How to Prepare Yourself For Your First Trip to Greece

Planning your first trip to Greece is exciting, but there are a few things worth sorting out before you get on the plane. With its sunny weather, beautiful islands, historic towns and relaxed way of life, Greece has plenty to offer. A little preparation beforehand can make your arrival easier and leave you with more time to enjoy the holiday itself.

Get to Know Your Destination

Greece is much more than one destination. Athens has a completely different feel from somewhere like Crete, Rhodes or Santorini, so it is worth deciding what sort of trip you want before making your plans.

Think about the places you would genuinely like to see rather than trying to fit everything into one visit. If you enjoy history, you may want to spend more time exploring ancient sites. If relaxing by the sea is more your style, choosing a coastal resort or island might make more sense.

It is also worth checking how far places are from each other. What looks close on a map may take considerably longer to reach, particularly when ferries are involved.

Book a Private Transfer From the Airport

Getting from the airport to your accommodation is one of those details that is easy to overlook until you arrive. After a long flight, the last thing you may want is to work out public transport while carrying your luggage and trying to find your way around an unfamiliar place.

Booking a private airport transfer in advance can make the first part of your holiday much simpler. Your driver can meet you at the airport and take you directly to your hotel, without the need to search for a taxi or work out which bus you need.

This can be especially convenient if you are travelling with young children, have lots of luggage or arrive late in the evening. Before booking, check the company’s reviews, what happens if your flight is delayed and whether the price includes waiting time and luggage.

Pack for the Greek Weather

If you are visiting during the warmer months, lightweight clothing will probably be among the most useful things in your suitcase. Comfortable shoes are just as important, particularly if you are planning to walk around old towns or visit archaeological sites.

Sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat are also worth packing. Even if you are used to warm weather, spending several hours outside in the Greek sunshine can feel very different from a normal day at home.

If you are travelling outside the main summer season, check the forecast before packing. Evenings can be cooler, and conditions can vary considerably between different parts of the country.

Take Good Care of Your Eyes

Your eyes can take quite a bit of exposure to bright sunlight during a Greek holiday, particularly when you are spending time beside the sea. Sunlight reflecting from the water and pale surfaces can make the glare even stronger.

Take a good pair of sunglasses with proper UVA and UVB protection and wear them when you are outside for extended periods. A hat can provide some extra shade, especially when sightseeing or sitting on the beach.

If you normally wear contact lenses, remember to bring everything you need to look after them. Packing a spare pair of glasses can also be useful in case your eyes become irritated or your lenses become uncomfortable. If you do happen to experience irritation, make sure to see your trusted eye specialist after the trip.

Book Popular Experiences in Advance

You do not need to plan every minute of your holiday, but some activities are easier to enjoy when arranged beforehand. Popular attractions, boat trips and guided tours can become busy during the summer, so leaving everything until you arrive may mean missing out.

Take a look at the activities available in your chosen destination and book anything that you definitely do not want to miss. At the same time, leave some gaps in your schedule. Some of the best parts of a Greek holiday can be as simple as finding a small taverna, wandering through a village or spending an afternoon by the sea.

Learn a Few Local Customs

You do not need to speak Greek fluently before visiting, but learning a few basic words can be useful. A simple kalimera for good morning or efharisto for thank you can go a long way.

It is also worth familiarising yourself with local customs, restaurant etiquette and transport options before you arrive. Knowing a little about how things work can help you feel more comfortable once you are there and avoid unnecessary confusion during your first few days.