Cradle of Civilization · 6,000 Islands · Mediterranean Gem
Complete Greece Travel Guide
Greece — origin of Western civilization, homeland of the Olympics, blue dream of the Aegean. With 6,000+ islands, 18 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and Europe's most Blue Flag beaches. From Athens' classical glory to Santorini's romantic sunset, from Meteora's sky monasteries to Crete's Minoan labyrinth, Greece is a country you can explore for a lifetime.
Six Regions of Greece
Attica (Athens)
Capital Athens. Acropolis, Parthenon, National Archaeological Museum. Cape Sounion (Poseidon Temple sunset). Starting point and transport hub.
Details →Northern Greece
Thessaloniki (2nd largest city), Meteora (cliff monasteries), Halkidiki (turquoise beaches), Mount Olympus (home of the gods).
Peloponnese
Ancient Greece heartland: Olympia (Olympics origin), Mycenae, Sparta, Nafplio (Venetian character town), Corinth Canal.
Cyclades Islands
Most famous Greek island group: Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros. Synonymous with blue-and-white style. Top choice for honeymoon and island hopping.
Details →Crete
Greece's largest island. Minoan civilization (Knossos Palace), Elafonissi pink beach, Samaria Gorge, Rethymno Venetian town. Best for 4-7 day deep exploration.
Ionian Islands
Western coast green islands: Corfu (Venetian + British architecture), Kefalonia (Myrtos world-class beach), Zakynthos (Shipwreck Beach/Navagio).
Greece Quick Facts
Suggested Itineraries
Classic 5-Day: Athens + Santorini
Most popular with Chinese tourists. Athens 2 days (Acropolis + city) + Santorini 3 days (sunset + beach + volcano).
7-Day Dual-Island: Athens + Santorini + Mykonos
Athens 2 + Santorini 3 + Mykonos 2. Romance + energy dual experience. For honeymooners and young traveler.
10-Day In-Depth Panorama
Athens 3 + Delphi/Meteora 2 + Santorini 3 + Mykonos/Crete 2. Covers Greece highlights. For deep exploration enthusiasts.
14-Day Grand Tour: Mainland + Islands
Athens 3 + Peloponnese 3 + North (Meteora/Thessaloniki) 3 + Islands 5. The true grand tour of Greece.
FAQ
Most important tips for Greece travel?
① Sunscreen: Greek sun is intense, SPF50+ essential. ② Comfortable shoes: cobblestones and stairs everywhere. ③ Cash: small shops/taxis may not accept cards. ④ Siesta culture: many shops close 2-5 PM. ⑤ Meal times: lunch after 14:00, dinner after 21:00. ⑥ Bargain: OK at flea markets, not at regular shops.
How many days for Greece?
Minimum 5 days (Athens + one island). 7 days most popular (Athens + two islands). 10 days for depth (mainland sites + islands). 14 days covers most highlights. With only 3 days, stay in Athens (Acropolis + day trips). More time = richer experience.
How to get a Greek visa with Chinese passport?
Apply for Schengen visa (C-type short stay) at Greek Embassy/Consulate in China or VFS center. Documents: passport, photos, employment proof, bank statements, itinerary, hotel booking, flight booking, travel insurance. Processing ~10-15 working days. Valid for all 27 Schengen countries. Apply 1-2 months ahead.
Can I combine Greece and Turkey?
Yes! Very close. Athens to Istanbul flight ~1.5 hours. From eastern Greek islands (Rhodes, Kos) ferry to Turkish coast just 1 hour. Classic combo: Athens 3 days + Greek islands 4 days + Istanbul 3 days. Note: Chinese citizens need separate Turkish e-visa (quick, online).
What season is best for Greece?
Best: May-June and Sep-Oct (comfortable weather, fewer crowds, fair prices). Peak: Jul-Aug (hottest, priciest, most crowded, but best for islands and nightlife). Off-season: Nov-Mar (cheap but some islands close). Spring (Apr-May) for flowers and culture. Autumn (Sep-Oct) warmest sea, grape harvest.