7 Greek Wine Varieties That You Must Try

Wine and wine-making traditions have been integral to Greece’s culture since ancient times. So much so that in Ancient Greece there was even a god of wine, the cheerful Dionysus. The country’s diverse landscape, Mediterranean climate, and glorious sunshine are responsible for some of the best Greek wine varieties. When traveling across Greece, make sure you sip a glass or three of exquisite Greek wine.

1. Assyrtiko

The Assyrtiko grape variety is native to the stunning island of Santorini, as it’s been growing on the island’s unique volcanic soil for centuries on end. That said, Assyrtiko grapes are now widely produced throughout Greece, especially in the Cyclades. Assyrtiko is a very dry white wine with citrus and green fruit hints and it pairs excellently with seafood dishes.

2. Agiorgitiko

The flagship of Greek red wine varieties is Agiorgitiko, the most widely planted red grape in Greece.  With origins in the Peloponnese, and more specifically in Nemea, Agiorgitiko wine is often nicknamed the Blood of Hercules. Legend has it that the Greek hero drank Agiorgitiko wine before killing the vicious Nemean Lion to save the people of Nemea. Agiorgitiko wine is among the best Greek wine varieties. It’s fruity with hints of spices and it pairs wonderfully with meat and cheese. 

3. Xinomavro

Xinomavro is the most important grape variety in Northern Greece and in the city of Naoussa in particular. The red wine produced by Xinomavro grapes is often described as an explosion of aromas, with hints of strawberries, cherries, dried tomatoes, and Mediterranean herbs coming together to create a mouthwatering blend. Xinomavro is best paired with meat dishes and aged cheese.

4. Vidiano

Vidiano is a noble grape variety, indigenous to Crete Island. One of the almost forgotten Greek wine varieties, Vidiano was rediscovered quite recently, in the 1980s. Ever since then, Vidiano grapes produce a high-quality white wine with complex aromas that combine fruity with mineral elements. Vidiano wine pairs superbly with meat-based dishes.

5. Malvasia / Monemvasia

Malvasia is a historic white grape variety that’s commonly used for dessert or fortified wines. Although this variety has its origins in Crete, it owes its name to the fortress town of Monemvasia in the Peloponnese. Back in the Middle Ages, Monemvasia was a major trading center for wine and other goods and Malvasia wine became a favorite product for Venetian merchants to profit from. Malvasia wine is among the most superb dessert Greek wine varieties.

6. Moschofilero

Although pink or purple-skinned, Moschofilero grapes produce what’s probably the most popular white wine in Greece. Grown mostly in the Peloponnese, and more specifically around the area of Mantineia, Moschofilero grapes are responsible for a very aromatic yet crispy and bold wine with touches of spices. The perfect pairing for a glass of Moschofilero wine is either an assortment of delicious appetizers or a plateau of fresh fruit.

7. Aidani or Aidini

Aidani – also spelled Aidini – is one of the oldest white grape varieties. Aidani grapes grow on almost all of the Aegean Sea islands, but primarily in Santorini, Paros, and Naxos. Wines based on Aidani grapes have an elegant floral aroma with hints of jasmine and lemon blossom. Aidani wine pairs magnificently with vegetable-based dishes.

From the mainland’s untouched North to its sunny South to the gorgeous islands, no matter where your trip to Greece takes you, don’t miss the chance to try as many of the local Greek wine varieties as you can to experience the real feeling of Greece; the one that hides in its distinct tastes and mesmerizing aromas.

10 Unique Things to Do in Naxos

The largest island in the Cyclades, Naxos is the ideal destination for anyone dreaming of a quintessentially Greek Island escape. There are countless fantastic things to do in Naxos and we’re happy to share with you our list of the top 10 among them.

1. Enjoy The Sunset at Portara

The ultimate symbol of Naxos, Portara is also the best spot on the island to watch a spectacular sunset. Portara is a splendid marble doorway overlooking the town of Naxos and the Aegean Sea beyond. This doorway is all that remains of the ancient Temple of Apollo. Connected to Naxos Town by a romantic causeway, Portara is a sight for sore eyes any time of day. Yet it’s during the golden hour that Portara is absolutely enchanting.

