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cubrinj

Active member
It has been so long since it's been my first time in Greece, I didn't know how to answer this. I have a friend who asked.

With so many options, I’m hoping to get some advice on which islands are the best to visit for first-time travelers. My friend is looking for a mix of stunning beaches, charming villages, historical sites, and that classic Greek island vibe.

I was debating whether to tell her some main ones like Mykonos or Santorini or take her off the beaten path? Or do a bit of both? She has about two weeks to travel.
 
I suggest Naxos for beautiful beaches and day trips.
 
It has been so long since it's been my first time in Greece, I didn't know how to answer this. I have a friend who asked.

With so many options, I’m hoping to get some advice on which islands are the best to visit for first-time travelers. My friend is looking for a mix of stunning beaches, charming villages, historical sites, and that classic Greek island vibe.

I was debating whether to tell her some main ones like Mykonos or Santorini or take her off the beaten path? Or do a bit of both? She has about two weeks to travel.
Syros,the capital of Cyclades and Tinos just opposite, half an hour boat ride, Naxos as suggested,of course Mykonos for the beaches where I lived has stunning beaches, you haven't said when you are travelling?.... Mykonos will be winding down for the season in the coming weeks beginning now!
 
For a first-time trip to Greece, I’d suggest a mix of both popular and off-the-beaten-path islands to give your friend a well-rounded experience! Starting with the classics, Santorini and Mykonos are great choices—Santorini offers iconic sunsets, stunning caldera views, and rich history with sites like Akrotiri, while Mykonos combines beautiful beaches with vibrant nightlife and charming Cycladic architecture.

To balance the trip, consider adding Naxos or Paros for a more relaxed vibe. Naxos has amazing beaches, picturesque villages, and ancient sites like the Temple of Apollo, without the heavy crowds. Paros offers a similar charm with its lovely old town and quieter beaches, plus it’s easy to island-hop from there.

Another great option is Crete, which offers everything from ancient ruins like Knossos to breathtaking beaches like Elafonissi.
 

Advice for Creating a Greek Itinerary?

I’m planning a 3-week trip to Greece and could use some advice on building the perfect itinerary. I know I definitely want to visit Kefalonia and Athens, but I’m torn about where else to go for my third destination. Should I add another island like Santorini, Crete, or Corfu, or stick to the mainland and explore somewhere like Delphi or Meteora?

I’d love to hear your thoughts on how to balance the time between these spots. How many days should I spend in each place? Are there any must-see attractions or experiences I shouldn’t miss?

Also, any tips on transportation would be really helpful! Should I rely on ferries, flights, or a rental car?

I want to soak in the culture, enjoy amazing food, and see both historic sites and natural beauty. Thanks in advance for your recommendations!

Tips for Visiting the Dodecanese Islands

Hi everyone! I’m planning a trip to the Dodecanese Islands and could use some advice on which islands to prioritize. There are so many to choose from—Rhodes, Kos, Symi, Patmos, Karpathos, Astypalaia, and more—but I won’t have time to see them all.

I love a mix of history, beautiful beaches, authentic Greek food, and charming villages. I’d love to visit at least one island with a lively atmosphere and another that’s more off-the-beaten-path. If you’ve been, which ones stood out to you the most?

Also, any general tips for visiting the Dodecanese? Is island-hopping easy between them? Are there ferry routes that work well for multiple stops, or would it be better to focus on just 1–2 islands?

Tips for Exploring Mainland Greece by Car?

I’m of Greek descent and have visited Greece many times, but I’ve always stayed in one place or traveled by bus and ferry. This year, I’m thinking of doing something different, renting a car and exploring the mainland! I’d love any tips or advice from those who’ve done it before.

Are the roads easy to navigate? What areas are especially worth driving through—Peloponnese, Zagori, Meteora? I’m hoping to see some smaller villages, mountains, and historical sites I wouldn’t reach otherwise.

Is it better to rent in Athens and drive out, or start from a smaller city? How’s parking in towns? I’m also a little nervous about signage and rural driving.

Would really appreciate any recommendations on routes, stops, or driving tips in general. I want this trip to feel both adventurous but I don't want to feel stressed. I heard driving in Greece could be stressful.

Exploring Mycenae as a Day Trip from Athens?

I’m planning my next trip to Greece and am trying to work out my itinerary. I’d love to visit Mycenae, as I’ve always been fascinated by ancient Greek history and the stories of Agamemnon.

I’m currently thinking of making it a day trip from Athens—does this make sense, or is it better to stay closer? I’m also planning to spend time in Monemvasia again (it’s one of my favorite spots!). Would it be practical to fit Mycenae into this trip as a stopover on my way to or from Monemvasia?

I’ll have a rental car, so I’m flexible, but I don’t want to feel rushed or miss out on fully exploring Mycenae. Any tips would be great!

Getting Money from ATMs in Greece?

I have a friend who just came back from Greece and she told me she had issues using the ATM machines.

I have never had a problem, but I am curious as to what is going on.

Does anyone know why her ATM card, which works int he US, might not have worked in Greece? It is making me wonder if I need to also do something with my bank before I go to Greece again.

She said the machine kept giving her an error that said it wouldn't work because the card wasn't hooked up to a savings account?
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