Athens

Shopping items that will enrich your trip to Greece Here's some information you need to know about shopping during your trip to Greece. From Greek specialties to traditional liquors, we've compiled a list of shopping items perfect for gifts or personal collections. Whether you're looking for a gift for someone you know or a souvenir to cherish your travel memories, this article is for you. Olive Oil: The Jewel of Greece As you may know, Greece is famous for producing high-quality olive oil. Olive oil from Crete, in particular, is difficult to find in Korea and expensive, so I recommend purchasing it locally while you're in Greece to get the best value. Many products are also beautifully packaged, making them ideal gifts for friends and family. A key tip for choosing good olive oil is to check its acidity. The lower the acidity, the higher the quality. The highest-quality olive oil has an acidity of around 0.3, so keep that in mind. There are also a variety of products made with olive oil, including cosmetics, soaps, and interior decorations, so take a look. Natural Honey: Honey with the Flavor of the Sea I'd also like to recommend natural Greek honey products. Greek honey is recognized worldwide for its quality, thanks to the sea breeze blowing in during the production process, which removes impurities and enhances the flavor. Honey made with herbs like thyme, eucalyptus, and orange blossom is particularly famous and popular with foreign tourists. Traditional Greek Drinks: Ouzo & Metaxa For traditional Greek alcoholic beverages, I recommend Ouzo and Metaxa. Ouzo is a beloved drink, much like soju in Korea, enjoyed by all Greeks. It's made from distilled grape skins, but its distinctive flavor can be divisive, so keep that in mind. Metaxa, a beloved Greek brandy alongside ouzo, is characterized by its smooth finish and captivating aroma. Metaxa is much cheaper at regular Greek supermarkets than at tourist shops, so I highly recommend purchasing it there. Greek Herbs: A Touch of Cooking and Tea The next shopping item I recommend is a variety of Greek herbal products.

Start your Greek journey with a map When preparing for a trip to Greece, it is important to first understand the location and route of each region. Familiarizing yourself with the geography and inland features of Greece through a map will greatly aid in planning your trip. So, let's take a quick look at the various regions of Greece. Greece, the heart of the Mediterranean If you look at the map above, you can see at a glance the Southern Europe and Mediterranean coast where Greece is located. Greece is a peninsula surrounded on three sides by the sea. The Aegean Sea stretches to the right of the inland region, and the Ionian Sea to the left. To the south lies the vast Mediterranean Sea. Across the Aegean Sea lies Turkey, a longtime rival of Greece, and across the Ionian Sea lies Italy, another peninsula nation. This combination has led to many Mediterranean package tours that combine Greece and Turkey, or Greece and Italy. Additionally, the northern inland of Greece borders the Balkan European countries of Albania, North Macedonia, and Bulgaria, so many people plan a route that passes through Greece when traveling to Balkan Europe. Regions of Greece: A Balance of Inland and Islands Greece can be broadly divided into inland and coastal regions. The inland region is further divided into northern, central, and southern regions. The northern region forms a large living area centered around Thessaloniki , Greece's second-largest city and an international port city serving all of Balkan Europe. In the central region, which is mainly agricultural, there are large cities such as Ioannina and Larissa. Finally, the southern inland region includes the capital Athens , and to the west, the Peloponnese peninsula, home to cities such as Sparta and Patras. The Greek Islands: Jewels of the Aegean

Find the Greece itinerary that's right for you We'll recommend practical, customizable itineraries to suit your travel style in Greece. Since Greece's main international airport is located in the capital, Athens, I'll introduce several routes centered around Athens. Referring to the map will help you understand the route better. 2-Night, 3-Day Short Course: Athens Essentials Tour This course is for those who are traveling to another country and stopping over in Greece for a short time, or staying in Greece for a short business trip. We recommend focusing on Athens, the quintessential Greek city. Athens boasts a wealth of ancient ruins and tourist attractions, including the Acropolis, all within easy reach, allowing you to explore a diverse range of destinations with an efficient route. While it's perfectly fine to spend two nights and three days just exploring downtown Athens, if you're feeling a little underwhelmed, why not also visit Cape Sounion, a coastal area about an hour and a half away by bus from Athens? You can add romance to your trip by enjoying the beautiful scenery of the Mediterranean Sea and the fantastic sunset at the Temple of Poseidon. 3-Night, 4-Day Course: A Blend of Athens and Nearby Cities If you have an extra day or so to spare, consider adding Corinth to your itinerary for a three-night, four-day visit to Athens and Cape Sounion. Corinth is a city where you can simultaneously experience both the rich cultural heritage of ancient Greece and its beautiful natural scenery. In particular, you can enjoy the beautiful canals, and for those who enjoy activities, bungee jumping is a great experience. It's possible to visit from Athens by bus or rental car, making it the perfect place for a three-night, four-day itinerary. 4-Night, 5-Day Course: Capturing History and Breathtaking Scenery This is the 4 nights and 5 days itinerary that is most commonly chosen in Greece. If you still feel like you haven't seen all the sights of Athens in a couple of days, we recommend visiting Delphi and Meteora, which are a bit further away but are also must-see destinations in Greece.

