food places to visit in greece

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Greece Food Diary: 20+ Of The Best Greek Foods To Try

Greece is famous around the world for its amazing cuisine, and it’s no secret that one of the things I was most excited about when planning my trip was the chance to try all the best Greek foods.

So after a week of gorging myself on everything in sight, I wanted to share a list with you of the foods to eat in Greece…and let’s be honest, it wouldn’t be me if I didn’t also call out some delicious drinks.

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On the surface, Greek cuisine shares a lot of DNA with other Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cultures.  What makes Greek cuisine more unique is that it heavily uses flavors such as oregano, mint, garlic, onion, dill, cumin, and other herbs and spices such as thyme and fennel.  There’s a lot of fresh seafood, hearty tavern food, olive oil, and cheeses such as feta.

But just like most countries, “Greek food” isn’t only one thing…as you travel the country (and even between islands), you’ll find different dishes and flavors prominent depending on the region.

For instance, Santorini is famous for the tomatoes they grow there, so their cuisine naturally features tomato fritters and tomato paste.  Alternatively, Naxos—just a couple-hour ferry ride away—is famous for its potatoes and cheese, and so those ingredients feature heavily.

I’ve tried to include a lot of overall Greek classics in the list below, the dishes you’ll find everywhere…but I’ve slipped a few regional specialties in there as well.

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20+ of the best Greek foods you need to try

So let’s get started…the list below is not in any particular order, but I’ve grouped a lot of the most well-known dishes at the top, and the alcoholic beverages are at the end.

This is definitely not an exhaustive list of the best Greek dishes (I only spend a week there), but is a really good checklist to start with!

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#1 – Moussaka

Moussaka was really high on my list of foods to try in Greece, because it’s pure comfort food.  It’s served in almost all tavernas throughout Greece, as well as at big family gatherings.

The dish is often individually-portioned (making it PIPING HOT), made with a minced beef and tomato sauce layered with eggplant, potatoes, and creamy béchamel sauce.

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#2 – Zucchini fritters (kolokithokeftedes)

Guys, I LOVE me a fritter.  Seriously, throw anything in a batter and fry it, and I’m in.  So I was excited to discover Greeks living that fritter life, including these delicious zucchini fritters.

Kolokythokeftedes should be crispy on the outside and creamy (almost under-done) on the inside, and bursting with the flavors of salty feta cheese and a bit of fresh mint.  They’re usually served with a tzatziki or lemony dipping sauce.

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#3 – Tomato fritters (tomatokeftedes)

These tomato fritters are a traditional meze or vegetarian main course, a specialty of Santorini (which is famous for its tomatoes).  They’re made using fresh tomatoes, sweet onion, and fresh mint or oregano in a batter, then deep-fried.

I had them a few times while in Santorini, but the best were definitely at Aspithia, where they were served with a creamy lemony sauce and tzatziki.

Other Greek adventures to help you plan your trip!

A Guide to Oia, Santorini (+ Is Oia Worth Visiting?)

Santorini Beyond Oia: A Roadtrip Exploring The Island

Where to Stay in Santorini:  The Gorgeous Charisma Suites  (check out  Aspaki Exclusive  too!)

Sampling The Delights Of Santorini’s Wineries

Santorini At Sunrise: Solo Hiking From Imerovigli To Oia

Where To Stay In Naxos, Greece: The Best Beach & Mountain Hotels

How To Spend A Day Or Two In Naxos Town

An Epic Solo Roadtrip Exploring The Island Of Naxos

Exploring The Charming Ancient Mountain Villages Of Naxos, Greece

How to Make the Most of a Half-Day In Athens

#4 – Tzatziki

Speaking of that, let’s go ahead and talk about maybe the most omnipresent Greek sauce.  I found it everywhere I went, but the exact taste and texture varied quite a bit from place to place.  The basic ingredients are thick strained yogurt, cucumber, garlic, olive oil, and fresh dill.

Even for someone like me who HATES cucumber (seriously, my least favorite food in the world), I can usually still rock with a little tzatziki as a tangy accompaniment to my deep-fried appetizers.

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#5 – Dolmas, dolmadakia, or sarma

I was familiar with these as “dolmas”, but I think dolmadakia may be more common in Greece.  I didn’t end up seeing them on a ton of menus, but that may have been a because of where I was visiting.

These are stuffed grape leaves, made with a rice stuffing and often ground lamb or beef, then steamed.  They’re traditionally served as an appetizer with lemon wedges and sometimes a dipping sauce.  I find these so comforting for some reason, and can devour a plateful in minutes!

(I’ll be honest, and I realize this is heresy, but if you’re craving dolmas while back in the States, the canned ones at Trader Joe’s aren’t half bad…)

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#6 – Greek iced coffee (frappés & freddo espresso)

We’re going to take a big detour for a minute and dive into refreshing drinks.  Because I would be remiss if I went any further without talking about Greek coffee and frappés, both of which are a major part of the culture.

I didn’t end up drinking much regular Greek coffee because it was so dang hot when I was there, but the main thing to know is that it’s different from both drip coffee and espresso.  Instead, it’s boiled rather than brewed, and typically served in a tea kettle (a bit more like Turkish coffee as well).  This makes it richer and creamier, and stronger (IMO).

Then there are the iced coffee drinks.  The two main ones to know are Greek frappés and freddo espresso, which has become quite popular recently.  Frappés are made with instant coffee, water, sugar and milk, blended til frothy and served over ice.

The freddo espresso has some similarities, but in this case you take one shot of hot espresso poured into a metal cocktail shaker, then shake it with a few ice cubes and a little sugar if desired.  I actually do this to make iced lattes at home (it’s called “shakerato”), and I love it.

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#6 – Bougatsa

NOW. WE. ARE. TALKING.  I’m here for the pastries.  Bougatsa is a kind of lightly-sweet pastry (or pie) made from layers of phyllo pastry and semolina custard, and usually sprinkled with powdered sugar and cinnamon on top.  However, you’ll apparently find lots of variations by region, including some with meat and cheese.

It’s delicious any time of day, but I was excited to find it super early in the morning in Athens, and enjoying it with a coffee and view of the Acropolis before heading to the airport to come home.

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#8 – Galactoboureko

Galactoboureko is very similar in many ways to bougatsa…it’s a delicious flaky filo pastry with semolina custard filling.  However, the biggest difference is that galactoboureko is then soaked in a (lightly) citrus-flavored syrup.

And I was OBSESSED.  I had a piece of it—with a frappé—on my first afternoon in Santorini, and it was exactly what my travel-weary self needed.

You’ll find this all over Greece, and apparently Crete’s galactoboureko is amazing!  This is one of the best foods to eat in Greece, in my opinion.

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#9 – Spinach pie (spanakopita)

Often when Americans think of Greek food, they either think of a Greek salad, or spanakopita.  Also known as Greek spinach pie, this is a delicious traditional dish that I could eat all day, every day.  In fact, I think I ended up having it for breakfast twice because it’s just what sounded good at the moment.

Spanakopita features flaky layers of buttery phyllo pastry, salty feta, spinach, sometimes other flavorings (onions, lemon zest), and usually an egg to hold all the filling together.

You’ll also find other variations on pies regionally, such as in Crete (chaniotiko boureki, usually zucchini), marathopita (a round pie with fennel), kaltsounia (a sweet cheese pie), and sfakiani pita.

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#10 – Feta me meli (feta in phyllo)

I did not know this had a special name when I ordered it, but as my weary self sat down at a restaurant on my first afternoon in Greece, and I saw “feta wrapped in phyllo with honey”…yeah, I was sold.

This can be an appetizer, main course, or dessert.  It’s super simple—salty, soft feta is wrapped in phyllo (filo) pastry, baked in the oven, and then honey and sesame seeds are drizzled over it.  It’s the perfect sweet-and-salty treat.

I had a non-sweet version in a tiny town in Naxos called Apollonas (second pic below) that were wrapped more like samosa-shaped, and still very delicious.

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#11 – Baklava & other pastries

I loooooooovvvveeee baklava!  Always have.  Baklava is comprised of many flaky layers of buttered phyllo dough, with endless variations of nuts, butter, and sugar.  Then, after baking, a sticky sweet syrup is poured over it to bind the crispy layers together.

The origin of baklava (like many foods in this part of the world) is hotly contested.  Greece, Turkey, and various Middle Eastern cultures claim it, and you’ll find some version of baklava all over those parts of the world.

I got a traditional version at a seaside taverna in Naxos, and sampled different types from a bakery in Santorini (a chocolate baklava, a grape phyllo, a mastiha).

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#12 – Greek salad

This is the only one that I don’t have a photo of, mostly because…I absolutely detest cucumbers (and olives), so never ordered one 🙂

But unless you’re like me, it’s definitely one of the foods to eat in Greece.  Greek salads are very different from the ones served in America—they have no lettuce and a ton of feta (which, I can get on board with *that* part).

Usually it’s tomatoes, olives, cucumber, and a large piece of feta cheese.  They’re served undressed, so you can choose what to do with it (usually there’s vinegar, salt, pepper, and olive oil).

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#13 – Fava dip 

This is another classic Santorini dish that makes a great appetizer, or a main when you’re feeling just a bit peckish.  In Greece, fava refers to yellow split peas (not broad beans), and this dip is kind of like the Greek version of hummus.

It’s creamy and delicious, often served hot with a drizzle of lemon juice and olive oil, and bread for dipping.  I highly recommend Roka’s in Santorini (the pic below).

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#14 – Saganaki

I’d heard of saganaki, but hadn’t had it before.  It’s basically a piece of cheese (coated in flour, I believe) that’s fried in a pan until it develops a dark, crispy crust on the outside, with a gooey center.

There are some variations, such as manouri, which is a piece of cheese with a sesame crust that’s fried and served with a delicious sour cherry sauce.  I had one in Naxos (second pic below) called “kefalotiri saganaki” that was coated in nuts .

I’m still a little unclear on how best to *eat* saganaki (just with a fork? with bread??), but it’s definitely one of the best Greek foods to try in order to get the authentic experience!

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#15 – Tirokroketes (fried cheese balls)

Like saganaki, a cheese afficionado will love tirokroketes.  These are fried cheese balls that can be made with a combination of cheeses, wuch as feta, graviera, or gouda.  Then they’re coated in bread crumbs and deep-fried before being served with tzatziki or tomato sauce.

I found these at Rotonda , a remote restaurant in Naxos that has amazing sweeping views.  It was almost like a deconstructed pizza.

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#16 – Greek yogurt with honey

This is one of the best Greek foods of all time!  Yiaourti me meli means yogurt with honey (and often walnuts), and this is a basically-perfect dish—rich in protein, creamy, sweet.  I had it almost every day for breakfast, in some way.

The debate over whether it’s Greek yogurt or Turkish yogurt is fascinating, and you will find extremely opinionated people on both sides 🙂  I will sit here and eat my delicious yogurt with honey in the meantime.

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#17 – Chicken souvlaki

Weirdly, I don’t know whether I’d had chicken souvlaki before?  It’s basically a seasoned chicken that’s grilled on skewers (souvlaki basically means “meat on a skewer”).  It’s traditionally served with tzatziki sauce and often pita.

Wondering what’s the difference between souvlaki and gyro?  Often Greeks will call both souvlaki, but the main real difference is that souvlaki is small pieces of skewered, grilled meat, while gyro have meat shaved off a giant vertical spit of meat.

I ran into souvlaki in the tavernas of tiny remote towns, and both times I had it, it was DELICIOUS.

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#18 – All kinds of local cheeses

This one is a bit of a catch-all, because listing every single delicious local cheese I had would take forever.  Suffice to say, Greece is a cheese lover’s heaven.  I’ll shout out a few that I know I had, but honestly I probably had even more and didn’t realize it.

In Santorini, there’s a cheese called chlorotyri (often just called “chloro”).  It’s a goat’s milk cheese that’s creamy, slightly sour, and really delicious.  It’s hard to find because they only make a small amount, and it basically never leaves the island.  So look for it there if you visit (it’s the first pic below)!

Naxos was super proud of their cheese (and potatoes), and there were tons to choose from.  Graviera was super common (often on top of the Naxian potatoes), along with Arseniko, Xynomyzithra and Xynotiro.  I’ll shout out fried Naxian potatoes here as well, rather than having their own entry.  They’re basically fries or chips, with graviera cheese on top.

I ran across some other delicious soft cheese in Naxos, and had a lovely plate of local cheese in Athens on my birthday as well.  GIVE ME ALL THE CHEESE!

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#19 – Olives and olive oil

This feels like a bit of a “duh”, because Greece is so famous for using olive oil in the cuisine.  But it’s worth seeking out somewhere you can taste various olive oils (and olives, if that’s your thing).  I made a stop at the Eggares Olive Oil Museum in Naxos for a short tour and taste.

One of the most interesting things I tried was a candied olive, which…why??  (It wasn’t bad, just curious what possesses someone to do that)

I picked up some great olive oil pressed by monks in Naxos, and if you’re lucky you’ll make a friend in Greece who will share their homemade stuff with you.  Wine and olive oil are often made locals for their own families, and it’s always super special when they share with you.

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#20 – Tiny Greek donuts (loukoumades)

These are not the droids you looking for…the pic below are *not* loukoumades.  I never found them, sadly (though I don’t think I was specifically looking).  I did find these delightful little donuts in Naxos Town, however, and enjoyed them.

Loukoumades are kind of like donut holes…sweet, fluffy dough balls that are fried and then drizzled with honey, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a dash of sesame seeds.  That sounds 100% up my alley, and it’s one of the best Greek foods that I didn’t get to try.

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#21 – Greek wine

To be honest, Greek wine wasn’t really on my radar.  Certainly I knew Greece MADE wine, but I didn’t really think about it.  So I was pleasantly surprised by the winery tours I did in Santorini , which is famous for its white wine varieties (Assyrtiko) and their Vinsanto, a barrel-aged dessert wine.

But from northern Greece, to Macedonia, to the Peloponnese, any wine lover will find tons of interesting and lesser-known options to try—and a lot of them are really great.

I will shout out the Vinsanto and Kamartis dessert wines that I had in Santorini…they were absolutely amazing (yes, I brought some home), and quite unique.

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#22 – Tsikoudia (or raki or rakomelo?)

While we’re on the subject of alcohol, I only got to try this once but found it delightful.  Tsikoudia (or sometimes called raki, the Turkish name, or rakomelo) is a spirit made from the leftovers of wine production (so it’s grape-based).

It’s traditionally kept in the freezer and served icy cold after a meal, as it’s believed to aid digestion.  It’s sometimes flavored with things like lemon rind, rosemary, or honey

Apparently it’s not uncommon at family-run tavernas to bring out a small glass of it with the check, but I only had it happen once.  However, it was a nice gesture and I think mine had honey and cinnamon flavors in it.

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#23 – Kitron liqueur (& other regional spirits)

When I was on Naxos, I saw kitron liqueur everywhere.  It was offered in shots, it was in cocktails, and even in ice cream!  It’s made from the fruit and leaves of the citron tree, and is a famous Naxan drink with a bright green absinthe-like color.

And you’ll find local liqueurs all over Greece, so sample as many as you can find.  In Corfu they have Koum Quat (as you’d assume, kumquat liqueur), in Chios they have Souma (from figs, similar to ouzo), and on and on.

#24 – Really great & interesting cocktails

So this last one is less about the best Greek dishes, and more about making sure that you sample the drinks beyond just traditional tavernas.  Because let me tell you, cocktail culture is BUZZING in Greece!

I really loved what I was seeing on cocktail menus, and not just in Athens (I stopped by a couple well-known cocktail bars), but even on the sleepier and more remote island of Naxos.  In particular, I saw a lot of fun herbal flavors being paired with fruit, and also great uses of local spirits.

Be adventurous!

So there you have it…24 of the best Greek foods and drinks to sample when you visit the amazing country of Greece.  It’s a wonderful country to explore as a foodie, and I know I just scratched the surface.

Other regional foodie adventures you’ll love:

• Guide to Turkish Cuisine: 20 Foods You Have to Try
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• The Best Key Lime Pie In The Florida Keys: A Definitive Ranking
• A Guide To Coffee In Italy: Un Caffé, Per Favore
• The Quest for the Best Old Fashioned Cocktail in Louisville, Kentucky
• Foodie Diary: The 10 Best Things I Ate & Drank In Charleston

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9 Greek Islands To Visit If You Love Food & Wine in 2024

The Greek Islands are quickly gaining a reputation as a destination for foodies. But with thousands of islands to visit, knowing which ones will satisfy your cravings can be a challenge.

Having been to 17 Greek Islands in recent years I know a thing or two about the culinary scene in Greece.

Sifnos is famous for its food, but other Greek islands also have great cuisine. Since I moved to Greece, I’ve been exploring the best islands for food and beaches.

Each island’s food is unique because of its history, weather, and local ingredients.

This post will give you a little background on each island sharing a bit of its history with its food.

I have also gone ahead and created an interactive Map of all the island’s best restaurants that you can download.

So you will have all the best restaurants on each Greek island already saved in your phone!

Human-written content, by me, and nearly all original images, unless stated. Posts could have affiliate links to help offset the cost of maintaining this blog. When you click on a link, we receive a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you. See Our Affiliate Policy and Advertiser Disclosure for more info.

The Best Greek Islands For Foodies

Here is a list of all the islands that offer the best experiences in Greece!

Along with a brief description of the cuisine specialties you will find on each island is a list of the best restaurants along with nearby wineries and related tours .

A Greek Island I just know you fellow foodies are going to love is on that is nestled in the heart of the Aegean Sea. Naxos is the largest of the Cyclades Islands and a haven for food lovers.

Known for its unique ecosystem, the island has many villages with a tradition that goes hand in hand with its stunning landscapes and incredible beaches .

One of my highlights of Naxos was eating the famous mizithra cheese! Made from goat’s milk cheese. The island has rich soil, so there’s lots of fresh fruit and honey. These are very important in Greek food.

Not surprisingly, seafood plays a major role in Naxos’ culinary identity. The local fishermen supply a variety of fish and shellfish that are the main draw in many dishes.

Tomato fritters , a staple on many menus, are fried to perfection and burst with flavor, often accompanied by a tangy red sauce made from the island’s fresh tomatoes.

Wine lovers in Greece will not be disappointed by Naxos’ offerings, as the island’s Mediterranean climate provides ideal conditions for producing red and white wine.

Naxos: Half-Day Cooking Class at Basiliko Family Tavern

Take a 4-hour cooking lesson at a family tavern! All dishes are made from local and fresh ingredients and with pure organic products

Some of the best dishes can be found at a seaside taverna or deep in the old town of Naxos.

A fun idea when visiting the island is exploring the local specialties at a bustling food tour !

Don’t miss the summer season, as it’s the best time of year to explore all that Naxos .

Don’t leave Naxos without trying:

• Mizithra Cheese

Must Try Restaurants: 

• Scirocco Aegean Cuisine ($$)
• To Elliniko Restaurant ($$)
• Metaxi Mas Mezedopoleio ($$)
• Labyrinth Wine Restaurant ($$)
• The Naxos Apothecary ($$)
• Dal Professore Naxos Mediterranean ($$)
• Nissaki Restaurant since 1971 ($$)

Wineries in Naxos

• Saint Anna Winery

Saint Anna Wine Tour in Naxos

Visit a traditional winery in Naxos and taste several wine varieties as well as sample local olives, cheeses, and tomatoes.

The island of Crete, Greece’s largest island, has some of the best restaurants I’ve ever been to.

One cannot discuss Cretan cuisine highlights without mentioning its olive trees, which are central to the island’s cuisine.

Renowned for producing high-quality olive oil, these trees have shaped not only the landscape but also the unique flavor of Crete’s most traditional dishes.

On my last solo trip to Crete , I visited the oldest olive tree in Greece, which is said to be 2,000 years old!

