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Embark on a cost-effective journey to Greece, where you can explore ancient ruins, indulge in the local cuisine, and bask in the Mediterranean sun, all within your budget. Our affordable holiday packages are crafted to bring you the essence of Greece, from the vibrant life of Athens to the serene beaches of the Aegean. Enjoy a holiday filled with cultural riches and scenic beauty without the high costs, and discover everything Greece has to offer.
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Breathtaking landscapes, like Meteora's cliffs, in every corner.
Discover ancient ruins like the Acropolis and historic temples.
Bask in the golden sun on pristine beaches, like Mykonos' Paradise.
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The easiest way to get to Greece is by air. There are international airports dotted across the mainland, including in hotspots like Athens and Thessaloniki, and the major islands each have one too – think Rhodes, Santorini, Corfu, Mykonos, etc.
You can fly directly from hubs like London, Birmingham and Manchester, with a flight time of 3.5-4.5 hours. The scattered location of the islands also allows you to craft a multi-country holiday by ferry. For example, you can sail from Saranda (Albania) to Corfu or from Bodrum (Turkey) to Kos. Both of these crossings take less than an hour, making them perfect for a day trip.
The train network on Greece’s mainland is limited, but luckily, there’s a comprehensive network of intercity KTEL buses that are faster, more efficient, and cheap, too, costing roughly €4 per 100 kilometres. If you’re on the islands, the classic way of getting around is island-hopping on ferries. Providers include Bluestar Ferries, Anes Ferries, Hellenic Seaways and Dodekanisos Seaways.
The key is to plan in advance and work out a logical route, ideally within one island group at a time, since the distances between the groups can be vast. To get around this, you can also fly internally from Athens or Thessaloniki to islands across the Cyclades, Sporades and more.
Greece is synonymous with summer holidays, and it’s easy to see why, with temperatures topping 30 degrees. The heat can be sweltering on the mainland, but the islands enjoy a cooling sea breeze. The months of July and August are the busiest, with droves of international tourists joined by Greeks on a getaway. If you’re looking for something a little quieter, try April-June or September-October instead.
The weather is still extremely pleasant, especially if you’re interested in hiking or sightseeing. The celebrations for Orthodox Easter (April/early May) are a sight to behold, culminating in a huge feast with drinking, singing and dancing. Winter is colder and wetter, with temperatures in Athens topping out at around 15 degrees, but it’s a great time to see the country in relative solitude – just pack an umbrella and some layers.
Greek is the official language, but in the larger seaside resorts and towns English is also spoken in the service area, and sometimes even German.
97% of the population profess Orthodox Christianity.
When visiting churches, you should choose appropriate clothing and keep your shoulders and knees covered.
As the socket types C and F are used in Greece, you do not need an adapter.
Greece is a country with a myriad of holiday options, each offering its own unique blend of scenery, history, and culture. Here’s a guide to some of the most popular holiday areas, ensuring you find the perfect Greek getaway.
Renowned for its breathtaking views, Santorini is the jewel of the Aegean. Known for its dramatic sunsets, stunning cliffside towns like Oia, and unique volcanic beaches, it's perfect for romance and exploration. Experience this spectacular island with our Santorini holidays packages.
Milos is celebrated for its otherworldly landscapes and beautiful beaches, such as Sarakiniko with its moon-like surface and turquoise waters. This lesser-known gem provides a quieter alternative to the busier islands, making it ideal for a relaxing retreat. Dive into the natural beauty with Milos holidays.
As the largest of the Greek islands, Crete offers a diverse range of activities and attractions. From the historic ruins of Knossos to the majestic Samaria Gorge and the lively streets of Chania, Crete combines adventure with cultural riches. Plan your trip with our Crete holidays for a comprehensive experience.
Corfu blends lush scenery with rich history, featuring Venetian fortresses, sleepy villages, and vibrant beaches. Known for its green hills and diverse coastlines, it offers a picturesque setting perfect for families and history buffs alike. Explore more with Corfu holidays.
Rhodes is famous for its rich history, ancient ruins, and vibrant medieval town. As a cultural hub with beautiful beaches and ancient sites, it's perfect for those who want to combine beach relaxation with historical explorations. Discover the island's charm with Rhodes holidays.