2. Swim in Crystal Clear Waters

Like most of the Cyclades Islands, Naxos is a hiker’s heaven. That’s why hiking across the island’s stunning countryside is one of the best things to do in Naxos. While hiking along the century-old paths of Naxos, you’ll come across picturesque villages, olive groves, and ancient sites. No wonder why the optimal way to get to know the real Naxos is walking.

3. Go Hiking

Like most of the Cyclades Islands, Naxos is a hiker’s heaven. That’s why hiking across the island’s stunning countryside is one of the best things to do in Naxos. While hiking along the century-old paths of Naxos, you’ll come across picturesque villages, olive groves, and ancient sites. No wonder why the optimal way to get to know the real Naxos is walking.

4. Drink Local Wine

Since ancient times, Naxos has been closely associated with wine-making traditions. Dionysus, the ancient god of wine, was worshipped on the island. Nowadays, Naxos produces superb wine, following traditional methods. There are many wine-making tours and wine tastings on the island to choose from. Indulging in one or three of those is definitely among the most special things to do in Naxos.  

5. Join a Cooking Class

Most of the Greek Islands are famous for their mouthwatering cuisine. Yet Naxos is genuinely a culinary heaven. Fresh produce on the island is of the highest quality. For instance, the island’s potatoes have a reputation for being the best ones in the entire country, and rightfully so.

If there’s one thing that’s better than simply enjoying a delicious meal is to take pride in knowing that you lent a hand in preparing it, too. By joining a cooking class in Naxos, you’ll learn all the secrets of local cooking so that you can recreate these exquisite tastes back home.

6. Learn The Island’s History

Naxos has a rich history that spans many centuries. Apart from Portara, there are quite a few other archaeological sites in Naxos, such as the Temple of Demeter. Thanks to the island’s marble quarries, many masterpieces were created in Naxos, like the Kouros statues that are scattered across various locations on the island, including Apollonas and Melanes.

Moreover, Naxos has many relics that date back to the Middle Ages and narrate the island’s history under Venetian rule.

7. Explore The Mainland Villages

The island of Naxos is home to the most pristine beaches you could ever wish for. Yet it’s worth turning your back on them for just a tiny bit to visit some of the prettiest villages in Greece that dot the island’s mainland.

A scenic drive along the winding roads that lead to the mountains of Naxos will take you to many quaint villages of marble squares and breathtaking views. Among them, Filoti and Halki, the island’s former capital, are not to miss.

8. Try Cheese Making

Naxos has a long cheese-making tradition and the island boasts a couple of PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) cheese types, such as graviera (gruyere) and arseniko. Apart from savoring the various types of local cheese at any given chance, you can also join a cheese-making workshop that will let you in on all the secrets of traditional cheese-making methods.

9. Admire The Ceramics

One of the top things to do in Naxos is to visit a traditional pottery workshop and watch in awe as the skilled craftspeople turn clay into wonders, using nothing but their hands and wild imagination. If you’re lucky, you may even get your own hands dirty and create a little something out of clay to remember Naxos by forever.

10. Visit Mosaic Naxos

Established in 2016, Mosaic Naxos is a brand with a vision to create modern objects, based on Greek patterns and by using Greek materials alone. This initiative has exceeded all expectations, so much so that the brand’s handmade items are among the best things to see in Naxos.

Which of these amazing things to do in Naxos sound more interesting to you? Let us know and we’ll make sure we curate the perfect trip to Naxos for you!

5 Best Places To Visit in Santorini

Oia’s iconic sunset is what draws enchanted visitors from all over the globe to Santorini, this island of wonders in the Aegean Sea. However, Oia isn’t the only place that’s worth a visit in Santorini. There are several other villages and towns on the island, each of which has its unique character. Here’s our curated list of the 5 best places to visit in Santorini and what to expect from each of them.

