How do I get to Greece?
Although there are a number of airports scattered on the mainland and islands, if Greece is your first stop from America, you will likely land at Athens International Airport. There are few direct flights to Athens from the US, but it’s an easy destination serviced by other hubs in the EU. You can expect regional year-round flights from Athens to the islands, many of which also offer seasonal international service from select European cities like London. Keep in mind, though, that it’s far cheaper to fly into an island from Athens than it is to return to the mainland, so consider sailing back to the capital after you’ve had your fill of sunshine and ouzo.
Do I need a visa?
Greece is visa-free for citizens traveling for up to 90 days from the EU and most countries in the Americas. Travelers from the US and Canada need only a passport valid for three months beyond the end of your anticipated trip.
Is Greece a good destination for kids?
Break out the beach toys and mythology books—Greece is a fantastic destination if you’re traveling with little ones. The culture is warm and welcoming, and museums and historic sites offer ample kid-friendly programming. In fact, Greeks are so inclusive of youngsters that it’s not uncommon to see tykes in tavernas at 11 pm.
In addition to a number of aquatic activities and beach fun, there are medieval forts to explore in Corfu and Rhodes, a wonderful Natural History Museum on Crete, and hours of curated exhibits and play in Athens’s many museums and ruins. For some inspiration on the country’s must-see spots, take a look at this article, which includes some kid-friendly ideas like snorkeling, sailing, and learning about the ancient world.
Thinking about a family-focused vacation by the sea? Check out this 8-day adventure-filled trip to Naxos and Paros, filled with spectacular beach time, windsurfing, paddleboarding, and sandcastle-building on the azure of the Aegean.
Will I need to speak Greek?
English is widely spoken by those in the hospitality industry and heavily touristed areas. Since it's part of the standard school curriculum, you'll find that a majority of people under 40 speak it with varying proficiency. Road signs in big cities are typically bilingual, but if you're heading farther afield, it's worth learning the Greek alphabet to help you navigate.
As with traveling anywhere abroad, it’s respectful to learn a few key Greek phrases to connect with locals politely. Parakalo (please) and efharisto (thank you) are always great to start with, and you'll find that Greeks are very enthusiastic when anyone tries to speak the language. A few words can go a long way.
How do I get around in Greece?
While getting around Greece may require some logistics—coordinating your trip with ferry schedules, for example— there are plenty of ways to get around on the mainland, Peloponnese, and the islands thanks to a mix of regional airports, ferries, and buses.
By shuttle service/private transfer
Driving in Greece could be considered an Olympic sport based on the winding mountain and island roads and drivers' laissez-faire attitude toward traffic laws. If you want to let a professional handle things, you could travel around Greece with a shuttle service or private transfer. Some hotels offer shuttle services to the airport and nearby locations, so you can always check with your accommodation to see what options there are. If there are none, you can also book a shuttle service, which is typically a smaller bus or sprinter van that can accommodate up to 15 people. Private transfers are also available around Greece, and you can expect to spend €150-500 depending on the distance.
By ferry
Taking the ferry in Greece is an experience in and of itself, as there's something special and timeless about standing on the deck, observing an island's port as you approach it. While ferries can occasionally operate on Greek time, delayed by weather, strikes, or other factors, they're still a mostly reliable and totally classic way of getting to the islands.
There are different types of ferries, like the car/passenger, which is the largest and slowest. These ones have big decks, ample outdoor (non-reserved) seating, and are much less rough on the water, so they're better suited for those prone to sea sickness. You can also take a high-speed catamaran to a number of islands like Mykonos and Santorini, which will take half or even a third as long as the slower car/passenger ferry. The smallest option is the smaller catamaran like the Superjet, SeaJet2, and Supercat, which doesn't always accommodate cars. It's a fast way to get to the islands but note that it's the roughest ride and the most likely to get canceled because of weather.
Piraeus is the port of Athens, which offers access to Crete and a number of island chains in the Aegean, including the Cyclades, Dodecanese, and Northern Aegean islands. Piraeus is 30-45 minutes from the airport and about 25-35 from the city center and is reachable via taxi or the green line on the Metro. Some islands, like Andros and Tinos, are accessible via the port of Rafina, about 45-60 minutes from Athens' center depending on traffic.
To reach the Ionian islands like Zakynthos, Corfu, and Kefalonia, you'll have to go through Patras, Greece's third-largest city that's a 2.5-hour drive from Athens. You can also get to Corfu from Igoumenitsa, a port in Epirus that's a little over 4.5 hours from Athens. Both Patras and Igoumenitsa connect to Italy as well.
