Greece

Best time to go to Greece?

The best time to visit Greek Islands is from April to October with average temperature ranges from 22°C to 35°C in the height of summer with plenty of sunshine.

Is Greece safe to visit as a solo traveller?

You may think Greek Islands is more for couples, families or for groups of party-going friends, but it is actually a safe destination for solo travellers. 

Do I need any vaccinations before going to Greece?

Currently there is no mandatory vaccine requirement to visit Greece on holiday.

What if I fall sick in Greece?

Greece’s health care system is ranked as one of the best in the world by the WHO. There is plenty of hospitals and clinics on every island and pharmacies can dispense medicines for minor illness.

How Should I dress?

When planning what to wear in Greece in summer, pack tank tops, vests, shorts, mini-skirts, and light dresses. If you are traveling in July and August opt for thin, light materials like cotton and linen for extra breathability and coolness.

Can I use my credit cards for shopping?

As a major tourist destination, Greece accepts all UK and international credit card.

Can I drive in Greece with my UK License?

You can legally drive in Greece with your UK driver’s license and there is no need to obtain an international driving license. 

What kind of sockets are used in Greece?

European two-pin sockets are used in Greece; therefore, you need to pack an adapter for your holiday. 

Do I have to speak Greek to interact with local people?

The official language is Greek, virtually everyone in the tourism sector speaks fluent English. 

Is roaming charges applies for using my mobile phone in Greece?

It is advisable to check with your mobile provider before travelling to Greece.

Can I withdraw money from ATMs?

You can withdraw money in Euro & GBP with debit cards from the Cash machines in Greece.

Is the tap water drinkable?

The water is safe to drink in most places in Greece. However, in some Greek islands its better to simply stick to bottled water.

What is the tipping guideline?

Tipping is a very personal matter and there are no set rules.It is customary between 5% and 10%, depending on service.

OVERVIEW

It doesn’t need much thought to gather up an idyllic image of Greece, white washed buildings capped with blue roofs, doors and windows, set against a backdrop of azure blue skies, endless hours of sunshine, turquoise waters, delicious food and sunsets - paradise!

Give yourself a week or a fortnight to discover all that Greece has to offer! Whether you are looking to relax on one of Greece’s many turquoise beaches, explore hidden coves, soak up the culture of ancient Greece, or maybe you are in need of a holiday to let your hair down? With lively night life, dancing, singing and eating the finest cuisine the Mediterranean has to offer, you won’t be disappointed.

Located in the Aegean Sea, Greece is made up of hundreds of islands all with their own distinct characteristics, all waiting to be explored on your next singles holiday. There are several main groups of islands to discover, in the south there’s the island of Crete, a modern destination with a rich history. In the south east are the Dodecanese islands, best known for its main island Rhodes, the holiday haven of Kos and the timelessly idyllic Symi. In the centre are the Cyclades, home to the romantic destination of Santorini and Milos. And finally there’s the North Aegean, where you can find Samos, Lesbos and countless others.

With GoSingles, you’re in charge of the itinerary, so why not tour through our Greek Islands destinations and choose the perfect place to visit.

WEATHER

Greece enjoys a warm Mediterranean climate with extended periods of sunshine throughout the year. It is recognised for having only two seasons; hot and dry summers which run from April through to September - where temperatures occasionally reach highs of 40°C, followed by mild and sometimes rainy winters running from October to March.  

Owing to the countries vast expanse, Greece comes with its own microclimate, with the northern and western regions experiencing a wetter climate creating a richer, diverse and greener landscape, whilst the east and central areas have a much drier and hotter climate creating a more arid landscape. In the mountainous north, winters are much cooler and snow can occur in the region, whilst winters in the south are generally much warmer.

The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn provide the best times to visit if you have a passion for hiking, cycling or seeing the mountains and great outdoors, in spring the wild flowers come alive in abundance, whilst in Autumn the autumnal colours from marigold yellow to crimson red set over the forest canopy – it’s also the perfect time to visit if you are looking to escape the summer heat.

MUST SEE & DO

Greece, a destination with something for everyone, from cultural sites to Greek cuisine and beach after beach for you to discover. With so much to offer, below GoSingles share just a handful of our favourite things to see and do.

BEACHES

With its vast stretch of coastline, from its mainland to its thousands of islands dotted across the Aegean Sea,  Greece has a wealth of majestic beaches, all offering different landscapes, from black volcanic sands to crystal clear turquoise waters and white sandy shores. Whether you’re looking to relax and listen to the waves lap on the shoreline or in search of a lively beach with exhilarating water sports on offer or bars lining the shore, Greece is the place to visit.

GREEK NIGHT

Take part in Zorba-style dancing an evening guaranteed to be filled with laughter and entertainment, learning the steps accompanied by the famous music! 

TRADITIONAL GREEK CUISINE

Greek cuisine is a fresh approach to the Mediterranean specialties, with unique spices and blends of flavour. Dishes from various other cultures are also available, but make sure to visit a Greek taverna (Ouzeri) for the traditional taste of Greece. The much loved Greek liquor Ouzo is served alongside a classic mezze of foods.

ROUGH GUIDE

CULTURE

Grecians will make you feel welcome the moment you arrive, be that as you step foot in a taverna, restaurant or hotel, their friendly and hospitable nature, not to mention ‘hostess with the mostess’ love for life is guaranteed to make you feel instantly at home.

In many a taverna on your travels, you are sure to observe Grecians rich passion for dancing, and socialising with family and friends over a drink, whilst enjoying a hearty Mediterranean diet well into the night.

Across Greece, many businesses close in the afternoon, usually around 2-5pm, this is to escape the heat of the day, but also to rest as Grecians are notorious for staying up late. During this time it may be hard to find amenities such as a pharmacy or post office, however restaurants and bars will be open for business.  

Restaurants are open well into the night, with most bars serving liquor and Greece’s native spirit Ouzo into the early hours of the morning.

ETIQUETTE

It is widely accepted to kiss and hug in Greece as it’s seen as a way to communicate. Grecians usually greet each other by embracing and kissing each other once on both cheeks.

Tipping: Tipping isn’t compulsory in Greece, though it is worth noting that those working in the service industry are often insufficiently paid and therefore look to tourists to help contribute to their livelihood.

GREETINGS & LANGUAGE

If you’re looking to strike up a conversation whilst in Greece, here are a few handy phrases that will have you mixing with the locals in no time.

•       Hello, is Γειά Σας (pronounced YAH sas)
•       Good morning is ‘Καλημέρα’ (pronounced ka-li-me-ra)
•       Good night is ‘ΚαληνÏχτα’ (prounced ka-li-ni-hta)
•       Thank you is ΕυχαριστÏ (pronounced ef-ha-ri-stoh)