1.  Oia

Oia is the indisputable queen of Santorini and the most photographed town on the island and this is why it tops our list of the best places to visit in Santorini. A former maritime power, Oia is lined with glorious captains’ homes but it’s the once modest cave dwellings that steal the show. Carved into the rock overlooking the caldera and the deep blue sea for as far as the eye can see, these caves are now turned into 5-star luxury hotels that promise a once-in-a-lifetime experience to anyone seeking an elegant vacation like no other. 

Oia’s sunset is world-renowned and for good reason. Standing at the rim of the cliff to watch the sun dive into the sea before painting the sky into all hues of red, pink and gold isn’t a spectacle that you can enjoy every day. Similarly, Oia is a sight to behold after dark when it’s dimly lit to perfection and as peaceful as can be.

View of Oia city in sunny weather.

2.  Fira

Fira is the vibrant capital of Santorini and the island’s main transport hub. It’s also the ideal place to go shopping in Santorini. The whitewashed town of Fira is abundant in shopping options that range from souvenir shops and designer brand stores to supermarkets and grocery stores where locals do their daily shopping.

Apart from catching breathtaking views of the volcano, Fira is also the perfect place to dig into Santorini’s culture and history as the town is home to two amazing museums: the Museum of Prehistoric Thera and the Archaeological Museum. Furthermore, Fira is one of the best places to visit in Santorini for nightlife. Whether your idea of a night out is sipping cocktails at a sophisticated bar or dancing the night away at a fancy club, Fira is the place to be when the night falls.

Alley in Fira, Santorini

3.  Firostefani

Due to its proximity to Fira, Firostefani is sometimes overlooked as many people think it’s the edge of Fira Town rather than a separate village. Firostefani is one of the smallest and most tranquil villages in Santorini, which makes it a welcome change from the buzzing rhythms and ambiance of neighboring Fira.

Situated just a short walking distance from Fira, Firostefani is famous for its beautiful traditional architecture and the stunning unobstructed views of the caldera and the Aegean Sea it offers. If you’re into nature and architecture, a hike from Fira to Imerovigli – or even Oia – with a stop at gorgeous Firostefani is one of the things you should plan during your Santorini vacation.

Firostefani Village

4.  Imerovigli

With the best panoramic views on the island, it’s no wonder that Imerovigli is regarded as the balcony of Santorini. Built at the highest point of the caldera, this whitewashed dream of a village is perched on the volcanic cliff and it’s home to some of the finest boutique hotels in Santorini.

Imerovigli is one of the best places to visit in Santorini if you’re looking for a romantic getaway in the most idyllic setting. Apart from the gorgeous views of the caldera and the sea, Imerovigli is also adorned by Skaros, an imposing rock where you can wander around the remnants of an old fortress.

Alley in Santorini

5.  Perivolos Beach

Some of the best places to visit in Santorini are those that seem to hang on the dramatic cliff, offering breathtaking views of the volcano and the Aegean Sea beyond. However, Santorini is, above all, a Greek Island, and as such it’s the ideal place to indulge in some quality beach time.

Perivolos Beach is one of the most cosmopolitan seaside resorts in Santorini. With long stretches of black lava sand and deep sparkling waters, it’s the ideal place to enjoy the sea and the sand, without the crowds that frequent other beaches in Santorini. Perivolos Beach is very easy to get to and it’s well-organized, featuring premium facilities that guarantee a seamless beach vacation.

Deciding which villages and towns to add to your Santorini itinerary is a matter of personal preference. It all comes down to what you expect from your Greek Island escape. With this in mind, which of these 5 best places to visit in Santorini would you be more eager to explore?

Perivolos, Fira

Top 5 Family-Friendly Greek Islands

There’s no better way to spend quality time and create precious memories with your loved ones than planning to go on a trip to one of the world’s sunniest countries with them. With its breathtakingly beautiful scenery, unique outdoor activities, top-notch services, and spacious accommodation options, Greece is ideal for families looking to enjoy the most memorable vacation.

There are many family-friendly Greek Islands to choose from. Here’s our selection of the five best among them that are sure to make you dream of your next summer escape in Greece. 

