General Information
When to Go
The Greek Islands are primarily a summer destination, but the mild winter months are also great for an activity holiday. In the cooler months (December–February) snow can fall in the mountains. Average temperatures are around 26°C (79°F) in summer and 10°C (50°F) in winter.
Where to Go
The larger islands, such as Corfu and Kefalloniá in the Ionians, Rhodes and Kos in the Dodecanese, Mýkonos and Santoríni in the Cyclades and Crete are ideal for beach holidays, while the smaller, more rural islands, offer a more relaxed pace.
Tourist Offices
There are tourist and tourist police offices in most main towns on the islands, but they would prefer you telephone with your enquiry rather than walking in. The exception is the airport desks, where information on hotels, car hire and attractions is available. The tourist police number for all islands is 171.
Passport and Visas
EU citizens visiting the Greek islands need only a valid passport and can stay for an unlimited period. Most other visitors, including citizens of the USA, Canada, New Zealand and Australia can stay for up to 90 days without a visa. Other non-EU citizens should consult the Greek embassy in their home country before departure, to be sure of having the correct documentation.
Customs
Duty-paid goods such as alcohol and perfumes for personal use are no longer subject to official limits within the EU, and there is no restriction on the amount of money you can bring in for holiday use. However, please declare large sums. The removal of archaeological artifacts is strictly prohibited. Non-EU citizens may be spot checked.
Currency
The currency of the Greek Islands is the euro. It comes in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 cents and 1 and 2 euro coins, and banknotes of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 euros. Visitors may bring in an unlimited amount of foreign currency, but large sums should be declared on arrival.
What to Take
If you take prescribed medicines, carry enough for your stay, along with a doctor’s note. In terms of clothes, the islands have a relaxed way of life so take beachwear for resort-style holidays, casual wear for evenings, sports clothing and a jumper for cool evenings. Do pack sunscreen, aftersun and a sun hat.
Electricity
The standard current throughout the islands is 230V AC (50Hz). The plugs are two round pin variety, or three round pin for some appliances. Adaptors for British and transformers for some American appliances may not always be available, so carry what you need.
Children
The islands are family-orientated, with most attractions, hotels and restaurants providing amenities for children. Take care to prevent sunburn and on beaches, where there are often strong sea currents. Products like nappies are available in supermarkets, but if travelling with a baby on formula food, be sure to pack plenty, as the same brand may not be available.
Weddings
There’s nothing more romantic than a wedding on a Greek Island beach. The procedure for civil marriages is straightforward, although church wedding formalities vary between the islands. Couples need to present the correct documentation before the big day. Many hotels have dedicated wedding planners.