Is it easy for vegans to travel to Greece?

[seleanor]

I have a vegan friend who is a bit nervous about traveling to Greece. Does anyone know if there are any vegan options, especially in the touristy spots? Thanks

 

[knicks_fan87]

One of my nieces is vegan and she doesn't struggle too much. There are a lot of health food stores in Greece that carry vegan options. Tavernas are a bit more challenging because they have so much meat, but if you ask for lenten food they usually have a few options

 

[Laura48]

I holiday in Greece several times a year (apart from 2020 obviously) and things have come a huge way. I tend to holiday mostly in Pefkos, Rhodes, so will focus on that, there’s places there with specifically vegan dishes, some with whole menus, but I know you can also do well elsewhere on the island.

La Piazza does gorgeous eat in or take away pizza which can be made with Violife cheese and garlic bread with olive oil.

Most places do gemista and pasta arrabiata Or with veg. One of the restaurants (easily findable when you wander the main drag) has a separate menu with vegan stifado and about 4 other choices, everything we tried was delicious. This is a snapshot, but you’ll be able to negotiate something pretty much anywhere in this resort.

The supermarkets generally have dairy-free milk, Vitalite, spinach and potato pasties, Alpro yoghurts and milkshakes, pita breads, hummus, fruit, veg.

In Rhodes Town, my friend runs the veg/vgn restaurant To Marouli whilst also dedicating herself to the rescue and well-being of the island’s stray cat and dog population. Another friend who runs another of the island’s animal welfare charities lives in Lardos and takes us into the hills when we visit, ensuring we get local accidentally vegan tapas dishes, such as local greens and aubergine fritters. Be careful ordering things like dolmades and gemista, these might contain meat if you aren’t clear, but there’s no language issues and most people I’ve encountered know what vegan means.

In Corfu in 2017 we stayed at Paleokastritsa which was very limited in places to eat. However, we dined every night at the gorgeous Gran Aladino and could’ve had a different meal every night if we chose, plus desserts including chocolate avocado mousse with squirty cream! We also had vegan ice creams in Muka Muka, Corfu Town.

I’ve holidayed and survived elsewhere, but these are the main places where we’ve eaten well.

 

[seleanor]

I holiday in Greece several times a year (apart from 2020 obviously) and things have come a huge way. I tend to holiday mostly in Pefkos, Rhodes, so will focus on that, there’s places there with specifically vegan dishes, some with whole menus, but I know you can also do well elsewhere on the island.

La Piazza does gorgeous eat in or take away pizza which can be made with Violife cheese and garlic bread with olive oil.

Most places do gemista and pasta arrabiata Or with veg. One of the restaurants (easily findable when you wander the main drag) has a separate menu with vegan stifado and about 4 other choices, everything we tried was delicious. This is a snapshot, but you’ll be able to negotiate something pretty much anywhere in this resort.

The supermarkets generally have dairy-free milk, Vitalite, spinach and potato pasties, Alpro yoghurts and milkshakes, pita breads, hummus, fruit, veg.

In Rhodes Town, my friend runs the veg/vgn restaurant To Marouli whilst also dedicating herself to the rescue and well-being of the island’s stray cat and dog population. Another friend who runs another of the island’s animal welfare charities lives in Lardos and takes us into the hills when we visit, ensuring we get local accidentally vegan tapas dishes, such as local greens and aubergine fritters. Be careful ordering things like dolmades and gemista, these might contain meat if you aren’t clear, but there’s no language issues and most people I’ve encountered know what vegan means.

In Corfu in 2017 we stayed at Paleokastritsa which was very limited in places to eat. However, we dined every night at the gorgeous Gran Aladino and could’ve had a different meal every night if we chose, plus desserts including chocolate avocado mousse with squirty cream! We also had vegan ice creams in Muka Muka, Corfu Town.