Cheese lovers will find solace in the traditional Cretan diet, which often features mizithra cheese, a versatile ingredient used in both savory and sweet preparations.

Twice-baked barley rusk is another signature item, often paired with fresh tomato sauce, feta cheese, and a drizzle of local thyme honey.

Private Food Tour in Chania

Join this 4-hour food tour in Chania and try local cheese, raki, Greek coffee, and more!

A visit to Crete would be incomplete without indulging in local specialties. My favorite is the chickpea stew, enriched with lemon juice and olive oil.

Crete also offers cooking classes for those interested in diving deeper into the island’s traditions.

A large island with so many areas to stay , Crete is the perfect destination for Greek mythology and culture. It’s the essence of the Mediterranean, captured on a plate ; )

Don’t leave Crete without trying:

• Cretan Cheese
• Stamnagathi
• Raki  
• Marathópitta (fennel pie)

Must Try Restaurants

• Salis ($$) Get Reservations
• Thalassino Ageri ($$) Get Reservations
• Tamam Restaurant Chania ($$) Get Reservations
• The Five Restaurant ($$) Get Reservations

Wineries in Crete

• Manousakis Winery
• Lyrarakis Winery & Tasting Room
• Zacharioudakis Winery

Crete Wine and Olive Oil Tour

This small group wine and olive oil tour is perfect for any wine lover in Crete!

A few hours from Athens there is an incredible little gem of an island called Sifnos. There is no doubt in my mind that Sifnos is the best Greek Island for food.

And it is not only me who agrees, you will find that Sifnos is always coming up recommended most of all the Greek islands for food and wine lovers.

My experience eating in Sifnos last year far exceeded my expectations let me tell you.  

And if you want my opinion, the best area to stay in Sifnos if you love eating out is Platis Gialos. This is the spot with all the famed restaurants.

Sifnos is the birthplace of Nikolaos Tselementes , a renowned Greek chef who has left an indelible mark in history.

He penned one of the most iconic cookbooks in Greece , which for many generations served as the go-to guide for Greek home cooking.

His influence spread far beyond Sifnos and made a significant impact on Greek cooking.

The island of Sifnos takes great pride in its native son, celebrating his legacy through annual food festivals and continuing to inspire chefs who aspire to blend tradition with innovation.

The island’s Mediterranean foods are rich in flavors, often featuring local ingredients like olive oil, sesame seeds, and fresh vegetables.

A popular island dish that you must try is “ Revithada .” It is a slow-cooked chickpea stew that’s flavored with lemon and olive oil, suitable for vegans.

Sifnos also offers an array of baked goods, including pastries made with local thyme honey and sesame seeds.

don’t leave Sifnos without trying:

• Revithia (Chickpea Stew)
• Kaparosalata (Caper Salad)
• Manoura Cheese
• Cantina ($$$)
• Bostini ($$$)
• Omega3 ($$$)
• Kafeneio Drakakis ($$)
• Maiòlica Sifnos ($$$)

Wineries in Sifnos

• Loggia Wine Bar

Rhodes, one of Greece’s Dodecanese islands, is among the most popular islands for foodies and wine lovers .

A quintessential experience in Rhodes is indulging in “Pitaroudia,” a chickpea fritter that’s a local favorite.

Often served with a side of tangy yogurt sauce or paired with fresh salads.

For those with a sweet tooth, don’t miss the opportunity to try “Melekouni,” a traditional sesame seed and honey bar that is often offered at weddings and festivals.

Planning to visit during the peak season? You may have the opportunity to partake in local food festivals !

I found the best way to explore Rhodes was getting my way through it! Don’t forget to get restaurant reservations ahead of time. I was so lucky to have planned ahead.

Don’t leave Rhodes without trying:

• Lucan (Goat, chickpeas, and cumin)
• Pitaroudia (minced meat and chickpea pies)
• Trachanas with Fish
• Beans & Garlic
• Panorama Restaurant ($$)
• Ono by Marouli ($$)
• Koukos ($$)
• Kerasma ($$)
• Marco Polo Mansion ($$)

Wineries in Rhodes

• Kounaki Wines
• Alexandris Family Winery
• Piperis Winery

 #5. Mykonos

Mykonos, part of the Cyclades islands in Greece , has long been recognized for its famous nightlife and celeb sightings. But over the years, it has evolved into the best greek island for foodies.

Make it a point to indulge in local cheese specialties like “Kopanisti,” a spicy cheese that’s unique to the island. This tangy and peppery cheese often accompanies freshly baked bread.

No surprise that seafood is another highlight of Mykonos cuisine. I ate the best fish on my solo trip to Mykonos.

Try it grilled to perfection and served with simple, fresh ingredients like lemon juice, olive oil, and local herbs.

A popular dish in Mykonos is a bowl of “Louza” (a type of cured pork), or the ever-popular Greek salad.

If you are on a budget in Mykonos , then try the street food! I found lots of places have gyros filled with meats, French fries, and tangy sauces.

don’t Leaave Mykonos without trying: 

• Kopanisti  (Stinky Cheese)
• Louza (Pork Speciality)
• Kremmidopita (Onion Pie)
• Melopita (Sweet tart)

Must Try Restaurants:

• M-Eating Restaurant Mykonos Town ($$$)
• Nero Nero ($$)
• Gastronomy Project ($$$)

Wineries in Mykonos

• Mykonos Vioma Organic Farm
• Phelo Mykonos

Part of the Saronic Islands, Hydra is one of the best Greek islands for foodies. It is also one of the closest Greek islands to Athens, making it a great island to visit in one day.

Given its proximity to the sea, it’s no surprise that local tavernas specialize in dishes like grilled octopus, fresh mussels, and fried calamari.

Many restaurants have terraces overlooking the Aegean Sea, allowing diners to enjoy their meal with a stunning view.

Hydra also offers some unique local dishes that are well worth exploring. “Amygdalota,” almond sweets often flavored with rose water , are a local favorite and a must-try.

They’re a taste of Hydra’s tradition, and I suggest you pair this with a cup of Greek coffee. 

The absence of cars and the presence of donkey trails instead of roads add to the island’s unique charm.

I had one of the best meals of my life in Hydra in one of the most picturesque settings in Greece.

So if you are in search of some exquisite food, I highly recommend you go from Athens to Hydra . Taste and experience the soul of Greek island living.

Don’t leave Hydra without trying

• Mountain Greens
• Téchnē Restaurant & Social ($$)
• Il Casta ($$)
• Omilos ($$)

#7. Santorini

Unless you live in a cave, you’ve heard of the Greek Island Santorini. Not only famous for sunsets, Santorini has some out-of-this-world cuisine and epic backdrops.

Santorini is most celebrated for its unique cherry tomatoes. Smaller, sweeter, and more concentrated in flavor than other varieties. You will find these tomatoes are used in various dishes, including the traditional “tomato keftedes,” or tomato fritters.

These crispy, fried delights are a staple in local tavernas and a must-try for anyone visiting the island.

I’m sure you won’t be surprised, but some of the best food in Santorini definitely includes fresh seafood.

And let’s not forget about desserts. Melitinia is a type of cheese pastry often served with honey and cinnamon . So anyone looking for a sweet end to a meal and a taste of Santorini’s traditional flavors needs to order this.

Don’t leave Santorini without trying:

• Domatokeftethes (Tomato Fritters)
• Melitzanosalata (Eggplant Dip)
• Spanakopita (Spinach Pie)

Must Try Restaurants in Santorini

• Selene ($$$$)
• Lycabettus Restuarant ($$$)
• 1800-Floga Restaurant
• La Maison Restaurant ($$$)

Wineries in Santorini

• Venetsanos Winery
• Santo Wines
• Domaine Sigalas

Milos is known for its black-eyed peas, and grilled octopus fresh from the Aegean Sea.

I enjoyed some of the best stews brimming with a variety of fish and shellfish.

Cheese and pastries are other significant highlights of Milos’ gastronomy. “Melichloro,” a soft, white cheese exclusive to the island , graces many dishes, from pies to salads, offering a taste of the region’s dairy traditions.

Pastry lovers will relish unique sweets like “Koufeto,” a traditional treat made with white pumpkin, almonds, and sugar.

Put the traditional fishing village Mandrakia on your Milos itinerary and check out the most incredible seaside restaurant Medusa.

Don’t leave Milos without trying:

• Black-eyed pea dishes
• Local Cheeses – xinomizithra, a soft, sour white cheese
• Dried Tomatoes
• Milos Honey
• Pitarakia (fried pies)

Must Try Restaurants in Milos

• O Hamos Milos
• Medusa Milos
• Yialos Restaurant Milos
• Methismeni Politita ($$)
• Psaravolada Restaurant ($$)

Wineries in Milos

• Kostantakis Winery & Residence

Cave Wine Tour in Mi l os

Kostantaskis Winery tour with tasting and snacks!

Corfu, one of the Ionian Islands, is so interesting as the food is influenced by various cultures. You will notice Venetian, French, and British, are all present on the island of Corfu.

A standout dish is “Pastitsada,” a slow-cooked meat stew with pasta, spiced with cinnamon and cloves, representing the island’s Venetian influence.

Seafood is also prominent, with dishes like “Bourdetto,” a spicy fish stew.

Try traditional recipes like “Sofrito,” thinly sliced veal cooked in white wine, garlic, and parsley. This dish highlights the use of fresh and flavorful local ingredients that the island’s fertile soil has nurtured.

When dining in Corfu be sure to get reservations as it is a popular island.

Don’t leave Corfu without trying  

• Eggplants filled with onion, tomatoes, and baked
• Local Cheese (Korfos)

Must Visit Restaurants in Corfu

• Venetsianiko Pigadi (Venetian Well) ($$$$)
• Etrusco ($$$$)
• Arcadion Bistrot ($$)
• Nolita Corfu ($$)
• Pomo d’Oro ($$$)

Wineries in Corfu

• Nicoluzo Winery
• Theotoky Estate

📲 Downloadable Map of Greek Islands for Foodies

📍 Download my pre-pinned Google map of all the best locations in this post!

My favorite restaurants, bars, hotels and top sights are all saved and ready to use!

Dining Tips for Foodies in the Greek Islands

Here are some tips to ensure a pleasant dining experience:

Tipping in the Greek Islands is usually less formal than in other Western countries. A service charge could be included in the bill, but if not, I would leave from 10-15% tip if you’re pleased with the service.

The dress code for dining in the Greek Islands can vary depending on the venue. In casual tavernas and beachside eateries, the attire is generally relaxed, and beachwear may be acceptable during the day.

However, it’s recommended to wear a cover-up and proper footwear. In more upscale restaurants and chic bars, guests may be expected to dress more smartly.

It’s always a good idea to check in advance or opt for smart-casual wear to be on the safe side.

Time of Eating

Dining times in the Greek Islands might differ from what you’re used to. Lunch is typically a leisurely affair and can start anywhere from 1 pm to 4 pm.

Dinner is often eaten late, usually not starting until 8 pm or 9 pm, and it’s not uncommon for locals to dine as late as 10 pm. Many restaurants may not even open for dinner until 7 pm.

Meals are often an extended experience filled with conversation, multiple courses, and perhaps even some local music.

Local Etiquette

Greeks are known for their hospitality, and you might even be offered a complimentary dessert or digestive liqueur like ouzo at the end of your meal. Saying “Efharisto” (Thank you) and showing enthusiasm for the food will surely earn you a warm smile from your hosts.

Final Thoughts on the Best Greek Islands for Foodies

I hope you have thoroughly enjoyed this post about all the Greek Islands that offer a top-notch dining experience for foodies.

Greece has some pretty incredible restaurants, not just on the islands! If you are going to be in Athens , you won’t want to miss some of the Michelin-starred restaurants .

Start planning your trip to the islands today! It is never too late to get started!

The Greek Island with the best food and top-rated restaurants is Sifnos and Santorini. If you have to choose between the two islands, visit Sifnos. Sifnos not only has incredible cuisine, but it is also a more authentic Greek Island.

As of August 2023, the only Michelin Star restaurants are located in Athens, Greece.

Planning a Trip to Greece?

• Solo Trips to Greece
• Greece Travel Guide
• Ultimate Greece Travel Guide
• 15 Best Greek Islands For Solo Travel
• 9 Best Greek Islands for Foodies & Wine Lovers + Map
• Solo Female Packing List For Greece: Summer & Winter
• The Best Private Airport Transfer From Athens Airport
• Affordable Greek Islands Near Mykonos
• Best & Hottest Greek Islands to Visit in May

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Rhodes & Symi Island

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• 7 Best Wine Tasting Tours in Rhodes Greece
• How To Book The Fast Boat To Symi From Rhodes
• The Best Way To Get A Rhodes Rental Car
• 17 Best Things to Do in Symi Island Greece + Map

Crete Island

• Ultimate Crete Solo Travel Guide + Map
• Best Area To Stay In Crete: Solo & Couples + Map

Milos Island

• All The Best Things to Do in Milos By Area + Map
• Renting a Car in Milos: What You Need To Know
• The Perfect 4 Days in Milos Itinerary Guide + Map
• 12 Best Boutique Hotels In Milos Greece in
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Sifnos Island

• Best Guide to Sifnos Greece: Everything To Do + Map
• A Guide to Booking a Ferry From Athens To Sifnos
• Flight From Athens to Sifnos By Private Helicopter
• Honest Review of Nival Boutique Hotel in Sifnos
• Best Beaches in Sifnos, Greece

Serifos Island

• Complete Island Guide To Serifos Greece + Map
• Renting a Car in Naxos: Exploring the Pros and Cons
• Best Naxos Bus Tour Highlights of Idyllic Villages
• 10 Best Villages to Visit in Naxos
• Ultimate Solo Travel Guide Mykonos
• Is Mykonos Expensive?
• How to Get Around in Mykonos
• Day Trips From Mykonos
• What To See In 2 Days In Athens Itinerary + Map
• What to Expect Visiting Athens in November
• What to Expect When Visiting Athens in December
• 10 Best Athens Hotels With Rooftop Pools
• How To Visit Athens On A Budget + Free Calculator
• 7 Easy Day Trips From Athens City Center
• Best Half-Day Tour: Athens To Temple Of Poseidon
• Coco-Mat Athens BC Hotel Review
• The Best Ferry From Athens To Hydra Island in
• Ultimate Athens Solo Travel Guide + Free Map
• Easy Greek Words and Phrases to Learn for Travel
• Is Your Name Greek? Greek Names Generator & Meanings
• 18 Pros & Cons of Living in Athens Greece by an Expat
• Best Cafes in Athens by Neighborhood

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Melissa Byron, a seasoned solo traveler since 2009, is the founder & visionary behind A Solo Woman Traveling. Drawing from her extensive personal experience globetrotting solo to over 40 countries, she has dedicated herself to a mission: crafting invaluable guides and itineraries for women who embark on solo adventures.

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The 34 Essential Athens Restaurants

Where to find avocado tzatziki, fried seafood in a cone, mutton burgers, and octopus candied with tsipouro in the Greek capital

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Every year, tourists travel to the Greek capital to hike up the Acropolis, browse countless museums, and seek out tans at nearby beaches. They also come for Greek cuisine, which builds many meals from three key ingredients: olive oil, wheat, and wine. Add in lots of vegetables, fruits, fish, and meat, and a philhellene could want nothing more.

But the Athenian food scene goes well beyond olives and bread. The capital has also long served as a gateway for the wider MENA (Middle East and North Africa) region. Athens has welcomed immigrants from Egypt, Turkey, Lebanon, and Syria, who combine their foodways with Greek ingredients and customs in fine dining to street food. In recent years, the city’s chefs have developed new genres of gourmet Greek cuisine, with influences from across the eastern Mediterranean and with help from an up-and-coming generation of cooks who cut their teeth in restaurants around the world. Even TV shows like MasterChef Greece have had a noticeable impact, driving interest in new dining options and highlighting industry talent.

Before COVID-19, the food scene in Athens (and all over Greece, really) was thriving. The country has generally managed the pandemic well, especially during the first wave, but COVID dampened that growth. The government moved quickly to shut down cities, including restaurants, and close borders. Some venues pivoted to takeaway; many closed permanently. But in May, after months with their doors closed, restaurants all over Greece reopened, first for outdoor dining, then indoor. The country quickly advertised itself as a safe vacation destination, and the tourism industry made a significant comeback. The capital even attracted some attention among visitors who normally head straight for the islands.

Exciting, classic, and Classical, the best Athens restaurants are here to serve you olives, bread, wine, and so much more.

Prices per person, excluding alcohol $ = Less than 10 euros (less than $12 USD) $$ = 11 - 29 euros ($13 to $34 USD) $$$ = 30 - 49 euros ($35 to $58 USD) $$$$ = More than 50 euros (more than $59 USD)

Note: The inclusion of restaurants offering dine-in service should not be taken as an endorsement for dining inside. Studies indicate a lower exposure risk to COVID-19 outdoors, but the level of risk is contingent on social distancing and other safety guidelines. Check with each restaurant for up-to-date information on dining offerings. For updated information on coronavirus cases in Greece, please visit the National Public Health Organization .

Demetrios Ioannou is an independent reporter and documentary photographer, based between Athens, Greece and Istanbul, Turkey. His work has been featured at The New York Times , NPR , POLITICO Europe , The Daily Beast and BBC Travel among others.

