Best Time to Visit
Spring (Apr-May)
Perfect weather, fewer crowds, wildflowers bloom. Ideal for hiking and sightseeing.
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Hot and busy, peak tourist season. Best for beaches. Expect longer taxi queues at airport.
Autumn (Sep-Oct)
Still warm, fewer tourists, sea is warmest. Great for exploring and swimming.
Winter (Nov-Mar)
Mild weather, very quiet, many places closed. Budget-friendly but limited services.
Emergency Numbers
112
Emergency Services
Police, Fire, Ambulance
100
Police
Direct Police Line
166
Ambulance
Medical Emergency
199
Fire Brigade
Fire Emergency
171
Tourist Police
Assistance for Tourists
108
Coast Guard
Sea Emergency
Useful Greek Phrases
Basic Greetings
Yia sas (YAH-sahs) - Hello / Goodbye (formal)
Kalimera (kah-lee-MEH-rah) - Good morning
Kalispera (kah-lee-SPEH-rah) - Good evening
Efharisto (ef-hah-ree-STOH) - Thank you
Parakalo (pah-rah-kah-LOH) - Please / You're welcome
For Taxi Rides
Poso kani? (POH-soh KAH-nee) - How much is it?
Sto aerodromio (stoh ah-eh-roh-DROH-mee-oh) - To the airport
Sto xenodohio (stoh kseh-noh-DOH-hee-oh) - To the hotel
Stamata edo (STAH-mah-tah eh-DOH) - Stop here
Apodeixi, parakalo - Receipt, please
Local Customs & Etiquette
Greetings
Greeks are warm and friendly. A handshake is standard. Close friends kiss on both cheeks. Always greet shop owners when entering.
Dining
Dinner is late (after 9 PM). Sharing dishes is common. Service can be relaxed - enjoy the slow pace. Tipping 5-10% is appreciated.
Dress Code
Casual beachwear is fine at beaches. Cover shoulders and knees when visiting churches and monasteries. Smart casual for restaurants.
Siesta Time
Many shops close 2-5 PM for afternoon rest. Plan activities around this. Restaurants and cafes stay open. Noise should be kept down during siesta.
Bargaining
Not common in shops or restaurants. May be acceptable at markets for souvenirs. Taxi fares are metered and non-negotiable.
Politeness
Greeks appreciate politeness. Say "Parakalo" (please) and "Efharisto" (thank you). Respect elders. Don't rush conversations.
Practical Tips
💰 Money
- Currency is Euro (€)
- Credit cards widely accepted
- ATMs available everywhere
- Small shops may prefer cash
- Keep small bills for taxis and tips
📱 Connectivity
- Free WiFi in most hotels and cafes
- EU roaming included for EU visitors
- Local SIM cards available and cheap
- 4G coverage is good in main areas
- Download offline maps before trips
🚗 Getting Around
- Taxis are reliable and affordable
- Public buses connect major towns
- Car rental popular for exploring
- Roads generally in good condition
- Mountain roads can be winding
☀️ Weather & Packing
- Summers are hot (30-40°C)
- Bring sunscreen and hat
- Light, breathable clothing
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Light jacket for evenings