Greek Transportation: A Complete Guide to the Complexities of Transportation If you're planning to travel beyond Athens to the countryside or islands of Greece, it's a good idea to learn about trains and boats. This is essential information for those who find rental cars burdensome due to Greece's poor road conditions. Taking the Greek train Greece has a total of 2,500 km of railway lines. It's convenient for traveling from Athens to cities like Thessaloniki and Meteora in northern Greece, and the Peloponnese Peninsula in the southwest. Taking the train also offers the added benefit of leisurely enjoying the beautiful Greek scenery unfolding before your eyes. Personally, I recommend the train over the intercity bus. In Greece, over 80% of the country is mountainous and rugged, so taking a bus often means navigating winding roads. Expecting smooth, tunnel-free roads like in Korea can lead to severe motion sickness, so if you're traveling by train, it's much more convenient. How to book a train The easiest way to book train tickets in Greece is to buy them directly at the train station ticket office. However, if you are planning your trip in advance, we recommend purchasing tickets in advance through the official website of Greek Railways ( https://www.hellenictrain.gr/en ) or mobile app. Please note that purchasing mobile tickets may result in a 10% discount for a limited time. On-site purchases can be difficult, especially during peak season, so booking in advance will allow you to begin your trip with peace of mind. Using a Greek ship If you're planning a trip to the Greek islands, you'll need to take a boat. Greece has several major ports, including Piraeus, Patras, and Igoumenitsa, providing access to various islands. Among them, the port of Piraeus, located on the coast of Athens, is the most commonly used when going to the suburbs of Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete.

Renting a car is not an option, it's a must when traveling to Greece! If you plan to travel to different parts of Greece, renting a car is almost essential. Public transportation in the provinces and islands outside of Athens is poor, making travel difficult. If you have a driver's license, I highly recommend renting a car to explore Greece freely. Rental Car Reservations & Precautions Reserving a rental car in Greece isn't much different from booking one in other European countries. There are numerous companies at the airport, downtown, and around tourist destinations, so you can book directly on site. Alternatively, you can also book in advance on the websites of well-known companies like Hertz and Avis, or through comparison sites. Most staff are fluent in English, so you won't have to worry about communication. However, when renting a car locally, there are often cases where a large deposit is required in advance . This is because theft and damage are common in the area, but don't panic. While it may take some time to get your deposit back due to slow processing, it's definitely yours. If you're still worried, I recommend using a major company like Hertz or Avis rather than a smaller one. International Driving Permits: English License vs. Short-Term International Permit Driving in Greece requires an international driving permit. Since Korea and Greece have an official agreement on the use of English-language driver's licenses, theoretically, you can drive with just an English-language license. However , depending on the size of the local rental car company, English driver's licenses are often not accepted or a one-year short-term international driving permit is often required. Therefore, I strongly recommend obtaining and carrying a one-year short-term international driving permit in addition to your English driver's license just in case. Safety rules to follow when using a rental car When renting a car in Greece, theft and damage are rare. It's especially important to be careful not to leave valuables in plain sight in your car, as this can be dangerous. A Greek friend of mine had an experience where he left his laptop in his car, only to have the window broken and his belongings stolen. When getting out of a rental car, never leave any expensive items or valuables in the car and always take good care of them.

