First time travellers to Greece can experience the rich & wonderful history this European country has to offer. With truly breathtaking scenery, delicious cuisines and friendly locals, this is a destination you do not want to miss out on! But if you have yet to set foot upon Greece’s shores, you may have some questions. To put your mind at rest, we have included the most common questions you may be thinking to help you prepare for your next trip.
General Greek FAQs
What is the currency in Greece?
Euros are the currency used in Greece. If you are visiting Greece, cash is widely preferred to card, so it is a good idea to always have some euros in cash.
What language is spoken in Greece?
Greek is the official language of Greece and is spoken by the majority of the population. The other languages spoken in Greece include Macedonian, Albanian and Turkish. Although you can get by with English too.
What is Greece famous for?
Greece is famous for a lot of things. It is one of the oldest countries in the world and considered Europe’s first advanced civilizations. As a result, Greece is famed for its historical sites, ancient philosophers and wide reaching cultural impact. Greece is also famous for its beautiful islands, such as Santorini with its volcanic beaches and Mykonos with its party atmosphere.
Are credit cards accepted in Greece?
Yes, credit cards are accepted in Greece. Following the financial crisis, Greece made it a legal requirement for all citizens under 65, to own and use credit cards. It’s for this reason that many types of accommodations, restaurants and shops, especially in heavy tourist areas, may offer paying by credit cards as an option. However, it’s always a good idea to carry a few euros in cash, even if it’s just to tip the locals.
If you do not have a credit card, do not panic. Many banks may offer the option of a prepaid travel card. These work in a similar way to a debit or credit card. A good example of one you could look into is The Post Office.
What is the climate like in Greece?
Greece has a Mediterranean climate. Meaning four seasons can be experienced throughout the year. Summers can be dry and hot, whereas the winters can be mild and wet. Deciding what type of holiday to Greece you want to experience, may influence what time of year you go.
Is Greece a kid-friendly destination?
Yes, Greece is a kid-friendly destination. Many choose Greece as their family holiday destination for the warm Mediterranean climate, laid-back lifestyle and holiday accommodation to suit everyone. The only decision to make is which beautiful Greek location to choose!
Can I flush toilet paper in Greece?
No, you can not flush toilet paper down the toilet in Greece. The plumbing system in Greece is not great, due to the small size of the waste pipes. Typically in Greece, the plumbing pipes are half the size in diameter to those found in the UK and USA. When visiting Greece, you may often find bins provided next to the toilet to place the tissue in.
What type of plugs are used in Greece?
Greece has two associated plug types, type C and type F plugs. These plug types are very common across Europe, so you may already have one in your draw if you’ve been abroad before. Type C plugs have two round pins, whereas type F plugs have the two round pins with two earth clips on the side too.
We would recommend that if you have got a European adaptor stored away at home, but is more than a few years old, invest in a new one. We found that on our latest trip to Europe, the plugs had been updated ever so slightly, so our old adaptors didn’t fit properly. Save yourself the hassle, and invest in new plugs before your trip to Greece.
Food & Drink FAQs
Can you drink Greek tap water?
Tap water is generally safe to drink in Greek locations such as Athens and Thessaloniki. However, it is best to buy bottled water instead of drinking tap water when visiting Greece.
What food is popular in Greece?
Popular food in Greece includes:
- Baked Moussaka
- Grilled meat
- Fresh fish
- Olives and olive oil
- Tzatziki
- Kolokythokeftedes (Courgette balls)
What is traditional Greek cuisine?
Traditional Greek cuisine you must try when visiting the European country include:
- Souvlaki
- Gyros
- Moussaka
- Dolmades
- Baklava
- Greek Salad
All of these authentic Greek dishes can be found within Greece and the Greek islands, including the Sporades Islands.
Be Prepared For Your Greek Holiday with Virtual Wanderlust
We hope to have answered some of the questions you may have been thinking about prior to any travels to Greece. For regular travel inspiration, follow Virtual Wanderlust on Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.