Custom travel to Greece

Greece is arguably the most captivating Mediterranean destination, where every island reveals its own character, where millennium-old ancient sites meet timeless fishing villages, and where cuisine celebrates simplicity with genius. From Athens the birthplace of democracy to the white-housed Cyclades, the mythological Peloponnese to multi-faceted Crete, through the suspended Meteora and the green Ionian islands, the country offers a diversity of landscapes and flavors that makes it one of the world's most inspiring destinations.

Highlights

• Athens: Acropolis, historic neighborhoods, taverns
• Santorini and Mykonos: Cycladic icons
• Crete: nature, beaches, Minoan archaeology
• Peloponnese: ancient sites (Mycenae, Olympia, Epidaurus)
• Meteora and lesser-known Cyclades: Naxos, Milos, Folegandros

Sample itineraries

When to go

Greece is ideally visited mid-April to end of June and September to mid-October: pleasant temperatures (20-28 °C), warm sea, few crowds, reasonable prices. July-August are very hot (35-40 °C), saturated, and expensive, to avoid unless you like Cycladic parties. Winter is mild in Athens and Crete but most islands close (hotels, restaurants, reduced ferries). Orthodox Easter (variable date, 1-2 weeks after Catholic Easter) is a magical period with traditional festivals everywhere.

• Spring (April – June), Athens, Cyclades without crowds, Crete
• Summer (July – August), Mykonos for partying, beaches, Epidaurus festivals
• Autumn (September – October), Cyclades without crowds, harvests, still swimmable beaches
• Winter (December – March), Athens without crowds, Crete, skiing at Mount Parnassus

Practical information

Greece is very safe. Main risks are pickpockets in Athens metro and taxi scams (prefer Uber or Beat). A few cultural codes: meals are eaten late (lunch 2-4pm, dinner 9-10:30pm); the 2-5pm siesta closes some shops; tipping (5-10%) is appreciated but not mandatory; never extend an open palm toward someone (very insulting gesture). For the Cyclades, the meltemi (north wind) blows hard in July-August, ferries can be cancelled. Tap water is drinkable in Athens and Crete, be wary in the Cyclades (prefer bottled water).

Frequently asked questions

When to go to Greece?

Mid-April to end of June and September to mid-October offer the best balance: the sea is already (or still) warm, 20-28 °C, fewer crowds, reasonable prices on accommodation and ferries. July-August are very touristy and expensive, particularly Santorini and Mykonos, with temperatures climbing to 35-40 °C and the meltemi (north wind) sometimes disrupting ferry links. Winter is mild in Athens and Crete, perfect for visiting without crowds, but most Cycladic islands close hotels and restaurants from November to March. Orthodox Easter (a variable date, offset from Catholic Easter) is a magical period with traditional festivals across the country.

How many islands to visit?

For 10-14 days, 2 to 3 islands maximum, alternating vibe and size: for example one lively island (Santorini or Mykonos), a quieter one (Naxos or Paros), and possibly a hidden gem (Milos, Folegandros). Beyond that, the trip becomes a string of ferries and repacked suitcases, at the expense of actual time spent on the ground. To properly enjoy each island, count 3 nights minimum, enough time to move past the main port and discover the inland villages.

Should I rent a car in Greece?

Essential in Crete, the Peloponnese, the Ionian Islands, or to explore a large island in depth (Naxos, Paros, Rhodes), local bus networks are limited outside main routes. Not needed in Santorini or Mykonos for a short stay (taxis, buses, and quad bikes suffice given the short distances). Go for a compact car with full insurance, book early in high season (July-August), and check your international license is current if staying beyond 3 months.

How long for a Greece trip?

10 days are enough for Athens + 2-3 Cyclades, the most requested format for a first trip. 14 days allow adding the Peloponnese and its ancient sites, Meteora and its suspended monasteries, or combining Cyclades and Crete for a change of pace. 16-21 days allow a grand tour also including Crete in depth, the Dodecanese, or the greener Ionian Islands. Under 10 days, focus on Athens and a single island to avoid losing days to transport.

What budget for a custom Greece trip?

The budget varies significantly by season and chosen islands, Santorini and Mykonos being notably pricier than the rest of the country. As a guideline, expect €1,800-€2,400 per person for 10-12 days at mid-range comfort (3-4★ boutique hotels, ferries, a few excursions), excluding flights. For a deeper trip with sea-view stays and a private guide at ancient sites: €3,000-€4,000. For an upscale trip with caldera-view villas in Santorini, a private yacht day in the Cyclades, and fine-dining addresses: €4,500-€7,500. Paris-Athens flights range €150-€400 depending on season, noticeably higher in July-August.

Do I need a visa to travel to Greece?

Greece is part of the European Union and the Schengen Area. No visa is required for French, Belgian, Swiss, and EU citizens, a valid ID card or passport is enough. For stays beyond 90 days within any 180-day period, specific requirements apply depending on your nationality, I'll walk you through the process at booking time if your trip calls for it.

How to move between Greek islands?

Ferries remain the best way to travel between islands: Blue Star Ferries for comfort and reliability (3-8 h depending on distance, cabins available on longer routes), Seajets or Hellenic Seaways for speed (high-speed catamarans, 1-3 h, but more sensitive to strong wind). Booking becomes essential in July-August, the most requested routes selling out weeks in advance. Domestic flights on Aegean Airlines and Sky Express connect Athens to the main islands (Santorini, Mykonos, Chania) in 35-45 minutes, a practical option to save time or reach an island poorly served by ferry.

How to pay in Greece: card or cash?

Cards are accepted everywhere in hotels and big restaurants. Cash remains useful for taverns, markets, and tips. Greece is part of the eurozone.

Is Greece suitable for a family trip?

Absolutely. Safety, warm welcome for children (Greeks adore paidiá), family beaches, healthy Mediterranean cuisine, kid-friendly experiences (ancient sites, mythology). Favor Naxos, Paros, or Crete for a first family trip.

Can you do a honeymoon in Greece?

Greece is an exceptional honeymoon destination. Between caldera-view villas in Santorini, Oia's mythical sunsets, Crete's golden beaches, private yachts in the Cyclades, experiences for two abound.

How to pay in Greece: card or cash?

Bank cards are accepted everywhere, in hotels, larger restaurants, and most shops, including on smaller islands. Cash remains useful for village tavernas, local markets, and tips (around 10% at restaurants, not required but appreciated). Greece is part of the eurozone, so there are no exchange fees to plan for when paying in euros from France, Belgium, or Switzerland.

What's the best Greek island for a first trip?

There's no single right answer, it depends on the vibe you're after. Santorini charms with volcanic scenery and sunsets but remains the most expensive and crowded. Naxos offers the best balance for a first visit: large, varied (beaches, mountains, villages), less touristy and more affordable than its neighbors. Paros suits those seeking a chic atmosphere without Mykonos's crowds. I generally recommend combining one iconic island with a more authentic one, rather than stacking up only the best-known stops.