Greek food full of Mediterranean flavors and aromas No matter what anyone says, the best part of any trip abroad is trying the unique local cuisine, right? Let me introduce you to some special dishes you absolutely must try on your trip to Greece. Greek cuisine, brimming with fresh ingredients and Mediterranean flavors, is a perfect fit for Korean palates, making it a delight for everyone. Most Greek restaurants have English menus, so feel free to order from the pictures in addition to the dishes I'm introducing. Horiatiki Salata (Greek Salad) The first dish is ‘Horiatiki Salata’. This traditional Greek salad, found only in Greece, features fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, olives, and feta, a traditional Greek cheese. Made from fresh sheep's milk, feta has a salty yet unique flavor that you won't forget once you taste it. Dip bread in the leftover olive oil after the salad for another delicious treat. This is a menu item that you can easily find at any restaurant, so be sure to try it. Moussaka Moussakas, a representative traditional Greek dish, has a similar appearance to lasagna. Inside the square shape, eggplant, potatoes, and minced meat are tossed in a smooth béchamel sauce, adding a unique texture. The layers of ingredients combine to create a deep, rich flavor. If you're looking to experience a truly authentic Greek home-cooked meal, this dish is highly recommended. Htapodi Psitto (Octopus Dish) Athens is right on the coast, making it easy to enjoy fresh, high-quality seafood. Among them, I confidently recommend the octopus dish called htapodi psitto. This dish features tenderly blanched octopus, grilled again, and seasoned with olive oil and lemon juice. The chewy yet tender texture of the octopus, combined with the subtle smoky aroma, creates a uniquely Korean experience. It's even better when paired with wine or ouzo. Gyros

How to add island excursions to your Athens itinerary For those of you who don't want to give up on a trip to the beautiful islands due to your busy Greek itinerary, we'll introduce you to some nearby islands that you can easily visit on a day trip or overnight stay while you're in Athens. First, check out the map above to see the specific locations of the islands near Athens. These islands, known as the Argosaronik Islands, are accessible by boat from Athens' Piraeus port in less than an hour or two, making them a perfect budget-friendly island getaway . Salamina Island & Aegina Island: History and Romance in One Place Salamis and Aegina, the islands closest to Athens in the Argosaronik Islands, can be reached in about an hour by boat from Piraeus Port. If you're planning a day trip from Athens, we recommend choosing one of these two islands as your destination and exploring at your own pace. The island of Salamis is also the actual setting for the Battle of Salamis, a major victory for ancient Greece against Persia. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in historical travel. On Aegina, you can admire historical sites like ancient temples and Orthodox monasteries, as well as fully experience the unique ambiance of a densely packed Greek village. The island is also home to Greece's most famous pistachio producer, so be sure to sample and shop for them during your visit. They're a fantastic accompaniment to beer! Poros and Agistri Islands: A Local's Getaway Further south from Aegina Island you will find the islands of Poros and Agistri. These two islands, though small in size, are renowned for their clear, beautiful beaches, making them a favorite vacation spot for local Greeks. If you're craving a swim during your short trip to Athens, I highly recommend these two islands. I, too, remember having a blast playing in the water thanks to a local friend's recommendation. Hydra & Spetses: Car-Free Romance Hydra, the southernmost island of the Argosaronik Islands, and its neighboring island of Spetses are also must-sees. While they're relatively far from Athens, don't worry, you can easily get there and back in a day by speedboat.

Athens: Where European History Began The first place we'll introduce in southern Greece is Athens, the capital city and the most visited tourist destination in Greece. In short, Athens is the "flower pot of Europe." Its diverse history is alive and well, with remnants of ancient Athenian ruins, Roman Empire, Byzantine Empire, and Islamic rule. The must-see attraction here is undoubtedly the Acropolis. It houses numerous iconic monuments from the Western world, including the Parthenon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; the Theatre of Dionysus, the birthplace of Western theater; and the Agora, the cradle of democracy. Along with the Acropolis ruins, don't miss the Acropolis Museum, which displays artifacts excavated there, and the National Archaeological Museum of Athens, which is ranked as one of the top ten museums in the world. Cape Sounion: Beautiful Mediterranean Sunsets For those traveling to Athens, I'd like to recommend another nearby destination: Cape Sounion. This coastal area is about an hour and a half by bus from Athens. Many travelers flock here to enjoy the stunning Mediterranean Sea and its breathtaking sunsets. The ancient Temple of Poseidon, built in honor of the sea god Poseidon, along with the sunset scenery, adds an extra special touch. Why not add some romance to your trip by admiring the beautiful sunset at this mystical temple? The Peloponnese: Birthplace of Mythology and the Olympics In southern Greece, I recommend visiting the many tourist attractions of the Peloponnese Peninsula, home to cities like Corinth, Patras, Olympia, and Sparta. Olympia, located inland on the western side of the Peloponnese Peninsula, is a perfect destination for those dreaming of a journey through ancient Greek history, along with Delphi and Athens. Here, at the birthplace of the Olympic Games, you can see the ruins of the temples where the "Olympian Games," held in honor of Zeus, took place.

