The endless coastline and greek culture is alive with passionate music.
With beaches and majestic scenery, the relics of four millennia of ancient culture and some of Europe’s best party spots, those who travel to Greece are certain to experience a once in a lifetime …
Greece offers sunshine, seafood, whitewashed houses with bright-blue shutters, and a relaxed, Zorba-the-Greek lifestyle. As the cradle of Western civilization, it has some of the world’s greatest ancient monuments. While it’s a late bloomer in the modern age and retains echoes of a simpler, time-passed world, contemporary Greece has one of Europe’s fastest-changing cultural landscapes. With its classical past, hang-loose present, and edgy future, Greece offers something for every traveler.
For anyone with a cultural bone in their body Greece cannot fail to inspire. Minoans, Romans, Arabs, Latin Crusaders, Venetians, Slavs, Albanians and Turks have all left their mark, and almost every town or village has a link to the past, whether it’s a delicately crumbling temple to Aphrodite, a forbidding Venetian fort or a dusty Byzantine monastery decorated with exquisite frescoes. And let’s not forget the museums stuffed to bursting with Classical sculpture and archeological treasures.
SanMed Travel Hub – Your Gateway to the Cycladic Islands
SanMed Travel Hub is a fresh and dynamic Destination Management Company specializing in exceptional travel and leisure services — not only on the world-renowned island of Santorini, but also across the enchanting Cycladic Islands of Greece.
Backed by years of hands-on experience and deep local expertise, the SanMed management team has perfected the art of seamless cooperation and personalized service. Our head office in Santorini ensures dedicated on-ground support for travelers using the island as a main gateway to other destinations in the Cyclades, while our branch in Naxos expands our reach to neighboring islands.
Through our trusted network, we also serve Ios, Paros, Antiparos, Milos, Folegandros, Sifnos, Amorgos, and the cosmopolitan island of Mykonos, offering tailored services that reflect the charm and authenticity of each island.
With a strong portfolio of satisfied clients from around the globe, SanMed Travel Hub stands for quality, safety, and excellence in every aspect of travel management.
Our Motto: We Care and Respect — for our partners, our travelers, and the destinations we represent.
Capital
Athens
🏛️ Major Regions
Mainland Greece • Peloponnese • Macedonia • Thessaly • Crete • Cyclades Islands • Ionian Islands • Dodecanese Islands
🏙️ Major Cities
Athens • Thessaloniki • Heraklion • Patras • Santorini • Mykonos
✈️ Major Airports
Athens International Airport • Thessaloniki Airport • Heraklion International Airport • Santorini International Airport • Mykonos International Airport
💰 Currency
Euro (€)
📞 Country Calling Code
+30
🗣️ Language
Official Language: Greek
English is widely spoken in tourist destinations and islands.
🕰️ Time Zone
UTC +2
(Summer: UTC +3)
⚡ Electricity
Standard Voltage: 230V
Plug Type: C & F (two round pins)
🚗 Driving Side
Drives on the right-hand side.
💳 Credit Cards
Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted across hotels, restaurants, ferries, and shopping areas.
Contactless payments are commonly used.
💁 Tipping
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory.
In restaurants and cafés, 5–10% or rounding up the bill is customary.
🏺 Interesting Travel Facts
🌸 Spring (March – May)
🌼 Best For: Sightseeing, island hopping & pleasant weather
🌷 Greece blooms with wildflowers, colorful landscapes, and lively cafés.
🌦️ Mild temperatures make it perfect for exploring ancient ruins, coastal towns, and scenic islands.
🎭 Major Festivals & Experiences:
• Greek Orthodox Easter Celebrations
• Spring walks in Athens
• Island escapes to Santorini & Mykonos
✨ Highlight: Enjoy fewer crowds and comfortable weather before the summer peak.
☀️ Summer (June – August)
🌴 Best For: Beaches, island vacations & nightlife
🏖️ Greece’s islands come alive with sunshine, beach clubs, and crystal-clear waters.
