Greece is a diverse nation that welcomes millions of visitors every year from across the globe with open hands. Similar to every other country, it has its own set of customs and traditions that give Greece a distinct character. An essential part of traveling is acknowledging these differences and respecting the sentiments of the local people. By following the things not to do in Greece, we appreciate the country’s uniqueness and honor the many practices that form a part of its everyday life. At the same time, these are also tips that can help tourists gain insight into the local culture and enjoy a stress-free vacation.
Leave Ferry Bookings to the Last Minute
Why risk a perfectly memorable Greek holiday by not preparing for it when you so easily can? Ferries are a popular and convenient mode of transport in Greece. During summers, in particular, they remain high in demand, and last-minute tickets are seldom a possibility.
So, one of the mistakes to avoid in Greece is leaving your ferry booking till the very end. Especially when Ferryscanner makes the entire task simple by offering you an exhaustive list of readily bookable ferry connections. Not only can you book the trips in advance, but you will also receive environmentally-friendly e-tickets that are simpler to manage.
Touch Artifacts
A fascinating aspect of a vacation in Greece is that it allows you to walk through its history. Ancient buildings, century-old remains, and countless artifacts are for all to see and observe on the streets, in courtyards, and in museums.
Visitors must not take this access for granted by touching these remnants. Furthermore, to keep the remains safe, one should also avoid using flash photography wherever mentioned.
Lastly, under no circumstances should you pick or take stones from historical sites, no matter how small or insignificant they seem.
Take Photos of Military Installations
Of the many things not to do in Greece, taking photos of a military installation is definitely one you need to take seriously. This is more so on islands and cities near the borders, but elsewhere as well.
There are typically large signs warning “no photography” at most of these sensitive locations. If in doubt, ask someone rather than taking the risk of getting arrested.
Get Seduced by the Sun
Yes! Taking in the warmth of the sun has many advantages. However, it can also be deceivingly harsh. When holidaying in Greece, try to capture the rays in the early hours of the day or just before sunset. The afternoons are particularly unforgiving.
Many tourists make the mistake of heading out for hikes or to secluded beaches in the afternoon. If unprepared, you are more than likely to get sunburnt.
Therefore, remember to apply copious amounts of sunscreen all over your body before stepping outside. Also, carry plenty of water, wear a cap, and walk under the shade wherever possible.
Eat Branded Fast Food
Greek food is among the biggest highlights of any vacation in Greece. Featuring exotic regional ingredients cooked using age-old techniques, it is every food lover’s dream come true.
A huge mistake to make while in Greece is to choose branded fast food over the local culinary delights. You’ll find that Greek cuisine favors all equally, be it carnivores, vegetarians, vegans, or seafood enthusiasts. Moreover, the freshness of the produce and the health benefits of elements like olive oil make relishing the food a genuine delight.
So, skip your burger and fries and try the sweet baklava, the refreshing dolmadakia (stuffed vine leaves), classic Greek salad, a meaty gyro, the iconic moussaka, the flaky spanakopita, and top it up with a warm cup of ellinikos (Greek coffee).
Throw Paper in the Toilet
Greece reminds us of its antiquatedness through countless visible ruins and monuments found around its city streets and islands.
What tourists sometimes don’t realize is that the country’s hidden sewage system is equally old. Consequently, throwing paper in the toilet will likely clog the pipes, resulting in leakages and overflowing.
Therefore, when in Greece, don’t throw anything in the toilet. Instead, use the wastepaper basket in the bathroom to dispose of any paper waste.
Turn Down an Invite
Don’t be surprised if a casual and random chat with a local in Greece results in an invitation to visit their home. Be prepared for it, especially if you are a traveler who likes to mingle with the residents.
Turning down an invite is rude, as is the case anywhere in the world. Moreover, when you visit, remember to take a gift to show your appreciation.
If invited for lunch or dinner, which is usually the case, avoid eating beforehand, so you can savor the local homemade delicacies.
Be Disrespectful to Greece
Greece is a complex nation that has been through many ups and downs over centuries and the last few decades. Thus, when conversing with locals, one of the things not to do in Greece is disrespect the country.
The residents are very well aware of their nation’s state. They do not need a sermon on politics, religion, or the economy from a foreigner.
Simultaneously, even though Greece is part of Europe, avoid comparing it to other countries. It might not be as up-to-date as some of the more contemporary countries. Still, you will not easily find a nation so rich in history and with as welcoming and friendly people as Greece.
Simply put, Greeks love their traditionality, customs, and laidback untroubled lifestyle.
Haggle for Everything
Most tourists feel it almost obligatory to bargain when shopping for souvenirs in a foreign land. In Greece, you’ll find that most places have fixed-price stickers. As a result, locals don’t usually like it when customers haggle.
Having said that, it is okay to request the shop owner for a discount politely. Instead of saying “I’ll give you €50” for a souvenir priced at €100, you can ask them for the “best possible price.”
Moreover, avoid haggling when buying low-priced items in small quantities. You can, and to some extent, must bargain a little when purchasing expensive or multiple souvenirs.
