mykonos: Two nights

Mykonos was once a modest farming and fishing island until Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis visited it on her yacht in the 1960s. Since then, it has gained a reputation for glamour and vibrant nightlife. The island’s only town, Chora, welcomes visitors who are usually dropped off on its outskirts and must stroll in on foot to explore its quaint charm. This area is teeming with an array of boutique shops and diverse restaurants. A visit to Little Venice is essential — this picturesque area boasts charming waterfront buildings. Don't miss the iconic windmills, historically used for grinding barley for bread.

Also, make sure to embark on a rib boat or ferry to the nearby island of Delos, where you can explore stunning ancient ruins dating back to around 700 BC. Should your resort lack its own beach access, Ornos Beach is a popular and accessible option, promising a delightful seaside experience.

Paros: Three nights

Paros offers a distinct charm without the heavy crowds that often accompany its neighboring islands. Begin your adventure in the capital, Parikia, where you can peruse charming shops and dine at delightful restaurants. Don't miss the historical Frankish castle, dating back to 1260 AD, and the awe-inspiring Byzantine Church of Panagia Ekatontapiliani, built by Constantine in 326 AD.

Venture into the island’s heart to discover Lefkes, a picturesque village initially established inland to evade pirate assaults. Here, you can hike along the Byzantine Road, constructed around 1000 AD, by setting off from Lefkes and heading towards the village of Prodromos, which is about two miles.

Make sure to visit Naousa, a captivating seaside village renowned for its exquisite restaurants. From Naousa, we chartered a yacht, sailing past striking rock formations and an enchanting lighthouse, swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea, and exploring nearby Antiparos, making for an unforgettable experience.

Santorini: Three nights

Santorini is renowned for its breathtaking caldera views. The island is also home to the impressive ruins of Akrotiri, an ancient settlement that dates to 1700 BC. Visitors can explore these ruins and then visit the related museum in the town of Fira. This museum offers a comprehensive look at the incredible finds from Akrotiri, including well-preserved wall paintings, pottery and various household items, providing a fascinating glimpse into the island's storied past.

Fira, situated toward the center of the island, is a must-visit for its array of boutique shops and charming restaurants. Along Fira’s seaside, a six-mile scenic paved path offers breathtaking views as it winds through several picturesque villages, culminating at the island’s northern shore in beautiful Oia.

Oia, much like Fira, boasts an array of boutique shops and delightful dining options. Every evening, visitors gather along the western side of Oia to witness the spectacular sunset, a daily tradition that enhances the town's charm. One of the highlights of Oia is the Ammoudi Bay steps (approximately 300 in number), which descend to the sea and provide a picturesque route for those eager to explore the bay area. Visitors walk down the steps to reach the waterfront area, where they can find charming seafood taverns. Alternatively, there are donkeys or mules available for those who prefer not to walk. You can also take a taxi to/from Ammoudi Bay.

Other popular activities in Santorini include cooking, wine-tasting classes and yacht cruises, which offer beautiful coastline views, as well as several opportunities to swim in the sea.