Traveling to Greece with EF Ultimate Break
Greece is ancient, but it never gets old
Never-ending popularity: Greece consistently ranks among the top destinations for young travelers, thanks to its iconic islands, vibrant nightlife, and scroll-stopping views.
Bucket-list status: Santorini sunsets, Mykonos beaches, and Athens’ ancient ruins are dominating social media feeds, making Greece a must-visit for first-time Europe travelers.
Affordable luxury: Compared to other European hotspots, Greece offers incredible value—boutique stays, fresh Mediterranean cuisine, and unforgettable experiences without breaking the bank.
Adventure meets culture: Travelers want more than just beaches. Hiking to ancient monasteries, sailing the Aegean, and exploring archaeological sites are trending big.
Year-round appeal: While summer is peak season, spring and fall are gaining traction for perfect weather and fewer crowds.
Solo travel heaven: Greece is ideal for traveling solo—think island hopping with new friends, meeting friendly locals, vibrant nightlife, and planned activities.
Language
Greek is one of the world’s oldest languages, with roots stretching back thousands of years. Today, modern Greek is spoken by over 10 million people and is the official language of Greece. While many Greeks speak English—especially in tourist areas—learning a few basic phrases will make your trip smoother and show respect for the local culture.
Currency & tipping culture
Money in Greece is pretty simple to navigate, but knowing some basics will help you avoid surprises and show good etiquette. Greece uses the Euro (€), and while credit cards are widely accepted, cash is still preferred for small purchases and in rural areas. Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated as a gesture of good service.
Greece uses the Euro (€).
Banknotes: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, €500. Coins: €0.01 to €2.
Credit cards are widely accepted but always carry cash for small purchases or more rural areas.
ATMs are common—watch for those withdrawal fees!
Tipping tips:
Restaurants & cafes: Round up or leave 5–10%.
Bars: Small change or rounding up is fine.
Taxis: Not required; rounding up to the nearest euro is polite.
Hotels: €1–2 per bag for porters; €2–5 per day for housekeeping.
Tour guides: Around €5–10 per person for a day tour.
Transportation
Getting around Greece is generally easy, with a mix of public transport, taxis, and ferries connecting the mainland and islands. While major cities like Athens have reliable metro and bus systems, rural areas and islands often require taxis or rental cars. Ferries are the main way to travel between islands, and domestic flights are available for longer distances.
Athens has an efficient metro, buses, and trams. Tickets are inexpensive and can be purchased at stations or kiosks.
Widely available in cities. Fares are metered, but confirm before starting the ride. Apps like Beat are popular.
Great for exploring islands or rural areas, but you might need an international driving permit.
The primary way to travel between islands. Book in advance during summer for the best availability.
Useful for long distances, like Athens to Crete or Santorini.
Greece’s iconic destinations
Ancient ruins, beaches, cliffside vineyards—Greece always know how to steal the show.
Can’t-miss Greek experiences
Explore the Acropolis in Athens
Step back in time at the Acropolis, or the “high city,” home to the iconic Parthenon. Wander through ancient ruins that tell the story of Western civilization, from the Propylaea to the Theatre of Dionysus and take in incredible panoramic views of Athens.
Watch the sunset in Oia
As the sun dips below the Aegean Sea, the whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches glow in golden hues—a world-famous sunset that’ll have you clapping with the crowd. Yes, people actually clap for the sunset here.
Party in paradise in Mykonos
By day, Paradise Beach is exactly what it says—paradise. By night, the sand becomes your dance floor, and the entire beach erupts into a high-energy party that goes ’til dawn. It’s the perfect blend of sun-soaked relaxation and world-famous nightlife.
Island hop through the Cyclades
Hop between islands like Mykonos, Paros, Ios, and Santorini for a mix of beaches, nightlife, and authentic Greek charm. Each island offers its own vibe—from cosmopolitan glamour to laid-back beach paradise to late-night dance sessions.
Sip wine cliffside in Santorini
Channel your inner wine connoisseur during a tasting at a cliffside winery in Santorini. Sample local wines while taking in jaw-dropping views of the caldera and volcanic landscape. The combination of volcanic soil and Aegean breezes creates wines you won’t find anywhere else.
Speedboat and snorkel in Ios
Jump aboard a speedboat and explore the crystal-clear waters around Ios. Snorkel through shipwrecks, discover hidden coves, and dive into the turquoise Aegean Sea. It’s adventure and relaxation rolled into one unforgettable experience.
Take a Greek cooking class
Learn the secrets of Greek cuisine from local chefs in an authentic cooking class. Master dishes like moussaka, tzatziki, and fresh Mediterranean flavors, then sit down to enjoy the fruits of your labor with new friends and plenty of ouzo.
What’s the weather like in Greece?
June–August
This is Greece at its hottest, with temperatures ranging from 77–95 °F. The islands are sun-drenched and perfect for beach days but be prepared for intense midday heat—especially in Athens, where the city can feel like an oven. The Aegean Sea is at its warmest and calmest, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and water sports. Expect long, sunny days with minimal rain, but also the biggest crowds and highest prices.
April–June & September–October
Not too hot, not too cold—just right. Spring and early fall have mild, comfortable temps (59–81 °F) that are ideal for exploring ancient ruins or hiking through gorges without melting. The sea is warm enough for swimming by late May and stays pleasant through October. You’ll get plenty of sunshine with the occasional spring shower or autumn breeze. This is when Greece feels most balanced—warm enough for the beach, cool enough for sightseeing.
November–March
Winter in Greece is mild compared to most of Europe, with temperatures ranging from 45–59 °F) Athens and the mainland are rainy but manageable, while the islands can feel windswept and dramatic. The sea is too cold for most swimmers, and many island services shut down for the season. But if you’re visiting Athens or the mainland, you’ll experience crisp, clear days perfect for exploring museums, archaeological sites, and cozy tavernas without the sweat.
When is the cheapest time to visit Greece?
Greeces tourism industry is super seasonal. Fewer tourists also means less competition for flights, accommodations, and experiences—so you’re not just saving money, you’re also getting better availability and more personalized service.
What to eat in Greece?
More than just feta cheese, baklava, gyros, and olives—satisfy your Olympus-sized appetite with these other Greek staples.
Safety in Greece
Greece is widely considered one of the safest travel destinations in Europe, attracting millions of visitors each year who explore its islands, historic sites, and cities with confidence. Violent crime is rare, and tourist areas are well-patrolled and welcoming. Like any popular destination, petty theft can occur in crowded spots—especially around major attractions, ferries, and metro stations—but staying aware of your surroundings usually keeps you in the clear.
Your safety is our top priority
Traveling with EF Ultimate Break means you’re not exploring Greece alone—you’ve got a full support system making sure you feel comfortable, informed, and protected every step of the way.
Traveler photos from Greece
Greece travel reviews
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