Naxos

Naxos is the largest of the Cyclades Islands and one of the most authentic destinations in Greece. The island is renowned for its mouthwatering local cuisine, ancient history, and natural charms. For families traveling with kids, Naxos offers the opportunity to reconnect with nature, enjoy easy hiking trips, and come close to various species of animals: from kittens roaming around the Old Town’s alleys to friendly sheep, goats, and donkeys in the countryside.

Another exciting way to spend a family day out when in Naxos is to plan an exclusive sailing trip to the Small Cyclades, a cluster of 23 gemlike islands, both inhabited and uninhabited. You will be amazed by their turquoise waters and white sand, while it’s not uncommon to spot a dolphin or two swimming next to your boat!

Crete

Crete is so diverse that it appeals to all ages and travel types and it’s definitely one of the best family-friendly Greek Islands. Without ever losing its quintessentially Greek character, Crete feels like an entirely different world in its own right. The island’s distinct tastes, stunning outdoors, ancient traditions, and special culture render it a fascinating destination for adults and children alike.

For culturally oriented travelers, Elounda in Northeastern Crete is a mandatory stop. It’s there that the long and troubled story of Greece’s former leper colony unfolds, as you gaze at the abandoned islet of Spinalonga just off the coast of Elounda. On the other hand, if you’re in for something a bit more adventurous, don’t miss the chance to explore the traditional villages scattered across the imposing mountains that surround the romantic Old Town of Chania.

Corfu

Undoubtedly one of the best family-friendly Greek Islands, Corfu is the epitome of fun in the sun. Or, to be more precise, fun on the water. There are countless sandy beaches with shallow waters and all the necessary facilities for families to spend amazing moments by the sea without a worry in the world. Furthermore, Corfu boasts some of the best family-friendly hotels in Greece with huge swimming pools and Kids Clubs.

But that’s not all. Corfu is the ideal place to delve into the Greek culture with activities such as olive oil tasting or even pottery workshops, which the kids are sure to love and talk about to their friends back home.

Santorini

Who says that you can’t enjoy the most spectacular island in Greece as a family traveling with kids? Although many of the luxurious hotels built on the edge of the caldera in Santorini are adult-only, that doesn’t mean that the island is made for couples in love and nothing but. Fairytale-like Oia has many excellent family-friendly accommodation options while there are more than one reasons why children would cherish a trip to Santorini.

One of the best memories you can keep from your family vacation in Santorini is a sailing trip around the caldera at sunset. Moreover, there are quite a few lesser-known villages you can explore, such as Pyrgos or Emporio. As for beaches, we can guarantee that the kids will be thrilled to play on Santorini’s colorful sand: black, white, red, you name it. For families interested in history, the archaeological site of Akrotiri and the brand new Lost Atlantis Experience Museum await. 

Mykonos

Like Santorini, Mykonos is not often considered one of the top family-friendly Greek Islands. Yet it should be. Apart from being home to spacious resorts with all the amenities for a comfortable family stay, Mykonos also boasts an abundance of exciting activities for adults and children to enjoy together.

From sailing, cycling, and olive oil tasting to exploring the mysterious uninhabited island of Delos to visiting small farms with animals, families traveling with kids can never be bored in Mykonos. Not to mention that the island features some of the most fabulous beaches in the Aegean Sea. Among them, there are many that are secluded and ideal for families, such as Elia and the sandy wonder that is Agios Sostis.

So, which one of these family-friendly Greek Islands would you like to visit first? Whichever you choose, we’re sure that you’ll enjoy a fantastic vacation that you and your loved ones will remember for life.

Top 7 Off-the-Beaten-Path Greek Islands

With more than 6000 islands scattered across its glistening blue waters, Greece is the ideal destination for a memorable beachside vacation. Some of these islands, such as Santorini, Mykonos, or Crete, are famous all over the world. However, there are many off-the-beaten-path Greek Islands that are definitely worth a visit, too. Here’s a list of our favorite among them.

Tinos

Formerly known and visited solely as the most important site of worship for Orthodox Christians in Greece, Tinos is now being rediscovered for all its other charms. This barren mountainous island in the Cyclades is dotted with traditional villages, sandy beaches, and natural wonders, which include otherworldly rock formations and incredible lunar landscapes.

