The ultimate guide to traveling in Greece & the islands
Plan every trip with ease: packing, transport, bookings, safety, money & eSIM, food, photography and seasonal tips. Save what you need and let’s go! 🚤
Packing & Gear
Light luggage, windproof (anti-meltemi) clothing & smart gadgets for islands.
🎒 PackingPacking list for the Cyclades (summer)
Meltemi winds, dirt paths & beach days without the weight.
🧳 LuggageCarry-on only: how to make it comfy
Mix-and-match outfits + a travel-size trick for liquids.
🩹 HealthMini travel pharmacy for islands
Sun, bites, motion sickness, what truly helps.
🥾 HikingGear for island trails (Cyclades)
Shoes, daypack, water, GPS, the actually useful bits.
🏖️ BeachBeach-bag essentials (sunscreen & sand-proof)
SPF, after sun & waterproof covers for devices.
📷 GearCamera gear for Greece
Lenses, filters, power banks & salt protection.
Transport
Flights, ferries, local transport & rentals.
⛴️ FerriesGreek ferries for beginners (field-tested)
Routes, deck vs cabin, meltemi & delays.
✈️ FlightsAthens → islands: which airport/flight is best value?
Low-cost vs legacy, baggage & combining with a ferry.
🚕 TransfersTo/from the airport without stress
Pre-book, fixed prices, professional drivers.
🚗 RentCar rental on the islands: all the secrets
Insurance, fuel, roads, parking & fines.
🛵 2 wheelsScooter/ATV/Bicycle: what to watch for
License, helmets, insurance & island tips.
🚌 LocalBuses & taxis on the islands: when they’re convenient
Frequency, tickets, apps & real examples.
Planning & Bookings
Flights, stays, ferry routes & mini itineraries.
🔎 BookingAgoda.com: smart search for flights & hotels
Flexible dates, alerts, reviews & refund policies.
⛴️ FerriesFerryscanner: routes & booking step-by-step
Operator/class, seat selection & cancellations.
🗺️ ItinerariesMini itineraries for islands (3–5 days)
What to see without stress, transport & opening hours.
📱 AppsThe apps I use on every trip
Offline maps, budget, navigation & carriers.
🛥️ ToursDay trips by boat: when they’re worth it
Private vs group, weather, cancellations & what to bring.
🌿 EcoEco-friendly travel: small moves, big impact
Reusables, water, trash & respect.
Safety
Safe travel at sea, on roads and on trails.
🛡️ InsuranceTravel insurance: why it’s worth it on the islands
Health, delays, luggage & what’s covered.
⚠️ Heads upCommon “traps” & how to avoid them
ATMs, tampered taximeters, tickets & “discounts”.
💪 SoloSolo travel in Greece (women): practical tips
Night transport, clothing & safe areas.
🌊 SeaSea safety: currents, rocks, snorkeling
Flags, winds, swimming in bays & mask tips.
☀️ HeatHeatwaves & meltemi: how to adapt your schedule
Best hours, hydration, shade & safe routes.
🛣️ RoadsDriving on the islands: bends, dirt & darkness
Maps, lights, fuel & where to park legally.
Money & Connectivity
Cards, cash, eSIM/roaming & realistic budgets.
💳 PaymentsCards & cash in Greece: what pays off
POS, fees, ATMs, DCC & when you’ll need cash.
📶 eSIMeSIM for Greece: cheap data without roaming
Providers, activation & hotspot for your laptop.
💶 BudgetHow much do the Cyclades cost? (realistic breakdowns)
Transport, accommodation, food, tours & hacks.
🗺️ OfflineOffline maps & Wi-Fi: never run out
Google Maps offline, eSIM, cafés & power banks.
🔌 TechTech packing: chargers, plugs & cables
Type-C, multi-port, salt protection & quick charge.
Food & Etiquette
How to order, where to eat and what’s up with tipping.
🍽️ TavernAt the Greek taverna: ordering & prices
Portions, water/bread, receipt & how to pay right.
🥗 VeganVegetarian/Vegan options on the islands
Classic dishes that are naturally meat-free.
💁 TippingTipping in Greece: what’s considered OK
Examples for coffee/food/driving.
🚰 WaterTap water on the islands? What’s true
Where to refill a bottle and where to buy.
Photography & Content
Beautiful shots without much gear — with smart timing.
✨ LightGolden/Blue hour on the islands — when & where
Times, directions & framing ideas for white villages.
📱 MobilePro-looking photos with just your phone
Focus/Exposure, HDR, RAW & small tweaks.
☁️ BackupBackup on the go: never lose files
Cloud, SSD, cards & a safe nightly routine.
Seasonal & Weather
When to go, what to bring & how to plan.
🌼 SpringSpring on the islands: blooming trails & mild temps
Prices, crowds, what to wear and ideal islands.
☀️ SummerSummer: meltemi, full bookings & best hours
When to book, when to hit the beach, where to avoid crowds.
🍁 AutumnAutumn: warm seas & lower prices
Which dates are “golden” & what to watch for.
❄️ WinterWinter on the islands: slow pace & authentic vibes
What’s open/closed, getting around & where it’s worth it.
Useful Resources (Affiliate)
Price comparison, reviews & flexible options.
Fixed prices, reliable drivers, no stress.
Travel Newsletter
Mini itineraries, tips & hidden beaches — 1–2 emails/month, no spam.