Greece is more than whitewashed houses and sunsets in Santorini. It’s where history lives on in every ruin, where food is deeply tied to family and where even the smallest villages have stories to tell. If you are planning a trip to the Schengen region, Greece is a wonderful place to begin or end your journey. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you make the most of your visit.
Reasons to visit Greece
Here’s why Greece continues to be a favourite for millions around the world:
1. Stunning beaches
With over 13,000 km of coastline, Greece is a paradise for beach lovers. The pink sands of Elafonissi in Crete and the turquoise waters of Navagio Beach in Zakynthos are just two examples of the country’s stunning variety. You can swim, sunbathe, enjoy water sports or simply unwind with a book by the sea – there’s something for every kind of beachgoer.
2. Unforgettable sunsets
Santorini’s sunsets are world-famous, especially in Oia, where people gather hours in advance for a good spot. However, magical sunsets aren’t limited to Santorini. Islands like Naxos, Milos and even Athens' coastal spots like Cape Sounion offer their own golden views, often without the crowds.
3. Mouth-watering food
Greek food is fresh, local and full of flavour. Think slow-cooked moussaka, grilled souvlaki and flaky spanakopita. Vegetarians can enjoy fava, dolmades, and fresh salads with local olive oil and feta. Many meals end with a little something sweet or a shot of ouzo – often on the house.
4. Rich culture and ancient history
You will find archaeological sites around almost every corner. The Palace of Knossos in Crete, the Acropolis in Athens, and the ruins of Delphi are just a few examples. But it’s not just about the past. Greek culture is very much alive in music, dance, traditions and warm local hospitality.
5. Slow living and local life
Time moves slower in Greece. People take long coffee breaks, meals stretch over hours and strangers often become friends. Whether you are watching fishermen mend nets in a harbour or sipping Greek coffee in a quiet village square, it’s easy to feel present and at peace here.
Best time to visit Greece
The summer months of June to August are the most popular time to travel to Greece. The days are warm, with temperatures ranging from 25 to 35°C – ideal for beach outings, island hopping and enjoying the sea. Places like Santorini, Mykonos and Crete are full of life during these months, with lots to see and do. It’s also the season for big festivals like the Athens and Epidaurus Festival, where you can watch theatre and music performances under the stars. Things can get busy, but the lively atmosphere makes it a fun time to visit, especially if it’s your first trip to Greece.
List of places to visit & things to do in Greece
Here is a list of places to visit when in Greece:
- Athens: Let Athens's magnanimous stature enchant you. Greece's largest city and capital, Athens, is steeped in rich archaeological and cultural history. It features the enigmatic Parthenon, a former temple of the Goddess Athena. Situated at the Acropolis (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Parthenon is a must-visit place for history buffs as well as general tourists. The Acropolis comprises the Beule Gate, the Monument of Agrippa, the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Statue of Athena Promachos and the Erechtheion. Modern museums at the Acropolis are engaging and informative, and should definitely not be missed.
- Meteora: Visit Meteora to etch a picture of tranquillity in your mind. Located far away from the cacophony of the modern world, ‘Meteora’ means ‘middle of the sky' and refers to a group of monasteries. These secluded monasteries have been built on mountain peaks and are accessible through steps cut into the mountain rock.
- Santorini and Mykonos: Watch the mild sun illuminate artistic buildings adorned with myriad hues at Santorini. A visual delight, Santorini is the southernmost island (formed on a volcanic caldera) of an archipelago named the Cyclades. Officially known as Thira (also Fira), this beautiful place welcomes one and all with its serene waves, unending azure skylines and timeless villages. Mykonos, on the other hand, also a part of the Cyclades group, sets the stage for lively parties. This windy island shows off a picturesque image with numerous windmills.
- Delphi: Another of Greece's ancient archaeological sites, Delphi is of utmost importance. Once considered to be the centre of our planet, this site is located along the slopes of Mount Parnassus.
- Others: Other popular sites include Cape Sounion, National Parks at Zagori, Halkidiki Peninsula, Rhodes Town, Crete Island and Ancient Olympia.