At Hoocut, an A-Team of famous chefs (also behind Cookoovaya, on this list) aims to elevate souvlaki, the iconic Greek street food, with the best possible ingredients. Set inside a neoclassical building of the interwar period, a bakery, a butcher shop, and a grocery store provide the raw materials for the final product, which emerges from the main grill area. Finely chopped pieces of beef or mutton are wrapped in pita, while pork, chicken, and sausage are presented on open pita. And for those who don’t eat meat, Hoocut has a squid option, too. [$]

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Run by a family with roots in Antakya, Turkey, Feyrouz is named for its matriarch and mastermind in the kitchen (who has no relation to the famed Lebanese singer). Inspired by the Balkan food of Istanbul and broader Levantine traditions, the family utilizes local ingredients to make various types of lahmacun, peinirli, lots of soups (mahluta is a favorite with red lentils, fennel, pumpkin, and chicken broth), and many different salads. In 2019, the family opened a dessert spot across the street, where diners can end their meals with Turkish kanafeh. [$]

Lukumades are an easy, popular dessert throughout Greece, but this shop consistently ranks high among customers with sweet tooths. The fried dough balls are made with flour, dry yeast, water, and starch, and the simplest renditions are served with honey and cinnamon. But here you’ll find them with more than a dozen toppings, including all kinds of chocolate, nuts, and ice cream. There are also stuffed versions filled with praline, banana, or lemon cream with wild cherry. [$]

Mirch brings Indian gastronomy to the heart of Athens. While the shop delivers on classics like tandoori chicken sprinkled with lots of herbs and spices, the best seller is the Indian souvlaki: chicken tikka with mixed vegetables layered into a large fresh piece of naan. You can take your wrap to go, but if you stick around you can enjoy a concise list of tandoori dishes, curries, and fried appetizers. [$]

Peas Vegan & Raw Food

Peas is one of a few but growing number of vegan restaurants in Athens, putting an animal-friendly spin on Mediterranean cuisine, according to owners Lila Pouliou and Maria Popa. Everything is made in-house, including vegetable-based protein substitutes like seitan and tempeh. Among the most popular options, check out their take on the famous Greek souvlaki with seitan and mushrooms. For dessert, don’t miss the famous raw tart with avocado, cocoa, and banana. [$$]

Sea bream carpaccio, dusky grouper with okra, and roasted and skewered squid kontosouvli instantly transport Travolta diners to the sea. Owners Anestis Lampropoulos and brothers Spyros and Vangelis Liakos formed exclusive partnerships with three fishing boats, which provide the restaurant with everything from fresh octopus to cod to crayfish. Try the beer brewed in-house with salt water from sea urchins. [$$$ - $$$$]

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Spyros Liakos, Vangelis Liakos, Pericles Koskinas, and Manos Zournatzis are some of the country’s top cooking talents. At Cookoovaya, they create free-flowing, family-style meals under the mantra “remember how you felt, not just what you ate.” Though the seasonal menu changes often, some of their most-beloved dishes are slow-braised beef cheek with smoked eggplant puree, and grilled fish of the day with amaranth, olive oil, and lemon. It’s a good idea to start your meal with one of their pies; the open-topped version with truffle-creamed mushrooms, grilled beef off-cuts, and crispy onion is the most interesting. [$$$]

Falafel Al Sharq

Located right in the center of the city, in an area known for its rich immigrant communities from across the MENA region, Falafel Al Sharq serves hundreds of locals and tourists every day. The cook, Ibrahim Elabd, and his brother Mahmoud originally hail from Egypt. Besides falafel, they serve Egyptian specialties like chicken livers cooked in spices, as well as marinated chicken and lamb kebabs. [$]

Inspired by a similar cafe in Scotland, Myrtillo Cafe is the first food business in Athens fully co-owned and co-operated by people living with disabilities. Among the dishes made with mostly organic ingredients, you can find homemade pies, such as the famous Sfakian cheese pie and the verdant fennel pie, along with sandwiches, baguettes, and bruschettas. The desserts are also delicious, with options including various cakes and sweet fruit pies. [$]

Geros tou Moria

For over 90 years, this traditional tavern has sat in the same spot beneath the Acropolis, among the colorful little alleys of the historic Plaka district. Named for Theodoros Kolokotronis, one of the greatest heroes of Greek independence, the restaurant serves classics like moussaka, meatballs, tzatziki, and all kinds of roasted and grilled meats. While the food is good, the ambiance is even better. A couple of hours spent among the locals, singing and dancing to live Greek folk music, could make any outsider forget they’re just in Athens for a visit. [$$]

Since opening in 2017, Zisis has made the case for seafood as street food. Based on its immediate popularity among snackers on the go, the restaurant was preaching to the choir. Zisis serves fried sardines, anchovies, shrimp, and squid in paper cones, which you can take to go or eat at the restaurant with a glass of tsipouro or ouzo (anise is a perfect match with seafood). [$]

This tiny fusion restaurant not far from Syntagma Square has made a name for itself among the city’s food lovers. Chef Sotiris Kontizas combines his own Greek and Japanese roots to create comfort food without geographic limitations, like gyoza with beef cheeks, bean noodles with octopus and Kalamata olives, and ceviche fricassee with guelly jack. [$$]

East and West meet at Anadolu Mutfağı, where Kurdish chef and owner Selim Selguk makes Turkish dishes with Greek ingredients. Selguk arrived in Athens in 2003 as a political refugee from Turkey. Not long after, he set up his own restaurant to make what he knows best, Anatolian dishes like lamb kebabs, hünkar beğendi (smoked, spiced, pureed eggplant), perde pilavı (pilaf-stuffed dough), and baklava with pistachios. [$$]

Nancy's Sweet Home

Serbetospito, aka Nancy’s Sweet Home, is chocolate heaven on earth, though the epic catalog of sweets includes options for all sweet tooths, including vanilla and fruit-flavored treats. Owners Nancy Katsikari and Serafim Alexandris turn out traditional options like ekmek politico (semolina-based cake with syrup and kaimaki, the chewy local ice cream), as well as seasonal desserts that range from strawberry pie to Christmasy melomakarona cookies. Just take a look at the deli case and chat with the staff to find the ideal option. [$]

Chef Panos Ioannidis worked for years in restaurants in Italy before returning to Athens to create Ovio. The smell of fresh pizza from the wood-fired oven welcomes you to the cozy space, a casual setting for the restaurant’s fine dining. Along with pizza under various toppings, the restaurant serves mains like pasta and risotto, as well as vegan and vegetarian dishes. [$$$]

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Tastes of damascus.

The namesake tastes of Damascus are not only delicious; they also support asylum-seekers and refugees living in Athens. Started as a project by NGO Za’atar — which focuses on providing resources and local connections to women, unaccompanied minors, LGBTQ refugees, and prisoners — the Syrian and Middle Eastern restaurant is slowly attracting more diners with its falafel, tabbouleh, and Beyrouti hummus with parsley. One recent favorite is mouhalabe, Syrian milk pudding with coconut, orange blossom water, pistachio, and rose. [$]

Located behind the Kallimarmaro stadium, where the modern Olympics started in 1896, this two-Michelin-starred restaurant sits at the top of fine dining in Athens. Chef Angelos Lantos (the first Greek chef to achieve two stars) is an expert ambassador of French haute cuisine. Among the signature dishes, try the langoustine with lemon, Petrossian Daurenki caviar, grapefruit, gentian, and celery. Or go for the crab with turnip, acacia honey, tarragon, and passion fruit. [$$$$]

Feedέλ Urban Gastronomy

Feedέλ blends Greek gourmet cuisine with traditional dishes, like in their tzatziki made with avocado, which adds a layer of fatty luxury to the classic dip. You might also find rooster spring rolls, or pork tenderloin with aubergine salad, white beets, and onion pickles. The cozy restaurant, owned by chef Leonidas Koutsopoulos, immediately became the talk of the town when it opened in 2016. The small backyard remains the perfect place to spend a summer night with friends and a few exquisite cocktails. [$$$]

Not far from buzzing Syntagma Square, Etnico takes diners on gastronomic journeys to Mexico, the Middle East, and South Asia. The global menu includes tacos and fajitas, falafel, tandoori chicken, and samosas, as well as dessert options and drinks to fulfill even more wanderlust. Don’t miss the margaritas (especially on warm summer nights) and the heady sangria. [$]

Greeks are known for their love of seafood, but there’s no fresher place to get it than chef Vasilis Akrivos’s restaurant set behind the central fish market. Dining at Aiolou68 (conveniently also the address of the restaurant) feels like eating by the sea on a Greek island. Along with well-spiced dishes like shrimp or lobster spaghetti, fish soup, and bouillabaisse, the restaurant serves fresh seafood prepared simply, best eaten with just a squeeze of lemon. [$$$]

Hill Athens

With one of the most beautiful views in the city, looking out on the Acropolis, Hill Athens serves modern Greek cuisine from brunch to late dinner in the historic Thissio district. Chef George Nestoridis and his team skillfully serve a menu designed by award-winning chef Dimitris Dimitriadis. A blend of comfort food and traditional tastes comes through in dishes like octopus candied with aged tsipouro, or risotto that channels the flavors of Greek gemista (stuffed peppers and tomatoes). Take your pick from the large variety of wines to accompany your meal. [$$$]

This small cafe in the center of Athens serves the best red velvet cake in the city thanks to pastry chef Tasos Lytras. You’ll have to stop by early to try it, though, since the cake regularly sells out. Don’t fret if you miss it; Lytras also whips up a variety of tarts, pies, croissants, and cakes. Accompany your dessert with coffee or, even better, a scoop of house-made ice cream. [$]

Granada is decorated in colorful marble tiles meant to evoke Andalusia, a fitting setting for chef Dimitris Arsenidis’s blend of Spanish and Greek cuisines. Shrimp and chorizo empanadas come with romesco, while octopus is paired with fava beans and kapari (caper) jam. Accompany your meal with house-made sangria for the complete experience. [$$]

This throwback restaurant serves traditional Greek food a few minutes from the Acropolis, and it has become a natural hotspot in the area. The aesthetic is meant to evoke an Athens of decades past, with large portions and cheap prices to complete the fantasy. Try the meatballs, moussaka, and grilled meat and fish. Don’t forget to order some Greek wine. [$$]

You’ll find great food at Shedia, but it’s the great people who will keep bringing you back. The cafe-bar-restaurant occupies the ground floor of Shedia Home, an initiative that helps people struggling with homelessness. The famous Greek chef Lefteris Lazarou created the menu, but the kitchen is staffed with relative newbies (the only cooking expertise required for hire is knowing how to boil an egg). The seasonal menu utilizes organic ingredients while remaining affordable, with offerings like almond and pistachio-crusted salmon filet or marjoram-scented spaghetti with red peppers, singlino (salted pork), and minced pork. [$$]

Vezené Athens

Aris Vezenes, one of Greece’s most talented chefs, had a huge hit on his hands when he opened his Greek-inspired bistro in 2011. The restaurant has aged well, earning a community of loyal customers and a spot in the Michelin guide. The menu is divided into three categories: a sea section with fresh fish, urchin, and lobster; a land section with fantastic choices of meat, like faraona (Guinea fowl) cooked with shio koji, jus, pickled pear, and baby gem; and the soil section, which includes dishes of mushrooms, potatoes, and vegetables. [$$$$]

Kalamakia O Elvis

You can get steak, pork, or chicken souvlaki at lots of places in Athens, but this is the only place to dine on the street delicacy beneath the loving gaze of the king. The story behind the Elvis Presley-themed eatery is a bit convoluted (the owners also run a bar that’s next door to a butcher shop named Elvis that was created for a popular Greek sitcom), but the owners ran with it, plastering the interior with posters and playing “Suspicious Minds” on repeat. If the ambiance somehow doesn’t appeal to you, the meats can also be taken to go, as can the freshly chopped fries sprinkled with salt and oregano. The shop’s huge success even led to a second location in the Pagrati neighborhood. [$]

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Το Κουλούρι του Ψυρρή

Whether you’re an early riser or coming off a night of partying, stop by this 24/7 bakery in Psyrri, the city’s hippest neighborhood. The place is mostly known for its koulouri, thin, ropy breads similar to Jerusalem bagels or Turkish simit, which come topped simply with traditional sesame seeds, or decorated with sunflower seeds, dried grapes, or melted cheese. The bakery also serves a thicker variety of bagel stuffed as sandwiches, along with other baked goods. [$]

Kitchen Lab

Since being named the first champion on Greece’s version of MasterChef , Akis Petretzikis has been a rising star in the Greek food scene over the last decade. At Kitchen Lab, his team serves the most satisfying brunches in town, including croque-madames, rich sandwiches, English breakfasts, omelets, and the ever-popular pancakes topped with combinations like toffee, banana, and crumbled biscuits. This location is most convenient from the city center, but two others further out offer more seating. [$ - $$]

Celebrity chef Argiro Barbarigou serves locals and tourists some of the freshest fish and seafood in the city. Her restaurant, Papadakis, opened at the foot of Mount Lycabettus in downtown Athens in 2005, attracting A-listers like Jean Paul Gauthier, Carla Bruni, and Pierce Brosnan. Less-famous diners can also stop by for lobster, squid, and the fisherman’s soup known as kakavia. [$$$]

Vintage Wine Bar & Bistro

This bistro and wine bar, owned and operated by restaurateurs Iza and Panos Kyriazis, breathes fresh air into the historic neighborhood of Plaka in central Athens. The wine list includes a wide range of bottles from both Greek and international vineyards, while chef Erasmia Balaska continues to prove herself a prodigy in the kitchen with dishes combining traditional and modern Greek cuisine. Try the milk-fed lamb youvetsi, a popular casserole prepared with orzo in a rich tomato sauce. [$$$]

You could walk by Stoa Fix and not even notice it. The “gastronomic cafe,” as mastermind Gogo Delogianni describes it, lies underground in a covered shopping court near Omonoia Square. Tables are arranged down a (surprisingly light-filled) hallway, with a green-and-white color scheme that makes the place feel small and cozy. The cafe does serve coffee, but later in the day you’ll also find burgers topped with provatina (mutton), roasted squash filled with goat cheese and almonds, and black lentils with rice, smoked trout, lemongrass, and peppers. [$ - $$]

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Alex: The Fresh Pasta Bar

Despite the location in Kolonaki, one of the most expensive neighborhoods of Athens, this pasta bar doesn’t require a second mortgage to afford its plentiful plates. After working in London and Paris, chef Alex Vasilatou returned home to Greece to open her namesake restaurant. The menu includes seven different choices of pasta, all with unique names, like the Cleopatra, a pappardelle in a spicy red sauce, and the Castaway, spaghetti alla chitarra with cured pork tenderloin. [$$]

All-day cafe BiteBox serves food from breakfast to dinner, but most people come for Agapi Salamozi’s “poffies,” handheld doughnut hole-like pastries stuffed with a variety of sweet and salty fillings. Stop by the beautiful space in Koukaki in the morning for coffee and a sweet poffie with chocolate, caramelized raspberry, or coconut cream. Or come by in the afternoon for a glass of wine with a salty flavor like cheese and bacon, sauteed spinach, eggplant and peppers, or sundried tomato with olive paste. [$ - $$]

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The 15 BEST GREEK DISHES and Foods To Try in GREECE in 2024

Eleni Gimouki Last Updated: October 26, 2023

Traditional Greek cuisine is based entirely on Mediterranean cuisine. That is to say, all dishes are prepared mainly with oil, salt, various aromatics, and pure products. No visit to Greece would be complete without a thorough exploration of these traditional Greek dishes.

Pro Tip: It’s easier to organize your trip when you have all your resources in one place. Create a browser folder and bookmark this post along with our guide to Athens for more planning resources, our top Athens tours for an easy way to see the best of this historic city, plus the top things to do in Athens .

The Top 15 Foods To Eat In Greece

Greece is a fantastic place to explore Mediterranean cuisine—one of the best cuisines in the world. A lot of countries follow this nutritional diet apart from Greece and it has been inscribed as an intangible cultural heritage of UNESCO.

With that in mind, be sure to try as many traditional Greek dishes as you can on your next trip to Greece! If you love food and travel, you’ll love going on a local food tour. Check out our Athens food tours .

Not ready to book a tour? Check out all there is to do in Athens .

15. Koulouri Thessalonikis

Koulouri Thessalonikis is a round bread roll from Thessaloniki and an ideal choice for a light breakfast. You can buy them from bakeries or street vendors in Thessaloniki, but it’s a snack you’ll find everywhere in Greece.

Nowadays, there are even several types of koulouri. Apart from the classic koulouri, you can try koulouri with raisins, koulouri with chocolate, or even koulouri with cream cheese. Of course, don’t forget to have a cup of Greek coffee with your koulouri.

Where to get Koulouri: Koulourades Agiou Markou

14. Bougatsa

Another option for breakfast is bougatsa . It comes with a sweet semolina cream, powdered sugar, and cinnamon. Bougatsa is a dessert that refugees from Asia Minor brought to Greece. Since then it has become a firm favorite.

Traditionally, you’ll find bougatsa in Thessaloniki, but it’s available everywhere else in Greece at bakeries or at places that specialize in bougatsa. Besides sweet cream, bougatsa come with other fillings as well. For example, you can try bougatsa with cheese or even with minced meat.

Where to get Bougatsa: Bougatsa Bantis

13. Greek Salad

Can you even say you’ve been to Greece if you don’t have a Greek salad? While it’s mainly a summer salad, you can get it all year round. Naturally, it’s our favorite salad! It comes with many delicious and fresh ingredients you’d expect from a salad, such as tomato, cucumber, olives, and onion. But what makes a Greek salad special is the tasty feta cheese, with olive oil, and capers.

Every single tavern in Greece will offer this traditional Greek salad. Don’t forget to start your meal by ordering a Greek salad. Just keep in mind that it’s a dish for everyone at the table—not an individual dish.

Where to get Greek salad: Lostre Kuzina

Check Out Our Best Food Tours of Athens

Top Rated Tour

Athens Cooking Class with Dinner and Rooftop View of the Acropolis

From delicious baked spanakopita to classic tzatziki sauce, join this cooking class to prepare authentic Greek recipes with an expert chef. With stunning views looking over the Acropolis, enjoy a 3-course dinner of your creations on this memorable experience in the Greek capital. Bring home the recipes and show your newfound culinary skills, along with amazing photos of the food and views.

Starting at €71

Likely to Sell Out

Athens “Locals” Food Tour in Monastiraki

Explore the gastronomic world of Athens through the city’s central market. Enjoy homemade pastries, authentic wines, cheeses, honey-soaked donuts and much more. Your local guide will lead you through the best spots in the lively Monastiraki neighborhood for a delicious experience in Athens.

Starting at €68

Not ready to book a tour? Explore our  Athens Guide for more resources.

Here’s another salad to try. Fava is a legume that once cooked has the appearance of puree. This cold salad is accompanied by olive oil and onions. Fava is a traditional dish from Santorini island. So, when you visit Santorini , ask for some fava to accompany your meal. Also, remember to try a glass of local wine.

Where to get it: Krinaki

11. Tzatziki

Tzatziki is known around the globe. So, it’s another food you can’t leave Greece without tasting. Typically, it’s a side dish or appetizer that pairs really well with meat main meals.

Tzatziki is made of yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and olive oil. Because of the garlic, you may need some extra water after lunch. But it’s delicious and totally worth it.

Where to get it: Paneri

10. Roasted Feta

If you want to try something different, this is it—roasted feta. You’ll see it on the menu of several taverns, especially in northern Greece. Feta is a type of white cheese produced mainly in northern Greece and made exclusively from sheep or goat’s milk.

Roasted feta is also a side dish and is usually served with honey, sesame, and peanuts of Aegina. Once you try it, you’ll certainly adore it!

Where to get it: To Steki Tis Pareas

9. Dolmadakia Gialanji

Dolmadakia Gialanji is another traditional appetizer that refugees from Asia Minor brought to Greece. The Turkish call it gialanji , which means “false,” because they don’t contain minced meat.

However, we Greeks are used to making them with vine leaves filled with rice, olive oil, and lemon. It’s one of the most delicious choices, especially in the summer. You can combine this meze with a glass of ouzo . You’ll mainly find traditional dolmadakia gialanji in Thessaloniki.

Where to get it: Rouga

8. Antikristo

If you love eating lamb, then antikristo is for you. This is a traditional recipe from Crete. Antikristo means “opposite”. Cretans cook it by making a pit in the soil where they light a fire and place the lamb in a circle on the spit facing each other—hence the name.

This way of cooking comes from ancient times and residents of ancient Crete would follow this recipe when they wanted to make sacrifices to the gods. That means antikristo lamb was their top choice when it came to food. Today, you can pair your antikristo with a glass of wine or raki , which is the Cretan drink.

Where to get it: Petousis Restaurant

7. Pastitsada

Pastitsada is a traditional dish served in Corfu. Its basic ingredients are meat and thick spaghetti. But many women from Corfu villages prefer to add some cinnamon while cooking, which makes it different.

You’ll find traditional meat dishes everywhere in Greece. However, pastitsada is special for its spice mixture of cinnamon, grated clove, allspice, nutmeg, and cumin typically added. They also use red wine and vinegar for the sauce. Another difference in Corfu is that the meat is cooked in butter not oil. It all makes for a delicious meal Corfu-style.

Where to get it: Aegli Restaurant

6. Traditional Pies

If you have the chance to pass through Epirus, then you have to taste some traditional pies. Locals in Epirus cook many types of pies, like Kasiopita, Kothropita, Kimadopita, Pepeki, Kasata, and Blatsaria. Also, if you visit Tzoumerka or Zagorochoria, tasting pies is a must.

The locals in Epirus still use traditional recipes for their pies. So, don’t hesitate to ask them which pies to try and they’ll suggest the right mouthwatering pie for you.

Where to get it: Fyssa Roufa

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5. Spetsofai

Another great option for a traditional dish is spetsofai . From Pelion (Volos), spetsofai is cooked with sausages, Florina’s peppers, eggplant, zucchini, onions, and tomatoes. It often comes with either rice or fried potatoes.

Greece is a producer of great livestock. So, local chefs choose Greek meat to make their sausages, which gives it its flavor. You can pair your spetsofai with a glass of wine or ouzo while tasting this incredible dish.

