Our full guide on the most common Mistakes to Avoid in Greece and how to avoid them for your next trip.
Greece, with its stunning islands, ancient ruins, and rich cultural heritage, is a dream destination for many travelers. To ensure you have an enjoyable and smooth trip, here are some common mistakes to avoid and tips on how to avoid them.
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Mistakes to Avoid in Greece
1. Overpacking
Mistake: Bringing too much luggage, making it difficult to navigate through islands and public transportation.
How to Avoid
Pack Light: Bring versatile clothing that can be layered and easily mixed and matched.
Use Lightweight Luggage: Opt for lightweight, durable luggage that’s easy to carry.
Check the Weather: Research the weather conditions of your destinations and pack accordingly.
2. Not Booking Accommodation in Advance
Mistake: Assuming you can find accommodation upon arrival, especially during peak season.
How to Avoid
Book Early: Reserve your accommodation well in advance, especially during the summer months and on popular islands.
Check Reviews: Use sites like TripAdvisor or Booking.com to read reviews and choose reputable places to stay.
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3. Ignoring Local Customs and Etiquette
Mistake: Not respecting Greek customs and traditions, which can lead to misunderstandings or offense.
How to Avoid
Learn Basic Greek Phrases: Simple greetings and polite expressions go a long way.
Respect Religious Sites: Dress modestly when visiting churches and monasteries; cover your shoulders and knees.
Tipping: Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. Leaving a small amount or rounding up the bill is common practice.
4. Not Planning Island Hopping Efficiently
Mistake: Underestimating travel times and ferry schedules, leading to missed connections or long waits.
How to Avoid
Plan Your Route: Research and plan your island-hopping route carefully. Consider travel times and ferry schedules.
Book Ferries in Advance: Purchase ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak season.
Flexible Itinerary: Allow some flexibility in your schedule for potential delays.
5. Relying Solely on Credit Cards
Mistake: Assuming credit cards are accepted everywhere, which might not be the case in more remote areas.
How to Avoid
Carry Cash: Have some euros on hand for small purchases, tips, and places that don’t accept cards.
Use ATMs: Withdraw cash from ATMs as needed, but be aware of any foreign transaction fees.
6. Underestimating the Sun
Mistake: Not using enough sunscreen or forgetting to reapply it, leading to sunburn.
How to Avoid
Use High SPF Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 before heading out and reapply every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating.
Wear Protective Clothing: Use hats, sunglasses, and UV-protective clothing to shield your skin from the sun.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated in the heat.
7. Not Tasting Local Cuisine
Mistake: Sticking to familiar foods and missing out on the local culinary experience.
How to Avoid
Try Local Dishes: Don’t miss out on Greek specialties like moussaka, souvlaki, tzatziki, and baklava.
Visit Local Taverns: Eat at local tavernas to enjoy authentic Greek food and hospitality.
Explore Food Markets: Visit local markets to taste fresh produce and traditional products.
Read here best breakfast in Greece, the best Greek food and the best drinks in Greece
8. Ignoring the Siesta Tradition
Mistake: Planning activities or shopping during siesta hours when many businesses are closed.
How to Avoid
Plan Around Siesta: Use siesta time (typically from 2 PM to 5 PM) to relax, visit major tourist attractions that remain open, or enjoy a leisurely meal at a restaurant.
Check Business Hours: Verify the operating hours of shops and attractions to avoid inconveniences.
9. Not Renting a Car for Mainland Exploration
Mistake: Relying solely on public transportation, which might limit your ability to explore remote areas.
How to Avoid
Rent a Car: Consider renting a car to explore the mainland and less accessible areas.
Drive Carefully: Be aware of local driving customs and narrow roads, especially on islands.
10. Overlooking Travel Insurance
Mistake: Traveling without insurance, risking high costs in case of emergencies.
How to Avoid
Purchase Travel Insurance: Get comprehensive travel insurance that covers health, accidents, theft, and cancellations.
Know Your Coverage: Understand what is and isn’t covered by your insurance policy.
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11. Skipping Local Experiences
Mistake: Only visiting tourist hotspots and missing out on authentic local experiences.
How to Avoid
Explore Beyond the Main Attractions: Visit smaller villages, local festivals, and less-known sites.
Engage with Locals: Talk to locals to learn about their culture, traditions, and favorite places.
Take Guided Tours: Join guided tours that offer deeper insights into the local history and culture.
12. Not Checking Local Holidays and Festivals
Mistake: Planning your trip without considering local holidays and festivals, which can affect your travel plans.
How to Avoid
Check Holiday Schedules: Be aware of local holidays and festivals, as some attractions and services may be closed or crowded.
Join the Celebrations: If your visit coincides with a local festival, embrace the opportunity to experience Greek culture firsthand.
13. Not Understanding Ferry Schedules
Mistake: Underestimating travel times and ferry schedules, leading to missed connections or long waits.
How to Avoid
Plan Your Route: Research and plan your island-hopping route carefully, considering travel times and ferry schedules.
Book Ferries in Advance: Purchase ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak season.
Flexible Itinerary: Allow some flexibility in your schedule for potential delays.
14. Being Unaware of Emergency Numbers
Mistake: Not knowing local emergency numbers in case of an emergency.
How to Avoid
Know the Emergency Number: The European emergency number is 112, which works in Greece as well.
Local Contacts: Have contact information for your accommodation and local embassy or consulate.
15. Overlooking Beach Etiquette
Mistake: Not being aware of local beach customs and etiquette.
How to Avoid
Respect Nudist Areas: Some beaches may be clothing-optional. Respect the local customs.
Leave No Trace: Dispose of trash properly and take all belongings and litter with you.
Respect Quiet Zones: Some beaches may have designated quiet zones for relaxation.
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.