The wild beauty of Tinos comes in contrast with its artistic heritage, which is best appreciated at the island’s historic marble workshops. Moreover, this off-the-beaten-path Greek Island is ideal for travelers longing for the great outdoors and activities like hiking and wind-surfing.

Amorgos

No words can describe the feelings Amorgos evokes. This stunning island is the epitome of raw beauty and that’s probably what drove director Luc Besson to use Amorgos as the backdrop for his epic 80s movie The Big Blue.

Carved in rock on a steep hill overlooking nothing but the endless blue of the Aegean Sea, the Monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa is probably the island’s ultimate highlight alongside the romantic Old Town, one of the prettiest medieval settlements in Greece.

Patmos

The Island of the Apocalypse; the Jerusalem of the Aegean; whatever way you like to call it, Patmos is a unique island that has managed to preserve its authentic vibes even though it’s considered one of the greatest pilgrimage sites in the Mediterranean. Yes, the island is home to the Cave where John the Revelator wrote The Book of Revelation, but Patmos is so much more than just that.

The Old Town of Patmos is an architectural masterpiece as it winds its way around the imposing Monastery of St John. Moreover, Patmos is abundant in pristine beaches and secret coves and one of the best islands to enjoy a sailing trip in the Dodecanese.

Folegandros

It’s not an overstatement to say that Folegandros is the fairest of all the Cyclades Islands. Its well-preserved Old Town seems to have sprung straight out of a fairy tale or a midsummer night’s dream. Whitewashed and beyond words charming, the walled medieval castle on the edge of the cliff is the ultimate highlight of Folegandros Old Town.

The island is also home to one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the Aegean Sea. The Church of Panagia is built on a hill overlooking the Old Town and the enchanting blue sea for as far as the eye can see.

Spetses

Spetses is one of the loveliest off-the-beaten-path Greek Islands near Athens. Thankfully, the island’s proximity to the busy capital hasn’t altered its character. With grand captains’ mansions and an unparalleled aura of nostalgia and old-fashioned grace, a trip to Spetses feels like a journey back in time.

Combining luxury, art, and a rich history of war heroines and maritime legends, Spetses is an island like no other. The best time to visit the island is September for a chance to attend the incredible Armata Festival and watch the re-enactment of the 1822 Naval Battle of Spetses. 

Anafi

Resting silently in the shadow of nearby Santorini, Anafi is equally beautiful yet altogether different than its famous neighbor. This windswept rock in the heart of the Aegean Sea is the ideal island for those seeking absolute seclusion and unfathomable charm.

Anafi is one of the remotest off-the-beaten-path Greek Islands. Life in its dazzlingly white Old Town seems to go by at an irresistibly slow pace, while the island’s barren scenery promises moments of utter relaxation and a much-needed reconnection with nature.

Serifos

Serifos is often dubbed the Greek Island with 72 untouched beaches. This would be reason enough to visit in its own right. But there’s more. Built on a steep cliff and whitewashed to perfection, the Old Town of Serifos boasts magnificent traditional architecture and a laid-back ambiance that’s hard to put into words.

Moreover, Serifos is hiking heaven. One of the best places to explore on foot is the area where the island’s former mining facilities used to be. Once there, you can wander around and admire transport wagons, rails, a loading bridge, and even a gallery.

So, which of these off-the-beaten-path Greek Islands would you like to visit first? Come to think of it, why choose only one when you can visit all of them during your next trip to Greece? 

Best Honeymoon Destinations in Greece

There’s no better feeling than the sweet anticipation shared by newlyweds across the world who set their hearts on spending a fairytale-like honeymoon in Greece. Yet there’s nothing worse than have this wonderful feeling marred by stressful thoughts on how to plan a Greek honeymoon to the last detail.

To make all these negative thoughts go away and take this burden off your shoulders, we’ve created this ultimate guide of all the things you must keep in mind while planning your dream honeymoon in Greece. Of course, the team of Curated Greece is always here to help you with everything!