🎶 Mykonos and Santorini are famous for vibrant nightlife, luxury stays, and sunset views.
🏝️ Coastal destinations offer perfect conditions for cruises, water sports, and seaside dining.
🎉 Top Events:
• Athens & Epidaurus Festival
• Beach parties in Mykonos
• Summer island festivals across the Aegean
☀️ Travel Tip: Advance hotel and ferry bookings are highly recommended during peak season.
🍂 Autumn (September – November)
🍇 Best For: Scenic travel, culture & relaxed island experiences
🍁 Warm weather continues into autumn, especially across the islands and southern regions.
🍷 Vineyards and olive harvests create authentic culinary and cultural experiences.
🌄 Popular destinations include Crete, Santorini, and the Peloponnese region.
🌾 Events & Experiences:
• Wine harvest festivals
• Sunset cruises & photography
• Historical sightseeing with fewer tourists
🍂 Ideal For: Travelers looking for pleasant weather, cultural depth, and quieter beaches.
❄️ Winter (December – February)
⛷️ Best For: City breaks, mountain escapes & festive travel
🎄 Athens and Thessaloniki sparkle with holiday lights and winter celebrations.
🏔️ Northern Greece offers skiing and snow activities in mountain resorts.
☕ Enjoy museums, local cafés, traditional cuisine, and relaxed city exploration.
🎆 Highlights:
• Christmas celebrations in Athens
• Winter resorts in northern Greece
• Cozy cultural escapes & local food experiences
❄️ Travel Tip: Winter is great for budget-friendly city travel and fewer crowds at major attractions.
🌎 Greece by the Seasons — Quick Guide
Season | Months | Highlights | Best Regions |
🌸 Spring | Mar – May | Flowers, sightseeing, mild weather | Athens, Santorini, Crete |
☀️ Summer | Jun – Aug | Beaches, nightlife, island hopping | Mykonos, Santorini, Greek Islands |
🍂 Autumn | Sep – Nov | Scenic beauty, culture, wine | Crete, Peloponnese, Santorini |
❄️ Winter | Dec – Feb | Festive cities, mountains, culture | Athens, Thessaloniki, Northern Greece |
🏝️ Santorini – The Romantic Island
• 🌅 Oia Village – Famous whitewashed houses & sunset views
• ⛪ Blue-domed churches overlooking the Aegean Sea
• 🚤 Catamaran cruises & volcanic island tours
• 🍷 Santorini wineries & cliffside dining experiences
• 🏖️ Red Beach & Black Sand Beaches – Unique volcanic coastlines
🎉 Mykonos & Cyclades Islands
• 🌊 Paradise & Super Paradise Beaches – Famous beach clubs & nightlife
• 🏘️ Little Venice – Seafront cafés and scenic alleys
• 🌬️ Mykonos Windmills – Iconic island landmark
• 🚢 Island hopping across the Cyclades
• 🎶 Luxury beach parties & sunset lounges
🏛️ Ancient Greece & Cultural Heritage
• 🏺 Delphi – Ancient sanctuary and oracle site
• ⛩️ Olympia – Birthplace of the Olympic Games
• 🏰 Meteora Monasteries – Stunning monasteries perched on rock formations
• 🗿 Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion – Scenic coastal ancient ruins
• 📖 UNESCO heritage sites & mythology-inspired landmarks
🌊 Crete & Coastal Escapes
• 🏖️ Elafonissi Beach – Pink sand beach with crystal-clear waters
• 🏰 Palace of Knossos – Ancient Minoan civilization site
• 🚶 Samaria Gorge – One of Europe’s most scenic hikes
• 🍽️ Traditional Greek tavernas & Mediterranean cuisine
• 🌅 Seaside villages and relaxing island life
⛷️ Northern Greece & Nature
• 🏔️ Mount Olympus – Legendary home of the Greek gods
• 🎿 Ski resorts and mountain villages in northern Greece
• 🌲 Lake Plastira & forest landscapes
• 🚗 Scenic road trips through Macedonia & Epirus regions
• ☕ Traditional villages, local wines & cozy cafés
🚢 Greek Island Experiences
• ⛵ Sunset sailing cruises across the Aegean Sea
• 🏝️ Island hopping adventures between Santorini, Mykonos & Crete
• 🐠 Snorkeling, diving & water sports activities
• 🍷 Greek wine tasting & culinary tours
• 🎶 Traditional music, festivals & vibrant nightlife experiences
Greece is a land of ancient traditions, vibrant celebrations, music, dance, and unforgettable cultural experiences.
