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Greece for every kind of traveller

Greece and the Greek islands have something for everyone. From an estimated 3,000 hours of sunshine per year and thousands of picture-perfect islands (227 of which are inhabited) to 18 UNESCO World Heritage sites and 16,000 kilometres of pristine coastline.

2min read

Published 7 May 2023

Flight Centre

It’s no wonder why so many experts have named Greece the number one travel destination in Europe for 2023!

Here’s what to look forward to, and a few tips for island hopping, whether you’re planning Greece travel for the whole family, just you and your partner, or you’re showing up to the party solo.

Family travel in Greece

Things to do:

Family cooking classes focused on traditional Greek dishes like moussaka and souvlaki.
Family dance classes, teaching traditional dances, such as the syrtos and kalamatianos.
Greek mythology tours with visits to the Acropolis, Delphi and the Palace of Knossos to learn about Greek gods and heroes.
Long days spent on the soft beach sand and splashing in the waves.
Exploring the ancient ruins and learning about the country’s fascinating history.

The best islands to visit:

Kefalonia, which was recently named the ‘best Greek island’ in a Which? Travel survey, has a fantastic family-friendly vibe.

Naxos is another island topping the list for family holidays, favouring peace over parties. The beaches are safe, and many of the resorts provide kids’ programmes, babysitting services and kids’ facilities.

Where to stay:

Naxos Palace Hotel in Naxos has a kids-only pool and offers bike rentals. The Sea View Suite promises loads of space and luxuries.

A romantic retreat in Greece

Things to do:

Stroll hand-in-hand through the coastal city of Nafplio (less than 2 hours’ drive from Athens), known for its honeyed waterfront sunsets and winding narrow streets and alleyways.
Spoil yourselves with a private yacht tour.
Explore the ancient city of Athens at night when the crowds have thinned out and the monuments are brightly illuminated.
Dine at five-star restaurants. Ambrosia Restaurant in Santorini is ideal for a quiet, intimate dinner with views of the caldera. Tudor Hall in Athens is another favourite, specialising in seasonal fare and local wines.
Take a revitalising dip in some of Greece’s natural hot springs – there are over 700 across the country.

The best islands to visit:

The best island to visit depends on the type of romance you’re after.

Do you prefer a peaceful atmosphere where it’s just the two of you enjoying barefoot luxury at its finest? Then Corfu is the ideal fit. Admire picture-perfect forests and olive groves, lounge on beautiful beaches and explore the Old Town, one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. Corfu’s cuisine is also memorable, known for its unique blend of Greek and Italian flavours.

Looking for a more upbeat atmosphere with plenty of adventures to be had? Head to Santorini, the romance capital of the Greek islands. Make the most of the unique black and red sand beaches and watch the sun set in the town of Oia, often hailed as the best sunset-viewing location in the world.

Where to stay:

Revel in unrivalled hospitality at the Aspaki Exclusive Hotel by Art Maisons in Santorini. It’s a prime spot for taking in those breath-taking sunsets we mentioned, along with sprawling sea views.

Ancient History And Modern Nightlife: Greece's Cyclades Islands

A solo escape in Greece

Things to do:

Cruise through the Greek Isles. Many cruise lines cater for solo travellers. Plus, cruises maximise safety, variety in terms of the islands you visit, as well as opportunities to socialise during your trip.
Head out on a hike. Spending time alone in nature is wonderful for gathering your thoughts and easing stress. There’s a trail for everyone, whether you prefer the rugged terrain of Crete or the scenic coastal paths of Santorini. As always, ask for advice, consult a guide and let someone know your plans before heading out!
Attend a festival to meet the locals and immerse yourself in Greek culture.
Catch up on your reading or favourite podcast while relaxing on the beach.
Try out a new water sport, such as paddleboarding or windsurfing.

The best islands to visit:

Mykonos is party central and the best island to visit if you’re keen to socialise and join in on the fun.

If you’d prefer a more tranquil escape, there are countless hidden gems to uncover in Zakynthos, known for Navagio (its idyllic Shipwreck Beach) and the Blue Caves, a series of sea caves with striking blue waters that can be explored by boat.

Where to stay:

Cactus Hotel has a good reputation amongst solo travellers. It offers self-catering studios and one-bedroom apartments with free Wi-Fi and air conditioning.

Cruising the Mediterranean

Do I need a visa to travel to Greece?

If you’re travelling on a South African passport, then yes, you’ll need a visa to travel to Greece – a short-stay Schengen visa, to be precise. This visa is valid for 90 days and is available as a single or multiple entry visa.

Most applications are processed within 15 – 30 days, but it’s worthwhile applying at least six weeks in advance before you intend to travel to Greece, just to be safe. Don’t waste time getting started!

Ready to plan your Grecian getaway? We’re here to help. Contact a Flight Centre Expert today!

Visa 101: What You Need to Know Before Travelling Abroad

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