Greece holidays

All your questions about entry requirements, visas, passports or health information are answered on our Travel Advice page.

Flights from the UK to Greece take between three and five hours, depending on which airport you fly from.

Greece is two hours ahead of the UK – so when it’s 9am here, it’s 11am there.

The relatively untrodden island of Thassos is your best bet for peace and quiet. Think footprint-free beaches, rustic harbour towns and an inner landscape of olive groves and vineyards.

For optimum tanning conditions, visit Greece between June and September. If you like things a little cooler, April and May are a great time to go, when temperatures hover around the 10-15°C mark.

For Greece, pack lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for warm weather. Bring sun protection essentials like a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen. Don't forget comfortable walking shoes for exploring ancient sites, and a light jacket for cooler evenings. Include swimwear and a beach towel for enjoying the beautiful Greek beaches.

Greece offers diverse shopping experiences. In Athens, explore Ermou Street for international brands and Monastiraki for souvenirs. On islands like Mykonos and Santorini, you'll find charming boutiques selling local crafts and designer items. Many resorts also have shops where you can purchase essentials and Greek products.

When visiting Greece, it's polite to greet with a handshake or kiss on both cheeks among friends. When visiting churches, wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees. Locals often eat dinner late, around 9pm or later. If invited to a home, bringing a small gift like flowers or sweets is appreciated.

Tipping in Greece is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common. For taxis, rounding up to the nearest euro is typical. In hotels, a small tip for housekeeping or porters is welcomed but not expected.

Traditional Greek cuisine can be found in tavernas throughout the country. We recommend trying local dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, and fresh seafood. Many resorts offer Greek nights featuring authentic meals. For a more immersive experience, visit local markets or join a cooking class to learn about Greek ingredients and recipes.

When visiting Greece, you'll need a European-style two-pin plug adapter. Most sockets accept type C and F plugs, which are common throughout Europe. We recommend bringing at least one adapter for your devices, as UK-style plugs are not commonly found in Greek accommodations.

Greece boasts numerous beaches for every taste. We recommend visiting Navagio Beach on Zakynthos for its dramatic cliffs and shipwreck, Elafonisi in Crete for its pink sand, and Myrtos Beach in Kefalonia for its clear waters. Many TUI resorts offer easy access to beaches perfect for relaxation and water activities.

Greece has lively nightlife with beachside bars and nightclubs staying open late, especially in summer months. Head to Athens for rooftop bars with city views and live music venues. Island destinations like Mykonos and Santorini offer cocktail bars and open-air clubs by the sea. Resorts often provide evening entertainment, including traditional Greek nights with music and dance performances.