Note that ferries operate on specific routes, servicing particular islands, so you'll have to make sure you can actually get from one island to the other before planning just four days spread out between Crete and Skopelos. If you're looking for more privacy and a tailored trip, you can always charter a sailboat or yacht to island hop.
By plane
There are 26 Greek islands with airports, so if you're pressed for time or want to avoid a long and/or rocky ferry ride, you can fly directly to a number of islands or get there with a connection in Athens or Thessaloniki. Destinations like Crete, Santorini, Rhodes, Mykonos, and Corfu all have airports that receive direct flights from other European cities and the Middle East. The number of flights increases during the summer and while you may not find something direct in the winter or off-season, you can always reach islands with airports via the Athens International Airport.
Athens International Airport has many direct flights with worldwide locations, including cities in the US, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. If you want to fly to an island and there's no direct flight, you likely will connect through Athens.
By car, scooter, or quad
Looking to explore villages off the beaten path on the mainland? If you're not faint of heart, consider renting a car. But be sure to make your reservation before you arrive to ensure you get a 4WD vehicle that's up to the task of tackling daunting and oftentimes unpaved mountain roads, particularly since many car rental companies exclude undercarriage damage from their insurance.
Drivers need to be over 21 years of age, and you'll need a valid license from your home country, as well as an International Driving Permit, which you can procure through automobile clubs like AAA. While in 2021, the requirement for American, British, Australian, and Canadian drivers to carry an IDP was lifted, some car rental companies still require it for insurance reasons, so it's best to check with them beforehand.
If renting a car, be hyper-vigilant, as Greek drivers can have a very loose understanding of what the rules of the road are. Drivers are fond of liberally using the car horn, along with changing lanes without signaling, driving the wrong way on a one-way street, tailgating, and double parking to run an errand while blocking the whole road, so it's best to be alert and be prepared for anything when driving in Greece. It's also a good idea to practice some meditation techniques while driving in Greece.
Alternatively, on the islands, you can also rent a scooter or quad, which is a cheaper and more classic way of getting around. For quads, you just need a driver's license from your home country. The requirements for a scooter can vary, as some rental companies will allow you to rent a small 50 cc scooter with just a driver's license, although most may ask for a motorcycle license for non-EU citizens. EU citizens can get 50 cc mopeds/scooters if your license includes the categories AM, A1, or A, and you can rent a bigger scooter from 200 to 800 cc with an A2 category license. Often, the rental agents use their discretion rather than strictly adhering to these rules, so it's best to check with a company beforehand.
Note that island roads are typically steep, curvy, narrow, and often unpaved, so be sure only to rent a vehicle that you feel comfortable and confident driving.
By public transportation
If you're interested in utilizing public transit on the mainland, stick to buses and avoid the unreliable rail service. Although trains are cheap, they're slow and not as well maintained as other lines in Europe. However, buses are clean, affordable, and connect to a broad network of destinations throughout the country. And thanks to urban refurbishment after the 2004 Summer Olympics, Athens has an accessible, affordable, and modern Metro that will take you to key points of interest like the Acropolis and the port of Piraeus. Don't miss the outstanding archaeological exhibits at stops like Monastiraki and Syntagma, featuring pieces unearthed during the subway's excavation and building process.
How big is Greece?
Greece is around 51,000 square miles, making it slightly smaller than the state of Alabama. The geography is split between the mainland and somewhere between 1,200 and 6,000 islands (depending on how you define an island) in the Ionian and Aegean seas.
Athens is about 300 miles from Thessaloniki, in the north; think an hour flight or roughly five-hour road trip. If you’re heading south to Crete from Athens—about 250 miles—you can also expect an hour plane ride or a 5-8 hour voyage via ferry. Traveling within island chains is easy thanks to ferries, hydrofoils, and catamarans and plethora of regional airports.
How many days should I spend in Greece?
If you’re trying to decide how long of an itinerary to plan, take a look at this great article on how to plan the right vacation length for you. Ideally, you want to plan at least a week in Greece to take in the major ancient sites and spend some time island hopping and soaking up the sun. With so much to do, though, it’s easy to add on another week or two to take in the various island groups, cities and treasures of antiquity.
Is Greece expensive?
While the cost of living in Greece has been increasing, for many foreigners, the prices remain affordable compared to places like the United States or the United Kingdom. It depends on where you go, as you'll find prices in Mykonos or Santorini to be much higher than anywhere else in Greece, particularly during July and August, when prices on these islands can double from their already high points.