Where to get it: Kritsa Restaurant

4. Spaghetti With Shrimp

Spaghetti with shrimp is a popular dish not only in Greece but in many countries around the world. However, if you’re going to Rhodes, you have to try it here. Fishermen in Rhodes produce fresh shrimp every day, so many restaurants will make their homemade pasta with fresh shrimp.

For this reason, spaghetti with shrimp will be unique in Rhodes. Also, in the traditional recipe, chefs also add some ouzo, which gives it its unique flavor.

Where to get it: Orexi Rustic Cuisine

3. Loukoumades With Honey

After your lunch, try some loukoumades with honey. Loukoumades are a light dessert made with sugar, lemon, honey, flour, and cornflour. They’re like donuts but they aren’t filled with anything.

Some people like adding cinnamon and sesame while others prefer them with some chocolate. So, it’s up to you to decide what you’d prefer from these options. Whatever you do, though, get some traditional loukoumades in Thessaloniki.

Where to get it: Lukumades

2. Künefe Peyniri

Künefe peyniri is a sweet refugees brought from Istanbul to Greece. Like all these sweets, its characteristic is that it’s syrupy. It goes really well with your favorite ice cream and is especially nice in the summer. I recommend Kaimaki ice cream when you try it.

All these sweets belong to the Greek cultural heritage from Asia Minor and we continue to keep the tradition. If you have the chance, celebrate the tradition with us by trying some künefe peyniri.

Where to get it: Zoubourlou

1. Souvlaki

In the top spot is the most popular Greek food, souvlaki . You can get it absolutely anywhere in Greece. It’s a full meal, so if you’re a bit hungry at night, go with the souvlaki. It’s a quick and easy option you can eat with your hands like a sandwich. Choose between pork, chicken, or kebab, and wash it down with a Greek beer.

Where to get it: Hoocut

Where To Stay in Athens

A great hotel at a great price has become the norm in this internet era. Our article explains what areas are the best in Athens, so you can get a great deal in the perfect location!

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Greek Food Bucket List: 30 Traditional Dishes to Eat From Greece

Call me crazy, but prior to traveling to Greece I had no idea how delicious Greek food would actually be. But, by the third trip to the Mediterranean country there was a deep love fest forming for the tasty traditional Greek cuisine. My days (and nights) were filled with dishes of moussaka, tzatziki and, of course delicious desserts like baklava. It is some of the best food in the world! 

Greek food spreads its culinary influence throughout Europe and beyond. With an ancient tradition, Greek cuisine has been greatly influenced by both Eastern and Western cultures. Flavors of Greek food changes with season and geography. However, fresh vegetables, fishes & seafood plays a significant role in the dishes mostly because of its long coastline while meat is treated as less popular, with the exception of lamb.

Here are some of the favorites not to missed when traveling through Greece.

Greek Food Bucket List: Names of the Best Traditional Dishes to Eat From Greece Cuisine

1. amygdalota.

Amygdalota is gluten-free almond cookie that is wildly popular in Greece and are the perfect match to a warm cup of Greek coffee. Whether it is a family or friends gathering, Amygdalota reflects the images of good times warm relationships. This food may vary a bit in different parts of Greece, but almonds being the dominant ingredient throughout the regions.

Recipe > Almond Cookies by Saveur

Baklava is the quintessential Greek food experience. This cuisine mostly contains nuts and butter along with sugar. After baking, sweet syrup is poured over it so that the syrup can be absorbed by the crispy layers of phyllo. It is probably the most popular food item among all Greek desserts. It brings a festive mood in the dining room through its exquisite flavor and flaky crust.

Recipe > Baklava by Michael Symon

3. Bougatsa

Bougatsa is a kind of sweet pie (less sweet if you consider Greek standard) made of phyllo pastry & semolina custard. This is a kind of food that tastes good in daytime, delicious at late night and best enjoyed with pleasant memories. If you want to eat this pie from roadside food court you will also get a sprinkle of powder sugar and cinnamon on top.

4. Courgette Balls (kolokithokeftedes)

You are going to want to add this veggie starter to the list of your favorite dishes. This is a very popular Cretan meze, found in most (if not all) Greek restaurants. Your taste buds will be mesmerized by its flavored texture, salty & tasty feta cheese with a bit of fresh mint. The original kolokythokeftedes must be crispy on the outside with a creamy texture on the inside.

Recipe > Courgette Balls  by Lemon & Olives

5. Dolmadakia (Stuffed Grape Leaves)

This is another sign of the versatile nature of Greek food. Dolmadakia are tiny dolmades that are made of stuffed grape leaves. Inside the leaf you will get meat of ground lamb or beef (sometimes both) and rice stuffing. Traditionally, this dish is served as appetizer with lemon wedges.

Recipe > Dolmades by Tyler Florence

6. Tomatokeftedes (Santorini Tomato Fritters)

Tomaotokeftedes or tomato fritters are traditional meze and main course vegetarian food item in Santorini and Syros. Proper draining of tomato is essential for preparing this delicious food item. These fritters have rough edges with bits of mint, tomato and onion chunks.

PS: before heading to Santorini, definitely read our Santorini Bucket List: 30 Best Things to Do on the Greek Island !

Recipe >  Tomatokeftedes (Fried Santorini tomato balls / tomato fritters) by My Greek Dish

7. Ellinikos (Greek Coffee)

Ellinikos is still the most favorite style of coffee adopted in Greece. The coffee is served in the traditional long handled coffee copper pot which is known as briki in Greek. There are three different tastes of Ellinikos like Vari Glyko which means strong & almost honey sweet, Metrios meaning medium sweetness and Sketos mening without sugar.

Recipe >  Greek Coffee (Ellinikos Kafes)

8. Greek Fava Dip (Yellow Split Pea Puree)

This mouthwatering vegetable dish, made with yellow split peas, is mostly popular on the  Greek island of Santorini , however, remains dominant in terms of popularity all across Greece . It is creamy with spectacular taste—great starter for winter days. Enjoy this Fava dish as an appetizer or dip with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.

Recipe >  Authentic Greek Fava recipe (Yellow Split Peas Puree)

9. Feta Me Meli

Another Greek food dish that can be tasted as dessert or an entrée. Feta is wrapped in filo pastry before oven baked and honey is drizzled over it. The optimum balance between salty feta and sweet honey creates a mesmerizing taste.

Recipe > Phyllo-wrapped Feta Cheese Appetizer with Honey and Sesame Seeds

Frappe is an iced coffee drink that makes your hot summer days comfortable. Two main components of Frappe are water and instant coffee granules. Once mixed it becomes addictive, delicious and frothy. With such a strong appeal it’s a perfect pick-me-up drink without extra calories.

Recipe > New York Times Recipe: Greek Frappé

11. Galaktoboureko

Galaktoboureko is a great Greek dessert with crispy perfection. Take a mouthful bite of Galaktoboureko and let your mouth be filled with its juices. This age old Greek dessert is made of crispy phyllo sprinkled with melted butter. Greeks use the most creamy custard & scented syrup to increase the taste of this food by many folds.

Recipe > Traditional Greek Galaktoboureko recipe (Greek Custard Pie with Syrup)

12. Greek Salad (Choriatiki)

Greek salad is a must have for Greeks with almost every meal. Choriatiki are made of tomatoes, olives, cucumber and a large piece of feta cheese and served undressed.

Dressing is left at person’s choice hence all restaurants serve vinegar, salt, pepper and olive oil with the salad. With the tradition of being a starter, Greek salad can also be a great side dish.

Recipe > Bon Appetit Greek Salad

Gyros are an economical meal choice and so yummy! When the meat is roasted vertically and turning on the spit it is known as Gyro. Wait, it is not done yet. Slices of gyro are then placed in pita with various taste enhancers including sauce, onions, lettuce, tomatoes and potato chips.

Recipe >  Gyro Meat with Tzatziki Sauce by Alton Brown

You will be surprised by the deliciousness of such humble food especially when you are looking for a no dairy, no butter and an egg free dessert. Halva is a great combo of four ingredients: oil, semolina, sugar and water.

You will be mesmerized by the taste of these four ingredients when combined. In simple words, halva is semolina pudding which is sweetened by syrup and studded with nuts.

Recipe >  Halva (A Greek Sweet Using Semolina)

15. Kataifi

This is one of the most popular Greek desserts made with a special type of pastry called Kataifi. When rolled up the pastry resembles shredded wheat. A delectable nutty center is rolled inside crisp, thread like strands of pastry, baked, and then soaked in sweet syrup.

The pastry is full of strand so there is always a chance to get messy when you eat this. So don’t try too much to pull them or cut them.

Recipe >  Kataïfi: Almond & Walnut Pastry in Syrup

16. Keftethes (Meatballs)

Give this juicy and crispy Greek meatball a try and bring a delicious twist to your plate. Keftethes is mainly a Greek appetizer dish served with creamy sauce and pita bread. However, this item can also be eaten as a full meal with basmati rice and Greek feta salad.

Recipe >  Margaret’s Keftedes (Greek Meatballs)

17. Loukoumades

Loukoumades are little bite-sized golden puffs of fried dough that are sprinkled with sweet syrup, walnuts and cinnamon. With crispy outside and fluffy inside this Greek donut will give you absolute deliciousness.

Recipe > Loukoumades at All Recipes

18. Moussaka

A legendary, traditional dish that is creamy and juicy. Moussaka is served in almost all tavernas in Greece. In the big family gathering this dish is prepared by Greek homemakers. In Moussaka, tomato sauce is used to cook minced beef which is subsequently layered with sweet eggplants and creamy béchamel sauce. This irresistible cuisine is filling so you don’t need too many side dishes.

Recipe > Bobby Flay’s Moussaka

19. Pasteli

Pasteli is a Greek cusine made of mainly two components; honey and sesame seeds. These pasteli are known as the original power bars in Greece. In additions to honey and sesame different nuts like walnuts, almonds or pistachios are used to bring more variety. Pasteli fits very well as an accompaniment to tea. It can also be eaten as candy or lunchtime snack and energy booster.

Recipe > Pasteli at Epicurious

20. Pastitsio

Pastitsio is a baked pasta dish including ground beef and béchamel sauce. This mouthwatering food is something you can enjoy in every season. The food in Greece is served with mixed green salad dressed with wine vinegar and virgin olive oil.

Recipe > Nikki’s Perfect Pastitsio

21. Retsina Wine

An age old wine bearing all rituals and cultures of ancient Greece for more than 2000 years. The unique test of this wine is believed to have originated from sealing wine vessels with Pine resin. Pine resin prevents air from entering into the bottle while infusing the wine with resin aroma. This wine matches superbly with dishes containing mint, rosemary and dill.

Revani is a very popular dessert which is nutty and grainy with some lemony flavor. This moist cake is sweetened by simple syrup flavored with orange zest. This is not an overly sweet desserts and it is indeed a delightful addition to any dining table.

Recipe > Really Rich Revani Cake

 23. Saganaki – Fried Cheese

This is the food that holds the attention of all cheese lovers. Sagnaki is mostly an appetizer that is prepared in two-handled small frying pan. This beloved traditional Greek food is prepared in less than 10 minutes while using only two ingredients—flour & cheese.

Sagnaki refers to many dishes (which are mostly appetizers) like Shrimp Sagnaki, Mussels Sagnaki etc. However, the most famed one is this Cheese Saganaki.

Recipe > Greek Saganaki: Emeril Lagasse

24. Souvlaki

Souvlaki is a very popular Greek food available in street side restaurants. The dish is well cooked with seasoned meat and then flavored with tzatziki sauce. In Greek language Souvlaki stands for ‘meat-on-a-skewer. Most Greek people call any type of pita wrapped meat a Souvlaki. However, they somehow distinguish the name by the meat that is used. As for instance, Souvlaki with pork skewers or Souvlaki with chicken Gyros.

Recipe > Lamb Souvlaki with Yogurt-Garlic Sauce

25. Spanikopita

Spanikopita or otherwise known as Greek spinach pie is a traditional yet delicious recipe. With its versatility the dish matches with every time of the day. Be it dinner, as a snack or starter Spanikopita will definitely satisfy your taste buds. Feta cheese, butter, olive oil all are mixed and baked until golden crispy perfection.

Recipe > Spanikopita (Spinach Triangles or Pie)

. . . 

26. Taramasalata

Taramasalata is a creamy Greek dip made with fish roe, lemon juice, olive oil and soaked bread. You can also use mashed potatoes instead of bread and add onions, garlic and/or peppers. This dish is typically served as an appetizers or meze with lots of pita bread.

27. Tiropita

Tiropita, otherwise known as ‘Greek cheese pie’, is traditionally popular throughout Greece and can be eaten as a starter or a mid-day snack. This feta cheese food comes into different shapes & sizes. When it is rolled into individual triangular servings that’s when it is called Tiropita.

The main ingredient used in this recipe is various types of cheese (feta cheese mostly). Melted butter and olive oil are also used while preparing this mouthwatering dish.

Recipe > Tiropita (Greek Savory Cheese Pie)

28. Tzatziki

Tzatziki is one of the classic Greek sauces or appetizers with as many varieties as there are cooks who prepare it. Basically, this spectacular food item is made of thick strained yogurt, garlic, olive oil as well as fresh dill. Although it’s a combination of various ingredients but it is simple to prepare and is able to rock any get together.

Recipe > World’s Best Tzatziki

29. Yiaourti Me Meli

Yiaourti Me Meli literally means yogurt with honey. This is simple filler which is rich in protein with creamy sweet flavor. You can have this food in breakfast dishes or as a dessert. Yiaourti Me Meli is a healthy combo of Greek yogurt, honey and walnuts.

The subtle sour taste of yogurt, the sweetness of thyme or wildflower honey, the depth & complexity of walnuts—altogether it is a food from heaven!

30. Yemista

Yemista is a traditional recipe for Greek stuffed tomatoes that comes with vibrant colors and juicy flavors. Instead of tomatoes other vegetables are also used and baked until it turns to brownish color. The stuffing can either be with rice and various herbs or it may contain minced meat. There are countless variations of Yemista and you are allowed to experiment with different types of herbs & spices.

Recipe > Yemista (Greek Stuffed Tomatoes and Peppers)

Are your taste buds salivating yet? If you’re ready to indulge in traditional Greek cuisine an easy way to do so is to take a food tour. 

What is your favorite Greek foods, dishes or cuisine?

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107 thoughts on “greek food bucket list: 30 traditional dishes to eat from greece”.

yummy yummy yummy i want them all i want to sit there and eat one after the other lol :D tasty read

Ha, ha! Me too!

It’s truly amazing that so many amazing foods exist in Greece. Not only is this place magical ,with friendly people,but also it has so many delicious traditional dishes which take your breath away. I’ll make sure I’ll taste them all again when I will be able to do so.

Just Yuummmmm! Now I can’t wait to go. Have you forgotten about Tirokroketes, one of the best Greek food. But I liked these too. I am hungry & just wish to to finish all this one by one. Nice article.

Tirokroketes certainly look tasty!

I could eat this every day and be perfectly happy! It all looks so incredible.

I used to find pastelis in local sumpermarkets, just they weren’t called that way. Delicious! Now I know they’re original from Greece.

Wow ! Very informative indeed. I find it very helpful and relevant. Love your post. :)

Hi Annette , impressive list , you show many delicious greek dishes . I can add just .Paputsakia (eggplants shoes), Octopus with pasta (ohtapodi me kofto makaronaki ) , Octopus in vinegar.You must to know that in Greece fishes dishes are most than common .

I like this blog. thanks for the blog. it was very informative and the pictures are captured very beautifully.

You listed more pastries and sweets, than actual food!

Yummy!! I plan to visit Greece next year. Hope to taste this delicious greek foods.

That shit looks good lol?

jessica that is not good language there could be kids on this website and u are shereing this toxic behaver but i cant lie that shit dose look good…………. ferther more can i have ur bbm babes

you must be fun at parties

Bu liste sanki biraz TÜRKİYE’YE gidince yemeniz gerekenler listesi gibi olmuş.Ne birazı bayaa öyle olmuş.

Greek food definitely has similarities!

Same Turkish foods with different names but you shouldn’t change the names which are accepted Turkish by UNESCO. Like It is Turkish coffee and since it has no difference with it changing its name iz not nice. Same as Cacık(Tzatziki in Greek) At least you should point that it is an share food With Turks. Thanks…

is* shared**

Cacik is not the same with Tzatziki. Cacik often has sumac and it’s more watery. Tzatziki is thicker and never has sumak friend. Only the name is similar:)

Well I have never heard that you put sumac in cacik, Where ever you go in turkey it has always cucumber, garlic , mint and olive oil and sometimes served with a slice of lemon on the side. You should do your research better my friend

In Greece we never put mint in tzatziki and don’t use a slice of lemon (maybe some restaurants would do this, but the people who make it at their homes, never do it). The yoghurt is strained (if that’s the correct wording, please excuse my English). Sometimes we put some dill in it. We always put some salt. Tzatziki existed in ancient Greece (a dip very-very similar to tzatziki, if not exactly the same), with the name ‘myttiko’.

It all looks so delicious! Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful pictures and recipes.

Thank you for sharing all of the amazing, traditional foods one visiting Greece must try. Mediterranean food is packed full of bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and exciting new tastes. It would be a waste not to try them all (if possible) while in the heart of Mediterranean culture. That said, there is hope for those that simply cannot make it out to Greece anytime soon. In fact, many restaurants are serving up replicas of some of the very dishes you describe and they taste just as good. If you can’t plan a trip to Greece to try their delicious cuisine, at least try to visit a local Mediterranean cafe and see what they have to offer. If anything, it will make you want to start saving to visit Greece to try the real thing!

I bet there are plenty of restaurants not in Greece that have very traditional Greek food. You just have to find the right ones!

Excellent list. One small note: The pic for keftethes is the one from sountzoukakia (Smyrna meatballs) that are often served with tomato sauce and have this shape.

Thanks for the heads up!!

And sountzoukakia also contain cumin in large amounts, which regular keftethes don’t. Smyrna meatballs are so incredibly aromatic and full of flavour. Best served with rice and yogurt on the side.

It’s a good list, but there are a few inaccuracies. Spanikopita is definitely not vegan and not in triangles. Turopitakia are in triangles. They are similar in fillings and taste, but there are differences. Gyros are either chicken or pork. The photo you used appears to be a Döner. And Retsina isn’t something to be drunk with a fine meal. It’s cheap, low grade wine that is usually mixed with lemonade (white soda) or drank on its own for the purpose of getting drunk :)

Thanks for the input!

Thank you.. yes that is NOT Gyros and Retsina is not an example of good Greek wine,… we produce some amazing wines, its a shame you listed Retsina as an example

Greeks should change their country’s name as Turkeyoski.It would be lot easier.

You should also add grilled fresh octopus and kaimaki to your list.

That sounds delicious!

Great that we get to have Persian food for the trip we chose to go on! <3

greek foods greatly influenced eastern foods not the other way around

All my favorite foods! Don’t forget Soutzoukakia (meatballs baked in tomato sauce). https://www.mediterraneanliving.com/recipe-items/greek-meatballs-with-tomato-sauce-soutzoukakia/

#15 should be Kataifi, not Kantaifi.

I think you forgot to put in your list a delicious greek dish. Stuffed courgettes with eggs and lemon sauce. Very greek and very tasty.

Sounds delicious!

Great list Annette Slowly learning how to make them all. Here in Corfu potatoes boiled with skins on, till very soft, drained, seasoned and slowly folded into good olive oil with chopped parsley is Heaven on earth. Simple but nothing quite like it! Καλα Σε ευχαριστω πολυ!

That sounds simple and delicious!

