Places to Visit in Greece

Greece has a Mediterranean climate of hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters, with Athens in the Attica region on the country's mainland functioning as the primary international gateway and the jumping-off point for ferries to the islands. Summer (June-August) brings the most reliable weather but also the most intense heat, the highest prices, and the heaviest crowds at both the Acropolis and the more famous islands (Santorini, Mykonos); May, June, September, and early October offer comparable weather with noticeably thinner crowds and lower costs. Greek Orthodox religious calendar dates (particularly Easter, which often falls on a different date from Western Easter) affect opening hours and transport schedules nationwide. Service charge is typically included in restaurant bills, though rounding up or a small additional tip is appreciated; many smaller island businesses operate on cash only.