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Thinking about traveling to Greece? Check out our “Green List” of sustainable and eco-friendly travel options to help make your trip planning a little bit easier – and a lot more sustainable!
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Introduction
Greece is a renowned tourist destination for its temperate climate, Mediterranean Sea beaches, and indulgent cuisine. The islands of Mykonos and Santorini are certainly hotspots for travelers, but there are many more unique places to visit in Greece beyond these better-known locales. If you’re looking to get off the beaten path on your next trip, consider adding one of these lesser-known destinations to your itinerary.
-Paxi: A small island located in the Ionian Sea, Paxi is home to secluded beaches, sheltered coves, and clear turquoise waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
-Zakynthos: This island in the Ionian Sea is known for its dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and shipwreck beach—which is accessible only by boat.
-Monemvasia: A fortified town located on an island off the east coast of mainland Greece, Monemvasia is known for its Venetian architecture and medieval Castle.
-Meteora: These monasteries perched atop towering rock formations in central Greece are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most unique places to visit in Europe.
Why Greece?
Greece is a top destination for travelers from around the world. With its stunning coastline, verdant mountains, and ruins that date back thousands of years, it’s no wonder that people are drawn to this Mediterranean country.
But Greece isn’t just a pretty place to visit — it’s also an incredibly friendly and welcoming country. The people of Greece are known for their hospitality, and you’ll find that locals are quick to help you with directions or recommend a good place to eat.
If you’re looking for a relaxed vacation spot where you can soak up the sun and enjoy some truly excellent food, Greece should be at the top of your list.
What to Expect
Greece is a land of great history and culture. Situated in the southern part of Europe, this country has been attracting tourists from all over the world for many years. If you are planning to travel to Greece, there are certain things that you should keep in mind.
The first thing to remember is that Greece is a relatively safe country. However, as with any other destination, it is always advisable to take certain precautions. For instance, you should avoid carrying large amounts of cash with you and leave your valuables in the hotel safe. It is also a good idea to keep a photocopy of your passport and other important documents with you at all times.
When it comes to tipping, Greeks are generally very relaxed about it. In most cases, a tip is not expected but if you feel that the service deserves it, a small gratuity will be appreciated.
Greece has a Mediterranean climate which means that it enjoys sunny weather for most of the year. The temperatures can get quite hot during the summer months so if you are not used to heat, it is advisable to visit during the spring or autumn when things are cooler.
Greek food is very delicious and consists mostly of fresh produce such as vegetables, fruit, seafood and olive oil. Greek salad is a popular dish and can be found on almost every menu. Other favorites include Moussaka (a hearty eggplant casserole), Souvlaki (grilled meats on a skewer) and various types of pasta dishes.
If you are interested in trying some traditional Greek food, there are many excellent restaurants to choose from. However, if you want something more familiar, there are also plenty of international eateries available.
Greek wine is another highlight worth mentioning. The country produces some excellent reds and whites which can be enjoyed with meals or on their own as an aperitif. Ouzo is another popular drink which is made from aniseed and has a very strong flavor. It is usually diluted with water before being served.
Greece is well known for its stunning beaches and crystal clear waters. Whether you want to laze on the sand or try your hand at some water sports, there are plenty of options available to suit your needs. Visitors often head to the islands of Mykonos or Santorini where they can enjoy spectacular views while soaking up the sun
Planning Your Trip
trip to Greece is an opportunity to explore a unique culture while enjoying some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. The Greek islands are a popular destination for travelers, and there are many things to consider when planning your trip. Below is a list of helpful tips to make the most of your time in Greece.
-Start by doing some research on the different regions of Greece. Each has its own unique history and culture, so you’ll want to decide which areas you’d like to explore.
-Make a budget and stick to it. Greece is an expensive country, but there are ways to save money if you plan ahead.
-Book your flights and accommodations as early as possible. This will help you get the best rates and avoid disappointment.
-Pack light and be prepared for warm weather. Greek summers can be very hot, so make sure to pack sunscreen and comfortable clothing.
-Be respectful of local customs and traditions. Greeks are very proud of their culture and history, so it’s important to show respect when traveling through the country.
-Have a great trip! Greece is an amazing place with something for everyone. By following these tips, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.
When to Go
The best time to visit Greece is spring (late April to early June) and fall (September to early November). These months offer the most comfortable weather conditions and the least amount of tourism. Temperatures in the spring and fall range from 61°F–80°F, with occasional showers.
