Greece gives its visitors an ideal combination of historical sites, breathtaking scenery as well as tasty food. In order to get a glimpse of its beauty, one must leave the path and live in the time and spirit of the locals. Whether it is enjoying family meals at family-owned tavernas to French fries, patronizing a local till the locals, or visiting a smaller village, this guide will make you feel like a local person in Greece and leave memorable outings.
Escape the Crowds: Island Hopping and Mainland Adventures
The most popular islands such as Mykonos and Santorini have a lot to offer however they are costly and busy particularly at the high summer months of July and August. To get a more in-the-street and more fun experience, visit it rather in the shoulder seasons, that is, late spring (May-June) or early autumn (September-October). The crowd and prices are much lower as well as the weather is warm and beautiful during such periods.
Discover Lesser-Known Islands
The Greek islands are also unique and they are over 200. You may venture out there and see some of the hidden excellences instead of what all believe.
Folegandros
Folegandros is commonly known by the title of Santorini without the crowds, and has awe-taking viewpoints on cliffs, a main town (Chora) attractive and a soothing ambiance. It is the most appropriate location to enjoy a romantic vacation and have a lonely rest.
Milos
Milos possesses an impressive theater-like and swan-like coastline that has over 70 distinct beaches so it is a paradise of adventure and beach goers. Or take a boat to visit the caves of the sea at Kleftiko, or have a sleep on white volcanic rocks in the Sarakiniko beach.
Amorgos
Amorgos will be the solution to those who want pure, unadulterated beauty. This island has a reputation of good hiking paths and a stunning Monastery of Hozoviotissa which is constructed into a cliff, which gives one a glimpse of the more traditional Greek lifestyle.
Explore the Richness of the Mainland
It would be a mistake to assume that Greece is something all about its islands. The mainland is a heritage of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Peloponnese Peninsula
This area is reeking with the ancient history. One may also see the cradle of the Olympic Games in Olympia, the grand colosseum of ancient Epidaurus, and the mythical Acropolis of Mycenae. In addition to the archaeological digs there are picturesque towns on the diplomatic seashores such as Nafplio and rugged mountain terrain.
Zagori
Zagori region is found in the Pindus mountains on the northwestern region of Greece; it is also the cradle of stone villages, arched bridges, and the magnificent Vikos Gorge, which is among the deepest of all gorges in the world. It is a heaven of hikers with the trails of every level.
Meteora
Meteora, one of the most spectacular locations in Greece has a complex of Eastern Orthodox monasteries located on top of pillars of rocky pinnings. This UNESCO world heritage is worth visiting due to the mixture of natural marvel and human will.
Eat and Drink Like a Greek
Greek food is so much more than gyros and souvlaki. It’s about fresh, seasonal ingredients and simple preparations that let the flavors shine. To eat like a local, you need to know where to go and what to order.
Find Authentic Tavernas
The best meals are often found in unassuming, family-run tavernas, not in the tourist-heavy restaurants with picture menus. Find areas that are secluded on side streets, and you can hear Greek being spoken. The menu is usually short, and this is a good indicator that the food is prepared on a daily basis. There is no need to hesitate in ordering your waiter to recommend something to you (Ti protinete?).
What to Order
Go out of the box, and have tried a few of their local delicacies:
Mezedes
Mezedes are small meals just like the Spanish tapas. Have a variety to have a taste of it all. Popular are fava (half-death pea puree), kolokithokeftedes (fritters made of zucchini) and grilled octopus (htapodi).
Magirefta
They are slow cooked, stew dishes, which are core of home cooking in Greece. Find daily special, such as moussaka, pastitsio (baked pasta, or stuffed pasta) or gemista (stuffed vegetables).
Embrace the Local Culture
The best aspect of travelling in Greece is to relate to the local culture. Not much pains trying to learn and appreciate their local practices.
Learn a Few Greek Phrases
You don't need to be fluent, but the basic knowledge of some few words will be highly valued.
- Kalimera / Kalispera: Good morning / Good evening
- Yia sas: Hello / Goodbye (formal/plural)
- Yia sou: Hello / Goodbye (informal)
- Efharisto: Thank you
- Parakalo: Please / You're welcome
- Signomi: Excuse me / Sorry
- Logariasmo, parakalo: The bill, please
Adapt to the Greek Pace of Life
Life in Greece, particularly the village life is slower. Afternoon siesta still remains the usual feature as most of the shops have their doors shut between 2 PM to 5 PM. Embrace this rhythm. Spend the afternoons at the beach or sleeping around and have long, free dinners well into the night. Have supplies of patience--because things are attempted to go on Greek time.
Visit a Laiki Agora
A laiki agora, or farmers markets, is one of the most effective places to be transported to the local life. These are colorful markets that take place within various neighborhoods during a particular day of the week. This is the place where you will meet locals buying different types of fresh produce, cheese, honey, or olives. It is a treat to the senses and a wonderful venue to get hold of some nice souvenirs.
Final Thoughts
Traveling Greece like a local means more than avoiding crowds. It is all about acceptance of new things, new lifestyle and the whole country and being in touch with the spirit of the country. Going outside of the tour pack, enjoying the traditional food, and experiencing the local culture will make you discover a new dimension of Greece, full of life, satisfying, and memorable. Fill your luggage, study some Greek, and get ready to have the adventure that would be remembered long enough after you come back to home.
