Discover Greece
Discover Greece with Mercury Holidays Ireland through our Greece holidays, Greece escorted tours and Greece private tours.
Few journeys are shaped by one attraction alone. In Greece, striking scenery sits alongside local heritage, varied neighbourhoods and regional cooking. Whether your interests lie in Athens' Acropolis or Crete, there are rewarding ways to spend time beyond the usual highlights.
Why visit Greece?
Start with Athens' Acropolis, an important part of the destination’s appeal, then make time for Crete. These contrasting places help explain why visitors can enjoy such varied experiences within one journey.
Other highlights include Rhodes Old Town and Corfu. These places offer contrasting perspectives, from well-known sights to opportunities to appreciate regional landscapes and everyday life.
Culture and character
Culture in Greece is closely connected to ancient heritage, local festivals and island traditions. These influences appear in local celebrations, historic buildings, crafts and the rhythms of ordinary life. Visiting markets, neighbourhood streets and smaller communities can reveal details that are easy to miss when moving quickly between major sights.
Respectful curiosity goes a long way. Taking time to learn about local customs, dress appropriately at religious or historic places where required, and support small businesses can make a visit more rewarding for travellers and hosts alike.
Food and drink
Food offers another way to discover the destination. Look out for moussaka, souvlaki and spanakopita, while exploring how ingredients and recipes change between regions and communities. Local restaurants and markets can be especially useful places to try everyday dishes rather than relying only on familiar international menus.
If you have dietary requirements, check ingredients and preparation methods before ordering. Sampling seasonal produce and local drinks, where suitable, can add another memorable dimension to the trip.
When to visit Greece
The most suitable travel dates depend on your interests and the places you plan to visit. As a general guide, May to June and September to October for milder sightseeing. Weather can differ between coastal, inland, mountain and urban areas, so check conditions for the specific stops on your itinerary rather than relying on one countrywide forecast.
Practical information
Think about the balance between exploring and unwinding, especially if you are combining different regions. Comfortable walking shoes, appropriate sun protection and flexible clothing layers are useful on most itineraries.
Before leaving the UK, check current entry and passport requirements, travel insurance and official travel advice for Greece. Confirm payment arrangements, any recommended vaccinations and how you will get around between the places you wish to visit.
Why visit Greece with Mercury Holidays Ireland?
Whether your ideal holiday focuses on discovery or relaxation, Mercury Holidays Ireland can help you explore the different ways to experience Greece. Compare available itineraries and hotel options, then choose the style of trip that suits your interests and the time you have.
Take a closer look at the available Greece holidays and start planning a journey that reflects what you most want to see.
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Your Greece Questions Answered
Find out more about visiting Greece with the answers to these frequently asked questions.
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Greek cuisine is known for its fresh ingredients, olive oil, and Mediterranean flavours. Popular dishes include moussaka, souvlaki, tzatziki, and fresh seafood. Don’t miss out on Greek salad, spanakopita, and baklava for dessert.
Food in Greece is generally safe to eat. Stick to freshly prepared meals at reputable restaurants or food stalls.
Yes, travel insurance is recommended when visiting Greece. It can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other unexpected events, offering peace of mind during your trip.
Must-see attractions in Greece include the stunning beaches of the Greek Islands, the beautiful town of Santorini, and the charming villages of Crete and Corfu. Explore Athens for its iconic ancient landmarks and vibrant culture, and visit Delphi for its fascinating archaeological sites and historical significance. For lively streets and nightlife, head to Mykonos, or enjoy dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters in Zakynthos.
Yes, it’s respectful to dress modestly when visiting religious sites, such as churches and monasteries. Remove your shoes before entering certain places, and always greet locals with a friendly “Kalimera” (Good morning). Tipping around 5-10% in restaurants is appreciated but not compulsory.
Pack lightweight, breathable clothing for warm days, swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection. Comfortable walking shoes are perfect for exploring ancient sites and villages, and a light jacket for cooler evenings, especially in spring and autumn.
The best time to visit Greece is from May to October when the weather is pleasant and mild, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). This period offers ideal conditions for exploring the beaches, ancient ruins, and charming villages. The summer months can be warmer, perfect for beach holidays, while spring and autumn are great for sightseeing.
Greece is generally considered safe for tourists. Like in any destination, it's important to take standard safety precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and avoiding isolated areas at night.
Greek is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants, making it easy for visitors to communicate.
The currency used in Greece is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas, but it’s recommended to carry some cash for smaller purchases or visits to more rural areas.