9 Things To Avoid In Greece For A Successful Trip

Greece’s azure waters and ancient ruins draw millions of visitors each year, but your dream Mediterranean getaway can quickly turn frustrating without proper preparation. You’re likely to encounter unexpected challenges when managing Greek customs, transportation systems, and seasonal variations. From overlooking ferry schedules to misunderstanding local etiquette, simple mistakes can impact your experience in this historic destination. Understanding what to avoid before you arrive will help you experience Greece’s authentic charm rather than its tourist traps and common pitfalls.

Key Points

• Visiting popular islands during peak season (July-August) leads to overcrowding, long lines, and doubled accommodation prices.
• Ignoring proper dress codes at religious sites—always cover shoulders and knees when visiting churches or monasteries.
• Relying solely on credit cards as many small businesses, especially on islands, accept cash only.
• Failing to book ferry transportation in advance, particularly during summer when routes frequently sell out.
• Disposing of toilet paper in toilets rather than waste bins, which can cause serious plumbing issues throughout Greece.

Booking Islands Without Checking the Season

While Greece’s islands promise idyllic getaways year-round, booking without researching the season can substantially impact your experience. July and August bring suffocating crowds to popular destinations like Santorini, with accommodation prices surging up to 100% and lengthy waits at attractions becoming the norm.

Greece’s peak season brings crushing crowds and doubled prices, turning dream destinations into tourist nightmares.

Instead, consider the shoulder seasons (April-June or September-October). You’ll enjoy milder temperatures around 77°F—perfect for sightseeing—along with markedly reduced crowds and lower prices. Tourism data confirms these periods as best visiting periods for comfortable exploration and authentic experiences.

The Ionian islands offer warmer seas earlier, while Crete and Rhodes maintain better accessibility throughout the year. When choosing between islands, consider that Crete vs Kefalonia presents different experiences depending on when you visit.

Be aware that smaller islands often have limited ferry schedules and closed businesses during winter months. Many experience reduced airline routes and fewer guided tours outside summer, potentially leaving you with unexpected closures and transportation challenges.

Ignoring Local Cultural Etiquette and Dress Codes

Although Greece charms visitors with its relaxed Mediterranean culture, ignoring local etiquette can quickly mark you as a disrespectful tourist. When visiting churches or monasteries, cover your shoulders and knees – many sites provide wraps if you’re underdressed, refusing them is offensive. Beach attire should remain at the beach. Learning a few basic Greek phrases like “please” and “thank you” shows appreciation for the local culture and can positively influence your interactions with Greeks.

Watch your hand gestures carefully – avoid open-palm gestures and the “OK” sign, which Greeks consider rude. Remember that Greeks nod backward for “no” and slightly forward for “yes.”

In public spaces, dress relatively well, as Greeks take pride in their appearance even for casual outings. Understanding essential sayings will help you navigate everyday situations more smoothly while demonstrating your interest in Greek culture.

When entering small shops, offer a friendly “Yassas” (hello), and keep your voice down in churches. These small courtesies demonstrate respect for Greek customs.

Relying Only on Credit Cards for Payment

Relying solely on credit cards for payment in Greece can leave you stranded in many situations. While cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, cash remains king for small transactions, family-run tavernas, street vendors, and rural markets.

Daily ATM withdrawal limits, foreign transaction fees, and occasional card surcharges under €10 can complicate your finances. Cash is often required for tolls, parking, and in remote locations, particularly on islands where payment infrastructure is less reliable. Creating a budget-friendly plan that includes cash for daily expenses will help you avoid unnecessary fees and declined payments.

Debit cards are more commonly accepted than credit cards, with 85% of cards in circulation being debit. Island economies and seasonal businesses sometimes refuse cards altogether, especially during off-peak months. Despite the growing digital payment landscape, Greece has seen a significant transaction volume trend from 2000 to 2023, yet cash remains essential for travelers.

Always carry a cash reserve for emergencies, as ATMs might be unavailable when you need them most.

Failing to Plan Island Transportation in Advance

Proper planning for island transportation can make or break your Greek island adventure. During peak season (July-August), ferry routes become overbooked, leaving unprepared travelers stranded or facing premium prices for last-minute bookings.

Plan your Greek island transit early or risk being stranded when peak season ferries fill up.

Don’t assume all islands connect directly—many require multiple transfers through smaller ports. Summer fares can jump 50% above off-season rates, with additional vehicle transport fees ranging from €50-200+ per crossing.

Weather cancellations and mechanical issues occur without warning, and smaller islands often lack nighttime services. The Greek government has implemented the Transport Equivalent Threshold to address the high cost inequality in sea transportation across the islands.

Consider alternatives like subsidized flights, which sometimes cost less than ferries. For travelers prioritizing cultural experiences, Athens’ allure offers a convenient mainland hub for day trips to nearby islands. Remember that older vessels serving remote islands may lack accessibility features, and cargo loading often delays passenger boarding.

Book well ahead and create contingency plans for your island-hopping itinerary.

Throwing Paper in Greek Toilets

When visiting Greece, you’ll quickly discover an essential bathroom etiquette rule that differs from many Western countries: don’t flush toilet paper. Greece’s plumbing system features narrower pipes—about half the size of those in the U.S.—making them prone to clogging when paper is flushed.

