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

Classic Cyclades

Duration : 10 days

Route : Athens (2 nights) → ferry Mykonos (3 nights, Delos excursion) → Naxos (2 nights) → Santorini (3 nights) → flight back to Athens

Mainland Greece & islands

Duration : 14 days

Route : Athens (2 nights) → Peloponnese (Mycenae, Epidaurus, Olympia, Monemvasia) (4 nights) → Meteora (1 night) → Athens → Cyclades ferry: Milos (3 nights) → Santorini (3 nights) → return flight

Crete on foot: nature and archaeology

Duration : 12 days

Route : Athens (2 nights) → flight Chania (3 nights, Venetian old town) → Rethymno & Samaria Gorge (2 nights) → Heraklion & Knossos Palace (1 night) → southern Crete Lasithi (3 nights) → return flight

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?

May–June and September offer warm seas, fewer crowds, and reasonable prices. July–August are very touristy and expensive, particularly Santorini and Mykonos. Winter is ideal for Athens without crowds and mild Crete.

How many islands to visit?

For 10–14 days, 2 to 3 islands max, alternating vibe and size. More than that, the trip becomes a string of ferries. For a real taste, count 3 nights minimum per island.

Should I rent a car in Greece?

Essential in Crete, the Peloponnese, or to explore a large island (Naxos, Paros). Not needed in Santorini or Mykonos for a short stay (taxis and buses suffice). Go for a compact car with full insurance.

How long for a Greece trip?

10 days are enough for Athens + 2-3 Cyclades. 14 days allow adding the Peloponnese, Meteora, or combining Cyclades + Crete. 16-21 days for a grand tour also including Crete and Ionian Islands.

What budget for a custom Greece trip?

As a guideline, €1,800-€2,400 per person for 10-12 days at mid-range comfort, excluding flights. For an upscale trip with caldera-view villas and private yacht: €4,500-€7,500. Paris-Athens flights: €150-€400.

Do I need a visa to travel to Greece?

Greece is part of the EU and Schengen Area. No visa is required for French, Belgian, Swiss, and EU citizens.

How to move between Greek islands?

Ferries are the best option: Blue Star for comfort (3-8 h depending on distance), Seajets for speed (catamarans, 1-3 h). Booking essential July-August. Domestic flights Aegean Airlines and Sky Express from Athens to main islands.

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.