Must-see destinations and attractions in Greece This is probably the most interesting part for you as you prepare for your trip to Greece. In this chapter, we will focus on the major travel destinations and tourist attractions in the northern and central regions of Greece, so please follow along! Thessaloniki: Greece's second largest city Located in northern Greece, Thessaloniki is the country's second-largest city, alongside the capital, Athens. Befitting its size, Thessaloniki boasts a rich cultural heritage and attractions comparable to Athens. As one of Europe's leading international port cities, Thessaloniki boasts a diverse array of cultural heritage sites and art installations along its beautiful coastline. As seen in the photo, Thessaloniki's iconic landmark, the White Tower, stands near the coastline, offering breathtaking coastal sunsets. The city also boasts well-preserved ancient Roman relics, such as the Arch of Galilee, a rare sight in Greece. This city is considered the most international city in Balkan Europe, frequently hosting a variety of international cultural events. Every year, it hosts Europe's largest international independent film festival and a gourmet food festival, so it's a good idea to check the schedule before your visit and plan your itinerary. Meteora: Monasteries in the Sky Just a short trip south from the northern region where Thessaloniki is located lies Meteora, one of Greece's most iconic tourist destinations. Located in north-central Greece, Meteora is renowned for its rugged cliffs and mystical natural landscapes, seemingly carved by the gods. It's also a mecca for rock climbers and trekking enthusiasts from around the world. This is a representative tourist attraction in Greece, where you can visit several sacred and mysterious 'Christian monasteries' precariously perched on rocky cliffs. Delphi: The center of ancient Greek mythology Following Meteora, the final destination we'll introduce in this chapter is the city of Delphi. Despite its considerable distance from Athens and inconvenient transportation, it remains a popular tourist destination in Greece, attracting countless travelers. Some even call it "Delphi," its ancient Greek name. This place is famous as the home of Apollo, the supreme god in Greek mythology. Here, you can see the Temple of Apollo, the core of the Delphi ruins, and it was also the greatest religious center of ancient Greece, where mystical priestesses granted oracles.

Prepare for your trip to Greece, starting with accommodations! In this chapter, we'll show you how to find accommodation in Greece. Depending on your travel destination and duration, you'll need to consider a variety of accommodation options. Based on my local experience, I'll share some tips for efficiently choosing accommodations in Greece. If you're a long-term traveler, I recommend Airbnb. If you are planning a long-term trip of more than ten days, I recommend using Airbnb. While eating out is expensive in Greece, supermarket groceries are considerably cheaper than in Korea or other European countries. If you enjoy cooking or are curious about Greek ingredients, staying at an Airbnb and shopping at the supermarket is a great way to enjoy a hearty meal. Meats like beef and pork are particularly affordable, allowing you to enjoy a variety of meat dishes to your heart's content. However, Airbnb does have some drawbacks. Since Greece often uses solar power to heat water, you'll need to wait 10 to 20 minutes before showering to make sure the hot water is turned on. Also, in winter, unlike in our country where there are no ondol or boilers, the indoor space can feel quite cold, so it is important to pack plenty of clothes to ensure a good night's sleep. Choosing a Place to Stay in the Heart of Greece In major cities like Athens and Thessaloniki, you'll find a wide variety of accommodation options, from budget-friendly tourist hotels to luxury hotels and Airbnbs with a variety of themes. One thing to note is that currently, Korean guesthouses are only found in Athens, Greece. If you're planning a budget trip, it's a good idea to book accommodations in other cities in advance. One more thing: most city center accommodations, including those in Athens, don't have elevators. Even if they do, they're often old and cramped, so if you have a lot of luggage, I recommend booking a room on the lowest floor possible. Accommodation in the Greek islands and countryside Since the purpose of most trips to island areas is likely to be vacation, I recommend hotels or resort-style accommodations near the beach. While there are inexpensive guesthouses run by locals, you may be disappointed by the poor facilities and environment. If you're looking for a sentimental atmosphere at a reasonable price, Airbnb is the way to go.