For example, on Mykonos, you may find it costs anywhere from €15-€40 per dish, while cocktails can be €20 and beer around €10. You'll find other islands and even cities like Athens to be much more affordable, as you can spend €15-€20 or less per person on a full meal (excluding many restaurants close to the Acropolis). On average, you can expect to spend about €150 per day in Mykonos and €175 in Santorini. Here are some prices you can expect in Greece, not including Mykonos or Santorini:
- Taxi: 80 cents to €1 per kilometer
- Local beer: €3-€5
- Coffee: €2.50-€4.50
- 50 oz (1.5 l) bottled water: €1
What currency is used?
Greece uses the Euro and doesn't accept US dollars.
Are credit cards widely accepted?
Yes, many businesses take credit cards and Apple Pay. However, cash is still often required in Greece, so you may find that while a hotel requests a card to hold a reservation, it will require payment in cash. Just be sure to check on the payment process before you arrive.
Also, be aware that Greece has started to phase out magnetic-strip credit cards in favor of new Chip-and-PIN "Smart Cards." If your magnetic-strip card is rejected, the cashier will manually enter your card number and will need the card's PIN; if you don't know yours offhand, contact your bank a few weeks before you head overseas, as some banks send PINs via snail mail.
Do I need to carry cash?
Cash was once king in Greece, and in many ways, it still is, so we recommend having enough cash to last you one or two days. Greek taxis are still cash only, so be sure to have some on you if you need to hail a cab (and note that when using apps, you have the option to pay in cash). Cabs in Athens' center typically cost no more than €10, so don't try to pay with a €50 bill unless you want to be yelled at by a Greek taxi driver (which some consider a rite of passage).
ATMs are widely available in airports and bigger cities, but small towns and villages may only have one machine, which may or may not accept your debit card. To avoid problems, it's wise to travel with enough cash to get you through 24 hours. Greek ATMs also only accept four-digit PINs; if yours is different, check with your bank to change your number before you depart. Carry a mix of denominations in case people don't have change for large bills.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Is there a tipping culture in Greece?
Unlike some countries with standard tipping practices and rates, Greece has a variety of customs around gratuity. In restaurants, tipping is expected (particularly from tourists); expect to leave at least 5% and as much as 10% if you received great service. Make sure to check the bill, though: some restaurants round up, adding on a service charge, while others may tack on a small "cover charge" for bread and water.
Aim to leave tips for waiters in cash, as it's common for servers not to receive gratuities left on credit card transactions. Tips are also generally expected by taxi drivers, tour guides, and hotel staff: think €1 per bag for porters, €1 per day for housekeepers, and a few Euros for the concierge if you get excellent service.
What will the weather be like?
Depending on the time of year, Greece can swing from chilly winters to scorching hot summers that top 100°F (43°C). When planning your itinerary, plan to avoid stifling August heat waves and look instead at scheduling your vacation in late spring/early summer (mid-April through mid-June) and autumn (September through mid-October) to beat summer's heat and tourist-packed high season. Here's what you can expect weather-wise, depending on when you're traveling to Greece:
- November to March: winter in Greece can be chilly and rainy, but it's relatively mild. You can expect sunny days, and while the water will be cold, you can enjoy a refreshing winter swim. The average temperature on the mainland is 55°F (13°C), but the temperatures drop farther north, like in Thessaloniki and on the islands. Gorges like Samaria are closed at this time due to rainfall, but you can still hike elsewhere and for longer than you would in the extreme summer heat.
- April to May: many find spring to be the most beautiful time in Greece, and for good reason. The weather is ideal, with temperatures ranging from 55°F-77°F (13°C-25°C). It's prime season for outdoor activities as it's warm enough to enjoy a swim (although the water is a little colder than in the summer) but not too hot to interfere with a hike.
- June to October: Greek summer (and autumn) seems to be getting hotter every year, with average temperatures in July and August hitting 96°F (36°C). Days rarely drop below 82°F (27°C), and as the likelihood of heatwaves continues increasing, you'll often find temperatures exceeding 100°F (43°C). The heat gets especially high in cities like Athens, so be prepared to tackle the Acropolis with a lot of sunscreen and water, and make sure that your activities are set for the morning or evening. June and October are milder, as temperatures in June range from around 22°C (72°F) to 28°C (82°F) and reach 64°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C) in October.
What should I pack?