Entry requirements for Greece
Greece is part of the Schengen Area, which means travellers from many countries, including India, need a Schengen visa to visit. The standard Schengen Visa, also called a short-stay visa, lets you stay in Greece or any other Schengen country for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This is the visa most people need when travelling for tourism, business or visiting family and friends.
The type of visa you apply for depends on the purpose and duration of your visit. For longer stays, you will require a work or study visa that matches your specific reason for travelling. If you plan to visit Greece or other Schengen countries more than once in a short time, you can apply for a multiple-entry visa.
You can apply for your visa as early as six months before your trip. However, make sure you apply at least 15 days before your planned travel date, as applications need time to process. The visa fee is €80 for adults and €40 for children aged six to 12 years old. Children under six don’t need to pay the fee. Some travellers, like students, researchers or people attending cultural or sports events, may also be exempt from paying the fee.
How to apply for a Schengen visa
Here is a step-by-step process to apply for a Schengen visa:
- First, choose the type of visa you need, depending on why you are travelling to Greece.
- Fill out the Schengen visa application form with correct and complete details.
- Gather all the required documents, such as your passport, passport-sized photos, travel plans, hotel bookings and bank statements.
- Schedule an appointment at the Greek embassy, consulate or a visa application centre near you.
- Go to your appointment, submit your documents and pay the visa fee.
- Once done, you can track your visa status online using the reference number given to you.
Tips for travelling in Greece
Here are some tips to help you while exploring Greece:
- Bring some cash along, especially when visiting smaller towns or islands, as many local shops and tavernas may not accept cards.
- Renting a car is a good idea if you plan to explore rural areas or multiple islands, since public transport can be limited outside major cities.
- Tipping is not mandatory, but it’s appreciated. Leaving a few coins or rounding up the bill in cafés and restaurants is considered polite.
- Learn a few basic Greek phrases, like “kalimera” (good morning) or “efharisto” (thank you). Locals really appreciate the effort.
- Shops may close in the afternoon, especially in smaller towns, for a midday break. Plan your shopping accordingly.
Reasons to get travel insurance for Greece
To get approved for a Schengen visa, travel insurance is a must. Your policy should cover all countries in the Schengen Area, not just the ones you plan to visit, and it needs to be valid for the entire length of your trip. You will also need a minimum coverage of at least €30,000.
But that’s not the only reason to get insured:
- Medical emergencies in Europe can be expensive, especially if hospitalisation or urgent care is involved. Insurance ensures you won’t be caught off guard.
- It protects you against unexpected trip cancellations, delays or missed connections, which are more common than most travellers expect.
- Lost or delayed baggage can disrupt your plans, and insurance helps cover the cost of essentials until your belongings are returned or replaced.
- Some countries may deny entry at the border if you cannot show proof of valid insurance, even if your visa has been approved.
Conclusion
Greece is a place that stays with you through its quiet villages, sun-drenched coastlines and centuries-old ruins. To enjoy it all without any hiccups, it’s a good idea to plan things properly. That includes sorting out your documents in advance, especially travel insurance. These days, it’s super easy to buy travel insurance online, and you will find plenty of flexible options. If it’s just a one-time trip, going for single-trip travel insurance makes the most sense. It covers everything you need for that journey and works well if you don’t travel often.
FAQs
1. How early should I apply for a Greece visa?
You can apply as early as six months before the trip. The latest you are allowed to apply is 15 days before you leave, but it’s better to apply at least three to four weeks in advance.
2. Do people speak English in Greece?
In most tourist areas, yes. Hotel staff, shop owners and restaurant servers usually speak basic English. A few Greek phrases go a long way, though!
3. Is vegetarian food easily available in Greece?
Yes, there are many vegetarian options in Greek cuisine. Dishes like Greek salad, spanakopita (spinach pie), gemista (stuffed vegetables) and fava are all meat-free and widely available.
4. Is public transport reliable in Greece?
In major cities like Athens, public transport (buses, metro, and trams) works well. In smaller towns or on islands, public options are more limited, so renting a car or scooter is a better choice.
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