The historical heart of Greece, Athens offers an unparalleled journey through ancient monuments like the Acropolis and vibrant neighbourhoods full of contemporary culture and cuisine. For a city break full of historical insights, consider Athens holidays.
Mykonos is synonymous with cosmopolitan vibes, famous for its lively nightlife, chic boutiques, and luxurious resorts. Alongside its social scene, beautiful beaches like Ornos and Psarou offer sun-soaked relaxation. Experience the vibrant island life with Mykonos holidays.
Each destination in Greece offers a unique holiday experience, from serene beaches and historical excursions to vibrant nightlife and gourmet dining. Whether you're seeking a tranquil escape or an adventurous exploration, Greece has a place that caters to every desire.
Greece is home to a plethora of attractions, from ancient palaces to jaw-dropping beaches and world-class museums. For starters, there’s the Acropolis and Parthenon in Athens, perhaps Greece’s most iconic structures. Towering above Athens on a rocky outcrop, a visit here is an evocative journey back in time.
Another world-famous site is Meteora in Thessaly, where monasteries sit precipitously perched atop lofty pillars of stone. When it comes to the islands, Crete has the Palace of Knossos, an enormous complex where visitors can wander through the sprawling ruins where legend says that King Minos once kept the Minotaur. Over on Rhodes, the village of Lindos is another top-tier attraction, a picture-perfect combination of an enchanting bay and a whitewashed fishing village crowned by a majestic acropolis.
A Greece holiday is a wonderful opportunity to simply stroll and soak up the atmosphere in the old towns: Rhodes, Corfu, Hydra, Mykonos, and many more have fine examples of the narrow streets, whitewashed houses and picturesque churches that make the country so distinctive. While in Athens, catch the Changing of the Guard on the hour in Syntagma Square for a perfectly choreographed spectacle.
If you’re there on the first Sunday of the month, admission to sites including the Acropolis and the National Archaeological Museum is completely free. Beyond that, Greece’s natural beauty makes it the perfect place for hiking in nature or lazing on the innumerable beaches – what more could you want from a budget-friendly holiday?
Some of the best areas for a family holiday to Greece include Athens, the Cycladic Islands, Crete and the Peloponnese. Kids will love the beaches with their crystal-clear, shallow waters, perfect for splashing around, exploring the marine life with a snorkel, or trying out a new water sport.
Since the country is such a family-friendly destination, it’s no surprise that it’s also home to epic theme parks, including Water Park Rhodes, Aqualand Corfu and Allou! Fun Park near Athens. Elsewhere, the epic architecture and fascinating history of the country’s countless archaeological sites are sure to get their imagination firing.
Greece has over 6,000 islands and a whopping 617 Blue Flag beaches, so you’re truly spoilt for choice. Here are some of the finest examples in the main tourist hotspots:
Elafonisi, Crete: Stunning pinkish sand and crystal-clear water make this small islet a very popular choice in high season.
Shipwreck Bay, Zakynthos: Surrounded by towering cliffs and with the eponymous shipwreck perched stoically on the sand, this cove is unimaginably beautiful.
Myrtos, Kefalonia: A semi-circular bay backed by lush green slopes, this beach is featured in the film Captain Corelli’s Mandolin.
St Paul’s Bay, Rhodes: An exceptionally sheltered bay set against the stunning backdrop of the village’s imposing acropolis.
Paleokastritsa, Corfu: A stretch of six small coves great for snorkelling and scuba diving.
Platys Gialos, Mykonos: Just four kilometres from Mykonos Town, this popular stretch of pristine sand feels a world away.
Perissa Beach, Santorini: A shallow shore where the black lava sands contrast beautifully with the glimmering aquamarine sea.
Vourvourou, Sithonia, Halkidiki: An authentic and unpretentious beach that’s perfect for sheltered swimming.
Greece has one of the world’s best-loved cuisines. Here are a few dishes you won’t want to miss:
Tzatziki: A refreshing yoghurt and cucumber dip/sauce.
Taramasalata: A creamy and salty fish roe dip.
Dolmades: Vine leaves stuffed with herby, lemony rice.
Spanakopita: Spinach pie with crispy filo pastry.