Dear bloggers, travellers. I am from Turkey. I travelled Greece two times. I want to say some of them are Turkish food. First baklavaki is not Greek food. It s from Turkish cuisine. I ate baklavaki in Greece, it was bad. It s BAKLAVA. If you want to eat real baklava you can search ”Gaziantep Baklavası”. Also Ellinikos, it s Turkish Coffee. Fava, Helva (halvas), Kadayıf (kataifi), Lokma (loukmades), Revani, Cacık(Tzatziki). All of them are %100 Turkish food. I don’ want to say they stole them to us. We have same foods. Because Greece is taken by Ottoman Empire. Greece is nearly stay 400 years in Ottoman Empire. I want to write true things. Thanks…

Interesting, want to hear something from the author on this topic.

Hahaha you mean the two countries that are next to each other, that constantly fought each other, share the same cuisine?! No way… Looks like Greece has had the better marketing!

YOU NEED TO VISIT TURKEY AND TRY OUR TRADITIONAL FOODS THEN YOU CAN TALK ABOUT TURKISH FOODS. I’M PRETTY SURE THAT YOU’LL LIKE MORE THAN GREEK FOODS

Sorry to tell you this, Merthe – the war is over and the Ottoman Empire has disappeared. It should be no surprise that countries that share a geography and historic trade routes will also share the foods that grow there and the ingredients, spices and methods of cooking. How do you make the claim of where any particular dish originate, which is correct and which came first? Why does it matter?

I like the galaktoboureko. Can I prepare it without egg?

I miss one of my favourite here: spanakotirokopita!

Great list. From Greece I like Taramasalata. It’s a creamy blend with fish roe, potato and lemon.

Even if you don’t go that far south, you could still enjoy authentic Greek food made by Greeks. I always include a trip to Brussels when I go to Holland, just an hour or so by car. There is a street that has many (I would guess 12) Greek restaurants at Rue de l’Argonne close to Gare du Midi (Brussels South) train station. A small street but all of them are plain looking – almost catering to the budget clientele. They offer plat du jour (menu of the day). For that they invite you to come to the kitchen wth a plate in the hand, and ask you which of the dishes you want to have. You just point to the ones you deem interesting. Trust me they are all delicious. Some are not included in the plat du jour and need to be ordered as a side dish. Yes, order some wine too, which is not served in tall glasses, but in plain-Jane 100 cc Duralex glasses (made in France, of course). You eat at one of the long tables that can be shared by many. I started going there in 1972 as I was finishing my engineering study in Amsterdam. I just hope that gentrification has not destroy this major Greek attraction in Brussels (at least for me it is). Sorry, I didn’t Google to see if they are still there.

I would just like to put it out there that Halva is NOT a Greek food. It is part of the Indian cuisine.

I am going there next month so I am doing my research about Greece. This article is very helpful indeed. Thanks for sharing!

I was doing a project that i needed to cook a Greek food and this website was very helpful. THANK YOU

most of these dishes are Turkish food greeks say our own food for a very long time living under the auspices of the ottoman they think they eat this wrong most of these dishes are Turkish and most of them are registered Turkish food

Indeed an informative post! I love to eat Greek cuisine! Thank you for sharing about delicious and traditional Greek foods. Among all dishes, my vote goes to Choriatiki. I found an easy Greek salad recipe yesterday & I will try it tonight!

Yum! I can’t wait to visit Greece and try all of these. They all look so good :)

Great article!! I was in Greece this last April for a month, totally amazing!! The food, wine. People, & places were fabulous. This was a second visit to that beautiful country. Crete had the best overall dishes but Paros had the best stuffed onions and at that same restaurant they had marinated figs in honey for a dessert. Naxos also has some fabulous cheeses and so much more.

Ooh! Marinated figs in honey sound delicious!

It is such a informative list that can help us to know more about the traditional foods of Greek Cuisines. Believe me I haven’t found anything like this before. We just know some global famous dishes. Your article can expand our culinary knowledge i.

I tried Exochiko on my trip this month. It’s glorious!

Where’s all the seafood?! Especially octupus. No snails either?!

I also recommend putting a picture an actual pita and not that “gyro” thing. They are also called “pita” with one of the styles of meat being gyro. I’d also clarify that the “chips” are French fries. Sauce is tzatziki usually, because “sauce” is an actual sauce in Greece. There is def never lettuce.

Thank you very much. Such a wonderful article. All dishes look very appetizing, the photo is super. If hungry, it is better not to watch). I want to try everything!

“25. Spanikopita” should be corrected. It is “spanAkopita”, not “spanIkopita” (no panic included).

I have never been to Greece, I will definitely make time for it, I will save these dishes. Thank you for sharing the valuable experience!!

Ooh, those are some gorgeous pics! I’m a massive foodie and the dishes you’ve posted look mighty tempting. Looks like I’m going to have to add Greece to my travel bucket list!

… eat. now.

I did eat Gyros when i was in Greece and i loved it though it didn’t look as good as in your photo.

Loved your blog. Do you have any restaurant recommendations? We are traveling to Greece in first week of May. We are planning to go to Athens, Naxos and Santorini.

I love saganaki often when you go to a greek restaurant they will give you table some and it dissaperes in less than 10 seconds

Souvlaki is one of my favorites! Greek food is the best

Omg all of them look so good

Royal Curry House Restaurant is an Indian restaurant at the heart of Athens. Our Services include provision and services of Asian, Oriental cuisines, Halal foods, vegetarian & non-vegetarian, healthy food, sea fo

I think i have to correct you because lots of these food traditional for Turkey :) You can search for it if you want. When the Greece army occupied İzmir in Turkey they stole lots of values of our nation. Please search what they did to us, what they did to our values, women and kids. Please don’t close your eyes to realities. I’ll put here my email address, you can send me mail, we can argue about the realities.

at least we have the best one gyros I have been in Greece and in my opinion it’s the best food you can get also I also looked it up Greece was its second occupier and what do you mean by what they did to your women and your kids they did nothing also don’t correct other peoples work

It is such a informative list that can help us to know more about the traditional foods of Greek

Annette White, i have never been to greece but if i ever do i know exactly what to eat, thanks so much for sharing this most incredible post that covers the best greek food in the world!

Nice Turkish foods i want to go to Turkey and eat those

I’m currently in Greece & have to say unfortunately it’s hard to find most of these dishes. They mostly offer 🍕🍟🥪🍔🥧🧇🥗 & on Corfu 🇬🇧 brekkie 🤣 things I’ve found I’ve already eaten in Turkey or other Mediterranean countries. Of course there are similarities, but no need to argue on a nice blog people 🤦🏽‍♀️🙅🏽‍♀️

A lot of these foods are traditionally middle-eastern but are also considered Greek because of shared history. For example, in Arabic the stuffed grape leaves are called yabra.

Sad fact half of them Turkish and other half is Middle Easterian foods.They basically juat add ki and des to end of the name of Turkish food.Sad sad greeks…

Grow up saddo

They are all look great but Unfortunately more than half of the foods are listed belong to Turkiye.

We planned to go to Greece this summer and taste it a bit – but Corona changed our plans. Thank you for this!

WAW Yummy!! Thank you for sharing this information. This blog is really very interesting and effective.Keep it up..!!!

I never knew that Baklava is one of the most popular Greek desserts. My brother is coming to town this weekend and he wants to try some Greek food in our city. I’ll be sure to find one that has some great Baklava that we can enjoy.

It’s interesting to know that there is a cookie called Amygdalota in Greece that uses almond as the main ingredient. I’ve always been a fan of pastries and this dish might be the first food I’d try in the Greek cuisine. I hope there’s a nearby restaurant that sells these cookies so I can have them for takeout.

shame on you gyros is soo much better than that picture also not aTurkish food look it up stupid

Wonderful recipes for Greek food. The Greeks are really very unusual cuisine, which is very different from ours, although at first glance you will not say. Thank you so much for sharing all these recipes!

Glad that you liked the recipes.

Can’t believe how many comment are about the fact that the Greek “stole” Turkish dishes. 90 % of what is called “Turkish food” has been adopted from Byzantine and Middle Eastern cuisine anyway… There have been mutual influences in food all over the world over centuries and even millennia, nothing is truly “original”. Traditions evolve and that’s beautiful :-) Loved the article, we did a road trip in Greece last summer and I just realised that we haven’t tried almost half of the things you list here!!! I guess we’ll have to plan another extensive trip to eat our way through that insanely beautiful country :-)

This article is making me hungry! We love Greek food – especially gyros – yum!!! I can’t wait to be able to travel to Greece again.

Me too! Greek food is something that I really look forward to when visiting Greece :)

There’s alot of overlap between Greek and Turkish food, but both are popular all over the world. Even though I live in South Africa, we eat many of these foods on a regular basis.

Nice! It’s spanakOpita and taramOsalata though :)

Thank you for informing me :)

This is such a fantastic dish. Looks so yummy. I love Mediterranean food, but have tried a few out of this list – baklava’s, stuffed grape leaves with rice stuffing, gyros. They all look so tempting that wanna try them all.

Thanks For Sharing this amazing recipe. My family loved it. I will be sharing this recipe with my friends. Hope the will like it.

Can’t wait to try some of the food on this list on my trip to Greece! Thanks!

I can’t wait in till I eat some food from greece

I (Eric) loved Baklava and couldn’t stop eating it everywhere we went! I have to say some of the best restaurants we have been to were on Milos Island. The lamb was delicious!

This is a great article and great read for me. It’s my first visit to your blog, and I have found it so useful and informative especially this

We spent 16 days in Greece and ate many of these dishes. Delicious. Our favorite cuisine!

no offense but these are mostly Turkish dishes the fact that you ate them in Greece doesn’t make them Greek foods smh

Change the title to ”Turkish Food Bucket List: 30 Traditional Dishes to Eat From Türkiye”

Literally more than half of the dishes that are listed on this list originate from Türkiye.

Greece and Türkiye are culturally very similar but adding ”ki” and ”des” at the end of Turkish food doesn’t make them Greek…

And the WHOLE WORLD knows that these dishes all have Turkish origin, so please don’t forget to give credit next time. Thanks.

GIVE ME SOME EGGPLANTS. I COULDNT FIND ANY

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What to Eat in Greece – The Ultimate Greek Food Guide

If you’re wondering what to eat in Greece, you’re not alone. I visited Greece for the first time this month, and I was so excited to try all of the traditional Greek foods. Greek cuisine truly has something for everyone – from sizzling skewers of grilled meat to stuffed vegetables, freshly-baked pita dipped in garlicky tzatziki, and Greek salad topped with salty goat’s cheese and drizzled in olive oil, you really can’t go wrong eating in Greece.

Naturally, what to eat in Greece will differ depending on where you go – for example, the islands are famous for their seafood – but there are some Greek food staples that you really shouldn’t miss when visiting Greece, and this Greek food guide includes all the very best traditional Greek dishes that you have to try. So, I hope you’re not hungry, because by the time you’ve finished this Greek food guide, you’re going to be desperate to sample as much delicious Greek grub as you can get your hands on. Here’s what to eat in Greece.

Table of Contents

Greek food at a glance

Many people associate Greek food with meat, specifically grilled skewers of lamb, chicken, beef, and pork. While Greeks certainly do love their grilled meat, the geography of Greece means that actually, seafood is super popular here as well, and you’ll often find grilled sardines, octopus, and fried calamari gracing the menus of traditional tavernas across the country. You’ll also find lots of vegetables in Greek cuisine, often stuffed with rice (and more vegetables!), and grilled. Over the years, Greek food has been influenced by Middle Eastern cuisine, Italian cuisine, and, of course, the Ottomans. Greek dishes are always packed with flavour and are made using fresh local ingredients, such as Mediterranean vegetables, local olive oil, cheese, and yoghurt.

Key ingredients in Greek cuisine

I recently spent some time in Kalamata, home to the most famous olives in the world, and trust me when I say that Greeks are very passionate about their olives. I was lucky enough to go on a tour of a family-owned olive oil mill, and our guide joked that every Greek has at least 300 olive trees, and everyone believes that their olives are the best in Greece. The famous Kalamata olives are black, but much juicier and sweeter than black olives you may have tried from elsewhere. With that being said, olives are great all over Greece , and you’ll be hard-pressed to find a meal that doesn’t begin with some olives for the table.

One thing you must know about Greeks is that they love olive oil. While many people associate quality olive oil with Italy, Greece actually produces a tonne of olive oil (75% of which is extra virgin), and often exports its oil to Italy! Olive oil is generally used to dress salads, and you will often find it on restaurant tables, ready to drizzle on hunks of crusty bread. Fun fact: while the average American consumes 1L of olive oil per year, the average Greek consumes 20L!

Everybody knows about feta cheese, but did you also know that pretty much every Greek island makes its own cheese, that you can usually only buy on the island itself? According to Ancient Greek mythology, Aristaios was sent by the gods to bestow the gift of cheese making onto the Greeks, which may help to explain the fact that over 60 types of cheese have been recorded in Greece, and every region is very particular about how their cheese should be made! Many Greek cheese are crumbly, hard and salty, although you can find some softer yellow cheeses such as kasseri .

From stuffed eggplant to eggplant dip, layered eggplant in moussaka, grilled eggplant, eggplant fritters, and so much more, you can’t fail to notice how popular this humble vegetable is in Greek cuisine! While I’m not usually a huge fan of eggplant, I have to admit that I was surprised by how delicious many of the eggplant dishes were that I tried in Greece!

While many people are familiar with using lemon to season seafood, the Greeks squeeze lemons over everything! From grilled chicken to chunky chips (fries), you’ll often be served your meal with a fat wedge of lemon on the side!

This is another Greek staple when it comes to seasoning dishes. Although Greek food incorporates a multitude of herbs and spices, oregano is a definite favourite, and is the herb of choice for seasoning Greek salads. Something I particularly loved was that Greek fries usually come tossed in salt and oregano, which was a game changer for me!

Pita bread really needs no introduction, as I’m sure you’re all familiar with this flat, round bread, but just know that if you visit Greece, you will not be able to get away from pita! Usually pita bread is served complementary in tavernas, and you can pay a little bit if you want extra. It can be used for wrapping up your souvlaki, mopping up olive oil, or dipping into meze staples such as tzatziki.

Traditional Greek Dishes

Gyros is one of the most famous Greek foods on this list, and if you’re wondering what to eat in Greece on a budget, you can’t go wrong with gyros. The meat (usually pork, but sometimes chicken), is cooked on a vertical rotisserie (like Doner meat), and stuffed in pita bread, along with French fries, tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki. Gyros are typically eaten as a street food the go (in Athens , you can expect to pay around 3 EUR), although you can also get them in restaurants. If you order gyros in a restaurant, you can expect to get all of the ingredients stacked on top of a flat pita bread rather than in wrap form.

Moussaka is probably one of the most famous Greek dishes there is! Moussaka is a layered eggplant (aubergine) casserole made with a tomato meat sauce and topped with a thick coating of béchamel. It is seasoned with cinnamon, nutmeg, paprika, and oregano, and is a very filling dish, so be careful not to load up on appetisers if you’re ordering moussaka!

Another one of Greece’s most famous foods, souvlaki are skewers of grilled meat (pork, chicken, beef, or lamb), that can be served either on the skewer, or wrapped in a pita, similar to gyros. Unlike the meat in gyros, which is cooked vertically and resembles Doner meat, souvlaki meat is small cubed meat that is grilled. In a restaurant, you can typically order a simple souvlaki for a couple of euros (which will come served with a side of pita), or as a ‘portion,’ which will come with fried potatoes, salad, tzatziki, and bread.

Pastitsio is a less famous Greek dish (at least, I’d never heard of it before visiting Greece!), that can be thought of as a Greek lasagne, or as a kind of moussaka that replaces the eggplant with pasta. This baked pasta dish consists of layered pasta noodles and ground beef seasoned with cinnamon and cloves, held together in a tomato sauce, and topped with a generous portion of béchamel sauce and a sprinkle of nutmeg.

Grilled sardines

The best traditional Greek food is the simple stuff, and while not unique to Greece, grilled sardines with olive oil and lemon are a summertime favourite in many of the tavernas that line the Greek coastline. Grilled sardines can be enjoyed either as a starter (as part of a larger seafood meze), or as a main dish.

Shrimp saganaki

Imagine big juicy shrimp, cooked in a garlicky tomato sauce with chunks of salty feta and a dash of olive oil – are you drooling yet? Shrimp saganaki was one of the first Greek dishes I tried in Kalamata, and while I wasn’t exactly sure what I was going to get, I certainly wasn’t disappointed. Shrimp saganaki is usually enjoyed as a starter and served with hunks of crusty bread to mop up the sauce – yum!

While technically yogurtlu is a Turkish dish, the Ottoman influence on Greek cuisine means that you can find yogurtlu in tavernas all over Greece. I can’t speak for the yogurtlu you’ll find in Turkey, but in Athens I had a delicious portion of yogurtlu that consisted of toasted pita bread, topped with grilled lamb kofta, a big dollop of Greek yogurt, and a sprinkling of paprika.

Bakaliaros Skordalia

If you’re wondering what to eat in Athens and are craving a good old-fashioned fish n’ chips, Bakaliaros Skordalia might just scratch the the itch! While it is typically eaten on the 25th March (Greek Independence Day), you can still find Bakaliaros Skordalia on restaurant menus around Greece. This dish is made by frying salted cod coated in beer batter (the bakaliaros), and serving it with a side of incredibly garlicky potato puree that is more like a dip than mashed potato (the skordalia).

Grilled octopus

Another simple yet delicious dish you can find in tavernas all over Greece is grilled octopus, seasoned with salt and pepper, garlic, fresh parsley and dried oregano. It is served drizzled with high quality olive oil and a fat wedge of lemon.

Kalamarakia Tiganita

Fried calamari in greasy batter, salted, and with a generous squeeze of lemon, is another dish you’ll find on menus all over Greece! I lost count of the amount of times I had this during my 2 weeks in Greece, and I was never disappointed!

Taramasalata

Taramasalata is a creamy Greek dip that you’ll usually find in meze platters with lots of pita bread. It is made from salted and cured fish roe (cod, carp, or grey mullet), mixed with olive oil, lemon juice, and a starchy base of stale bread or mashed potatoes. The taste of fish is very subtle, and it’s almost like a fish-infused mayo (?!).

Melitzanes Papoutsakia

The word ‘papoutsakia’ actually means ‘little shoes,’ which is what this adorable Greek dish takes its name from! The traditional melitzanes papoutsakia is eggplant stuffed with meat sauce and topped with béchamel and a hard, salty cheese, although we had a lovely vegetarian version stuffed with cheese, mushrooms, onions, and peppers.

Vegetarian Greek food

Greek salad (horiatiki).

I’m sure most people reading this have eaten Greek salad before, but trust me – until you’ve had a Greek salad in Greece , you’ve not had a Greek salad. Roughly chopped tomatoes, cucumber and red onions are thrown together, along with a sprinkle of olives and a gigantic slab of feta cheese, drizzled with (you’ve guessed it) extra virgin olive oil. The beauty of this salad is the freshness of the ingredients and the simplicity of the dressing (olive oil and oregano, sometimes with salt).

Ahh, the ultimate guilty pleasure! Saganaki is a slab of cheese, tossed in flour and fried. The end result is crispy on the outside, and melty on the inside, and it’s a greasy, salty, cheesy dream. Saganaki is a typical starter, to be enjoyed alongside meze dips, salads, and other appetisers. The name saganaki comes from the pan used to fry the cheese, which is called a saganaki or sagani.

In bakeries all over Greece, you will find various ‘pies,’ which are not like an English pie at all, but rather like burek , a traditional Balkan pie . Tiropita is made with layers of flaky phyllo pastry stuffed with feta cheese, baked until golden brown and cut into triangular shaped pieces that are perfect as a snack on the go or a quick lunch.

Spinach pie

Spanikopita is the name given to spinach pie, another traditional Greek pie made with phyllo pastry and stuffed with – you’ve guessed it – spinach, as well as feta cheese. Served as a starter, snack, or quick bakery lunch, you will find spinach pies all over Greece (and I have to admit, my 2 weeks in Greece left me never wanting to see a spinach pie again!).

