Birthplace of democracy, philosophy, and the Olympic Games — a country of 6,000 islands, legendary archaeological sites, blindingly white Cycladic villages, and the Mediterranean's finest olive oil.
- Capital
- Athens
- Population
- 10,400,720
- Area
- 131,940 km²
- Languages
- Greek
- Currency
- Euro (€)
- GDP
- $267,348M
Good to know
Driving side
Right
National dish
Fasolada,Moussaka, Souvlaki
Annual visitors
7,406,000 (2020)
Safety
Very low (0.84/100k)
Avg temp
14.3°C
Religion
Christianity
Coast
Coastal
☎ Police 100 · Ambulance 166 · Fire 199
Travel guide
Greece (Greek: Ελλάς Ellás or Ελλάδα Elláda) is a country with a captivating history and culture that has influenced the world for thousands of years. Ancient Greece, home to one of Europe's first urban civilizations, was the origin of Western culture. Travellers from all over the world visit Greece to view its rich cultural past and magnificent natural settings, which include majestic mountains and beaches. Greece offers everything, whether you're a history buff, a sun seeker, or just searching for an amazing trip.
© Wikivoyage (CC BY-SA)
Explore Greece
Best time to visit
June–September is peak island season with hot, dry weather. Athens is best April–May and September–October. December–February is low season but good for historic sites. Easter in Greece is a special cultural experience.
Visa
EU/EEA citizens enter freely. US, UK, Canada, Australia and most nationalities get 90 days Schengen visa-free. Greek islands require the same Schengen allowance.
Highlights
The Acropolis of Athens and its monuments are universal symbols of the classical spirit and civilization and form the greatest architectural and artistic complex bequeathed by Greek Antiquity to the world. In the second half of the fifth century bc, Athens, following the victory against the Persians and the establishment of democracy, took a leading position amongst the other city-states of the ancient world
Public holidays
UNESCO World Heritage Sites (21)
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Major cities
Athens
The birthplace of democracy — the Acropolis, ancient agora, and a vibrant street food scene beneath the Parthenon.
Santorini
The world's most photographed island — iconic blue domes, black sand beaches, volcano views, and epic sunsets.
Mykonos
The glamorous Cycladic island of whitewashed windmills, stylish beach clubs, and one of the Mediterranean's best party scenes.
Crete
Greece's largest island — ancient Minoan palaces, the Samaria Gorge, turquoise lagoons, and excellent olive oil.
Rhodes
The largest Dodecanese island, with a UNESCO medieval old town, Colossus mythology, Lindos Acropolis, and stunning beaches.
Thessaloniki
Greece's northern capital and food capital — Byzantine walls, waterfront promenade, and the best street food in Greece.