From lively island festivals and religious celebrations to international music and arts events, Greece offers festivities filled with history, passion, and Mediterranean charm throughout the year.
🎭 Cultural & Traditional Festivals
Greek Orthodox Easter – 🕯️
The most important celebration in Greece, featuring candlelit processions, fireworks, traditional feasts, and vibrant local customs across the country.
Athens Epidaurus Festival – 🎭
One of Greece’s most prestigious cultural festivals, showcasing ancient theatre, music, and dance performances in historic venues.
Apokries Carnival – 🎉
A colorful carnival season filled with parades, costumes, street parties, and celebrations before Lent, especially lively in Patras.
Ohi Day Celebrations – 🇬🇷
A national holiday marked by military parades, cultural events, and patriotic celebrations across Greece.
🎶 Music & Art Festivals
Santorini Jazz Festival – 🎷
A beautiful summer music festival set against the breathtaking cliffs and sunsets of Santorini.
Rockwave Festival – 🎸
One of Greece’s biggest music festivals featuring international rock and pop artists near Athens.
Athens International Film Festival – 🎬
A celebration of cinema featuring global film premieres, independent productions, and artistic showcases.
Mykonos Summer Parties – 🎶
World-famous beach clubs and sunset events attracting international DJs and travelers from around the globe.
🌸 Seasonal & Local Celebrations
Hydra Miaoulia Festival – 🚢
A traditional island festival with fireworks, music, cultural events, and maritime celebrations honoring Greek naval history.
Wine Festivals of Crete – 🍷
Celebrations of local wines, traditional cuisine, folk music, and dancing throughout the summer season.
Thessaloniki International Fair – 🏛️
One of the Balkans’ largest trade and cultural events featuring exhibitions, entertainment, and concerts.
Christmas in Athens & Thessaloniki – 🎄
Festive lights, markets, concerts, and holiday celebrations bring Greek cities to life during winter.
🌍 Why Experience Greece’s Festivals?
✅ Discover ancient traditions & Mediterranean culture
✅ Enjoy music, dance & world-famous Greek hospitality
✅ Celebrate in beautiful islands, historic cities & seaside settings
✅ Experience authentic food, art & vibrant nightlife
💫 Celebrate the Spirit of Greece
From the whitewashed streets of Santorini to the historic heart of Athens,
every Greek festival is filled with joy, culture, music, and unforgettable memories.
✨ Join the celebrations — Greece dances to the rhythm of tradition and life! ✨
Shopping in Greece – A Blend of Elegance, Heritage & Island Style
Greece offers a charming shopping experience where ancient markets, stylish boutiques, luxury fashion streets, and artisanal crafts come together.
From designer stores in Athens to handmade island souvenirs, shopping here is a mix of culture, creativity, and Mediterranean charm.
👗 Luxury & Fashion Streets
Athens – 🏙️
The capital is the main shopping hub with international brands, Greek designer labels, and stylish shopping districts.
Ermou Street – 🛍️
Athens’ most popular shopping street with fashion stores, footwear, accessories, and high-street brands.
Kolonaki District – ✨
A luxury shopping area featuring designer boutiques, premium Greek fashion, jewelry stores, and chic cafés.
Mykonos – 🌅
A glamorous island destination known for luxury boutiques, beachwear, jewelry, and designer resort fashion.