Tirokroketes

Tirokroketes are a very popular meze dish, and you can find them in almost any taverna in Greece. Tirokroketes are cheese balls, made with 3 different types of cheese (feta, graviera, and gouda), coated in cheesy breadcrumbs, and fried until golden brown – mmm !

Tomatokeftedes

Tomatokeftedes, or tomato fritters, are most popular on the islands of Santorini and Syros, although I was delighted to find them in Athens as well! While common on meze platters, you can also order tomatokeftedes as a starter, to be served alongside pita bread, or as a side dish to accompany your main. The crushed or pureed tomatoes are fried until crispy in oil, sometimes also with feta, oregano, zucchini and onion.

Kolokythokeftedes

Even better than tomatokeftedes (in my humble opinion), are kolokythokeftedes , or zucchini fritters. Made with zucchini, feta, and tonnes of fresh herbs such as mint and dill, zucchini fritters are the perfect summertime dish.

Tsouhti is a pasta dish that originated on the Mani peninsula , which was where I tried it. Tsouhti was originally a peasant food, made from necessity when all the crops were gone and all people had was dairy products, oil, and eggs (and no refrigerators to keep them fresh!). The pasta is cooked, tossed in melted butter and olive oil, sprinkled with grated mizithra cheese (a hard cheese similar to Pecorino Romano), and topped with a fried egg. It’s simple, but it’s comfort food at its finest, and is especially good during the winter months.

Yemista are stuffed tomatoes or peppers, and make a great main dish for vegetarians (although occasionally they are stuffed with meat, so be sure to double check before you order!). They are usually stuffed with rice, vegetables, cheese, and a tomato-based sauce, as well as a myriad of herbs and spices – there are so many variations of yemista, that it wouldn’t be much of a stretch to say that every household has their own version!

Dolmades are grape leaves that are stuffed with herbs, rice, and onions, and folded into tiny little parcels. While this dish is traditionally vegan, sometimes the leaves are also stuffed with minced meat, so make sure to ask before you order!

Even if you have no clue what to eat in Greece, I’m sure you’ll be familiar with tzatziki, an incredibly popular dip that is typically served as an appetiser that makes up a meze. Like many other things on this list, there are endless variations of tzatziki, but the traditional version is made with thick strained yoghurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and dill.

Melitzanosalata

Melitzanosalata is referred to as a salad, but it’s really more of a dip, specifically a very garlicky eggplant dip. While I’m generally not a fan of eggplant, I couldn’t get enough of this dip when I was in Greece, although you must be warned – when I say that melitzanosalata is ‘very garlicky,’ I truly mean it!!

Greek desserts

Now, I have to admit that before writing this article, I thought that baklava was originally Turkish, and when I went to double check, I fell down a massive rabbit hole, and now I don’t know whether baklava comes from the Ottomans, Ancient Greeks, or somewhere else (there’s a fascinating article about the ‘Baklava Wars’ here , if you’re interested). However, what I do know is that Greeks consider baklava to be Greek, and you can find it everywhere in Greece, so therefore it deserves its place on this list! In case you don’t know, baklava is an incredibly sweet dessert made from layers of flaky phyllo pastry that is filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with honey or syrup.

Loukoumades

Often referred to as ‘Greek doughnuts,’ loukoumades are bite-sized pieces of fried dough that are sprinkled with syrup, walnuts, and cinnamon. The best loukoumades are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, and served piping hot straight from the fryer.

Yiaourti Me Meli

Greek yoghurt with honey and walnuts is a delicious and healthy dessert and popular breakfast. Packed with protein and carbohydrates, it’s a great start to the day, as well as being perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth!

Often translated as ‘milk pie’ by locals, galatopita is what I would call a ‘custard pie.’ Whatever you want to call it, this creamy pie is made with milk, semolina, eggs, sugar, and butter, and often topped with a little bit of honey and/or cinnamon.

Pasteli is an Ancient Greek snack that warriors or Olympic athletes would eat for energy – you can think of it as the world’s oldest energy bar! Pasteli is made by pressing sesame seeds and honey into a bar, and it is still a common snack in Greece today, although it is generally seen as a candy rather than something to consume before going into battle!

Revani is another sickly-sweet Greek dessert made from semolina sponge soaked with a sugar or orange syrup. Served cold and in small cube-shaped portions, revani is a light but incredibly sweet dessert, so one is often enough!

Greek drinks

Ellinikos kafes.

Ellinikos Kafes is Greek coffee, and you may also know it as Turkish coffee, Serbian coffee, Albanian coffee …you get the gist. Coming from the Ottomans, this type of coffee is a very strong coffee that is brewed on the stove in a special brass pot, called a briki . It is always served black, and with the grounds in the bottom of the cup, and sugar is added during the roasting process rather than after. You should take your time to savour this coffee, and it is usually served with a glass of cold water on the side.

Another popular Greek coffee is a frappe , a frothy iced coffee that is the perfect caffeine hit on a Greek summer’s day! It is made with instant coffee (Greek Nescafe, if you can find it), sugar, milk, ice, and water, all shaken vigorously together to create a foamy drink, similar to whipped cream coffee.

Ouzo, a liquor with a distinct anise flavour, is crafted from grape must, which is the residue left after wine-making. No other beverage holds such a distinctive association with Greek culture as ouzo does, and it is deeply intertwined with the Greek way of life. Ouzo is certainly not for the faint-hearted!

Even more hardcore than Ouzo (in my opinion!), Tsipouro is a distilled spirit that is similar to Italian grappa Balkan rakija . Tsipouro is usually enjoyed as an aperitif or a digestif in Greece, and it is often served neat in small glasses. Just like rakija, Tsipouro holds cultural significance in Greece, with many families and communities having their own traditional production methods and recipes passed down through generations.

Greek food FAQs

Is greek food vegetarian-friendly.

There are lots of vegetarian dishes in Greece. Some great veggie options include spinach pie, cheese pie, stuffed eggplant, zucchini fritters, dolmades, yemitsa, and saganaki.

What is Greece’s main dish?

Undoubtedly, the most popular and famous dish in Greece is moussaka.

What is a typical Greek breakfast?

A typical Greek breakfast usually consists of bread, pastry, fruits, and Greek yogurt, often with honey.

Is Greece expensive for food and drink?

Mainland Greece is very affordable for food and drink. Expect to pay no more than 12 EUR for a main course in a taverna, and no more than 5 EUR for half a litre of table wine.

Should you tip in Greece?

There is not a strong tipping culture in Greece, but these days, tourists are expected to tip. If you would like to tip, leaving some small change for your server is more than enough.

Can you drink tap water in Greece?

Always ask at your accommodation, especially if you are visiting a Greek island, but generally the tap water is safe to drink in Greece.

What to Eat in Greece | Final Thoughts

As you can see, the vibrant culinary scene of Greece is a must for foodies. Greek cuisine offers a rich tapestry of flavours, and whether you’re indulging in classic dishes like moussaka and souvlaki, or discovering lesser-known delicacies like spanakopita and papoutsakia, you’re sure to be captivated by its simplicity, freshness, and the use of quality ingredients. Dining in Greece is not just about the food itself; it’s an experience of hospitality and togetherness, and this is what truly stood out to me during my time in Greece. The warmth and generosity of Greek people, combined with the tradition of sharing meze, allowing the wine to flow, and listening to traditional music, create a wonderful atmosphere that makes every meal a special occasion. That’s about it for today, but as always, if you have any questions, please leave them in the comments section below and I will get back to you! Until next time, XOXO

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35 Must-Try Greek Dishes for 2024

• 35 Must-Try Greek Dishes

Welcome, dear food explorers, to the culinary odyssey of Greek cuisine! 

This guide is your passport to the mouthwatering world of traditional Greek food. 

In this guide, we’ll uncover the secrets of incredible Greek food, show you what you must try on your trip, and reveal the dishes that have delighted locals and tourists for centuries. 

So, grab your fork and find out what to eat in Greece on this delicious adventure together!

The Essence of Greek Cuisine

Greek cuisine is a symphony of flavours, a testament to the country’s rich history and diverse geography. 

It’s a cuisine that celebrates simplicity, with many dishes often comprising just a few high-quality ingredients prepared with care and skill. 

Olive oil, fresh vegetables, succulent meats, and aromatic herbs are the cornerstone of Greek cooking, creating a culinary tapestry that’s as vibrant and varied as the Greek landscape.

Since I started visiting Greece…

I’ve been recreating many of these foods at home myself for years.

I now get through vast quantities of olive oil, lemons, oregano, and full-fat Greek yoghurt, and it’s the most delicious and some of the healthiest food I eat.

The more I try new foods in Greece, the more I like them. I cannot stress enough that you should try as many Greek dishes as possible, as you’ll discover a new world of flavour.

Our all-time favourite Greek food : Gyros

Pronounced  ‘yeeros’ , this is popular Greek fast food that consists of chargrilled meat (usually pork, chicken, or lamb) roasted on a rotisserie, similar to a kebab. 

You’ll be served succulent meat wrapped in soft pitta bread with tomatoes, onions, lettuce, a tzatziki sauce (herby, zesty, garlic yoghurt), and maybe even a few fries.

Meaty, succulent, herby, citrusy… all the flavours combine to make this the most delicious on-the-go meal that you’ll have in Greece.

Whether wandering the streets of Athens or exploring a sleepy island village, you’ll notice the incredible scent of gyros stands almost everywhere.

Five Must-Try Dishes

A hearty staple of Greek cuisine, perfect for those cooler evenings. Resembling a lasagne, fried aubergine, potato, and spiced minced meat in a red wine and tomato sauce are layered and baked to perfection, resulting in a comforting and full-flavoured dish.

Often found at street food BBQ stalls, these succulent skewers of pork, chicken or lamb are a favourite of locals. Marinated in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and various herbs, then grilled over an open flame, they’re a testament to the Greek love of simple, well-prepared meat dishes.

This is what Greek yoghurt was meant for; cucumber, garlic, mint and yoghurt combine to perfectly accompany various Greek dishes. Once you’ve tried it in Greece, you’ll wonder why salsa was ever a thing. It’s so simple, takes just five minutes to make a big batch at home, and is the tastiest dip you’ve ever tried. It’s a taste of the Mediterranean every time you dip!

If you love honey, nuts, and pastry, Baklava is the sweet treat to end your meal. Baklava is a rich, sweet pastry made of layers of filo filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey. It’s super sweet but tastes more authentic than any dessert you’ve tried.

Dolmadakia / Dolmades

A must-try addition to any meze we order at every taverna we visit in Greece (we really can’t get enough). These delicate little packages are marinated grapevine leaves stuffed with rice, herbs, and sometimes minced lamb. They’re fresh, herby, lemony, and even more delicious when dipped in tzatziki! They’re a bite-sized taste of Greece that you’ll find hard to resist.

More delicious traditional Greek foods to try

Spanakopita.

This is a savoury pastry that’s a favourite across Greece. It’s made with flaky phyllo dough, spinach, and feta cheese, creating a crunchy and creamy treat.

Often called Greek lasagne, Pastitsio is a baked pasta dish with ground meat and béchamel sauce. It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for a hearty dinner.

Named after the pan in which it’s cooked, Saganaki is a fried cheese appetiser. The cheese is melted until it’s bubbling and golden, then served with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Loukoumades

These are Greek doughnuts, small, fluffy dough balls deep-fried until golden, then drizzled with sweet syrup and sprinkled with cinnamon. They’re a heavenly dessert that’s impossible to resist.

This traditional Greek dish is all about slow cooking. Lamb is marinated in garlic and lemon juice, then baked on the bone until it’s so tender it falls off the fork.

Not to be confused with the Italian fava bean, Greek Fava is a creamy dip made from yellow split peas. It’s often served with olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

Kolokithokeftedes

These are courgette (zucchini) fritters, a popular appetiser in Greece. They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and often served with a refreshing tzatziki sauce.

Similar to Spanakopita, Tiropita is a cheese pie made with layers of buttered phyllo and filled with a cheese-egg mixture. It’s a cheesy delight that’s perfect any time of day.

Kumquat Liqueur

This is a speciality of Corfu, where kumquat trees are abundant. The tiny citrus fruits make a sweet, tangy liqueur that’s a perfect after-dinner drink.

These almond cookies are a traditional treat found on the island of Hydra. They’re naturally gluten-free and perfect with a cup of Greek coffee.

This is a cheese specific to the island of Lesvos. It’s stored in olive oil, which helps preserve and gives it a unique, rich flavour.

These are sweet cheese pastries from the island of Santorini. They’re traditionally made during Easter and are a delicious treat for anyone with a sweet tooth.

A fresh goat cheese found on the island of Santorini. It’s a soft, creamy cheese that’s perfect spread on fresh bread.

This is a traditional Greek wine made for over 2000 years. It has a unique pine flavour from the resin used to seal the wine vessels.

Galaktoboureko

This is a beloved Greek dessert made with layers of crispy phyllo, filled with creamy custard and bathed in scented syrup. It’s a sweet, creamy delight that’s hard to resist.

Taramasalata

This is a creamy dip made from tarama, the salted and cured fish roe. It’s a savoury spread that’s perfect on fresh bread or as a dip for vegetables.

Known as Greek salad, this dish combines ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, onion, feta cheese, and olives. It’s dressed with olive oil and sprinkled with oregano, creating a fresh and vibrant dish.

This is a sweet pastry with phyllo dough filled with creamy custard and dusted with cinnamon and sugar. It’s a versatile treat that can be enjoyed any time of day, but you’ll often have it during breakfast.

These are sesame seed candy bars with a healthy energy boost. Made with honey and sesame seeds, they’re a sweet treat you can feel good about eating.

This is a dry anise-flavoured aperitif widely consumed in Greece. It’s often served with a small plate of various appetisers called meze.

Souzoukakia

These are aromatic meatballs soaked in a rich tomato sauce. They’re a hearty dish that’s perfect for a family dinner.

This is a foam-covered iced coffee drink made from instant coffee. It’s a popular Greek summer drink that’s both refreshing and invigorating.

This is a baked pasta dish with ground meat and béchamel sauce. It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for a hearty dinner.

Often considered the national dish of Greece, this is a bean soup sometimes referred to as the “poor man’s meal”. It’s a simple, hearty dish that’s full of flavour.

This dish features vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, and zucchinis stuffed with rice and baked in the oven. It’s a healthy and satisfying dish showcasing Greece’s fresh flavours.

This is a Greek sausage made from pork or lamb and flavoured with orange peel, fennel seed, and other herbs. It’s a tasty addition to any barbecue or meze platter.

Raki or Tsikoudia

This strong distilled spirit contains approximately 45 per cent alcohol by volume and is produced from the pomace (the residue of the wine press). It’s particularly popular on the island of Crete.

An omelette speciality from the island of Andros, made with local sausages, stake (a type of butter), and fresh cheese.

Delicious deep-fried dough strips from the Peloponnese region, often enjoyed as a quick snack or breakfast treat.

Insider Tips

Don’t miss out on trying Greek coffee, a strong, rich brew that’s a daily ritual for many Greeks. It’s traditionally served in a briki, a small copper pot, and is the perfect pick-me-up anytime.

When dining in Greece, don’t rush. Greek meals are a time for leisure and conversation, so sit back, relax, and savour every bite.

Try to learn the proper pronunciation of foods you want to try, and you’ll have an easier time in tavernas. One in our party mispronounced  gyros  (actually pronounced ‘yeeros’), thinking it would still be understood, to be met with a confused look.

Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations. Greeks are proud of their cuisine and will happily share their favourite dishes with you.

Greek cuisine is a culinary treasure trove, a feast for the senses as rich and diverse as the country. From hearty moussaka to refreshing tzatziki, there’s a dish to suit every palate. So, why wait? Dive in and discover the delights of Greek cooking today. Kali orexi! (Bon appétit!)

Greece Foodies

• Food in Greece

Food in Greece: The Ultimate Greek Food Guide for first time travelers

Greece might be known for its history, monuments, great weather, and beautiful beaches, but it is also known for its food. Food in Greece follows the pattern of Mediterranean cuisine but also has a lot of unique food combinations, which will make your experience in the country even more remarkable.

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The food is nutritious, flavorful, and frequently made with locally sourced ingredients. While there are many international food options in Greece, it is well worth exploring the local cuisine.

Check our ultimate Greek food guide for first travelers like you below!

What do we mean by traditional Greek food?

The “Mediterranean Triad” of olives, grains, and grapes influenced Greek cuisine. Traditional Greek cuisine was built on these pillar crops. While wheat is the staple grain, olives and wine are essential to the diet. Fresh mint, oregano, thyme, and fennel are used in several cuisines. Greek cuisine offers a wide variety of cheeses as well!

Which dining options are available for food in Greece?

• A restaurant  is known as an estiatorio: In Greece, this can be difficult to distinguish from a taverna (see below). The only difference between the two is the type of table covering. Traditional Greek dishes are served in both of them.
• A furnos: is a savory pie shop that typically serves tiropita (cheese pies) and spanakopita (spinach pies).
• A kafeneion: is the original coffee shop and is one of Greece’s oldest types of establishments.
• Mezethopoleion:  As the name implies, this is a general meze spot with a variety of mezéthes (Greek appetizers)
• Taverna: A taverna is much more casual than a restaurant, but it serves all the traditional Greek dishes you know.

What to eat as a tourist?

If you want to get the ultimate Greek food experience seriously, then you need to eat in a Greek taverna. These places are all around the country, and actually follow the same pattern in the food menu.

Order like a local! Everything made in the Greek taverns is fresh, rich, filling, and bursting with flavor. However, as with many other tourist destinations, navigating the tourist traps can be difficult, and even when you do, you may find yourself unsure of what to order. That’s why we’re going to propose you some Greek food options.

The appetizers vary depending on where you are in Greece. Still, you can always count on tzatziki, tirokafteri (spicy cheese spread), taramosalata (fish roe dip), melitzanosalata (aubergine spread), and, of course, Horiatiki Salata (Greek Salad). Horiatiki is a popular local dish that usually comes in a large bowl. Plenty for everyone!

Aside from the traditional Greek salad, there are a variety of salads to try. The Dakos salad from Crete. Dolmadakia (rice-stuffed vine-leaf parcels), keftedes (meatballs), and cheese saganaki are some other delectable appetizers to try (fried cheese). The main dishes to include in your Greek feast vary depending on where you are in Greece.

Finally, a glass of local wine will skyrocket the dish’s taste in companion with your favorite meal!

How to Order Like a Local in a Greek Taverna?

If you think you went here for statues, a beach, and sparkling sunshine, think twice about it. Greece’s cuisine is an essential element of Greece’s culture. There’s a delight for everybody who comes to Greece, and it shouldn’t be missed. Every product in Greece has freshness and rich flavors. In some cases, it can seem like tourist traps are difficult to follow. Tell me the best way to place an order with the right people in your community!

The most traditional food in Greece!

Take some notes. The following, I would say, are the most traditional options in the food you can eat in Greece.

• Olives and Olive Oil: For millennia, Greeks have grown olives. According to legend, Athena won the favor of the city of Athens by giving it an olive tree. Locally grown olives are frequently served with Greek meals.
• Fresh Fish & Octopus: Visit a seaside taverna and eat as the locals have since ancient times.
• Feta: Fresh Greek cheese is a delight, unlike the plastic tubs found in markets outside of Greece.
• Honey: Honey has been sacred since ancient times and mythology. It is super nutritious, healthy, and tasty!
• Syrupy sweets: Almost everyone adores this kind of sweets there. Don’t miss the chance to get one after your main meals!

Are there any desserts in Greek cuisine?

You shouldn’t even ask yourself about that. The answer is a total yes! Greek cuisine has various range of sweets – desserts!

