Greek Islands is one of the most popular destinations in the world and we will tell you the tourist traps to avoid in Greek Islands for your next trip.
Visiting the Greek Islands can be a dream come true, but certain tourist traps can diminish the experience. Here are some common ones to watch out for and tips on how to avoid them.
By following these tips, you can enjoy the beauty and culture of the Greek Islands while avoiding the common tourist pitfalls.
Read here Things to know before going to Santorini, best Greece sim card for tourist and things to know before visiting Greece!
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General Tips for Avoiding Tourist Traps
Visiting in the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) can help avoid the crowds and enjoy a more authentic experience.
Opt for accommodations in less touristy areas. For example, stay in the village of Pyrgos in Santorini instead of Oia.
Instead of expensive taxis, use local buses or rent a scooter to explore the islands.
Ask locals for recommendations on where to eat, visit, and shop. They can often point you to hidden gems away from the tourist traps.
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Tourist Traps to Avoid in Greek Islands
1. Overcrowded Beaches in Mykonos
Trap: Beaches like Paradise and Super Paradise can be extremely crowded, with overpriced sunbeds and drinks.
How to Avoid: Visit lesser-known beaches such as Agios Sostis or Fokos. These offer a more tranquil experience and are often frequented by locals.
2. Santorini’s Oia at Sunset
Trap: While Oia offers breathtaking sunsets, it is also packed with tourists, making the experience less enjoyable.
How to Avoid: Opt for a sunset view from Pyrgos or the Akrotiri lighthouse. These spots provide equally stunning views with fewer crowds.
3. Expensive Dining in Tourist Hotspots
Trap: Restaurants in highly touristic areas like Fira in Santorini or Little Venice in Mykonos often charge exorbitant prices for mediocre food.
How to Avoid: Dine where the locals eat. In Santorini, try Metaxi Mas in Exo Gonia or Taverna Katina in Amoudi Bay. In Mykonos, head to Kiki’s Tavern at Agios Sostis Beach for a more authentic and reasonably priced meal.
4. Touristy Souvenir Shops
Trap: Souvenir shops in main tourist areas often sell overpriced and generic items.
How to Avoid: Shop in less touristy villages. For example, in Santorini, visit the smaller shops in Emporio or Pyrgos for unique and authentic souvenirs.
5. Expensive Boat Tours
Trap: Organized boat tours can be costly, especially those advertised heavily in tourist areas.
How to Avoid: Consider renting a small boat with friends or joining a local fisherman’s tour. In Paros, for example, you can find local fishermen who offer private and more affordable boat trips.
6. Overpriced Cocktails and Bars
Trap: Bars in famous nightlife spots like Mykonos Town or Santorini’s Fira often charge a premium for drinks.
How to Avoid: Enjoy a drink at more laid-back venues. In Mykonos, visit Jackie O’ Beach Club for a fun but more relaxed atmosphere. In Santorini, head to PK Cocktail Bar in Fira for beautiful views without the high price tag.
7. Tourist Crowds at Archaeological Sites
Trap: Popular sites like the Acropolis of Lindos in Rhodes can be swamped with tourists, especially in peak season.
How to Avoid: Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the peak crowds. Alternatively, explore lesser-known sites such as the ancient city of Kamiros in Rhodes.
How To Avoid Tourist Traps in the Greek Islands
1. Travel Off-Season
Why: Visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) can help you avoid the large crowds and inflated prices common in peak summer months.
How: Plan your trip for late April to early June or September to early October. The weather is still pleasant, and the islands are less crowded.
2. Stay in Less Touristy Areas
Why: Accommodations in popular areas like Santorini’s Oia or Mykonos Town are often overpriced and crowded.
How: Opt for villages like Pyrgos in Santorini, Ano Mera in Mykonos, or Apollonia in Sifnos. These areas offer a more authentic experience and are typically quieter and more affordable.
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3. Eat Where the Locals Eat
Why: Tourist-focused restaurants often serve overpriced and lower-quality food.
How: Look for tavernas and restaurants that are filled with locals. In Santorini, try Metaxi Mas in Exo Gonia. In Mykonos, visit To Maereio in Mykonos Town for an authentic dining experience.
4. Use Public Transportation
Why: Taxis and private transfers can be expensive and often take longer due to traffic.
How: Utilize local buses, which are reliable and cover most parts of the islands. Alternatively, rent a scooter or ATV for more flexibility and lower costs.
5. Explore Lesser-Known Beaches
Why: Popular beaches like Paradise Beach in Mykonos and Red Beach in Santorini can be overcrowded and expensive.
How: Seek out less popular beaches such as Agios Sostis and Fokos Beach in Mykonos, or Vlychada and Koloumpos Beach in Santorini. These spots are often quieter and more picturesque.
6. Avoid Tourist Souvenir Shops
Why: These shops often sell generic, overpriced items.
How: Purchase souvenirs from local artisans or in less touristy areas. For unique, handmade items, visit local markets and small boutiques in villages like Emporio in Santorini or Halki in Naxos.
7. Book Local Tours and Experiences
Why: Mass-market tours can be overpriced and crowded.
How: Opt for tours led by local guides or smaller companies. They often provide more personalized and insightful experiences. Websites like Withlocals or Airbnb Experiences can be good resources for finding these tours.
8. Be Skeptical of “Must-See” Attractions
Why: Some highly advertised attractions may not live up to the hype and can be crowded and overpriced.
How: Research and consider less advertised but equally interesting sites. For example, instead of the crowded Akrotiri ruins in Santorini, visit the Ancient Thera site, which offers fewer crowds and stunning views.
9. Use Apps and Online Resources
Why: They provide up-to-date information and reviews from other travelers.
How: Use apps like Google Maps for finding local favorite spots and TripAdvisor for reviews and recommendations. Local travel blogs and forums can also offer valuable insider tips.
10. Engage with Locals
Why: Locals can provide the best tips and recommendations for avoiding tourist traps.
How: Strike up conversations with locals in cafes, shops, or your accommodation. They can often point you to the best hidden gems and away from the touristy areas
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.