Greece
Ancient Greece is a country of extraordinary beauty and is one of the best tourist destinations in Europe. The island of Crete is washed by the Ionian Sea, while the Aegean Sea bathes the island of Halkidiki, and other parts are washed by the Mediterranean Sea. The official language is Greek, English is spoken in tourist centers, and in some hotels, Russian is also spoken. The national currency is the euro. It’s recommended to exchange money immediately upon arrival in the country.
Seasonality of Recreation:
The beach season in Greece starts from mid-May and lasts until the end of October. The hottest period falls in July-August, with daytime temperatures around 30 degrees Celsius, and the sea warms up to 25 degrees Celsius. December-January are considered excellent months for skiing resorts.
Visa Regime:
A visa-free regime has been in effect since June 11, 2017. You can stay in EU countries for up to 90 days within 6 months. Documents required include a passport (must be biometric; if not, you need to apply for a visa at the embassy in advance, with a validity of at least 3 months after the date of departure); a return ticket; documents confirming solvency (bank statement, traveler’s checks); insurance (coverage of risks up to 30,000 euros).
Greece receives more tourists than people who live there.
Greece is a highly popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors every year. With an annual tourist arrival figure often exceeding 30 million, Greece frequently hosts more than three times its permanent population, which is approximately 10.4 million. The tourism sector plays a vital role in the Greek economy, making a significant contribution to the gross domestic product (GDP). A substantial portion of the country’s employment and income is derived from tourism, making it an exceptionally important industry for economic stability. And there’s plenty to see!
Greece has 18 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Greece is home to numerous cultural and natural treasures recognized by UNESCO. These sites showcase the rich history, mythology, and biodiversity of the region. Here are a few notable UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Greece:
- Acropolis, Athens: The Acropolis is a symbol of Ancient Greece, containing several monumental structures, among which the Parthenon is the most iconic. Built in the 5th century BCE, it represents the pinnacle of classical Greek architecture and is dedicated to the goddess Athena.
- Meteora: Meteora is a unique complex of monasteries situated on high rock pillars in central Greece. These monasteries, built by monks in the 14th-16th centuries, offer breathtaking panoramic views and provide insight into Byzantine art and monastic life.
- Delphi: Delphi is an archaeological site located on the slopes of Mount Parnassus. In antiquity, it was considered the center of the world and was dedicated to Apollo. The site includes the Temple of Apollo, a theater, and the sanctuary of Athena Pronaia.
- Olympia: Olympia is renowned as the birthplace of the ancient Olympic Games. The archaeological excavations feature the ruins of the sanctuary of Zeus, the Temple of Hera, and the ancient stadium where the Games were held.
- Mount Athos: Mount Athos is a mountain and peninsula in Northern Greece, home to a unique monk community. The area is known for its well-preserved Byzantine monasteries, each contributing to the spiritual and cultural heritage of the region.
- Mistra: Mistra is a fortified medieval town in the Peloponnese, renowned for its Byzantine architecture and frescoes. The site offers insights into the political, cultural, and economic life of the Byzantine Empire.”