For a decadent dessert after their main course, locals frequently choose pasty establishments. The richest taste on your lips will be left by a slice of Ravani cake, which is typically provided as a complimentary dessert after your dinner.

Food in Greece is a very sacred thing for everyone. Flavored, tasteful, and healthy food combinations are all around the country. As you understood from the article, you can find all kinds of tastes and personal diet-based dishes. So, what are you waiting for? Make Greece your next food destination!

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The 13 best places to visit in Greece this summer

From sprawling cosmopolitan cities to breathtaking beaches, here's where to add to your Greece bucket list

When you’re sitting at your desk and dreaming of a holiday, you’re probably dreaming about Greece. Greece is pretty much what dreams are made of, after all, and it’s got the whole package; golden sands, blue waters, and enough of it to go again and again and never get bored. 

But Greece’s top islands and cities all offer something different. You’ve got the cosmopolitan metropolis of Athens , the Instagrammable white and blue houses of Santorini , and the hugely underrated island of Aegina just waiting to be explored. Whatever your style, here are the best islands, cities and towns to visit in Greece this summer. 

RECOMMENDED: 🏝️  The most  beautiful Greek islands 🏨 The best  hotels in Greece 🏛 The best things to do in Athens 🧿 The best things to do in Mykonos

Demetrios Ioannou  is a writer and photographer from Athens.  At Time Out, all of our  travel guides  are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines .  This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our  affiliate guidelines . 

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Where to visit in Greece

1.  athens.

Obviously, if you’ve heard anything about Greece, you know about its beautiful capital Athens. Athens is that perfect mix of traditional but trendy, ancient but modern, full of nature but cosmopolitan at the very same time. Here you’ll find huge, open roads covered in restaurants and bars, but coming off them are tiny little cobbled side streets to explore. Old buildings give way to fascinating galleries. You can grab an ouzo and pitch up at a beautiful outdoor cinema, looking up at the stars. Plus you’ve simply got to see the Parthenon at least once in your life. Athens is a sprawling, incomparable beauty that is like no other. Add it to your bucket list. 

Why go?  Europe’s oldest capital and the birthplace of democracy, Athens is crammed with several thousands of years of history and is as unmissable as any great Euro city. 

Discover Athens: 🧿  How to spend a weekend in Athens 📍  The best  things to do in Athens 🥙  Really good  restaurants in Athens 😎  Explore  Kypseli, Athens’s coolest neighbourhood

2.  Aegina

A little over an hour away from the port of Piraeus, the island of Aegina is the closest to the Greek capital and a popular destination for tourists and locals. In 1827, after the Greek Independence War had ended, it served as the first capital of the newly founded Greek state for a while. Today, the island is mostly famous for pistachios, chock-a-block full of pistachio trees, and thought to be the best in the world for the stuff. It’s worth visiting the famous Aphea Temple, dedicated to goddess Athena, the Saint Nektarios Monastery and the nearby uninhabited Islet of Moni, where wild peacocks and deer stroll uninterrupted. 

3.  Crete

You’ll need a car to explore Greece’s biggest island, but if you’re after golden beaches, crumbly old towns, world-class museums and UNESCO Heritage sites,  Crete  ticks every box. Chania in the west is the liveliest part of the island, while Sitia in the east is famed for its pristine coves and sandy beaches – a perfect rural and picturesque escape. Nature seekers could hike Samaria, Europe’s longest gorge, culture hunters should track down the Minoan palaces, and kids are guaranteed a good time at the island’s countless waterparks.

Why go?  Much more than just an all-inclusive beach holiday hotspot, Crete is a mish-mash of fabulous stuff to see, do, eat and drink. 

Discover Crete:

📍  The best things to do in Crete

4.  Zakynthos

Better known as Zante, Zakynthos draws a party-ready crowd to its notorious Laganas nightlife strip, but this sunstruck Ionian isle – known by the Venetians as ‘the flower of the East’ – is also blessed with some of the Med’s most beautiful scenery. This includes the spectacular Shipwreck Beach, whose bright-blue waters hemmed in by sheer white cliffs can only be reached by boat, and Zakynthos Marine Park, home to slippery seals and savvy turtles. It’s truly wild – in multiple senses of the word.

5.  Santorini

The scenery in  Santorini , one of the Cyclades islands in the Aegean Sea, seems crafted by the Greek gods: whitewashed villages crown the island with views over its majestic coastlines, rural vineyards span huge stretches inland and the beaches are black, red, and out of this world. There’s a ridiculous amount for explorers, foodies and culture vultures to discover, from archaeological sites to swimming spots and brilliant wine and food. And trust us: this place is  even  more beautiful IRL than it looks on the ’gram.

Discover Santorini:

📍  The best things to do in Santorini 🏨  Amazing hotels in Santorini 🏖️  Where to stay in Santorini  

6.  Tinos

Famous for its carved marble-fronted buildings – and, increasingly, its burgeoning food scene – Tinos is yet another jewel in the Cyclades archipelago. To get there, you’ll need to fly to Mykonos and catch a ferry. It’s worth the journey: some of the best Greek wines are produced here, and chefs from all over Europe have opened restaurants among its sage-scented hills. Most are situated in the main town of Chora – we recommend the traditional Greek menu at Thalassaki.

7.  Naxos

The largest of the Cyclades islands, Naxos is also one of the least explored – which means you can expect secluded sandy beaches and a low-key, laidback atmosphere that’ll make the pressures of everyday life feel worlds away. Packing an incredible amount of variety into an incredibly small space, this is a place where you can venture up into tiny high-flung mountain villages or laze on an endless chain of silky sand beaches away from the madding tourist crowds.

8.  Corfu

Italianate villages, ornate palaces and romantic beaches are on the cards if you visit the lush island where the Durrell family once lived. With its sundry influences left by past invaders,  Corfu  is a place where you can drink ginger ale with your Greek salad, stroll streets packed with Byzantine and Venetian architecture and meet modern-day monks in Paleokastritsa’s spectacular medieval monastery. And after a hard day’s sightseeing and stuffing your face, you’ll obviously want to jump straight into the Ionian Sea – never not a stunning shade of turquoise blue.

Discover Corfu:

📍  The best things to do on Corfu

9.  Rhodes

Way back when – and we’re talking way, way back –  Rhodes  was home to the Colossus, one of the world’s Seven Wonders. An earthquake may have destroyed that ol’ thing in 226BBC, but the island’s Unesco world heritage-classed old town is still steeped in charm and history – thanks to a series of dazzling topsy-turvy medieval inns and fourteenth-century knight’s houses that stand to this day. Head outside the city, and the mountain villages and cliff-top towns you’ll come across are just as magical as any fairytale location. And with plenty of chic shops, decent restaurants and lively bars, you’re guaranteed some modern magic, too.

Discover Rhodes:

📍  The best things to do in Rhodes 🏨  Amazing hotels in Rhodes

10.  Kastellorizo

At the edge of Greece, right opposite the Turkish coastal town of Kaş, you'll find Kastellorizo (aka Megisti), the island furthest from the Greek capital. It's a flight or a boat ride away from the island of Rhodes in Dodecanese, and though it's a bit of a journey to the island, it's absolutely worth it. This is a remote paradise with colourful buildings, seafood for days and seriously chilled out vibes. Plus, it has a fascinating history – make sure to visit the castle of the Knights Hospitaller overlooking the Aegean Sea, and the glorious 4 th century BC Lycian tomb below it. The fort-monastery of Agios Georgios of the Mountain also boasts one of the best views on the island (you just need to get up 315 steps first).

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If you’re planning a trip to Greece in 2024, visit these 10 top destinations

Mar 4, 2024 • 6 min read

From iconic islands to major cities to the lesser-known, wild region of Epiros, our list of essential Greek destinations has a bit of everything © Georgios Tsichlis / Shutterstock

As its mythical Sirens were reputed to do, Greece has long lured travelers to its scintillating shores.

Across an expansive island archipelago, traditional whitewashed villages, azure seas and waterfront tavernas enchant visitors. Greece’s mountainous mainland, rich in UNESCO World Heritage–listed ancient sites, treasure-filled museums and spirited cities, is no less fascinating. As you contemplate your dream Greece itinerary, consider these 10 favorite places to add to it.

Wherever you walk in Greece’s storied capital, the ancients have walked before – whether you see the evidence or not. From the Acropolis  (whose jewel in the crown is the fifth-century BCE Parthenon ) to the underground metro (where some stations feature archaic finds), Athens  is teeming with historical sites , monuments and museums. A combo card affords entry to the Acropolis and six more sites; the Acropolis Museum is also a must-see.

Easy to tackle on foot, Athens is also one of Europe’s liveliest metropolises – and strolls through neighborhoods like old-town Plaka , flea market–famous Monastiraki and hip Pangrati are highlights. By night, catch a live band in gritty Gazi , catch a movie at an outdoor cinema in Thission or go bar-hopping off the main commercial street Ermou.

Local tip: Book tickets online for a reinvented Greek tragedy or dance troupe performance at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus amphitheater as part of the  Epidaurus Festival , which takes place each summer.

A collection of over 70 beaches, sea caves hidden beneath limestone cliffs and technicolor traditional boat houses are just some of the reasons why mineral-rich Milos has won the hearts of many travelers. Evidence of its volcanic origins can be seen in the almost lunar landscape of Sarakiniko , where the more daring dive into a jade-colored Aegean. Arrive early at Gerondas beach to nab the generous shade of caves and enjoy floating silently in still waters.

Planning tip: Save a couple of days to spend on Kimolos, a small island northeast of Milos reachable by ferry. One of its most impressive beaches is Prassa, where coarse, blindingly white sand shows off shallow, aquamarine waters to full effect.

Rhodes has long been the Dodecanese ’s biggest draw thanks to its atmospheric UNESCO World Heritage–listed medieval old town . Transformed in the Middle Ages by the Knights of the Order of St John into a formidable fortified city, it fell to the Ottomans, who erected mosques, baths and houses, many of which have been restored. Youngsters might envision armored men on horseback thundering down the cobblestoned Street of the Knights .

Make sure you visit the Palace of the Grand Master , which features stunning Roman and Early Christian floor mosaics, and the Church of Our Lady of the Castle.

Planning tip: Book a state-licensed tour guide to show you around the old town for a full picture of its long and fascinating history.

4. Santorini

Whether you’re coupled up or not, it’s hard not to fall for Santorini ’s charms. Whitewashed and pastel-hued, cube-shaped homes cling to steep cliffsides above a cobalt Aegean and the island’s famed caldera, formed by volcanic eruptions over millennia.

Weave your way through the narrow alleyways of the postcard-perfect village of Oia amid blue-domed churches. Bathe in thermal springs warmed by an active volcano, splay out on black-sand beaches and don’t miss the prehistoric settlement of Akrotiri , which features an advanced drainage system.

Planning tip: Book a private tour of Santorini ’s smaller wine estates, whose new generation of vintners is breathing new life into traditional wines like mezzo and Nychteri.

In Greece’s west lies Epiros , a remote region of soaring mountain peaks, fast-flowing rivers and hidden rock canyons. Hike to the alpine heights of Mt Tymfi’s Dragon Lake, which freezes over in winter, or traverse the thick forests, inclines and descents of spectacular Vikos Gorge . Whitewater rafting thrills and spills await in the Voidomatis or Arachthos rivers, while canyoning enthusiasts can choose from routes of varying difficulty.

6. Kythnos and Serifos

If peaceful sandy shores, unassuming waterfront tavernas and sleepy villages are more your style, the low-key West Cyclades isles of Kythnos and Serifos are worth a stop. Kythnos has deep, sheltered bays and tamarisk-dotted silver-sand beaches, among them Lefkes and Naousa.

Wallet-friendly tavernas line the laid-back fishing settlements of Loutro and Meriha, while wind-whipped Serifos , a two-hour ferry ride from Piraeus , features sweeping sandy beaches, sheltered bays, ghostly mining relics and a jewel-like hilltop capital whose neoclassical town hall stands sentinel over the buzzy main square.

7. Thessaloniki

At the crossroads of East and West, where the Romans, Byzantines and Ottomans have held sway over the centuries, Thessaloniki tempts serious foodies. Bougatsa , a phyllo pastry pie usually filled with semolina custard, spinach or mince meat, makes for a hearty breakfast. Pick up olives and spices at the olfactory-awakening open-air markets and Pontic cheeses from indoor food hub Modiano , which dates back to 1922. In the former oil merchant district of Ladadika, mezedopolia serve dishes revealing strong Anatolian and Middle Eastern influences, customarily with the fiery clear spirit tsipouro .

Planning tip: Thessaloniki is also renowned for its fish and seafood, served with fervor and pride whether it’s a backstreet taverna or an upscale restaurant. Bookings are recommended for the latter.

Tranquil, turquoise seas, fir-studded hillsides and a regal capital make Corfu one of the most beautiful parts of the country to go sailing. The Ionian isle is the ideal starting point for novices who can take a sailing course and gain certification.

Afterward, join a flotilla for a leisurely cruise around Corfu, dropping anchor at Kalami Bay (of The Durrells fame) and lush Paleokastritsa. In Corfu Town , admire Venetian fortresses, the French-designed Liston Arcade and The Palace of St Michael and St George , built during the island’s British administration.

Planning tip: Few venture to Erikousa island, northwest of Corfu, which is blessed with pristine beaches and shallow cerulean seas.

Greece’s largest island, Crete  abounds in historical sites, well-preserved monuments and modern museums. A wander through the Minoan-era palaces of Knossos , Malia , Phaestos and Kato Zakros  won’t disappoint any fan of classical culture.

Stroll along the Venetian Harbour in Hania , lined with Ottoman monuments such as the Kioutsouk Hasan Mosque . Trek up to Byzantine and Venetian fortresses such as the Fortezza in Rethymno and Kastelli in Hania. In the east, the 16th-century Venetian fortress on Spinalonga islet reveals a harrowing, more recent past as a leper colony.

Among noteworthy museums are the Heraklion Archaeological Museum , Chania’s Maritime Museum of Crete , and the Museum of Ancient Eleutherna in Rethymno.

10. Mykonos

In the 1960s and 70s, Mykonos hosted roving hippies, celebrities and moneyed jet-setters who flirted and danced till the sun came up. While new five-star hotels and swanky brand-name restaurants may have altered the landscape and driven up prices, the fabled Cycladic isle still reigns supreme when it comes to summer nightlife in the Mediterranean.

Revelers can choose from the thumping bars lining Little Venice in Hora , as well as beach bars, cabaret restaurants and iconic clubs like seaside Cavo Paradiso , where illustrious music DJs fire up the crowd.

Planning tip: August is Mykonos’ busiest month. It’s also when you can witness the hottest DJs and surprise appearances by music artists, including prominent hip-hop names.

This article was first published Jul 5, 2021 and updated Mar 4, 2024.

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The Athens Food Guide: What You Need to Know About Where to Eat in Greece

May 21, 2020

Our ultimate Athens Food Guide brings you restaurants, tours, lessons and stories to bring Greek food alive. Why? In the words of Hippocrates, let food be thy medicine.

Disclosure – I found out about the Gastronomy Museum, its market tour and cooking lesson as part of a paid consulting project with Afea Luxury. As ever, as always, I kept the right to write what I like here on the blog. Otherwise, there’s just no point. If you book or buy through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Cheers!

Table of Contents

The Home of Greek Food: Varvakios Agora

The hawkers yell, the metal shutters clatter and the salty scent of fresh sliced fish mingles with cinnamon, lobster tanks and the bloody entrails of hanging innards. Like many a live food market, Varvakios Agora heaves with industry, pulses with activity and throngs with the shoulder-thumping movement of a focused, frenetic crowd intent on getting by – and buy.

Yet this place, in Athens, feels like something more. If Greece can be said to be the home of democracy , and the Acropolis, the beacon of hope and respect, what can the city’s central food market tell us about the history of trade?

Recommended

I love sharing the best travel resources I can find. 

• I never book a flight without looking on Skyscanner first
• My favourite one stop shop for airport transfers, food tours & excursions is Get Your Guide
• Out of the big accommodation machines, I use Expedia and Booking.com the most
• I’ve hand-picked useful travel gear and tools for you in my Amazon shop . Never leave home without a travel adapter or collapsible water bottle . I’d also recommend these soft ear plugs and a sleep mask .
• Access all our planners and budget spreadsheets in the Travel Toolbox ©
• Plan the perfect road trip with our Road Trip Planner & Toolkit ©
• Use these packing cubes to make life so much easier on the road.
• Save on mobile phone roaming charges with an eSIM from Airalo .

What is Greek Food?

And while the market floor may wear tell tale spatters and splatters of blood, the story of Greek Food, of course, reaches much further than that. It reaches through the complex labyrinth of this Grecian city out toward feta cheese and fresh tomatoes served on bright white plates aside deep blue seas and an even bluer skies.

Traditional Greek food relies on top quality ingredients, simply served. Like many mediterranean cuisines, you’ll find a focus on sharing dishes and platters with lots of yoghurt and aubergine-based dishes. Meats and fish are frequently grilled, with seasoning, coffee is hot and strong, honey is plentiful. And the olives? Oh, the olives…

Food matters in Greece. It’s an integral part of daily social life and it aims for joy.

Traditional Greek Dishes To Try

Greek cuisine varies from region to region, but economics mean that you’ll find just about everything located in Athens. With so much to choose from, where do you start? Here are the traditional Greek dishes that no Athens food guide should be without. They are the ones that you have to try.

• Greek salad is not a lazy turn phrase for foreign markets. Built from chunky sliced cucumber, fresh tomato, olives and herbs, it comes with slabs of feta cheese the size of mini iPads.
• Souvlaki also deserves a little more attention than it gets. Typically formed from grilled pork and served as street food in Athens, you’ll also find the dish reconstructed in fancier food outlets around the city as well. It comes wrapped in pita bread, with sliced red onion, green peppers, tomato and tzatziki. Its cousin is gyros, a similar dish but with the meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie instead.
• Olives and olive oil. Served with most main meals, Greek olives burst with flavour and would be reason enough for me to write this Athens food guide. Fresh, peppery olive oil should give you a kick at the back of your throat, according to olive oil sommeliers with these handy olive oil tasting tips. Drizzle over flatbreads and rosemary-soaked loaves while waiting for your main dish. And send me some. Please?
• Dolmades  come in many shapes and sizes. Typically, dolmades mean stuffed vine leaves but you can find tomatoes, courgettes and aubergines also stuffed in a similar way. Recipes vary from household to household but include rice, minced meat, oregano or soft cheese.
• Moussaka  is possibly the most famous international Greek dish. Often described as lasagna without the past, you’ll find layers of sliced aubergine with a tomato and beef mince sauce topped off with the white, cheesy bechamel sauce. And while I’m including it in this Athens food guide, it’s also the dish that’s most decimated by tourist traps and perhaps best saved for eating at home. Relish the Mediterranean freshness available to you in Greece and try something else instead!
• Spanakopita  comes as a crispy spinach and pie with a feta cheese filling. Miss out the spinach and it becomes tiropita. All of the calories; none of the pretence!
• Saganaki.  To describe saganaki simply fried cheese would be to do it a disservice. It tastes so much better than that. It’s often served as an appetiser and relies upon frying the cheese in a small pan until golden bubbles appear, forming a tasty crisp on the outside. Most saganaki involves the hard graviera cheese, but you can also find feta, halloumi, kasseri, kefalotyri and formaela in the pan.

From the visceral stalls of the marketplace, we moved through shaded stalls and walkways that sang with spice and danced with damson. We passed by baskets of natural sponge and sauntered beneath speckled violet sausages that hung from the rafters. And then it was time for the cooking lesson.

Sweet Dishes to Try

• At breakfast, try the simple but fantastic Greek yoghurt with honey.
• Over elevenses, indulge in honey-soaked baclava, as popular here as it is across the Med in the Middle East.
• After dinner, try Greek rice pudding or rizogalo, with cinnamon and given a citrus twist.