Drink Tap Water
It can get a little tricky when drinking tap water in Greece. Thanks to proper water treatment facilities, Athens and Thessaloniki are two places where you can drink tap water safely. However, the same is not always true on the islands, where ground and rainwater treatment differ considerably.
Thus, it is best to dodge drinking tap water and stick with bottled water. You can use tap water for cooking, washing, brushing, and boiling purposes.
Eat or Drink in Athens Metro
The pride and joy of Athens, locals love to take care of its metro like a baby. This includes making sure everyone obeys all the guidelines. Well almost! You’ll still see some residents getting into a train before letting those inside step outside.
No eating and no drinking in the metro, though, is the one rule that everyone follows. Athenians are very particular about keeping the trains clean. They do not hesitate to report anyone seen eating on the train. Tourist or not, you will then have to pay a fine. The only exception to the above is drinking water.
Take an Unmetered Taxi
There are two correct, hassle-free methods for using taxi services in Greece.
You can go with a flat pre-fixed fare from one destination to another. This is common when traveling to the port or the airport in Athens. Make sure to ask and agree upon any extras like night-time fees, luggage cost, or fare for waiting.
Alternatively, book a metered taxi and request the driver to turn on the meter. Again, to avoid any miscommunication later, discuss before leaving if there will be any additional charges.
Do the Moutza
Moutza, meaning “to hell with you,” is a Greek insult you do not want to use. It is primarily a hand gesture that includes opening your palm, widening your fingers, and pushing it towards someone’s face. Occasionally, one might slam the back of the hand with their other palm to make a bolder statement.
The moutza can be deceptive because it looks like a high-five to someone unaware. Furthermore, to avoid miscommunication, it is also advisable never to mention the number five using your hand with the palm facing outwards.
Expect to Use Only Credit Cards
Readily accepted across most Greece, credit cards are a convenient payment mode for tourists. You can effortlessly use them at hotels, bigger restaurants, and to pay for ferry tickets.
Still, do not expect every establishment to have a credit card machine. Several mom-and-pop stores, local tavernas, and souvenir shops only accept cash on smaller islands.
It is also wise to take some cash from an ATM before visiting the smaller islands. While they may have an ATM, sometimes it is empty or not working.
Wear Improper Clothes in Church
Greece is quite liberal when it comes to clothing. You can pretty much wear anything you like at most places. There are also topless and nude beaches on many islands.
However, the locals are also very religious and consider their monasteries and churches sacred. Although visitors of all faiths can visit these locations, one of the things not to do in Greece is to wear improper clothes in churches.
Clothing to avoid when visiting a sacred spot include bikinis, even when covered with a kaftan, and men going topless.
Ideally, you can wear a long dress, long shorts, or pants that go down to your knees and a top covering the shoulders. Many tourists carry a scarf that helps hide the head and upper body. A few popular religious sites have shawls and skirts you can borrow to enter the premises.
Forget Your International Driver’s License
Hiring a car, a moped, or an ATV is ideal for discovering the many offbeat locations on any Greek island. Renting on touristic islands is simple, with several local shops offering vehicles at bargain prices. However, your country’s driving permit may or may not be accepted. Thus, remember to bring along your international driver’s license.
Additionally, pre-book your vehicle to avoid last-minute disappointment if visiting Greece during the peak tourist months of July and August. Also, opt for full insurance, especially if you plan to take the vehicle to faraway hidden spots.
Plan To Visit Too Many Islands
Among the things not to do in Greece is try and fit too many destinations in one trip. Every city and island in the country promises distinct adventures and attractions that require and deserve slow exploration.
When planning a weeklong Greek holiday, design an itinerary that includes a maximum of three stops. Moreover, keep it limited to the islands of a particular archipelago, further reducing time spent on travel.
While you are at it, also remember to pack light when venturing out on an island-hopping trip. Some islands are hilly, while hotel rooms can be small, making it challenging to carry or accommodate heavy and oversized luggage.
Disregard the Greek Language
A great way to plunge yourself into a new destination and mingle with its people is to study the fundamentals of the local language. The same is true in Greece, where a little effort in learning commonly used Greek words can go a long way. They are helpful when ordering food, shopping, or casually talking with the residents.
However, it is pertinent to note that English is widely spoken and understood across the country. Therefore, one should not assume that the locals cannot converse in English.
Take Zebra Crossings for Granted
Greek drivers are a little restless and can be all over the place. As a result, one of the things not to do in Greece is take zebra crossings for granted.
Before crossing, you must look on both sides of the road and don’t always expect an approaching vehicle to stop. At the same time, when driving in Greece, do follow the rules.
Skip Greece in the Winters
Greece has an entirely different aura during the winter season. There aren’t any crowds, the beaches are quiet, and the locals are more inviting and eager for a relaxed chat. Moreover, it’s the perfect time for budget travelers as most hotels offer excellent deals on rooms.
You should, nevertheless, come prepared with basic information about the places you plan on visiting. While Athens and the more popular islands are functional, they too have shops and restaurants that close down for the season.
Furthermore, ferry services on specific routes can also be limited. However, Ferryscanner can help you plan an island-hopping trip in the winters, so you can enjoy a holiday without worrying about transportation.