Whether you're planning to explore ancient sites or relax on the beach, come to Greece prepared with some key items in your luggage. If your itinerary is heavy on cobblestone-lined cities and rocky ruins, pack good shoes and breathable clothing. Traveling in winter? Make sure to throw in an umbrella and lightweight raincoat. In warmer months, be sure to include warm-weather essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat, as many islands and archaeological sites lack shade.
If you're heading to the islands, pack some sturdy sandals for strolling around and perhaps some water shoes, particularly if you're heading to the black, volcanic beaches of Santorini.
Do I need to bring an electrical adapter/converter?
As you would for other European destinations, come prepared with a travel adapter and, depending on your appliance, a voltage converter. Greece operates on a 230v standard voltage and 50Hz standard frequency and utilizes Type C "Europlug" and Type F "Schuko" two-round-prong outlets.
What's the Internet like?
The quality of WiFi connection depends on your location, as it can be spotty on some islands and in mountainous regions. You'll find free WiFi throughout the country in public spaces and at cafés and restaurants, but you may struggle to find WiFi in remote places, so we recommend buying a SIM card with data to maintain a reliable WiFi connection.
How do I buy a SIM card?
There are a few ways to get a SIM card in Greece. There are three local providers in Greece: Cosmote, Vodaphone, and Nova, all of which have pre-paid SIM options for international travelers. Cosmote has the widest coverage in Greece. If you have an EU SIM already, you don't need to get a Greek one since there aren't roaming charges.
The most convenient option is to order a pre-paid eSIM from any of the Greek providers online to ensure you have it ready to go when you land. You'll first have to confirm that your phone is compatible with an eSIM. You can find a list of phones that support eSIMS here, but generally speaking, XR/XS iPhone models, Google Pixel phones released since 2017, and some newer Samsung Galaxy phones have built-in eSIMs.
Whether you use an eSIM or a physical one, you'll have to make sure your phone is unlocked as well. Note that you'll have to provide your passport information if using one of the three Greek phone companies, so if you'd rather not do so or would like to consider other options, you can also check out other providers like:
While SIMs are available to purchase at the Athens International Airport, they're much more expensive than what you can get elsewhere. For example, you may pay around €35 for a SIM at the airport, while you could get the same one for €10-15 at a phone store or local vendor. These vendors, found in Athens, are affiliated with one of the big three providers and are typically found near Metro stations, offering better deals than what you'd get in a store. During the summer, all providers offer unlimited GB package deals for 30-day periods.
What's the time zone for Greece?
Greece's time zone is Eastern European Standard Time (EEST), which is UTC+2:00. The country observes daylight savings, at which point it's UTC+3:00, observed from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October.
Is the water drinkable in Greece?
Tap water is safe to drink on the mainland in larger cities like Athens and Thessaloniki, but stick to bottled water if you're in a smaller town off the beaten track or if you're exploring the islands. Luckily, bottled water is extremely affordable in Greece, with small bottles typically .50 cents and bigger ones €1.
What's the food like?
If you love fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and a varied cuisine, Greek food will not disappoint. Expect briny olives from Kalamata, salty cheeses, fresh seafood, buttery lamb, peppery olive oils, and flaky treats wrapped in impossibly light phyllo dough. Greek cuisine epitomizes the bounty that the Mediterranean has to offer.
Greek breakfast always involves rich coffee and something simple like tiropita (a cheese-filled pastry), yogurt and honey, or fresh bread. Lunch and dinner can be as easy as a pita filled with lamb gyro or souvlaki or can be a drawn-out affair: think an elaborate spread of mezze (hot and cold appetizers, bites and dips), followed by salad, roasted meats or casseroles, and fresh bread. Linger over your meal while you sip anise-flavored ouzo or rakı, a glass of bold local wine, or a regional beer from the blossoming microbrew scene.
In fact, grabbing a bite at a Greek bakery is one of our favorite ways to mingle with locals—read more about Greece's best cultural experiences here.
How easy is it to travel in Greece with dietary restrictions?
The long-lasting image of Greek food may be a juicy gyro or souvlaki, but the cuisine is very vegetarian and vegan-friendly. Long before the term vegan entered into the zeitgeist, Greek grandmothers were cooking up tasty dishes made of only legumes, vegetables, and olive oil. In fact, there's a name for these: ladera, which means "in oil."
