About the Destination:
Greece is at its best during the summertime when the sun shines brighter than ever and the sandy beaches can be thoroughly enjoyed as a refreshing solution to the intense summer heat. The Greek landscape is conspicuous not only for its rugged beauty but also for its complexity and variety. Three elements dominate the sea, the mountains, and the lowland & It has more than 2,000 islands, of which about 170 are inhabited. Known for its vast history and culture, and blessed with incredible beauty, beaches, and picturesque neighborhoods. Bathed in the dazzling Aegean light, these islands of the Cyclades provide a perfect place for a holiday. So, combine cosmopolitan Mykonos with relaxed Paros and complete the journey with majestic Santorini with awe-inspiring sunsets.
Quick Destination Info:
Inclusions for Charming Greece:
How to Reach:
Athens has its own airport, so the most popular way to reach the city is by flight. There are a host of airline options available from India, albeit with a stop along the way. Athens International Airport is located in the suburb of Spáta, about 27 km away from the city center.
Time is somewhat relative in Greece, particularly when it comes to departure times for transportation. Trains, boats, buses, and ferries may have a printed schedule but can leave sporadically—and this often means an early or delayed departure. Plan on arriving at your port or station early (but not too early!) and maintain a sense of laid-back flexibility in the event your trip is pushed back by an hour or more.
The exception to this rule is in planning air-travel within Greece, particularly during the busy summer season. Give yourself a window of at least 2-hours to make connecting flights, leaving plenty of time to get through long lines and security at the airport.
Depending on the time of year, Greece can swing from chilly winters to scorching hot summers that top 100°F (43°C). When planning your itinerary, plan to avoid stifling August heat waves and look instead at scheduling your vacation in late spring/early summer (mid-April through mid-June) and autumn (September through mid-October) to beat summer’s heat and tourist-packed high season.
Although Greeks speak Greek, you can absolutely get by on just English. English is widely spoken by those in the hospitality industry and heavily touristed areas, and since it's part of standard school curriculum, you’ll find that a majority of people under 40 speak it with varying proficiency. Road signs in big cities are typically bilingual, but if you’re heading further afield, it’s worth learning the Greek alphabet to help you navigate.
Whether you’re planning to explore ancient sites or sack out on the beach, come to Greece prepared with some key items in your luggage. If your itinerary is heavy on cobblestone-lined cities and rocky ruins, pack good shoes and breathable clothing. Traveling in winter? Make sure to throw in an umbrella and lightweight raincoat. In warmer months, be sure to include warm-weather essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to shield you, as many islands and archeological sites lack shade.
If you’re heading to the islands, pack some sturdy sandals for strolling around and perhaps some water shoes, particularly if you’re heading to the black, volcanic beaches of Santorini
When planning meal times and restaurant reservations, keep in mind that Greeks eat late. For lunch, this means 2 pm at the earliest; for dinner, crowds start trickling in after 9 pm (and even later once the heat dies down in summer months).