Stifado: A melt-in-the-mouth meat stew.
Moussaka: A casserole with layers of aubergine and hearty meat sauce.
Kleftiko: Slow-roasted lamb cooked in parchment.
Souvlaki: Skewers of grilled meat.
Gyros: Grilled meat served in pitta with tzatziki and chips.
Loukoumades: Greek doughnuts drizzled with honey.
Baklava: A mouthwatering dessert made with filo pastry, chopped nuts and honey.
Although Greece is known for its sheltered bays and tranquil seas, you can find some decent surf as well when the conditions are right. Kolimbithra on the island of Tinos is known as a surfer hotspot and an ideal place for beginners to try their hand at the sport.
Messakti Beach on Ikaria is another good option from May to August, while the island of Crete has numerous surf schools on its northern coast – try Chrissi Akti, Paleochora and Falasarna Beach for waves that can reach up to 2 metres.
With mountains, gorges and coastline trails, Greece is perfect for hiking, particularly outside summertime when the heat is less intense. Feel like a god as you reach the summit of Mount Olympus or get epic views from the top of Pelion, nicknamed the Land of the Centaurs.
Traverse the epic gorges of Vikos on the mainland or Samaria on Crete, marvelling at the majestic cliffs that rise around you. In the Peloponnese, the Menalon Trail is a path in eight sections, including the eye-popping Monastery of Prodromos, which clings dramatically to the cliff face.
No month goes by without a festival or event in Greece, some linked to the country’s rich historical heritage and others to its Orthodox tradition. Holy Week, celebrating Orthodox Easter, is the biggest religious celebration, culminating in Easter Saturday, where a candlelit congregation is followed by a sumptuous midnight feast.
When it comes to culture, the Athens Epidaurus Festival takes place from May to October and celebrates all aspects of the performing arts. The Thessaloniki International Film Festival is held every November and attracts stars from around the world, while Ejekt is an Athens-based music festival whose previous headliners have included The Cure, Muse and Red Hot Chili Peppers.
The best time to visit Greece for a vacation is typically during the summer months of June to September when the weather is hot and the beach season is in full swing. However, spring and autumn can also be pleasant for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Greece is generally considered a safe country for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it's important to exercise common sense and take certain precautions. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded tourist areas, be cautious of pickpockets, and secure your valuables. It's also advisable to stay updated on local news and follow any travel advisories or guidelines provided by your country's embassy or consulate.
When visiting Greece, it's important to respect the local culture and customs. Some etiquette tips include dressing modestly when visiting churches or religious sites, greeting locals with a friendly "kalimera" (good morning) or "yasou" (hello), and trying traditional Greek dishes such as moussaka and souvlaki while dining out.
Greece is known for its delicious cuisine. Some traditional Greek dishes to try include moussaka (layers of eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce), souvlaki (grilled skewered meat, usually pork or chicken), Greek salad (with tomatoes, cucumbers, feta cheese, olives, and olive oil), spanakopita (spinach and feta cheese pie), and baklava (a sweet pastry with layers of phyllo dough and nuts soaked in honey).
Yes, credit cards are widely accepted in most tourist areas, hotels, restaurants, and shops in Greece. However, it's still advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller establishments and remote areas where card payments may not be as common.
In Greece, you can travel between cities and islands by plane, ferry, or bus. Domestic flights are available from Athens to various destinations. Ferries and high-speed catamarans connect the islands, while buses provide a convenient and affordable option for travelling within the mainland.
Booking a flight + hotel package to Greece with lastminute.com offers several advantages. By booking both services together, you can take advantage of exclusive deals and choose from thousands of flights and accommodations for the perfect combination. Additionally, you can secure your trip with a deposit and pay the remaining amount later. You also have the flexibility to add other travel extras such as insurance, rental cars, and luggage to the flight + hotel package as per your preferences.
Greece offers a range of stunning holiday spots for every type of traveller. Discover some of the best areas to stay in, like Athens, Hersonissos, Chania, Rhodes Town, Zante City .
Before travelling from the UK to Greece, ensure your passport is valid for the duration of your stay. To get the latest Visa information for Greece, please check travel advice on GOV.UK.
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