I’ve holidayed and survived elsewhere, but these are the main places where we’ve eaten well.
View attachment 367

Wow thank you so much for your comment! La Piazza sounds amazing I will definitely check it out, I think my friend would love it!! And I love that To Marouli is also an animal rescue. It's so nice to see more and more socially conscious restaurants around the world and especially in Greece. And you make such a good point! If anyone is vegan they should make sure that they know how to a few words in Greek so that there isn't any miscommunication

 

[Hash]

I have a vegan friend who is a bit nervous about traveling to Greece. Does anyone know if there are any vegan options, especially in the touristy spots? Thanks

I lived in Mykonos Greece for over 25 years and have travelled extensively....I have never had any problems in finding vegetarian food in restaurants.... Aubergine salad, Aubergine from the oven in tomatoes, potatoes and courgettes from the oven, abundance of salads, lady's fingers from the oven, potato salad,the list is endless...... Makes me want to go.... but we can't travel yet... Kalley Mera from Thailand...

 

[dimi_pat]

I lived in Mykonos Greece for over 25 years and have travelled extensively....I have never had any problems in finding vegetarian food in restaurants.... Aubergine salad, Aubergine from the oven in tomatoes, potatoes and courgettes from the oven, abundance of salads, lady's fingers from the oven, potato salad,the list is endless...... Makes me want to go.... but we can't travel yet... Kalley Mera from Thailand...

Yeah salads are some of your best bet in Greece! Just ask for without feta

 

[Hash]

I forgot the giant beans from the oven,Fava yellow lentil purée with raw onions and dash of olive oil and lemon ...... beetroots in garlic and lemon juice.... potato salad with capers and parsley.... Oh the list is endless...then they will have their own island and regional dishes, stuffed tomatoes with courgettes and onions parsley and rosemary

 

[acamp7]

I forgot the giant beans from the oven,Fava yellow lentil purée with raw onions and dash of olive oil and lemon ...... beetroots in garlic and lemon juice.... potato salad with capers and parsley.... Oh the list is endless...then they will have their own island and regional dishes, stuffed tomatoes with courgettes and onions parsley and rosemary

Yess so true, always learn about island and regional dishes. They're some of the best in my opinon

 

[k_tsoukalas]

Greek cuisine is plant-based. Even though there is meat available, the basis of the food is vegetable... you'll be able to find plenty of options no matter where you are. Fava, lentil soup, and Greek salad(horiatiki) are just a few of the things you need to try while in Greece.

 

[Laura48]

Greek cuisine is plant-based. Even though there is meat available, the basis of the food is vegetable... you'll be able to find plenty of options no matter where you are. Fava, lentil soup, and Greek salad(horiatiki) are just a few of the things you need to try while in Greece.

A concern of mine is whether animal stock would be used. Do you know if that might be the case?

 

[Blue & White]

I have a vegan friend who is a bit nervous about traveling to Greece. Does anyone know if there are any vegan options, especially in the touristy spots? Thanks

If you don't eat meat, Hellas is the best country for vegans to visit, the Greeks will serve you vegan lamb.

 

[voula_slat]

If you don't eat meat, Hellas is the best country for vegans to visit, the Greeks will serve you vegan lamb.

vegan lamb haha reminds me of my big fat greek wedding

 

[Blue & White]

vegan lamb haha reminds me of my big fat greek wedding

Exactlyyyyy

 

[aureliofartthing]

Greece is known for its rich culinary traditions, which often include meat and dairy products. However, in recent years, there has been an increase in awareness and availability of vegan options, especially in popular tourist areas. While it may not be as prevalent as in some other countries, it is still possible to find vegan-friendly restaurants and dishes in Greece. Here are a few tips to help your vegan friend during their trip:

