Book Cheap Flights to Greece

With its buttermilk beaches, turquoise coastlines, white-washed houses and Mediterranean flavours, prepare to fall in love with Greece’s romantic history and charm.

While its surrounding islands are filled with character and leisure, the mainland is characterized by its history, ancient ruins and architectural landmarks. The capital city of Athens houses the famous Parthenon, Temple of Poseidon, Theatre of Dionysos, and the Acropolis and Acropolis Museum. Further up north, Thessaloniki is home to some of the most exquisite Byzantine churches and avant-garde music and entertainment scene. Delphi was once considered the centre of the earth, fringed by the majestic Parnassós Mountains - the site of the ancient oracle and Temple of Apollo. One of the greatest sights in Greece is, inarguably, the Metéora Monasteries, perched on the sandstone cliffs overlooking Kalambáka.

The islands off Greece welcome tourists to their cobble-stoned alleyways, vibrant tavernas and breathtaking vistas of the idyllic beaches below. The popular islands of Santorini, Mykonos and Corfu are photogenic with their dramatic cliffs, Cycladic villages, olive groves and fishing boats, offering vibrant nightlife and deliciously fresh seafood. Meander through the medieval streets and ancient ruins of the Old Town of Rhodes. Crete is more than your typical Greek island – home to the Palace of Knossos and wonderful hiking trails in the Samariá Gorge, make sure this island is on your list.

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South African passport holders do need a visa to enter Greece. Schengen Visas can take time to arrange, so plan ahead to ensure your visa arrives well ahead of time. Your passport also needs to be valid for at least 3 months after your departure date from Greece, with 2 blank pages for entry stamps. Passports may not be older than 10 years.

There are three Greek Consulates in South Africa. They can be reached at the following numbers:

Pretoria: +27 (0) 12 3482352 Johannesburg: +27-11-214-2300 Cape Town: +27-21-4248160

The South African Embassy is located in Athens: 60 Kifissias Avenue, Marousi, 15125, Athens

Email: athens.info@dirco.gov.za / athens.consular@dirco.gov.za

Greece is a very safe tourist destination and its friendly locals and stunning attractions welcome visitors all year round. As in any tourist area, be aware of petty theft and pick-pocketing. Lone travellers may fall victim to scams, particularly in the form of being invited to a bar and having to foot the bill for an entire group of strangers. Be aware of spiked drinks (known as bombes) served in clubs that are diluted with cheap, illegal imports.

Visitors are prohibited from taking photos of military installations, navy ships, aircraft or even of some museums. Check with local authorities if you would like to photograph any relics and artefacts.

Tap water is drinkable in most parts of Greece, although you may want to stick to bottled water on the islands and in smaller villages. Although there is no danger of contracting malaria, bring along insect repellent to ward off pesky mosquitoes. Pharmacies are well-stocked and available throughout major cities, though it is advisable to bring your own prescription medication, especially if you’re staying off the mainland.

Be aware of wayward traffic, especially in the busy streets of Athens. A comprehensive travel-insurance policy to cover theft and medical expenses is highly recommended.