Greece

Capital: Athens
Population: 10.75 million
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Languages: Greek
Drives on the: Right
Time zone: EET (UTC +2)

U.S. citizens must have a passport which is valid for at least 90 days after your return date, though we strongly recommend at least six months. U.S. passport holders do not need a visa to enter Greece for stays up to 90 days. See the U.S. Dept. of State website for more information.

If you do not hold a U.S. passport, you are responsible for obtaining any necessary visas and meeting all entry requirements. If a visa is required, we recommend using a fee-based visa service, such as our preferred provider VisaHQ.

More information about passports & visas.

There are no health requirements for entering Greece. However, you might want to consider getting a hepatitis vaccination. Ask your physician when planning a trip to Greece.

Center for Disease Control
World Health Organization

Greece has fairly good weather all-year round with very little rain. Peak tourist season is June through August with temperatures getting into the 90's. May and September are optimal months to travel to Greece, avoid tourists and still enjoy the wonderful weather. Winter is still nice for touring but the water tends to be too cold to swim in.

Restaurants include a 15% service charge, and additional tipping is always welcome, but not required. Leave a small tip for the busperson. Concierges and hotel receptionists, around 3 euros. Tip guides 2 euros, doormen 1.5 euros, barbers 10%.

ATMs are prevalent in Athens.

Always notify your bank prior to departure to avoid any problems using your credit or debit card abroad.

In Greece, shop for pottery, lace, rugs, wines, embroidery, gold jewelry with Greek designs, and silver jewelry with precious stones. In Crete, look for handbags and harps. In Rhodes, ceramic tiles.

220 volts. Plugs C, D, E & F. You will need a voltage converter, and plug adapter in order to use U.S. appliances. We recommend getting a universal adapter and converter kit. View more information about electrical standards around the world.

Want to take your cell phone, tablet or laptop, but not sure how to get cell service or wifi? See our blog posts on using your cell phone abroad and the top 5 ways to get Internet abroad.