Find Cheap Flights to Greece for Your Next Great Vacation

Spring offers mild weather, wildflowers, and pleasant temperatures for sightseeing before the summer heat.

Summer means hot weather, high demand, and the best time for swimming and island hopping. Book your Greece flight deals far ahead.

Autumn is the shoulder season, offering warm seas, fewer tourists, and better prices. It's the best time to buy cheap flights to Greece.

Winter is the low season, ideal for finding cheap flight tickets to Greece and focusing on culture, cities, and mountains.

For short tourist stays, US citizens do not need a visa to enter Greece. Greece is part of the Schengen Area, which allows visa-free travel for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Ensure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date from the Schengen Area and was issued within the last 10 years. While you do not need a visa for tourism, you must be prepared to show proof of onward travel, sufficient funds for your stay, and travel insurance upon arrival, although this is rarely requested. If you plan to stay longer than 90 days for work, study, or other purposes, you must apply for a national visa before traveling. Always check the official Greek Embassy website for the most current entry requirements before booking your cheap flight tickets to Greece.

Traveling between islands is best done by ferry or domestic flights. Ferries are slower but offer scenic views and are often cheaper, especially on longer routes. For island hopping, consider booking domestic flights to save time, particularly when traveling between Athens and islands like Santorini or Mykonos. Within cities like Athens, the metro system is efficient, clean, and easy to use, connecting the airport, the port of Piraeus, and major tourist sites. Taxis are common, but ensure the meter is running or agree on a price beforehand, especially for airport transfers. Renting a car is excellent for exploring the mainland or larger islands like Crete and Rhodes, giving you freedom to find hidden beaches and villages. Be aware that driving in Greek cities can be chaotic, and parking is often difficult. For long-distance mainland travel, the intercity bus network (KTEL) is reliable and comfortable.

Accommodation in Greece ranges from luxury resorts and boutique hotels to simple family-run rooms (domatia) and Airbnbs. In popular destinations like Santorini and Mykonos, prices are highest during the summer peak season, so book well in advance, especially if you find good Greece flight deals. For budget travelers, look for rooms in less central areas or consider hostels in major cities. On the islands, staying near the main port or town center offers easy access to transport and restaurants, but staying slightly outside can provide more peace and better value. When booking, check if breakfast is included, as this can save money. Always read recent reviews focusing on cleanliness and noise levels. If you are staying in a remote area, confirm transportation options, as taxis may be scarce. Booking directly with smaller hotels can sometimes yield a better price than through large booking platforms.

Greece is generally a very safe country for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken, especially in crowded areas like central Athens, major ports, and tourist hotspots. Pickpocketing is the most common issue; keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings, particularly on crowded metro trains or buses. Be cautious of taxi drivers who refuse to use the meter; insist they use it or find another taxi. When dining, always check the menu prices and verify the bill before paying to avoid overcharging, which can sometimes happen in very touristy areas. Avoid political demonstrations, which occasionally occur in Athens. In an emergency, dial 112 for all services. Keep copies of important documents separate from the originals. For solo female travelers, Greece is considered safe, but using common sense, especially at night, is always advised. The Greek police are helpful and generally speak English.

Greeks are known for their hospitality, philoxenia, but showing respect for local customs is appreciated. When visiting churches or monasteries, dress modestly: shoulders and knees should be covered for both men and women. Public displays of affection are generally fine, but keep them moderate. Tipping is not mandatory but is customary in restaurants and for good service, usually rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10%. The afternoon hours, often between 2 PM and 5 PM, were traditionally reserved for a siesta, and while less strict now, some smaller shops may close. Greeks greet each other with a handshake or a kiss on both cheeks among close friends. Avoid making the 'moutza' gesture (an open palm pushed towards someone), as it is highly offensive. Learning a few basic Greek phrases like 'kalimera' (good morning) and 'efharisto' (thank you) will be warmly received.

Greek food is based on fresh, seasonal ingredients, olive oil, and herbs. Beyond the famous souvlaki and gyros, try traditional dishes like moussaka (layered eggplant and meat), pastitsio (baked pasta), and spanakopita (spinach pie). Dining is a social event; meals are often shared and can last for hours. Look for 'tavernas' for traditional, home-style cooking, often found off the main tourist paths. Seafood is excellent, especially on the islands, but can be expensive; always ask for the price per kilo before ordering fresh fish. Tap water is generally safe to drink in most of the mainland and large islands, but many locals and tourists prefer bottled water, particularly on smaller islands. Try local drinks like Ouzo or Tsipouro, but sip slowly. For a truly local experience, seek out a 'psistaria' for grilled meats or a 'zacharo-plasteio' for delicious pastries.

When planning your Greece vacation, try to balance time on the mainland for historical sites with relaxation on the islands. A typical two-week trip might include 3-4 days in Athens to see the Acropolis and museums, followed by a week split between two or three islands, such as Santorini for romance and Crete for hiking and beaches. Be realistic about travel time between locations; ferry journeys can take several hours. Booking domestic flights to Greece islands can save valuable time. During the summer, archaeological sites can be extremely hot, so plan to visit early in the morning. Pre-booking tickets for major attractions like the Acropolis is highly recommended to avoid long queues. If traveling during the shoulder seasons (April-May or September-October), you will find fewer crowds and better prices on accommodation and flights to Greece.

Given the intense Greek sun, high-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses are non-negotiable, especially during summer. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring ancient sites and cobblestone streets. Pack light, breathable clothing, but include a light jacket or cardigan for cooler evenings, particularly if you are traveling in the spring or fall. Remember to pack modest clothing (long pants or skirts and covered shoulders) for visiting religious sites. A universal travel adapter is needed for European outlets. If you plan on taking ferries, a small day bag is useful to keep essentials close. For beach days, water shoes can be helpful as many Greek beaches are pebble or rock. Finally, bring a reusable water bottle; while tap water is often safe, staying hydrated is crucial when sightseeing under the hot sun.