As the awareness of veganism has grown, so have the options for dairy-free choices. Many cafés in cities like Athens and Thessaloniki or popular spots like Crete, Mykonos, and Santorini now offer non-dairy milk like almond, soy, or oat. However, it's more difficult to find it at cafés or restaurants in smaller villages or remote places; in fact, don't be surprised if the barista gives you a skeptical or confused look if you ask.
You can usually find non-dairy drinks in the local supermarket or mini-market. The big Greek supermarkets AB Vassilopolous, Kritikos, Galaxias, Sklavenitis, and Lidl all carry a range of vegan products, including cheese and plant-based meats.
What are standard mealtimes/open hours for restaurants?
When planning meal times and restaurant reservations, keep in mind that Greeks eat late. For lunch, this means 2 pm at the earliest; for dinner, crowds start trickling in after 9 pm (and even later once the heat dies down in summer months). Also note that meals, particularly lunch, are a sacred time in Greece. This is the time to connect with others and relax, so meals with Greeks can last hours.
How do I stay safe in Greece?
According to the US State Department, Greece is considered safe and deemed a "Level One" destination, advising travelers to use "normal precautions." In other words, exercise the same level of awareness and savviness you would in any other European nation. Safeguard yourself from pickpockets: don't keep valuables in your back pocket, don't let anyone "help" you at an ATM, and keep your wits about you in busy areas or scooter-heavy thoroughfares.
Do be aware of taxi scams, though. For some trips, particularly from the airport or the port of Piraeus, there are government-mandated fixed prices; however, sneaky drivers might quote you a different rate altogether. If traveling by cab, be sure to use legal yellow taxis, which have functioning meters and lights on their roofs. Beware drivers who say their meters are down, lest you have to shell out an exorbitant fee once you arrive at your destination.
Play it safe by using official taxi queues at the airport or you can use apps like Uber or FreeNow, both of which will call a vetted cab for you. Note that while these apps are available in Athens, they may not be on the islands or in other locations.
Is Greece suitable for LGBTQI+ travelers?
On February 16, 2024, gay marriage was legalized in Greece, making it the first Orthodox country to legalize same-sex marriage. Although this historic milestone marks a huge step for the country, the Orthodox Church's influence continues to be very strong politically, culturally, and socially.
There are safe havens like Mykonos, Crete, and Lesbos, which have attracted queer visitors for years. However, outside of these spaces, you'll find that acceptance can vary, particularly between generations. Many older Greeks may adhere to more conservative values, while younger Greeks may operate with more openness and identify as LGBTQI+ themselves.
You may encounter some issues if you show affection in public, so just be aware of the environment, particularly in smaller or more traditional places like villages. If you're in Athens or one of the popular, tourist-filled islands, people won't really care what you do, so long as you're respectful of the space and don't trash it or act obnoxiously.
Marriage is a focus in Greece, so don't be surprised if a stranger presumes your heterosexuality and asks if you have a husband or wife. But for many, the ingrained value of hospitality may override their feelings, so you'll find it's mostly safe for LGBTQI+ travelers, particularly in cities or bigger towns.
Are solo female travelers safe in Greece?
Solo female travelers will find Greece to be a generally safe and welcoming space, although perhaps you'll get a question or three or a strange look for being on your own. That has more to do with the fact that many Greeks don't travel alone, so it can be seen as odd to do so in a country that's so devoted to family and community.
In 2024, Time Out ranked Greece as the eighth best place in the world for solo females to travel. As with most foreigners and visitors, you'll find that Greek hospitality reigns supreme, and as a solo woman, you'll likely find many people willing to help or go out of their way to take care of you and welcome you in.
Can people of color travel safely in Greece?
While the makeup of Greece has been changing with an influx of immigrants and tourists, it isn't the most diverse country, so your experience will depend on where you go. Popular sites like Mykonos, Santorini, or Paros see thousands of tourists from all over each year; locals won't necessarily bat an eye at seeing a non-Greek person. The population of Athens has changed as well, particularly with the introduction of the digital nomad visa.
However, you may get looks or questions in villages or more off-the-beaten-path locations; typically, this is driven by fascination since an old joke in Greece is that the whole country is just one big xorio or one big village, so when there's someone new in town, people can get quite curious.
Generally speaking, Greece is safe for people of color as many people want to be hospitable and welcome others. Still, you may get some uncomfortable looks, questions, or comments, particularly from older people.
Is Greece accessible for travelers with disabilities?
While some laws for accessibility exist in Greece, the country isn't well-equipped for those with limited mobility overall. Some modern buildings and hotels may have ramps or elevators, but many historic buildings throughout Greece are protected landmarks and can't be updated to include elevators or other accessible features.
