Greece is home to a multitude of ancient ruins and interesting architecture, including the iconic Parthenon in Athens, a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena, which sits atop the Acropolis and is a symbol of ancient Greek civilization. The ancient …
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Backpacking Greece in 2025
A complete guide for backpacking in Greece with best places to go, best time to visit, what to bring and safety advice.
Visit Greece
Welcome to Greece, a backpacker's haven where ancient history, turquoise waters, and vibrant culture converge. Pros? Dive into mythology at historical sites, island-hop through the Aegean, and savor delectable cuisine on a budget. Greece boasts efficient transportation, making exploration seamless. However, peak tourist seasons can lead to crowds and higher prices. For those craving a blend of history, relaxation, and natural beauty, Greece stands out as an ideal backpacker destination, offering a balance between affordability and an immersive, sun-soaked Mediterranean experience.
Why to go?Why backpacking in Greece
Architecture
Beach life
Greece is great for beach life and snorkeling because it boasts some of the most beautiful and diverse coastlines in the world. The crystal-clear waters of the Aegean and Ionian Seas are perfect for snorkeling, allowing visitors to explore vibrant …
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Food
The food in Greece is so good because it is rooted in a rich culinary history that combines fresh, high-quality ingredients with traditional cooking techniques. Greek cuisine is known for its use of olive oil, fresh herbs, and locally-sourced …
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Scenery
Greece offers a diverse range of stunning sceneries to explore. One of the most iconic and popular destinations is the Greek Islands, with their crystal-clear turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and charming traditional villages. Santorini, with …
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Backpackers
The backpacker scene in Greece is vibrant and diverse. With its stunning landscapes, ancient ruins, and vibrant cities, Greece has become a popular destination for backpackers from all over the world. The country offers a wide range of experiences, …
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Mountains
Mount Olympus is one of the most famous and iconic mountains in Greece, known for its mythological significance as the home of the Greek gods. It offers breathtaking views, challenging hiking trails, and an opportunity to explore the diverse flora …
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People
Greeks are known for their warm and welcoming nature, often inviting guests into their homes with open arms. They take great pride in their hospitality, treating visitors like family and making sure they feel comfortable and well taken care of. …
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Uniqueness
Exploring Greece is a unique and off the beaten track experience due to its rich history, diverse landscapes, and authentic culture. From the ancient ruins of Athens to the picturesque villages of the Greek islands, there are endless opportunities …
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💡 HighlightsTop-5 things to do in Greece
- Visit the Acropolis in Athens: The Acropolis is an iconic symbol of ancient Greece and home to the famous Parthenon. It offers breathtaking views of Athens and showcases the architectural brilliance of the ancient Greeks.
- Explore the stunning beaches of Santorini: Santorini is known for its unique volcanic landscape and beautiful beaches. The black, red, and white sand beaches provide a picturesque setting for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea.
- Discover the ancient ruins of Delphi: Delphi was considered the center of the world in ancient times and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the ruins of the Temple of Apollo and the ancient theater while taking in the breathtaking mountain views.
- Experience the vibrant nightlife of Mykonos: Mykonos is famous for its lively nightlife and party scene. From beach clubs to bars and clubs in Mykonos Town, this island offers endless opportunities for dancing, socializing, and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
- Cruise the stunning islands of the Ionian Sea: Embark on a cruise and explore the breathtaking islands of the Ionian Sea, such as Corfu, Zakynthos, and Kefalonia. Discover hidden coves, swim in turquoise waters, and soak up the beauty of these picturesque islands.
But Greece offers more...
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Greece
Traveled route: Athens, Acropolis, Piraeus, Aegina, Anitseo, Souvala
🌤️ When to go?Best time to go backpacking Greece
The best time to visit Greece for backpacking is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is pleasant with mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and lower prices compared to the peak summer season. You can explore popular destinations like Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete without the overwhelming tourist crowds. Additionally, you can enjoy hiking, island hopping, and outdoor activities without the scorching heat of summer.
Risk level: low (0%)Safety advice for Greece
- Petty crime and theft are serious issues in tourist areas and on buses and trains. Pickpocketing, bag snatching, and slashing luggage to steal belongings are common. Pay close attention to your belongings.
- Check the local weather conditions before heading to the beach. Only swim at beaches with lifeguards on duty.
- Terrorist attacks have occurred at or near popular tourist areas in central Athens. Always be alert and take official warnings seriously.
- Strikes, protests and demonstrations take place regularly and can turn violent. Rioting can break out with little warning. Violent clashes have occurred between supporters of rival football teams. Avoid affected areas, monitor media and follow the advice of local authorities.
source: smartraveller.gov.au
GreeceMy tips to get you on the way!Does Greece sound like your next backpacking destination? Use these steps to get you on the way.
