Greece is one of the top destinations for tourists in the world. Greece is the place where one of the most advanced ancient civilizations and home for spectacular mythology that still influence the world’s culture. Greece offers spectacular historical heritage, warm Mediterranean climate, and blue Mediterranean Sea. In this how to visit Greece page, you can learn some basic information about visiting Greece.
Greece’ national currency is the Euro, along with other European Union nations. You need to have some cash at hand for tipping, shopping, and eating at smaller shops and cafes. Do not bring more money than you need for several days. Although Greece is generally a safe place for tourists, there are some thieves and pickpockets, especially in crowded area. Major international credit cards are accepted in hotels, stores, and restaurants.
Greece national language is Greek, with English as the most widely spoken second language. Learning some words in Greek, such as "thank you" (ef-khah-rees-toh) or "please" ( pah-rah-kah-loh), will make you more warmly accepted.
Expect to take many photographs in Greece. However, there are some restrictions for photography, most of all concerning the military and strategic locations. Some museums might also put some restrictions in photographing their collections. Do respect the regulations to avoid getting into trouble.http://wikitravel.org/en/Greece
Step 1: Transportation
You can travel to Greece by land, sea, or air. Greece has extensive and comprehensive public transportation that reaches almost all villages and islands, including the most remote ones and most tourist destinations.
You can travel around Greece by domestic flights. There are 44 airports scattered around the country that fall into three categories: the State International Airports, State Domestic Airports, and Municipal Airports. Other good option is using Greece’s intercity buses (KTEL) or train networks (OSE) which are comfortable and modern. http://www.gnto.gr/portal/site/eot/menuitem.7f0d4e449429307c12596610451000a0/?vgnextoid=e1cd570850527210VgnVCM100000460014acRCRD&lang_choosen=en
If you want to explore Greece thoroughly, you do a lot of island hopping. Greek has comprehensive ferry networks connecting islands in Greece. Other options for sea traveling is with catamarans, hydrofoils, high speed ferry, and water taxi. The only problem for traveling around the islands is that sometimes the ferry only comes a few times a day, so you should check their schedule carefully to avoid being stranded in the islands. Still, schedules may change if there is a bad weather in the area.
Within the city or a town, the best way to get around is by foot. You will have the chance to enjoy the atmosphere and architecture while saving some money. For longer distance, you can travel by bus, trams, or metro, if available. Taxis in Greece are not the best method of transportation, however, they can refuse passengers and often scarce during certain times, especially at night.
Step 2: Accomodation and Dining
There are several types of accommodation available in Greece, depending on your budget. You can stay at hotels and resorts with wide ranges of prices and facilities from one star to five stars hotels and resorts. You can also rent a villa, an apartment, or a room if you prefer to self-cater. For budget travelers, you can stay at a youth hostel or camping at the organized camping sites, which have a GNTO seal. In these camping sites, there are caravans and tents available for rent. Camping outside of these areas are prohibited.http://www.gnto.gr/portal/site/eot/menuitem.7f0d4e449429307c12596610451000a0/?vgnextoid=be0f570850527210VgnVCM100000460014acRCRD&lang_choosen=en
Greek cuisine is renowned throughout the world. However, Greek cuisine might be a little different than you have encountered outside of Greece. Greek cuisine uses a lot of fresh ingredients, fresh herbs, meat, seafood, vegetables, and fruits. Some famous Greek’s dishes are gyros, tzatziki sauce, grilled octopus, Greek salad, and baklava. Restaurants that are frequented by locals usually offer better dining experience that the restaurants that cater to tourists. You might be charged for small amount of fees for cover fee in restaurants and cafes. However, this fee does not reach 2 Euros per person. For people who like alcoholic drinks, sample some ouzo, a kind of Greek’s liquor or local wines. Other Greek’s drinks is raki or tsikoudia.http://wikitravel.org/en/Greece
Step 3: Places to Visit in Greece
There are a lot of places to see and visit in Greece. If you do not have much time for your visit, it is recommended to use a tour service or at least plan your itinerary before you come to Greece.
In the mainland, Greece has several areas: Halkidiki, Macedonia, Central Greece, Peloponnese, and Thessalia. Some of the places in the mainland Greece are popular destinations for winter vacations. Athens is the capital of Greece and one of the oldest cities in the world. The Acropolis or the ruins of ancient Athen is a not a sight to be missed. Other historical sites are Ancient Agora, Kerameikos, Hadrian Arch, and Zeus’ Temple which is located nearby. Visit the museums for relics and antiquities during several eras in Greece. Also visit Fokida where you can find the ancient Delphi and seaside resorts.
Islands are clustered into several territories: Crete, Cyclades Islands, Dodecanese Islands, Ionian Islands, NE Aegean Islands, Saronic Islands, and Sporades Islands.http://www.united-hellas.com/tourism/ You can find beautiful beaches on almost all of the islands. The best beach vacations or water sports area are in Crete, Lipsi, Kefallonio, and Mykonoshttp://www.lonelyplanet.com/greece/travel-tips-and-articles/42/1010
For historical heritage and ancient ruins, visit Rhodes, Delos, Corfu, and Patmos Corfu island is also well known for its local cuisine.