You'll often find extremely narrow sidewalks in the cities with uneven surfaces and an array of obstacles blocking the way, such as scooters, bins, poles, and even cars, which makes walking in Greece a full-time sport. Historic centers such as those in Chania, Mykonos, or Heraklion are usually made of narrow alleyways and winding cobblestoned streets, while many archaeological sites like the Acropolis or Delphi are built on hills.
The Acropolis does have elevator access for those in wheelchairs or with limited mobility, and the ancient marble was recently covered with smooth cement to prevent falls and allow more access around the site. If you have mobility needs and are planning to visit particular sites, it's best to research or call the place directly to see what features they have in place.
Are there any etiquette rules for Greece?
Greeks are Mediterranean, and like the bright sunshine, they can be fiery. It's a country of expression, as people may get excited and speak loudly, gesture a lot, and get into a fight with a complete stranger on the street for blocking the way or wronging them in some way. Interpersonal relationships are key in Greece, so you'll find that there isn't much small talk, even with complete strangers or people you meet at shops, restaurants, and so on.
Greeks can be very curious and friendly. They often ask personal questions about your life and extend invitations to a meal or their home, where you'll meet their entire extended family. It's all part of Greek hospitality, and it's genuine too; people really will open up their homes and welcome you in. It's best to bring a gift, like a bottle of wine or a dessert from a bakery. You don't need to arrive right on time, and be prepared for a long meal.
This is part of a bigger theme in Greece: time, which is relative, particularly when it comes to transportation departure times. Trains, boats, buses, and ferries may have a printed schedule but can leave sporadically, which often means an early or delayed departure. Plan on arriving at your port or station early (but not too early!) and maintain a sense of laid-back flexibility in the event your trip is pushed back by an hour or more.
The exception to this rule is in planning air travel within Greece, particularly during the busy summer season. Give yourself a window of at least two hours to make connecting flights, leaving plenty of time to get through long lines and security at the airport.
The loose sense of time applies to personal engagements as well. Don't be surprised if people show up late to a dinner or event; in Greece, 20-30 minutes late is still on time, and rescheduling last minute is acceptable. Be prepared for things to take longer than anticipated, like when you sit down to a meal, it may take 30 minutes to get a glass of water and order. Efficiency doesn't reign supreme in Greece; it's not about getting things done immediately, but rather, taking your time and slowing down.
What's Greek hospitality all about?
Hospitality is a very big thing in Greece. The word for it, philoxenia, means "friend to the stranger," and it dates back to ancient times. If an unknown old woman showed up on your doorstep, it might have been Athena or another goddess in disguise, so your obligation was to warmly welcome her in and offer her a meal, a place to sleep, and anything else, no questions asked, unless you wanted to get punished or ostracized.
Greek hospitality has remained an integral part of the culture and identity. Many restaurants will offer you complimentary dessert along with an aperitif like rakı or ouzo. It's expected that you consume it all, and it can be seen as rude if you don't. If you don't drink or don't want to, it's often easier to say you're on antibiotics, as sobriety isn't yet really recognized in Greece.
New (and old) Greek friends will often insist on paying for your drinks or meal, and if you protest, they'll say that you can treat them whenever they visit your home country. The likelihood of that happening isn't relevant, and while you may insist a bit on paying for or splitting the cost, too much resistance can be seen as rude. You can always offer to treat them next time but know that they probably won't let you.
What should I wear at the beach or historic sites?
For archaeological sites, it's always best to wear comfortable shoes, as these places are often built on hills or uneven surfaces and can require a lot of walking. When visiting a monastery or church, note that there's often a dress code, especially for monasteries. Shoulders must be covered, shorts aren't allowed, and women may be asked to wear long skirts, as even pants may not be okay. In many cases, the monastery provides a wrap and skirt for women.
There are a number of official and unofficial nude beaches in Greece, and toplessness is generally accepted. However, you might get some dirty looks at family-friendly locations or especially posh spots if you take your top off. It's best to read the room when you get to the beach, as you'll quickly be able to see how nude-friendly it is.
What's the deal with Greek plumbing?
Because Greek sewage pipes are small — generally 50 millimeters in diameter — they clog easily with toilet paper. That's why you'll see signs all over Greece requesting that you throw away (rather than flush) your toilet paper. You'll find handy bins to dispose of your toilet paper next to toilets and fear not: bins typically have a lid and are emptied daily.