Greek travel guide

With ancient, sun-bleached ruins, picturesque beaches and mouth-watering cuisine, it’s not surprising that Greece has become a popular destination for Australian travellers. Sometimes referred to as the birthplace of Western civilisation, the idyllic vistas of Greece span across thousands of islands, each offering distinct cultural and natural wonders. Whether you decide to cruise the islands, hike along the coast or explore ruins that time left behind, Greece is a spectacular country to discover.

Where to Visit

Mykonos

Often referred to as the party animal of the Cycladic islands, Mykonos is Greece’s answer to Ibiza. If you’re keen to party, head to Paradise or Super Paradise beaches where you’ll find wild clubs and bars. For a more relaxed holiday visit Elia, a popular family beach, or discover the quiet charms of the island’s capital, Hora.

To reach Mykonos, there are regular ferries from Athens’ ports of Rafina and Piraeus as well as neighbouring islands. During the peak tourist season, high-speed catamarans link Mykonos to other Cycladic islands.

Santorini

Santorini’s stunning cliff lodged buildings, dazzling sunsets and volcanic sand beaches attract 2 million tourists annually. Fira, the island’s capital takes in the north villages of Firostefani and Imerovigli with upmarket hotels, restaurants, terraces and countless photo opportunities lying between. Further north sits Oia, filled with whitewashed houses carved into cliff tops that provide perfect sunset viewing locations.

Ferries depart from the Piraeus port (located 20 minutes by train outside Athens) and arrive in Santorini at the Athinios port.

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Rhodes

Rhodes is the largest and historically most important of the Dodecanese islands with beaches, wooded valleys and plenty of ancient historical sites. Visit the old town to walk through a maze of cobbled streets and see the Palace of the Grand Master, one of the few examples of Gothic architecture in Greece.

Kefalonia

Located in the Ionian Sea, Kefalonia offers scenic landscapes and hidden gems to explore. Argostoli, the island’s capital, features monuments left over from the 19th century British Protectorate period, markets and its famous Robola wine. Kefalonia is also home to Mt. Ainos, the highest mountain in the Ionian. For a hidden adventure, visit the underground Lake Melissani and marvel at the radiant turquoise water.

Crete

Crete is the largest of the Greek islands, with beaches in the north and rugged canyons on the southern coast. The island is home to the Palace of Knossos, a monumental symbol of Minoan civilisation. If adrenaline is your thing, Crete also offers bungy jumping, rock climbing and mountaineering in Hania.

Weather

Greece is mostly sunny throughout the year, though the northern part of the country can become very cold during the winter. July and August are the busiest months, but also have the most frequent ferry services between islands.

Health and Safety

Health

Measles is common in Greece so it is important to make sure that your vaccinations are up to date. The West Nile virus (WNV) can also occur so use insect repellent and ensure your accommodation is insect proof. Private hospitals are expensive and if you’re seriously ill or injured on an island, you may be evacuated to Athens. Make sure your travel insurance covers this.

Personal Safety

The Australian government advises travellers to “exercise normal safety precautions” when travelling to Greece. It is important to be aware of petty crime and theft, especially in tourist areas. Drink spiking is also a risk, so don’t accept drinks from strangers or leave drinks unattended. Protests have also taken place in Athens so it is important to avoid affected areas.

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Money

Currency

Greece’s currency is the Euro, with notes available in denominations of €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, and €500, and with coins of value of 1c, 2c, 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, €1 and €2.

Costs

A trip to Greece can be expensive, especially when you factor in an airfare from Australia. But there are plenty of ways to cut costs to make it a more affordable experience. Many locations offer cheaper accommodation in off-peak months, and staying in hostels or short-term holiday rentals can cater to a lower budget. Touring the islands by boat can also be a cost effective way to see as much as possible.