Tips for Traveling Safely in Athens Before traveling to Athens, there are some safety-related information you should know. In particular, things like accommodation location and pickpocket prevention are crucial to your overall satisfaction with your trip. Here are some tips for traveling safely in Athens. Location: Avoid Omonia Square! When looking for accommodations in Athens, you'll likely find affordable options close to the Acropolis, home to the Parthenon. However, it's best to avoid accommodations near Omonia Square, as this area has a reputation for being unsafe, even among Greeks. There have actually been cases of people getting into trouble while walking down the street at night, so if you have booked accommodations in this area, it is best to avoid going out after dinner as much as possible. Pickpocketing: Be especially careful in crowded places! Pickpocketing and theft are common in major Greek cities, including Athens. Pickpocketing is particularly prevalent in crowded subways and restaurants and cafes with outdoor seating. On the subway, it's best to carry your bag in front of you and avoid putting your belongings in your pockets. I've personally caught someone reaching into their bag on the subway. The more people there are, the more you need to be aware of your surroundings and be careful. When sitting at an outdoor table, it's best not to leave your phone on the table. Pickpockets often approach you casually, strike up a conversation, or offer you a piece of paper to steal your attention before stealing your phone. Always be cautious if someone approaches you with a friendly air. What to do if you lose your passport If you lose your passport while traveling, don't panic and contact the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Greece immediately. It's also a good idea to save a copy or photo of your passport on your phone in case you lose it. After reporting your lost passport, you can receive a replacement travel document or emergency passport within a day or two for a fee of around $10. Want to know more about essential information for your trip to Athens? How to travel safely in Athens and make your trip more enjoyable 👉 Check out our guidebook for information on recommended attractions and unique local culture! ⬇️⬇️ Athens BEST3 Tour

When is the best time to visit Greece? A comprehensive guide to recommended travel times. Greece's climate is distinctly different between summer and winter. Therefore, it's crucial to enjoy your trip to Greece during the appropriate season. We'll tell you the perfect time to visit, depending on your travel style. High Season in Greece: Romantic Summer Getaways Generally, the best time to visit Greece is from May to October. If you're dreaming of Santorini's crystal-clear seas and white skies, this is the perfect time to visit Greece. Summer in Greece is sweltering with sunshine and temperatures often reaching over 35 degrees Celsius, but the humidity is minimal, so stepping into the shade quickly cools you down. For those who dislike the hot and humid summers of Korea, this is a welcome change. Rain is also rare during this time of year, allowing you to fully enjoy romantic getaways and swimming in the beautiful islands and coastal areas. Summer is actually peak season for travel to Greece, with flights and ships operating at their highest levels, but keep in mind that prices also tend to be higher. One important thing to keep in mind: Greece is extremely dry in summer, leading to frequent forest fires, so be sure to pack essentials like moisturizer and lip balm. Spring and Autumn in Greece: A Leisurely Journey of Knowledge If you're the "knowledge traveler" who prefers a leisurely tour of Greece's historic sites rather than a vacation, we recommend avoiding the peak summer season and visiting between April and June or September and October. During this time, the average temperature hovers around 25 degrees Celsius, making it easy to explore without feeling overwhelmed. While not quite as hot as summer, this is also a time when you can fully experience the uniquely Greek atmosphere of clear, crisp air. With historic sites and museums operating on the same schedule as peak season, it's the perfect time for those looking to explore Greek history and culture at a leisurely pace. Greece's Off-Season: The Unpredictable Winter Meanwhile, Greece's weather in winter can be quite unpredictable. November through March is considered the off-season, and unlike summer, it's often rainy and cloudy. Expecting beautiful scenery can be challenging. As a travel destination, Greece in winter presents a distinctly different experience than in summer. During the off-season, the operating hours of archaeological sites, museums, and public spaces are reduced, so be sure to check the website of each destination before visiting. Furthermore, flights and boats are also drastically reduced, which can cause various inconveniences, so careful consideration is advised when planning your trip. Greece Travel: Final Tips for Perfect Planning!