Top Places To Add To Your Greek Honeymoon Itinerary

Greece is an incredibly diverse country. Therefore, choosing which places to add to your Greek honeymoon itinerary is no easy task. That said, there are some places in Greece that are ideal for an unforgettable honeymoon, each for different reasons. Let’s find out why!

Athens

With some of the world’s most glorious ancient relics and an inescapably contemporary aura, Athens is a historical and modern city at the same time. Yet Athens can be very romantic, too. One of the best things for newlyweds to do in the Greek capital is to enjoy a candlelit rooftop dinner under the shadow of one of the world’s most recognizable wonders: the Acropolis of Athens. If that’s not a moment to cherish for life, we don’t know what is.

Monemvasia

Monemvasia is a medieval castle town in Southern Peloponnese that provides the perfect setting for people in love to live the movie-like moments they always dreamt of. Dimly lit and mesmerizingly silent outside of the sound of the crashing waves, the Old Town of Monemvasia is almost unbearably romantic with its century-old mansions, cobbled streets, and endless views of the sea.

Santorini

With picturesque architecture lining the edge of dramatic cliffs over an impressive caldera and the most epic sunsets imaginable, Santorini is THE honeymoon destination. Indulging in a once-in-a-lifetime sunset cruise, sipping on exquisite wine grown on the island’s blessed volcanic soul, and swimming in the crystal clear waters of black, red, or white sand beaches are the kind of experiences that will render your Santorini honeymoon truly unique.

Crete

Honeymoons are all about sharing romantic moments with your better half. But some couples just can’t imagine a vacation that doesn’t involve at least a bit of action. If that’s the case, Crete is both adventurous and idyllic. From fantastic hiking opportunities, such as the magnificent Samaria Gorge trail, to the romantic historical cities of Chania and Rethymno to endless sandy beaches adorned with palm trees like Preveli and Vai, or lagoons like Balos and Elafonisi, Crete has it all.

Mykonos

Far from being just the mecca of glamor and celebrity watching, Mykonos is first and foremost the island of top-notch services, luxury, and elegance. In other words, exactly what you need on your Greek honeymoon. Add to this a superb dining scene, epic nightlife, and some of the best beaches in Greece and there you have it: the perfect Mykonos honeymoon that combines romantic moments with beautiful nature and a tiny bit of fun.

Naxos

If you’re looking to add a touch of authentic Greece at its best to your Greek honeymoon itinerary, there’s no better place than Naxos. This stunning Cycladic Island combines all those elements that guarantee the ultimate Greek Island experience: pristine sandy beaches, a jaw-droppingly beautiful Old Town, and the most mouthwatering food, prepared with nothing but fresh local products and love.

Paros

Just a stone’s throw from Naxos, Paros is yet another delightful addition to your Greek honeymoon itinerary. As one of the easiest islands to get around, with beyond words beautiful beaches and excellent services, Paros is ideal for newlyweds looking for a little bit of everything: experience the Greek hospitality, explore at a leisurely pace, and relax in luxury hotels by the sea.

Milos

Quaint Milos is a unique island that seems to have romance written all over it. Boasting rock formations that resemble lunar landscapes and impossibly turquoise waters, Milos is the perfect backdrop for the most memorable trip of your life and the ideal island for newlyweds in search of a quiet yet classy destination to spend their honeymoon.

Best Time To Enjoy a Honeymoon in Greece

The best months to plan your honeymoon in Greece are May, June, and September. During these months, you have all the goodness of summer, such as warm weather to enjoy the outdoors and swim in the sea, but without the crowds and excessive heat that July and August bring.

Choose Your Honeymoon Accommodation Wisely

Greece has no shortage of excellent accommodation options. However, when it comes to planning your honeymoon, you should shoot for the stars. Only the best rooms can add that special touch that will make your honeymoon in Greece stand out from any other vacation you’ve ever taken.

By best hotels, we mean elegant, stylish, and most importantly, one of their kind. For instance, a cave hotel in Santorini with a private pool carved in the volcanic rock or an imposing stone built mansion in Monemvasia dating back to medieval times are among the most dreamy places to stay on your honeymoon.