Getting Around
To get from island to island, you’ll need to take a ferry. The Greek islands are well-connected by ferry, with multiple companies and routes operating between the major islands. There are also numerous smaller islands that can only be accessed by ferry.
Ferry options include large car ferries that can take several hours to cross, as well as high-speed catamarans that make the journey in a fraction of the time. If you’re planning on island hopping, be sure to research the different ferry options to see which one best suits your needs.
When getting around within an island, you have a few different options. The most popular way to get around is by renting a car or motorbike. This gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace and make stops along the way. Keep in mind that some of the smaller islands may not have roads, so you may need to rely on other methods of transportation.
Another option for getting around is by taking public transportation. This is usually more affordable than renting a car but may not be as convenient, especially if you’re exploring more rural areas. In some cases, there may not be any public transportation available, so you’ll need to rely on other methods such as taxis or hiking.
Where to Stay
If you’re looking for a place to stay in Greece that is eco-friendly and sustainable, look no further than the list below. These hotels have all been deemed “green” by various travel organizations and websites.
-The Greek island of Ikaria has a number of eco-friendly hotels, including the Ikos Ariadne, the Ikaria Resort Hotel, and the Agapi Beach Ikaria.
-Other hotels in Greece that have been deemed eco-friendly include the Nafplia Palace Hotel & Villas in Nafplio, the Xenia Palace Resort & Spa in Rhodes, and the Elia Ermou Athens Hotel.
What to Eat and Drink
Greece is well-known for its tasty food and unique drinks. Greek dishes are healthy and flavorful, made with fresh ingredients like olive oil, tomatoes, garlic, oregano, and feta cheese. Popular Greek foods include dolma (stuffed vine leaves), Souvlaki (kebabs), Gyros (meat sandwiches), Saganaki (fried cheese), Moussaka (eggplant casserole), Spanakopita (spinach pie), Baklava (filo pastry dessert), and various fruit wines.
When it comes to drinks, Greece is perhaps most famous for Ouzo, a strong anise-flavored liqueur. Other popular Greek drinks include Tsipouro, which is similar to Ouzo but not as sweet; Retsina, a resin-flavored wine; Mastika, a mastiha-flavored liqueur; and Kitron, a lemon-flavored liqueur. Greece is also home to some excellent red and white wines, as well as beer.
What to See and Do
Greece is a country with a rich history and culture that is visible in its art, architecture, and customs. The Green List will give you some ideas of what to see and do while you are visiting Greece.
-The Parthenon: The Parthenon is a temple that was built in honor of the goddess Athena. It is one of the most iconic buildings in Greece and is a must-see for anyone visiting Athens.
-The Acropolis: The Acropolis is a large hill in Athens that has many ancient ruins on it, including the Parthenon. It is a great place to get a view of the city and to learn about the history of Greece.
-The Temple of Apollo: The Temple of Apollo is one of the most well-preserved ancient ruins in Greece. It is located on the island of Delos and is definitely worth a visit.
-The Island of Crete: Crete is the largest island in Greece and is full of interesting sites to see, such as the Palace of Knossos, which was the home of the legendary Minotaur.
-Meteora: Meteora is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that consists of monasteries built on top of rock pillars. It is an amazing place to visit and learn about the history of Christianity in Greece.
Tips for Traveling to Greece
If you’re planning a trip to Greece, there are a few things you should know before you go. From the best time to travel to what to pack, here are our top tips for traveling to Greece.
When to go:
The best time to visit Greece is from April to May or from September to October. These shoulder months offer moderate temperatures and smaller crowds than the peak summer months. If you’re looking for a bargain, winter can be a great time to find deals on accommodation and flights.
How to get around:
The most convenient way to get around Greece is by car. Renting a car is affordable and gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. If you’re planning on island hopping, take note that ferries can be expensive and sometimes prone to cancellations. Another option is using Greece’s excellent bus system, which connects most major cities and towns.
What to pack:
Be sure to pack comfortable shoes for all the walking you’ll be doing! Greece is filled with beautiful ancient ruins, so it’s worth bringing along a good camera too. And don’t forget the basics like sunscreen, sunglasses and insect repellent – the Mediterranean sun can be brutal, and mosquitoes are common in certain areas.
