Greece
ABOUT THE COUNTRY
Greece is one of the most beautiful and interesting countries in Europe. It is located in the southern part of the continent on the Balkan Peninsula and is washed by four seas. This location determines both the mild climate and the mentality of the Greeks. As well as the peculiarities of its culture and a rich selection attractions.
CLIMATE
In Mediterranean Greece, summers are hot and dry, and the number of sunny days a year exceeds 300. The hottest period lasts from mid-July to mid-August, so lovers of relaxation at moderate temperatures are better off relaxing here in May, June, September and October – in Crete and Rhodes . The islands are always hotter than in Northern Greece. Athens has approximately the same average temperature as the islands, but the latter have a milder climate and the heat is easier to bear.
At the beginning and end of summer, it can be cool at night due to the constantly blowing breeze. The holiday season on the islands starts earlier and lasts from April to October. In Northern Greece, the season runs from May to September.
VISA
Greece is one of the countries that have signed the Schengen Agreement, which means that by issuing one multiple-entry visa, you can visit several countries of this union at once. But in addition to this, in order to enter the territory of the country of ancient myths, you can apply for a short-term and one-time permit, which will be valid only for one trip.
CURRENCY
The national currency of Greece since 2002 is the euro (EUR). Drinking currency in Greece is not a problem. There are enough exchange points in tourist cities, but get ready to lose some of the amount on commission and exchange rates. If you still decide to buy currency in Greece, it is better to do it at the bank on a weekday – everything is closed on weekends. You can pay with a bank card in Greece almost everywhere – civilization has reached even small resort villages. Mastercard and Visa cards are accepted, but you should not forget about “paper money”. Tourists note that in many souvenir shops there is a cashless payment. True, often the seller agrees to throw off a couple of euros if you pay in cash.
SIGHTS
- Athenian acropolis
- New Acropolis Museum
- Temple of Hephaestus
- Panathinaikos Stadium
- Temple of Zeus
- Olympic
- Mount Lycabettus
- Temple of Apollo
USEFUL TIPS
- A more or less stable work schedule can only be found at large stores. They open at 8:30-9:00 and work until 19:00-20:00 with a long siesta break.
- Supermarkets are open from Monday to Saturday from 8:00 to 20:00.
- In big cities, you should not carry large amounts of cash with you or withdraw them from an ATM in front of everyone.
- Be careful with taxi drivers. It is better to agree on payment of the fare in advance.
- Greeks love to have fun. Greece is one of those countries where the most holidays and festivals take place. There are just a huge number of bars, restaurants, cafes, taverns and discos.
- You can estimate how much a lunch in a tavern will cost by the price of a Greek cucumber salad, feta cheese, tomatoes and croutons. The cheaper the Greek salad, the more budgetary the entire meal will cost (on average, a salad will cost 7 euros).