1. Research and Plan: Encourage your friend to research vegan-friendly restaurants and cafes in the specific areas they plan to visit. Online resources like HappyCow and VegTravelGuide can be helpful in finding vegan options.
2. Greek Cuisine: Although Greek cuisine traditionally includes meat and dairy, there are some vegan-friendly dishes to look out for. Classic options include dolmades (stuffed grape leaves), gigantes plaki (giant beans in tomato sauce), fasolada (bean soup), and horta vrasta (boiled greens).
3. Local Markets: Your friend can explore local markets, known as laiki agora, where they can find an abundance of fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, and grains. These markets can be a great place to pick up ingredients for a vegan meal or snack.
4. Communicate Dietary Needs: It's important for your friend to communicate their dietary preferences clearly when dining out. Phrases like "I am vegan" or "I don't eat meat, dairy, or eggs" in Greek can be useful. While not everyone may understand veganism, expressing dietary restrictions in a clear and respectful manner can help ensure they receive suitable options.
5. Accommodation with Kitchenette Essen für Veganer: If your friend has the option, they might consider booking accommodation with a kitchenette. This way, they can prepare their own meals using local ingredients and have more control over their food choices.
6. Be Open to Adaptation: It's worth noting that veganism is still relatively new in Greece, so some understanding and flexibility may be required. They may need to be open to adapting certain dishes or finding creative solutions with the available options.

By taking these steps, your vegan friend should be able to find suitable vegan options in Greece and enjoy their trip.

 

[Hash]

Greece is known for its rich culinary traditions, which often include meat and dairy products. However, in recent years, there has been an increase in awareness and availability of vegan options, especially in popular tourist areas. While it may not be as prevalent as in some other countries, it is still possible to find vegan-friendly restaurants and dishes in Greece. Here are a few tips to help your vegan friend during their trip:

1. Research and Plan: Encourage your friend to research vegan-friendly restaurants and cafes in the specific areas they plan to visit. Online resources like HappyCow and VegTravelGuide can be helpful in finding vegan options.
2. Greek Cuisine: Although Greek cuisine traditionally includes meat and dairy, there are some vegan-friendly dishes to look out for. Classic options include dolmades (stuffed grape leaves), gigantes plaki (giant beans in tomato sauce), fasolada (bean soup), and horta vrasta (boiled greens).
3. Local Markets: Your friend can explore local markets, known as laiki agora, where they can find an abundance of fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, and grains. These markets can be a great place to pick up ingredients for a vegan meal or snack.
4. Communicate Dietary Needs: It's important for your friend to communicate their dietary preferences clearly when dining out. Phrases like "I am vegan" or "I don't eat meat, dairy, or eggs" in Greek can be useful. While not everyone may understand veganism, expressing dietary restrictions in a clear and respectful manner can help ensure they receive suitable options.
5. Accommodation with Kitchenette Essen für Veganer: If your friend has the option, they might consider booking accommodation with a kitchenette. This way, they can prepare their own meals using local ingredients and have more control over their food choices.
6. Be Open to Adaptation: It's worth noting that veganism is still relatively new in Greece, so some understanding and flexibility may be required. They may need to be open to adapting certain dishes or finding creative solutions with the available options.

By taking these steps, your vegan friend should be able to find suitable vegan options in Greece and enjoy their trip.

Great advice!....the easiest thing to do if a kitchenette is available to pop into the local supermarket and just buy onions, garlic, parsley,Tomatoes,(and purée).. Oregano,olive oil,salt and pepper, spaghetti....and there we have it....oh not to forget the wine!! ....In all my years living in Mykonos and travelling I have never had any difficulties in eating vegetarian food....all Tavernas serve different varieties of vegetarian dishes which are normally eaten as side dishes.... mostly one can see them as they are on display,the servers are very helpful in explaining.... Kalley Mera from Thailand..... and finally after the most intensive heatwave for 4 months we have monsoon rain beginning... ..... you know after been through temperatures of 40°C+ .feel like 45°C....30°C at night it is the most pleasant feeling!

 

[Hash]

I have a vegan friend who is a bit nervous about traveling to Greece. Does anyone know if there are any vegan options, especially in the touristy spots? Thanks

Most definitely yes... please read up !

VEGANAKI, Athens - Neos Kosmos - Updated 2023 Restaurant Reviews, Menu & Prices - Tripadvisor

Veganaki, Athens: See 302 unbiased reviews of Veganaki, rated 4.5 of 5 on Tripadvisor and ranked #82 of 3,289 restaurants in Athens.

www.tripadvisor.co.uk

I am just posting an example... Athens has abundance of restaurants going the Veganaki way.... Just search in Restaurants on TripAdvisor Greece ...... enter area..go to healthy options...!