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Greece: Travel & Cultural Guide

Athens – Historic capital, home to the Acropolis and lively neighborhoods like Plaka and Monastiraki.
Santorini – Iconic island with whitewashed buildings, volcanic beaches, and sunsets in Oia.
Mykonos – Famous for nightlife, luxury, and Cycladic charm.
Crete – Largest island, known for beaches, mountains, and ancient ruins (Knossos Palace).
Delphi & Meteora – Spiritual & scenic mainland sites with archaeological and natural wonders.
Thessaloniki – Northern city known for culture, cuisine, and Byzantine landmarks.

Birthplace of democracy, philosophy, and theatre
Key historical figures: Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, Alexander the Great
Religion: Predominantly Greek Orthodox Christianity
UNESCO Sites: Acropolis of Athens, Meteora, Delphi, Mystras, Mount Athos (men only), more

Must-Try Dishes:

Drinks:

Mediterranean climate: Hot, dry summers & mild, wet winters
Best Time to Visit: Late April to early June & September to October (milder weather, fewer crowds)
Peak Season: July–August (hot and busy)

Main Airports: Athens (ATH), Thessaloniki (SKG), Heraklion (HER), Santorini (JTR)
Getting Around:
- Ferries connect islands (e.g., Blue Star, SeaJets)
- Buses (KTEL) for intercity travel
- Car rentals for exploring islands or remote regions
- Metro & taxis in major cities

Unleaded 95 (Αμόλυβδη 95)
- Most commonly used petrol.
- Suitable for the majority of modern petrol cars.
- Referred to as “95 RON” (Research Octane Number).
Unleaded 98 / 100 (Αμόλυβδη 98 ή 100)
- Higher-octane petrol (better performance, cleaner combustion).
- Used for high-performance or turbocharged engines.
- Sold under premium brand names (e.g., BP Ultimate 100, Shell V-Power Racing).
Super LRP (Leaded Replacement Petrol) – Rare
- Now almost obsolete.
- Was used in older cars that required leaded petrol.
- May still be found in very limited supply, mostly for vintage vehicles.

Diesel (Πετρέλαιο Κίνησης)
Common for both personal and commercial vehicles. Usually comes in standard and premium forms.
Autogas (LPG – Υγραέριο)
Cheaper alternative fuel used by many taxis and modified vehicles. Widely available.
CNG (Compressed Natural Gas – Φυσικό Αέριο)
Limited availability, mostly in large cities like Athens and Thessaloniki.

Fuel is often branded with additives or cleaning agents:

These premium types are marketed as providing better engine protection, power, and efficiency.

Drive on the right-hand side of the road.
Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers.
Children under 12 or shorter than 135 cm must sit in appropriate child restraints.
Mobile phones can only be used with a hands-free system.
Headlights must be on low beam in poor visibility but not in normal daylight (except motorcycles).
Use of horn is only allowed in emergencies, especially in cities.

General limit: 0.05% Blood Alcohol Content (BAC)
New drivers (less than 2 years), motorcyclists, and professional drivers: 0.02% BAC
Exceeding the limit can lead to fines, license suspension, or imprisonment.

Fines for offenses such as speeding, phone use, and not wearing seat belts can be high.
Police may issue on-the-spot fines or even confiscate plates for severe violations.

Greek drivers may be aggressive—defensive driving is advisable.
Road conditions can vary: highways are usually good, but rural roads can be narrow or poorly maintained.
Roundabouts: Vehicles inside the roundabout have the right of way (recent change from older rules).

Tap water is safe in most places, but bottled water is preferred on some islands.
Tipping is appreciated (5–10% in restaurants).
English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Dress modestly when visiting monasteries or churches.