Let The Experts Curate Your Dream Honeymoon in Greece

No matter the excitement of planning what’s probably the most special trip of your life and even if you’ve more than carefully thought it out, there’s still room for that tiny little thing that can go wrong and ruin it all for you. Is it worth the stress? Definitely not.

If a fully customized yet seamless experience is what you’re after, we’re only an email away. Our expert team will take care of every aspect of your Greek honeymoon; from activities, experiences and accommodation to transfers and everything in between, we’ve got you covered. All you have to do is relax and enjoy as we curate your dream honeymoon in Greece, tailored exactly to your needs and desires! Fill up our quick questionnaire and let’s start curating!

When Can We Travel To Greece Again? (updated 19th Apr 2021)

With summer approaching and after months upon months spent within the confines of our own four walls, when all the travel we’ve done has been to the grocery store or the nearest park, our minds inevitably drift to sunny islands with pristine beaches and laid-back vibes. Our minds drift to Greece. Before too long, there will only be one question lingering in our thoughts: When can we travel to Greece again?

This guide is here to show you how and when it will be possible to travel to Greece again and it will be regularly updated to include all the latest developments regarding travel restrictions to Greece.

The Current Traveling To Greece Situation

Since November 7, 2020, Greece has been in lockdown with measures against the spread of the new coronavirus varying from strict to very strict. International travel may not be altogether banned but non-essential travel within the country isn’t allowed. Therefore, traveling to Greece right now makes little to no sense for many reasons.

First of all, not all international travelers are allowed entry to the country at the moment. Greece is only open to visitors coming from the European Union, the Schengen Countries, UK, Australia, New Zealand, Rwanda, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, United Arab Emirates, Russia, Israel, United States of America and Serbia.

All international arrivals must fill in a Passenger Locator Form at least 24 hours before travel, provide a negative Covid-19 test result, and self-isolate for seven days. The latter means that, if you’re planning to visit Greece for a short trip, you may as well spend the better part of your vacation in your hotel room.

Moreover, traveling to Greece now means that visitors would miss out on experiencing the country’s unique dining scene as all restaurants, bars, and cafés are closed, with only some of them offering take-away and delivery options. Museums, art galleries, cinemas, theatres, and other indoor places of interest are also closed. On the contrary, archaeological sites are open to the public.

Last but not least, wearing a face mask is mandatory in all public areas, both outdoors and indoors.

when-can-we-travel-to-greece-again

When Can We Travel To Greece Again And How?

The good news is that the current travel requirements to enter Greece and the restrictions that are in place once you are in the country won’t be here for much longer. As the Greek government announced, Greece is ready to welcome visitors from all over the world, including the USA, earlier than expected. With a complete protocol planned out for summer 2021, Greece is looking to re-open international tourism on May 14, 2021.

Unlike the 7-day quarantine period that applies today, the Greek government plans to welcome tourists entering Greece after May 14 with no self-isolation requirements. To achieve this, all international travelers will be required to provide documents proving one of the following:

  1. They have been vaccinated.
  2. They have a negative test result.
  3. They have recovered from the disease and, hence, have antibodies.

On top of that, there will be random testing at entry points, such as Athens International Airport.

As of April 19th 2021, only permanent residents of EU+, UK, Australia, New Zealand, Rwanda, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, United Arab Emirates, Russia, Israel, USA and Serbia are exempted from the 7-day quarantine.

This roadmap to the Greek tourism recovery can set a brilliant example for other countries to follow in an effort to restart international travel and support local economies. The details of the grand re-opening procedure are yet to be revealed by the National Public Health Organization and the Greek Civil Protection, so check back with us as we will be updating this guide with new information once they are announced.  

One thing’s for sure: the wait is almost over. The answer to the question When can we travel to Greece again? is no longer wishful thinking. This summer can and will have the scent of Greece. A scent carried by the Aegean Sea breeze, a sweet blend of jasmine, herbs, and freshly baked bread. A scent that will find its way into our souls regardless if we’re wearing face masks or not.

In the meantime, make sure you check out our itineraries and get inspired!

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