Most of Greece has a Mediterranean climate, which makes it a year-round travel and cruise destination. However, late spring, early summer, and fall are the best times to visit Greece. The temperatures are perfect at that time of year and very little rain falls. It gets very hot in July and August, and the islands and mainland are full of tourists. (Of course, you will find a party on every corner, so putting up with the heat might be worth it!) Even in the shade the temperature soars to over 100 degrees Farenheit across much of the country during the mid-summer, and a strong northerly wind often accompanies the heat. The provinces of northern Greece are freezing in the winter, but the islands can be pleasant. The rainy season runs from mid-October through February.
Clothing and What to Bring from Home
Several things must be packed for Greece. First, good walking shoes for trekking over uneven ancient ruins and sunscreen will keep you comfortable and unburned. The white buildings and rocks and bright sun and sea make a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses other necessities. Light cotton clothing is appropriate for touring ashore.
Traveler's Documents
Visitors from the USA, Great Britain, Australia, and the European Union countries will need a passport but not a Visa. The list changes quite often, so you might want to confirm before you sail.
Shopping
Greece has a wide variety of native handicrafts and shops are plentiful throughout the country. Ceramics, leather work, pottery, jewelry, and colorful tagari bags are all popular purchases. It is illegal to buy, sell, possess, or export any antiquity in Greece.
Language
Greek is one of the oldest written and oral languages. Although its alphabet is different than that used in English, many English words are derived from Greek. Here are a few familiar words for anyone who travels to Greece. Stress the bolded syllable.
Hello - yasas or yasu (informal)
Goodbye - andio
Good morning - kalimera
Good afternoon - herete
Good evening - kalispera
Good night - kalinihta
Please - parakalo
Thank you - efharisto
Yes - ne
No - ohi
Sorry (pardon me) - sighnomi
How are you? - ti kanete or ti kanis (informal)
I'm well, thank you - kala efharisto
Where is . . . ? - pou ine
How much? - poso kani