Get inspiration 📚
While guidebooks used to be the backpacker’s holy grail for finding accomodation, nowadays that’s more conveniently accomplished online. However, guidebooks remain an excellent resource for familiarizing oneself with the country, gaining inspiration, and discovering itineraries. I enjoy reading them before my travels and then leaving them behind at home when I embark on my journey.
While guidebooks used to be the backpacker’s holy grail for finding accomodation, nowadays that’s more conveniently accomplished online. However, guidebooks remain an excellent resource for familiarizing oneself with the country, gaining inspiration, and discovering itineraries. I enjoy reading them before my travels and then leaving them behind at home when I embark on my journey.
Prepare your trip ✅
Before embarking on your journey, several essential checks are crucial: passport, visa, vaccinations and insurance. Some countries mandate that your passport remains valid for 3 to 6 months post your return. Additionally, it is important to verify the specific visa requirements for Greece. These differ per country of origin. While you can handle visa arrangements independently, online visa services streamline the process as they know exactly what’s needed for each country. Greece may require certain vaccinations. Make sure to timely check which ones you still need. Lastly, if you don’t have a travel insurance yet, Safety Wing is a good choice as they are tailored for backpackers.
Before embarking on your journey, several essential checks are crucial: passport, visa, vaccinations and insurance. Some countries mandate that your passport remains valid for 3 to 6 months post your return. Additionally, it is important to verify the specific visa requirements for Greece. These differ per country of origin. While you can handle visa arrangements independently, online visa services streamline the process as they know exactly what’s needed for each country. Greece may require certain vaccinations. Make sure to timely check which ones you still need. Lastly, if you don’t have a travel insurance yet, Safety Wing is a good choice as they are tailored for backpackers.
Book your flight ✈️
The flight may be the most expensive part of your trip. Therefore it’s worth spending a bit of time finding the right one. Flight search engines like Skyscanner and Kayak are the best to compare all possible options. A good tip is to be flexible with your exact travel dates. Traveling one or two days earlier/later may save you some bucks. Also booking about three months in advance can help making the best deal for you (though I’m not the best one myself to follow this advice as I tend to decide last-minute). A final tip would be to check airports in neighbouring countries. Not necessarily for cost saving but it can be intriguing to journey into Greece, travel overland to one of its neighbours and fly back home from there.
The flight may be the most expensive part of your trip. Therefore it’s worth spending a bit of time finding the right one. Flight search engines like Skyscanner and Kayak are the best to compare all possible options. A good tip is to be flexible with your exact travel dates. Traveling one or two days earlier/later may save you some bucks. Also booking about three months in advance can help making the best deal for you (though I’m not the best one myself to follow this advice as I tend to decide last-minute). A final tip would be to check airports in neighbouring countries. Not necessarily for cost saving but it can be intriguing to journey into Greece, travel overland to one of its neighbours and fly back home from there.
Book your first night(s) 🛌
Depending on your travel style, you can either plan a detailed day-to-day route and pre-book your accommodations, providing peace of mind, or opt to book them spontaneously, offering greater flexibility to adjust your plan. Personally, I am a big fan of the latter approach, but I always ensure to book the first night(s) in advance.
Depending on your travel style, you can either plan a detailed day-to-day route and pre-book your accommodations, providing peace of mind, or opt to book them spontaneously, offering greater flexibility to adjust your plan. Personally, I am a big fan of the latter approach, but I always ensure to book the first night(s) in advance.
My personal packing list 🎒
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Over the years, I’ve learned the importance of packing minimally. It’s so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you’re headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere.
Money & Documents
Clothing
Electronics
Health
Others
Over the years, I’ve learned the importance of packing minimally. It’s so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you’re headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere.Money & Documents
Clothing
Electronics
Health
Others
Moneybelt
[Amazon]
“Best way to carry your important documents”
Quick dry pant
[Amazon]
“Nothing beats these quick dry and light pants when traveling”
Light rain jacket
[Amazon]
“Hiking in rainy season? These keep you dry”
Thermo underwear
[Amazon]
“Less weight and volume than bulky sweaters or jackets”
Quick dry towel
[Amazon]
“Normal towels get smelly and heavy when traveling”
Power bank
[Amazon]
“Pick a small and light one, with 10.000mAh or more”
Travel adapter
[Amazon]
“Needed as each country has its own electricity plugs”
Number lock
[Amazon]
“No chance of losing your key; handy for lockers in dormitories”
Packing cubes
[Amazon]
“Keep your wet or dirty clothes separate from the rest”
Travel pillow
[Amazon]
“Light and great for flights and long bus journeys”
last page update: 29 September 2024
Help othersDo you like this info about Greece?
Do you like this info about Greece, please share it with a fellow-backpacker. Did you spot a mistake, or you have any tip for improving, please let me know!