Capital City: Athens

Population: 10.072.000

Language: Greek

Area: 131,957 km²

Currency: Euro

Time Zone: UTC+2

County Code: +30

Government: Parliamentary Republic

Flag:

Late April to June offers the perfect weather for Greece tours.

By June, sea temperatures reach the perfect level in Santorini, Mykonos, and Ios. The weather is balmy, and nights are fresh due to the sea breeze.

July and August are the hottest months in Greece, with temperatures reaching 35°C and above. Summer is the peak season for Greece tours and a perfect time to enjoy the nightlife in the islands.

September is the ideal month for having a more quiet time in the Greek islands. The warmth of summer lingers on, sea temperatures are ideal for swimming, and the beaches are less busy. It is also a good time for visiting the urban attractions in Athens without the heat and the crowds.

The average temperature in the Greek islands is around 20°C in October, and they are open for visitors until the end of the month. Visiting the attractions in Athens and the islands becomes comfortable as the heat of summer leaves the country.

The Winter season, November to February, in Greece is quiet and chilly. Temperatures range from 8 to 15°C, which is not the ideal beach weather. The islands are closed around this time, although the historic sites are open.

While most eat to live, the Greek live to eat! Eating out in Greece is an experience in itself as the tavernas, restaurants and bars come to life with atmosphere after dark.

The food in Greece favours simplicity and fresh local produce and eating in a restaurant or taverna is still largely affordable for both locals and tourists, alike. Greeks generally eat quite late in the evening, rarely venturing out before 9.00pm.

We completely understand that searching for unique and authentic dishes can often be overwhelming if you are not a local, so here is a few must-try dishes to get you started in Greece: Tzatziki, Gyros, Moussaka, Grilled Octopus, Kalamarakia Tiganita, Kokkinisto, Souvlaki, Spanikopita, Choriatiki, Amygdalota and Loukoumades.

The best time to visit Greece is May to September when the Greek islands are bustling with life, and the weather is perfect for enjoying the coast. Beginning in May, the warmth of the Mediterranean sun arrives on the islands. The balmy weather offers the perfect sailing trip, while the sea breeze makes the nights pleasant for enjoying music and cultural activities.

July and August are the busiest months, especially in popular islands such as Mykonos, Santorini, and Ios. Most cultural events take place around this time, and the country hosts the perfect beach weather. Around September and October, the temperatures are slightly lower, and the islands are less busy.

The Greek culture remains heavily influenced by its ancient past. Greeks are particularly proud of their culture, speaking of their nation with intense passion and sense of belonging. Greece is held to be the cradle of Western civilisation, the birthplace of democracy, Western philosophy, literature, drama, historiography, and the Olympic Games.

Since ancient times, the Greek have lived by the expression of ‘Kefi’ meaning life is meant to be lived to its fullest. Kefi is a way of life and is seen as the ‘Spirit of Greece’ because despite the hardships the country has faced overtime, the locals actively seek happiness and positivity in daily life through small moments such as a shared meal or through music and dance. It is for this reason that family, music, food, religion and traditions are essential cornerstones to the Greek culture. The Greeks are a friendly, proud and curious people who know how to enjoy life.

Religion plays an important role in the understanding of daily culture. 98% of the Greeks are Christian Orthodox. Greece is one of the few countries with such a big proportion of Orthodox Christians and you can spot a charming church in almost every plot of land or island. The Church plays a vital role in everyday life and attending weddings, baptisms, and funerals is vitally important, even for people who would not normally attend church, such as the younger people. While Greece is quite modern with its views on casual clothing and it is recommended to wear light, summer clothing; it’s important to remember that churches and monasteries will require you to cover your shoulders and legs when visiting.