Instead, you’ll need to dispose of used toilet paper in the waste bin provided in most bathrooms. Look for signs reminding you of this practice. This tradition dates back to ancient plumbing infrastructure, some dating to 1700 BC at historic sites like the Palace of Knossos. If you’re planning to visit the island of Crete, you’ll encounter this same plumbing limitation throughout this popular destination.

1. Carry tissues – Public restrooms may run out of toilet paper, so it’s wise to have your own supply.
2. Follow local custom – Wrap used paper with clean sheets before disposal.
3. Adapt to facilities – Even in upscale hotels, this rule often applies (though airports and newer establishments might be exceptions).

Photographing Military Areas and Restricted Sites

While bathroom etiquette protects Greek plumbing, photography rules safeguard national security. In Greece, you’ll need special permits to photograph military installations, harbor facilities, border areas, and airports. Don’t assume casual snapshots are exempt—these rules apply to both professional and amateur photographers.

Article 57 of the Greek Civil Code prohibits photographing individuals without consent, and you could face legal consequences for ignoring these restrictions. Be particularly cautious with drones, which require explicit permission and must follow the Hellenic Aviation Service Provider’s guidelines. Monasteries and monks are also subject to special photography rules, with prior approval needed for photographing monastery buildings and a general prohibition on taking pictures of monks.

When visiting archaeological sites, churches, or museums, check if photography permits are needed. If traveling to Crete with family, many family adventures are available that allow for plenty of photography opportunities in non-restricted areas. You’re generally free to photograph outdoor public spaces, but always prioritize common decency and avoid obstructing traffic while capturing those perfect Greek memories.

Traveling Without Learning Basic Greek Phrases

Many travelers underestimate the importance of learning basic Greek phrases before visiting Greece, particularly if they plan to explore beyond major tourist centers. While English is common in tourist areas, you’ll face challenges in rural regions where limited English proficiency can create barriers to authentic experiences and practical necessities.

1. Safety risks increase without knowing emergency phrases – you’ll struggle to describe medical symptoms, understand warnings, or communicate dietary restrictions that could prevent allergic reactions.
2. Financial complications arise when you can’t ask “póso kostízei” (how much), verify prices, or properly negotiate taxi fares, leaving you vulnerable to overcharging.
3. Navigation becomes frustrating without the ability to confirm transport schedules, find hidden landmarks, or ask for directions when signage is inconsistent, especially on islands.
4. Cultural interactions suffer when you miss opportunities to connect with locals through even simple phrases like saying Yassou or Kalimera, which Greeks genuinely appreciate as a sign of respect for their culture. This is especially important when visiting family-friendly destinations where local hospitality often includes interactions with Greek families and their children.

Missing Out on Local Festivals Due to Poor Planning

Beyond language barriers, poor festival planning represents another common mistake among travelers to Greece. You’ll miss remarkable cultural experiences if you don’t research the Greek festival calendar in advance.

Major celebrations like Orthodox Easter in April, Epiphany in January, and Carnival in February-March offer authentic glimpses into Greek traditions.

Don’t overlook regional events like the Patras Carnival or summer’s Athens Epidaurus Festival with performances at historic venues like the Odeon of Herodes Atticus. For island destinations like Corfu, keep in mind that accommodation costs increase significantly during festival periods compared to off-season rates. Always verify festival dates on official websites to avoid disappointment as event schedules can change year to year.

Remember that many businesses close during holidays, particularly Good Friday. Allow sufficient travel time to festival locations, respect appropriate dress codes at religious events, and budget accordingly—accommodations often fill quickly and prices increase during festival periods.

Participating in traditional foods and customs will enhance your culture.

Underestimating Travel Times Between Destinations

Travelers frequently misjudge the time required to navigate Greece’s diverse geography, leading to rushed itineraries and missed opportunities. Greece’s transportation infrastructure demands careful planning, especially when combining islands with mainland destinations. Using a distance calculator tool can help you properly estimate travel times between Greek cities and towns. If Athens is on your itinerary, allocate sufficient time to explore its wealth of historical sites without feeling rushed.

1. Ferry complications: Seasonal schedules affect availability, with winter routes requiring markedly more time. Don’t forget to factor in the 1-2 hours needed to transfer from Athens to Piraeus port before your departure time.
2. Mountain roads slow you down: The Peloponnese and Epirus regions add 30-50% to GPS estimates due to winding mountain passes and limited passing zones on single-lane highways.
3. Public transport gaps: Intercity buses run only 1-3 times daily, and island networks primarily serve coastal areas, leaving inland villages inaccessible without alternative transportation.

The Sum Up

Prepare properly for your perfect Greek getaway by planning prudently. You’ll avoid anxious airport arrivals and ferry frustrations with careful scheduling. Remember respect regarding religious rules and dress decently at designated sites. Don’t dismiss daily details like toilet tissue disposal or cash concerns. Finally, find fantastic festivals and make meaningful memories by mastering minimal Greek. Smart strategies ensure seamless sightseeing and supreme satisfaction throughout your travels.