Greece Travel Guide

Last Updated on 26 January 2026 by Johan

Greece lies in southern Europe. It borders Albania, North Macedonia, and Bulgaria to the north, and Turkey to the east. The Ionian Sea lies to the west, while the Aegean Sea and the Mediterranean Sea surround the country to the east and south. Its capital Athens is located in the Attica region and is a centre of history, culture, and politics.

Explanation of the name: Greece

The name Greece comes from the Latin Graecia, used by the Romans to describe the people of the region. In Greek the country is called Hellas or Ellada, derived from the ancient Hellenes who lived in the area. Over time the name Greece became common in international use, while Hellas remains the national designation. Both names reflect the country’s identity as the cradle of Western civilisation.

History: Greece

Greece has been inhabited for thousands of years. The Minoan and Mycenaean civilisations flourished in the Bronze Age. In the classical period Athens and Sparta became powerful city‑states. Democracy was born in Athens, and Greek philosophy, art, and science shaped the ancient world.

In 146 BC Greece became part of the Roman Empire. Later it was absorbed into the Byzantine Empire, which preserved Greek culture and Orthodox Christianity. In the 15th century the Ottoman Empire conquered Greece. After centuries of foreign rule, Greece achieved independence in 1829.

During the 19th and 20th centuries Greece expanded its territory to include islands and regions with Greek‑speaking populations. In World War II Greece was invaded by Italy and occupied by Germany. After liberation, the country endured a civil war until 1949. In 1952 Greece joined NATO. A military dictatorship ruled from 1967 to 1974, but democracy was restored and the monarchy abolished. Greece joined the European Union in 1981 and adopted the euro in 2001.

Today Greece is a parliamentary republic divided into 13 regions and 332 municipalities. Each region has its own council and responsibilities for local development. The 13 administrative regions of Greece are: Attica, Central Greece, Central Macedonia, Crete, Eastern Macedonia and Thrace, Epirus, Ionian Islands, North Aegean, Peloponnese, South Aegean, Thessaly, Western Greece, Western Macedonia.

Tourist information: Greece

Greece is famous for its islands, beaches, and ancient monuments. Athens is home to the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and neoclassical mansions. Thessaloniki offers Byzantine churches and lively markets. Crete combines beaches with Minoan palaces. Rhodes has Crusader castles. Santorini is known for volcanic landscapes and whitewashed houses. Mykonos is a luxury destination, while Paros and Naxos are quieter.

The Greek islands are grouped into seven clusters, each with its own character. The Cyclades are known for white houses and blue domes. The Ionian Islands show Venetian influence. The Dodecanese feature medieval castles. The Sporades are green and peaceful. The Saronic Islands are close to Athens. The North Aegean Islands include Lesbos and Chios. Crete is the largest island with its own traditions.

Tourism provides about 15% of Greece’s GDP. Visitors enjoy beaches, archaeological sites, and traditional villages. Ferries and flights connect the islands, making travel easy.

Attractions

  • Acropolis, Athens, Attica. The ancient citadel with the Parthenon is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors explore temples and enjoy views over Athens.
  • Delphi, Phocis, Central Greece. Once considered the centre of the world, it was home to the Oracle of Apollo. The ruins include temples, a theatre, and a stadium.
  • Meteora, Thessaly. Monasteries built on towering rocks are a UNESCO site. Visitors admire the dramatic landscape and Byzantine frescoes.
  • Palace of Knossos, Heraklion, Crete. The largest Minoan palace, associated with the legend of the Minotaur. Visitors see restored frescoes and labyrinthine halls.
  • Santorini Caldera, Cyclades. A volcanic landscape with cliffs and villages. Visitors enjoy sunsets, wine, and archaeological sites such as Akrotiri.
  • Elafonissi Beach, Crete. Known for pink sand and shallow waters. It is a family‑friendly destination with clear seas.
  • Vikos Gorge, Epirus. One of the deepest gorges in the world. Visitors hike trails and enjoy views of the Pindus Mountains.

Museums

  • National Archaeological Museum, Patission Street, Athens. Displays treasures from ancient Greece including sculptures, pottery, and gold. It is the largest archaeological museum in the country.
  • Acropolis Museum, Dionysiou Areopagitou Street, Athens. Exhibits artefacts from the Acropolis. Visitors see statues, friezes, and reconstructions.
  • Byzantine Museum, Vassilissis Sofias Avenue, Athens. Focuses on Byzantine art and icons. It preserves mosaics, manuscripts, and religious objects.
  • Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki, Manoli Andronikou Street, Thessaloniki. Presents artefacts from Macedonia including tombs and jewellery.
  • Heraklion Archaeological Museum, Xanthoudidou Street, Crete. Houses Minoan artefacts from Knossos and other sites. Visitors see frescoes, pottery, and figurines.
  • Museum of Cycladic Art, Neofitou Douka Street, Athens. Dedicated to Cycladic civilisation with marble figurines and artefacts. It highlights the art of the Aegean islands.

Fun things for children

Families can enjoy Allou! Fun Park in Athens with rides and games. The Attica Zoological Park near Athens has animals from around the world. Cretaquarium in Crete introduces marine life. Water parks in Rhodes and Kos offer slides and pools. Children also enjoy exploring castles and beaches.

Local events in 2026

  • Athens Epidaurus Festival, Athens and Epidaurus. Running from June to August 2026, it presents theatre, music, and dance.
  • Thessaloniki International Film Festival, Thessaloniki. Scheduled for November 2026, it showcases Greek and international cinema.
  • Patras Carnival, Patras. Held in February 2026, it is the largest carnival in Greece with parades and costumes.
  • Release Athens Festival, Athens. Planned for June 2026, featuring international artists and Greek performers.
  • Santorini Jazz Festival, Santorini. Taking place in July 2026, it offers concerts in a unique island setting.

Culinary destinations

Greek cuisine is based on olive oil, vegetables, and fresh produce. Dishes include moussaka, souvlaki, and dolmades. Feta cheese is a staple. Seafood is common on the islands. Desserts include baklava and loukoumades. Drinks include ouzo, tsipouro, and local wines. Each region has its own specialities, such as Cretan olive oil and Santorini wine.

Cycling and walking routes

Greece offers many trails. The Menalon Trail in Arcadia is a certified hiking route. Mount Olympus attracts climbers. The Vikos Gorge in Epirus is one of the deepest in the world. The islands provide coastal walks and cycling paths. Popular cycling routes include Kos Harbour to Marmari and Nafplio to Aggelokastro.

Seasonal activities

Winter brings skiing in Parnassos and Pelion. Spring is ideal for hiking and cycling. Summer offers swimming, sailing, and island festivals. Autumn is harvest season with wine festivals and olive picking. Each season provides unique experiences across the country.

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