🧺 Local Markets & Unique Finds
Monastiraki Flea Market – 🏺
A vibrant Athens market filled with antiques, souvenirs, vintage items, and handmade crafts.
Varvakios Central Market – 🥩
A traditional food market offering spices, olives, cheeses, seafood, and authentic Greek produce.
Plaka District Shops – 🎁
Souvenir stores selling olive oil products, ceramics, leather goods, and Greek mythology-inspired gifts.
Island Artisan Shops – 🧿
Handmade jewelry, boho fashion, and local crafts across islands like Santorini and Crete.
🎁 What to Buy in Greece
🫒 Olive oil & gourmet food products
🍷 Greek wines & spirits (Ouzo, Tsipouro)
🧿 Evil eye jewelry & charms
🏺 Handmade pottery & ceramics
👗 Linen fashion & resort wear
💡 Shopping Tips
✔️ Athens offers the widest variety of shopping options
✔️ Islands are best for unique, handmade souvenirs
✔️ Check for authenticity on handmade crafts
✔️ Many shops close early outside major cities
💫 Experience the Art of Shopping in Greece
From the stylish streets of Athens to the luxury boutiques of Mykonos and the charming lanes of historic districts,
shopping in Greece is a beautiful mix of tradition, elegance, and island lifestyle.
🛍️ Greece — where every purchase carries a touch of timeless beauty!
🍴 Taste of Greece – A Mediterranean Culinary Journey of Fresh Flavors & Timeless Tradition
Greek cuisine is a celebration of simplicity, freshness, and Mediterranean lifestyle.
From seaside tavernas to island kitchens and ancient recipes passed through generations, every dish reflects warmth, hospitality, and culture.
🥗 Traditional Greek Cuisine
Athens – 🏙️
The capital offers a perfect mix of traditional tavernas, modern Greek restaurants, and street food culture.
Moussaka – 🍆
A classic baked dish made with eggplant, minced meat, and creamy béchamel sauce — one of Greece’s most iconic meals.
Souvlaki & Gyros – 🥙
Grilled meat served in pita bread with tzatziki, onions, and tomatoes — a popular street food across Greece.
Greek Salad (Horiatiki) – 🥗
Fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, feta cheese, and olive oil — simple yet flavorful.
🧆 Street Food & Local Specialties
Spanakopita – 🥬
Flaky pastry filled with spinach and feta cheese, enjoyed as a snack or light meal.
Tzatziki – 🧄
A creamy yogurt dip with cucumber, garlic, and olive oil — served with almost every meal.
Dolmades – 🍃
Grape leaves stuffed with rice, herbs, and sometimes meat.
Loukoumades – 🍯
Golden fried dough balls drizzled with honey and cinnamon — a traditional dessert.
🍷 Drinks & Greek Hospitality
Ouzo – 🍸
A traditional anise-flavored spirit often served with meze (small dishes).
Greek Wines – 🍷
Produced in regions like Santorini and Crete, known for rich volcanic soil flavors.
Greek Coffee – ☕
Strong, unfiltered coffee served in small cups, often enjoyed slowly with conversation.
🏝️ Island & Regional Flavors
Santorini – 🌅
Known for fresh seafood, cherry tomatoes, fava beans, and volcanic wines.
Crete – 🌿
Famous for olive oil, mountain herbs, cheese, and rustic farm-to-table dishes.
Mykonos – 🐟
Offers luxury dining, seafood specialties, and modern Mediterranean cuisine.
🍽️ Dining Experience in Greece
✔️ Meals are slow, social, and shared
✔️ Olive oil is the heart of every dish
✔️ Fresh, seasonal ingredients are always used
✔️ Taverns often feature live music and dancing
💫 A Culinary Journey Through Greece
From traditional tavernas in Athens to seaside dining in Santorini and rustic flavors in Crete,
Greek cuisine is a perfect blend of history, health, and Mediterranean joy.
🍴 Greece — where every meal feels like sunshine on a plate!
“Greece is a country where the ancient and the modern coexist in perfect harmony.”