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Exploring Greece from the UK: An In-Depth Travel Guide

Planning to explore Greece from the UK? You're about to embark on an unforgettable journey. Greece, a land steeped in history, blessed with breathtaking landscapes, and brimming with mouthwatering cuisine, has something for every traveller. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a food lover, or a beach bum, Greece is a destination that will exceed your expectations.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into everything you need to know about exploring Greece from the UK. We'll discuss the best airports to fly into, how to hire a car, and some less known places that are worth visiting. Whether it's your first time travelling to Greece or you're a seasoned traveller, this guide will provide you with valuable insights to enhance your travel experience.

Table of Contents

Flights from the UK to Greece

When planning your Greek adventure, the first thing you'll need to consider is your flight. There are numerous airports in the UK that offer flights to Greece, making it easy to find a flight that suits your schedule and budget.

Some of the major UK airports that offer flights to Greece include London Heathrow, London Gatwick, Manchester Airport, and Birmingham Airport. These airports offer flights to several Greek cities, including Athens, Thessaloniki, and Heraklion.

When booking your flight, it's important to consider the time of year. The peak tourist season in Greece is during the summer months, from June to August. During this time, flights can be more expensive and airports can be crowded. If you're looking to save money and avoid the crowds, consider travelling during the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October).

Booking Your Flight

When it comes to booking your flight, there are several flight aggregators you can use. One of the best is Flight Plan Book, which offers a wide range of flight deals to suit every budget. Another great option is Kiwi, which allows you to compare prices from different airlines.

Before you book your flight, make sure to check the latest travel advice and entry requirements for travelling to Greece from the UK. This information can be found on the UK government's official website.

Upon Arrival in Greece

Once you've landed in Greece, there are a few things you need to know to ensure a smooth start to your adventure.

Transportation from the Airport

Most airports in Greece offer several transportation options to get you to your hotel or accommodation. These include taxis, buses, and private transfers. If you prefer a hassle-free and comfortable ride to your accommodation, consider booking a private transfer through GetTransfer.

Connectivity

Staying connected while travelling in Greece is important, especially if you need to access maps, travel apps, or stay in touch with family and friends back home. For seamless connectivity, consider getting an eSIM from Maya or Airalo.

Money Exchange

The currency in Greece is the Euro (€). It's advisable to have some local currency on hand for small expenses like tips or local markets. You can exchange your money at the airport, local banks, or currency exchange offices. Remember, it's always a good idea to compare rates before exchanging your money.

Car Hire in Greece

Once you've settled in, you might want to consider hiring a car. Having your own vehicle gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace and visit places that are off the beaten path.

There are several car hire companies in Greece, including international brands like Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise, as well as local companies. When choosing a car hire company, consider factors like price, vehicle selection, customer service, and rental terms and conditions.

Booking Your Car Hire

If you're looking to hire a car in Greece, we recommend using Discover Cars or Economy Bookings. These platforms allow you to compare prices from different car hire companies, ensuring you get the best deal.

Driving in Greece: Tips and Advice

Driving in Greece can be an exciting experience, but it's important to be aware of the local driving rules and conditions to ensure a safe journey.

In Greece, you drive on the right-hand side of the road, and seat belts are mandatory for all passengers. Also, be aware that some roads in Greece, especially in rural areas, can be narrow and winding. Always drive with caution and respect the local traffic laws.

Here are some additional tips for driving in Greece:

  • Always carry your driving license, car hire documents, and insurance papers with you.
  • Be aware of the speed limits. In general, the speed limit in urban areas is 50 km/h, outside urban areas it's 90 km/h, and on motorways it's 120 km/h.
  • Be careful when driving in the mountains. Roads can be steep and winding, and weather conditions can change quickly.
  • Always park in designated parking areas. Illegal parking can result in fines or your car being towed.

Less Known Places to Visit in Greece

While Greece is famous for its iconic landmarks like the Acropolis in Athens and the white-washed buildings of Santorini, there are many less known places that are worth visiting. These hidden gems offer a unique glimpse into Greek culture and history, away from the tourist crowds.

Ikaria

One such place is the island of Ikaria, located in the Aegean Sea. Known as the island where people forget to die, Ikaria is famous for its relaxed lifestyle, beautiful beaches, and longevity of its residents. Here, you can enjoy traditional Greek food, take part in local festivals, and learn about the secrets of a long and healthy life.

Epirus

Another less known place to visit in Greece is the region of Epirus. Located in the northwest of the country, Epirus is home to the stunning Vikos Gorge, one of the deepest gorges in the world. The region is also known for its traditional stone villages, ancient ruins, and delicious local cuisine.

Delphi

For those interested in history, the archaeological site of Delphi is a must-visit. Known as the 'navel of the world' in ancient times, Delphi was considered the centre of the earth and the universe. Today, you can explore the ancient ruins, including the Temple of Apollo, the ancient theatre, and the stadium.

These are just a few examples of the less known places to visit in Greece. There are many more waiting to be discovered. So, why not hire a car and start exploring?

Greek Cuisine: A Gastronomic Adventure

No trip to Greece would be complete without indulging in its delicious cuisine. Greek food is a feast for the senses, offering a variety of flavours and textures that are sure to delight any food lover.

Some must-try dishes include moussaka (a layered eggplant and meat dish), souvlaki (grilled meat skewers), and spanakopita (spinach pie). And let's not forget about Greek salad, made with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese.

For dessert, you can't go wrong with baklava, a sweet pastry made with layers of filo filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey. Or try loukoumades, small fried dough balls drizzled with honey and sprinkled with cinnamon.

Whether you're dining in a fancy restaurant or a local taverna, Greek food is sure to be a highlight of your trip.

Key Takeaways

Travelling to Greece from the UK is a journey filled with history, culture, and stunning landscapes. Here are some key takeaways from this guide:

  • There are several UK airports that offer flights to Greece, including London Heathrow, London Gatwick, Manchester Airport, and Birmingham Airport.
  • Hiring a car in Greece gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace and visit less known places.
  • Some less known places to visit in Greece include the island of Ikaria, the region of Epirus, and the archaeological site of Delphi.
  • Greek cuisine is a gastronomic adventure, with a variety of delicious dishes to try.

Common Misconceptions

When it comes to travelling to Greece, there are a few common misconceptions that people often have. Here are some of them:

  • Greece is only about beaches and islands: While Greece is famous for its beautiful beaches and islands, there's much more to the country. Greece is rich in history and culture, with numerous archaeological sites, museums, and historical landmarks. It also has a diverse landscape, with mountains, forests, and lakes.
  • Greece is expensive: While some parts of Greece, like Santorini and Mykonos, can be expensive, there are many other places where you can enjoy a budget-friendly holiday. There are plenty of affordable accommodation options, and eating out can be quite cheap if you stick to local tavernas.
  • It's always sunny in Greece: While Greece is known for its sunny weather, it does have a winter season. From December to February, temperatures can drop, and it can even snow in some parts of the country.

Conclusion

Travelling to Greece from the UK is a journey filled with exciting discoveries. From the bustling city of Athens to the tranquil island of Ikaria, Greece offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to all types of travellers.

Whether you're exploring the ancient ruins of Delphi, relaxing on the beaches of Ikaria, or driving through the stunning landscapes of Epirus, Greece is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories. So why wait? Start planning your Greek adventure today!

Remember, at Flight Plan Book, we're here to help you every step of the way. From finding the best flight deals to providing useful travel tips, we're committed to making your journey as enjoyable and stress-free as possible. Safe travels!

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