Where to Eat in Athens

Michelin starred restaurants.

• Accompanied by the gentle songs of the waves at the coast in Piraeus, Varoulko is one of those hidden gems in Athens I’m reluctant to tell you about. Although the food is creative and daring, with syringes of olive oil and minced langoustine wrapped in leaves, the service is friendly, the approach humble.
• At the other end of the spectrum, Spondi earned its Michelin star first and likes to let you know it. The setting is calm and beautiful, an atmospheric neoclassical building in Pangrati. The food feels infused with France, after a succession of top French chefs brought their enthusiasm from Paris to Athens. Not the place for those with food restrictions, this does make an incredible place to dine for those who can eat anything.
• Hytra , on the other hand, is far more accessible. Brimming with Scandinavian influence, Hytra features foraged vegetables and plenty of non-dairy options. Plus, sister restaurant Apla lives next door. Greek for “simple,” it offers fun mac and cheese and gourmet hot dogs to balance up the fine dining.
• Finally, Botrini’s brings the character from Corfu, often dubbed the Gordon Ramsay of Athens (with TV show to boot.) The bright white restaurant in Halandri offers bold flavours and colourful dishes, with the aim of creating affordable gastronomy.

Restaurants with a View of the Acropolis

• One of the more brilliant aspects of the nature of Athens is just how many places provide a view of the Acropolis.
• You can stay up close, eating pomegranate sorbet at the Electra Rooftop Hotel in Athens. Or stay further out with sushi at the Galaxy Bar Hilton Athens.
• On Sundays, you can head to the fashionable Kolonaki neighbourhood and brunch with a view of the Acropolis and the Aegean Sea at my favourite Athens restaurant: the  St George Lycabettus.

Where to Eat Lunch in Athens

I love the fresh Greek classics amid recycled furniture at the NEW Hotel in central Athens: a great place for lunch. So, too, is the outdoor terrace in the National Garden the Aegli Zappeiou . If the weather lets you down, head to the beautifully lit Cycladic Cafe in the Cycladic Museum. A modern oasis in the city.

Where to Drink in Athens

• When it comes to coffee, it may not sound cool, but it’s hard to beat some of the stylish cafes that live in and around the museums. The Acropolis Museum has an outdoor terrace where you can stare at antiquity while enjoying your caffeine fix (it’s also open for dinner on Friday nights.)
• The Cycladic Cafe at the Cycladic Museum describes itself as an oasis in the city centre. With its bright white walls and dripping foliage, I’d agree.
• For fun, head to Brettos, the oldest distillery in Athens , to taste ouzo served from a wall of coloured glass.
• When it comes to the question of Greek wine, head to By the Glass or Heteroclito in central Athens to savour and experiment with different Greek labels.

A Museum Dedicated to Food and Art

The Museum of Greek Gastronomy invites artists to question and construct the central role that food has in our lives, beyond simply keeping us alive.

Saline dripped fed into bacalao,   a fish so salty you can usually spot the shimmer of crystals. Except, this time, more salt flowed into the fish, leading to a column of crystals on the floor below.

Silverware clung one to another, representing   the central role of food in the home. And beneath the glare of a student’s lamplight, an interesting geography lesson took place.

Baklava, the sticky sweet honey-soaked treat found, among others, in Turkey and Greece formed the Aegean Sea that separated the shoreline. The piece showed that both shared food and water stretches between these feuding rivals, both of whom claim the sweet as their own. Yet the raised edge of the pastry also highlighted the division, the obstacle between the two.

Or at least, I think that’s what it meant. Note – this museum is sadly now closed.

Athens Food Guide Top Tips

• Don’t overlook Athens hotels. Some of the best Athens restaurants are hotel owned.
• Avoid anywhere that tries to thrust a plastid menu in your hand as you walk past (the real danger zone is around the Acropolis in Plaka and close to Syntagma Square.)
• Smoking is still, unfortunately, very common. Sit outside whenever you can and check before you book a special dinner. Most fine dining places will limit this and I don’t recall it every being a problem.
• Find the most up to date advice from locals. Don’t know anyone in Athens? Try out This is My Athens, a good-hearted project that connects travellers with local volunteers. If nothing else, they’ll know the best  kafeneion (coffee house) and expect to sit and chat for hours, Greek style.

Greek Food Lessons in Athens

Away from the lamplight and into the sun, Costas, a chef with a disposition so cheery both he and baklava ought to be sent into top level diplomacy, slapped fish onto the counter and put us to work.

We’d a busy afternoon ahead: sea bass, mussels, cucumber soup, spanakopita and some ice cream I’m pretending to ignore as part of my no-dairy lockdown.

Typically, I love cooking classes for the chance to chat to people from different cultures, to experiment with photography and to try different flavours.

Costas has a different idea: he intends to make me work.

Apron on, hands washed and camera abandoned, I’m pummelling dough, rolling spirals and delving into a sea bass with some fancy tweezers and a sniper’s eye for bones.

It’s surprisingly satisfying. Incredibly so.

While I spike on with the tweezers, the rest of our small group takes care of the rest: chopping dill, blanching spinach, sipping wine. The menu couldn’t be further from my experience of Italy, but the basics remain the same: simple recipes made from ultra high quality ingredients (plus, in both cases, a nice touch of sunshine but I don’t think that that’s essential.)

But as the sun does shine and we pause while something sizzles, I get the chance to reflect on the day, and the week in Greece in general. Crumbling pastry, squashed spanakopita, fresh and delicate mussels and a rogue bone found in a single sea bass (whose job was it to take care of that again?)

But above all else, the best thing about my brief foray into the world of Greek food was the laughter and friendship that came along for the ride.

Let’s raise a glass the world over to culinary traditions that support sharing, good conversation and good friends.

How to Cook Greek Food: Some Introductory Recipes

Spinach Pie with Filo Pastry: Spanakopita

Ingredients.

For the Filling:

• 500 g spinach leaves, washed and blanched
• 1 leek (the white part only), cut into thin slices
• 4 spring onions, cut into thin slices
• 2 tablespoons of thin cut dill
• 100g of grated manouri cheese (or feta cheese, if you cannot find manouri)
• 4 tablespoons of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Filo Pastry :

• 300g all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of white wine vinegar

Instructions:

For the filo pastry, add all the ingredients and as much water as needed to reach a pliable yet not too sticky formula. This takes some tough old kneading and plenty of energy! Leave the dough on the side to rest.

For the filling, sauté the leeks and spring onions in olive oil, just to get them soft and combine them with all the other ingredients. Season to taste. Roll the filo pastry as thin as you can and then spoon in the filling. Dab a little oil on the pastry to help “stick” it together at the end.

Bake at 200 °C until slightly golden brown. Eat while hot! (But not too hot, obviously…)

Cucumber Soup

Ladies and gents, this is my kind of recipe. Simple, healthy, not much to wash up…

Ingredients:

• 7-8 baby cucumbers peeled but with a few tiger stripes of green left (don’t forget to take out the seeds)
• Lemon zest and juice from one lemon
• 1 small chilli pepper
• 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• A sprinkle of salt and 3 ice cubes

Add all the ingredients in the blender and start blending. Sieve the mix and then serve adding a twist of lemon.

Steamed Mussels with Saffron

Another one. Blindingly easy really ;-)

• 500g mussels
• Half a clove of garlic
• A pinch of ginger
• A pinch of chilli
• A pinch of high quality saffron (Krokos kozanis)
• 1/2 cup of white wine
• Salt and pepper

Sauté the mussels in olive oil for 1 minute on a high heat, with the saffron, chilli, garlic and ginger. Then add salt, pepper and wine. Let it simmer for 1 minute and serve.

Sea Bass and Native Greens with Lemon and Olive Oil Sauce

• 1 sea bass filleted and deboned
• Greens blanched (Greek Almira if you can get hold of it )
• Spring onions
• Pinch of dill
• 1 tomato peeled and sliced

Sauté the tomatoes in olive oil over a low heat to let them caramelise, season and set aside. Set the 2 fillets of the sea bass with the skin side down, season and place the tomatoes over the one fillet, to cover all the flesh. Add parsley and maybe a little grated Parmesan and cover with the other fillet.

Sauté the fish skin side down in olive oil, until the skin gets light brown, and do the same for the other side. Serve with the greens, adding olive oil and lemon.

Food Tours in Athens

Find a selection of food tour operators here as part of this Athens food guide. Sadly, I haven’t been able to test them all by hand but Get Your Guide is a reputable operator so feel reassured when you book. I’ll also earn a small commission should you book through them, so cheers for that.

Dietary Needs in Athens

Vegan and vegetarian diners should be OK in most places. Greek food prides itself on its fresh salads, dips and breads and it’s relatively easy to skip the cheese or meat in smaller tavernas without dedicated veggie options.

Likewise, for those with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance, you’ll find more olive oil than butter and even Greek yoghurt and feta are relatively low in lactose.

More on Travel in Athens

See our guide to unique things to do in Athens and check out the philosophy tour of Athens: why do we pursue happiness?

More on Travel in Greece

Start with our collection of  beautiful and unusual things to do in Greece  and then  delve deeper into the Greek archives.

In particular, look for the  Peloponnese road trip itinerary  and  guide to things to do in Kalamata. Plus, decide between Mykonos or Santorini with our guide to both islands.

Check out our packing list for Greece here.

10 thoughts on “The Athens Food Guide: What You Need to Know About Where to Eat in Greece”

This looks SO good.

I won’t lie to you – it was!

These photos are making me hungry!! I have a stopover in Athens next month, maybe I will be able to squeeze in a cooking class! :)

I hope you manage to! If not, you could still visit the market or dip into the Food Museum. You can be quite zippy in those places on your own.

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Top 5 Places to Visit in Greece for Foodies

Travel Tips , Greece , Greek Islands

Jan 18, 2022

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By Ryan Gargiulo

Greece is not only a destination for lovers of history, but it’s also a great place to visit for foodies.

A foodie holiday in Greece means indulging in mouth-watering Mediterranean foods made from fresh organic produce.

In fact, food and wine tourism are becoming more and more popular in Greece.

Many travel companies offer opportunities for cooking lessons, visiting vineyards and farms, and so much more. 

Depending on what you are looking for, from olives to cheeses, seafood, and marmalades, you will discover why Greece has been dubbed a haven for foodies. 

Below check out some of the top places to visit in Greece for foodies.

The best way to jumpstart your gastronomic journey of Greece is in its capital city, Athens . Home to numerous restaurants offering all sorts of cuisines from different Greek regions, a food tour of Athens is the perfect introduction to Greece’s exciting food scene.

Start your day with a sumptuous Greek breakfast that usually consists of a wide variety of bread, pastries, fruits, and Greek yoghurt.

At lunch, make your way to one of the tavernas lining the busy streets of Athens.

Taverna menus usually consist of salads, meaty mains, fish, and seafood.

Tip: When ordering your food, keep in mind that they will serve you generous portions of hummus and tzatzikis, and the mains will come on their own, without any sides at all.

Dinner in Greece is a late-night affair, and local restaurants in Athens will usually start filling up at around 10 PM.

Don’t Miss: 28 of the Best Things to Do in Athens

You have several choices, but the lathera and mageirefta are worth a try.

Traditionally eaten for lunch, these dishes consist of slow-cooked veggies prepared with olive oil, herbs, and tomatoes.

End your day with a glass or two of the finest Greek wine served at the city’s best wine bars.

If you ask any local in Greece where to go for the best food, they will most likely refer you to Crete.

Indeed, Crete is an undisputed destination for foodies. After all, food is a way of life here.

If you want to explore everything that Crete has to offer, spend a few days on the island and stay in a villa that has easy access to the best dining spots in the island. 

Of all the local products Crete lavishes on, nothing captures its essence quite like the olive oil. It fuels the long life of the locals and brings families and communities together.

Aside from its olive oil, local cheeses, honey, and wine are some of the offerings that round off the island’s wonderful culinary delights.

As one of Greece’s most popular foodie destinations, you’ll find many food tours in Crete.

Joining these tours is highly recommended, as it comes with a local guide who knows where to find the best dining spots on the island.

Your tour will include visiting Heraklion’s winding streets and finding traditional eateries.

Along the streets, you’ll stop by pastry shops for a taste of the most delicious pastries.

Learn all about the Cretan cuisine from your guide as you explore Crete’s charming neighborhood, take the recipes back to one of the super luxury Cretan villas and discover the island’s variety of amazing flavors.

The culinary habits of Paros have been inherited from the older generations who have created the most delicious dishes from ingredients that their sea and land could offer.

Most of the year, the people here are cut off from the mainland due to poor weather conditions. Therefore, they have to make good of what they have, making their dishes truly authentic.

Joining a food tour is the best way to discover the best that Paro can offer.

Aside from exploring the local food scene, these tours are also an excellent way to get a peek into the local life, as it includes visiting the island’s organic farms, meeting some local fishermen, and so much more!

If you would rather explore on your own, start your foodie adventure at a local restaurant. Soso, a restaurant located in a quiet cobblestone street at the picturesque port of Naoussa, is a great place to sample Greek fusion dishes.

Meanwhile, on the gorgeous beach of Santa Maria, you’ll find Siparos, a seaside restaurant serving a variety of Greek and Mediterranean dishes.

4. Santorini

Santorini is an absolute delight for travelers of all kinds.

The picturesque sunsets, colorful houses, and beautiful villages are some of the island’s biggest draws, but the yummy Greek foods that you’ll find in every street corner make for tasty Greek vacations of epic portions.

While it’s truly possible to explore Santorini’s food scene on your own, doing a food tour is a much better option.

When you join a food tour, you’ll have the opportunity to eat seasonally locally grown foods, learn about the local food culture, and visit the best dining spots, whether a simple tavern by the edge of a cliff or a gourmet restaurant serving delectable Greek cuisines.

There are many dishes to try in Santorini, but the Ntomatokeftedes is a must-try. Made from cherry tomatoes, fresh herbs and onions, these tomato fritters are fried in olive oil.

Kos is a beautiful island along the Aegean Sea , famous for its wide selection of beautiful beaches. But beyond its beaches, Kos is also a fantastic destination for foodies.

Regardless of which area in the island you base yourself on, from the waterfront of the main town to the south coast and the beaches on the north, you will find tavernas and restaurants overflowing with the best Greek cuisines.

Take every opportunity to explore its sumptuous delicacies, such as pitardia, a handmade lasagne style pasta; lambropites, pies made with cheese; and the marmarites, pancakes served with sugar or locally produced honey.

Check out the delicatessen in town as well and grab a jar of thyme honey or a bottle of extra virgin olive oil.

Kos is also famous for its delectable wines. While on the island, take the time to visit a local winery and learn about the island’s winemaking tradition.

Winemaking in the island dates back to antiquity and is significantly associated with the island’s culture and history.

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Athens for Foodies: What to Eat and Drink in the Greek Capital

Save yourself from mediocre moussaka with this extensive guide to the best food and drink in Athens. It’s an exciting time to visit the Greek capital, with an explosion of cafes, bars and eateries opening up, alongside a fresh appreciation for the food heritage and amazing natural produce available.

But I know how difficult it can be to avoid the tourist traps when you’re new to the city. I’ve spent an extensive amount of time in Athens (the city adopted me in 2016 and I couldn’t tear myself away) exploring its food scene, hunting down the best places to eat and drink. 

Friends don’t let friends eat at sub-par tavernas whilst in Greece, so here is everything I know about eating and drinking well in Athens.

This food guide will cover:

• Typical Greek cuisine
• How to order coffee in Greece
• Hipster coffee shops
• Cheap eats and snacks
• Ice-cream and sweets
• Special restaurants
• Vegetarian and Vegan
• What (and where) to drink in Athens
• Varvakios Agora Central Food Market
• Cookery Classes
• The best day trips for Foodies
• Souvenirs and Shops

I’ve included links to Google Maps locations throughout this post so you can easily save them to your own account ready for your trip – it’s easy to use Google Maps offline .

WHAT TO EAT IN ATHENS

Typical greek cuisine.

Breakfast is not really a thing in Greece. The old joke that a Greek breakfast is a frappe and a cigarette is not too far off the mark. If anything is eaten, it’s a koulouri (a knotted bread snack, usually with sesame) from a street vendor or a flaky phyllo pastry from one of the city’s multitudes of bakeries. Bougatsa – a delicious and addictive custard pastry – is available for the sweet-toothed and usually taken sitting down with coffee, whilst savoury-lovers can plump for a spinach or feta pastry which you can get.

In the centre, you might also find a few places selling Greek yoghurt though this is mainly an invention for tourists. An increasing number of trendy bars and cafes do brunch on Sundays (try Harvest or Mama Roux ).

There’s a strong tradition of eating out in Greece. Athens has a lively cafe and taverna scene (except in August when most of the city is away on summer break). Dinner is taken late (similar to Spain), local restaurants start to fill up around 10pm with multigenerational groups. Long, leisurely lunches are also a thing.

Taverna menus usually consist of hot and cold mezedes  (including dips), salads, meaty mains (grilled meats as well as dishes like moussaka ), fish and seafood. When ordering at a taverna do bear in mind that menus are designed to be ordered for the table, rather than individual starter-main-desert. This means that portions of hummus and tzatziki are humungous, and mains might come on their own (without sides). The exception is souvlaki portions which usually come with salad and fries (keep reading).

All tavernas have a couple of salads on the menu, including the ubiquitous Greek salad which consists of tomato, cucumber, red onion, and feta (or horiatiki to give it its proper name). As these are for the table they tend to be on the large side – it’s not uncommon to find a whole portion of feta plonked on the top. So they make a great lunch when visiting Athens – a salad, some crusty bread and a fresh squeezed orange juice in the sunshine – perfect .

If you’re in a group, it’s possible to feast like royalty for €15 a head. Don’t forget to ask your waiter what’s fresh.

Generally speaking, the tourist areas of central Athens – that’s Plaka in particular, but also pretty pedestrianised Adrianou Street with its twinkly lights and Acropolis views – are full of overpriced tavernas with mediocre food. Avoid anywhere with someone outside trying to thrust a menu into your hand. Even more so if the menu contains photos and/or international food. 

For one-person portions (or a break from taverna food), try a wine bar for bistro-style menus. 

Smoking is still everywhere in Greece. Yes, it is illegal, as per EU rules, but it’s unilaterally ignored and bribes/fees paid to the police rather than lose. If you see a plastic cup in place of an ashtray, it’s so the place in question can claim it’s no-smoking – see, no ashtrays!

Non-smokers will find this particularly hard over winter when many cafes and tavernas put up transparent tarpaulin or close windows to become ‘indoors’ rather than ‘outdooors’, and trap all of the smoke.

If you’re looking for smoke-free zones check out this article from Greece Is magazine and this one from Travel Greece Travel Europe.

Let’s take a moment to talk about souvlaki. It can get a little confusing.

The term souvlaki  refers to meat cooked on a skewer (you might also see it referred to as straw ). Regional variations confuse things further. But here’s a dummies guide.

Gyros  (which is pronounced yiros ) refers to meat packed onto a large rotating spit, like doner. In most places selling souvlaki in Athens you can order a portion (plate) of meat that’s either souvlaki (chunks) or gyros (shavings), and it comes

You can also order either souvlaki or gyros wrapped in a pitta. Technically, the term for this is tylihto (wrapped) but if you say pitta they’ll know what you mean. It’s the budget option at just a couple of euros, whereas you’ll pay upwards of €8 for a plate or platter. The pitta is stuffed with fries and salad and sauce and  will never taste the same anywhere else so don’t even try.

Sometimes you’ll also see kebab on the menu and this refers to ground meat on a stick similar to shish kofte.

Still confused? Check out this extensive guide by The Travel Porter.

It’s commonly acknowledged that the best souvlaki in Athens is found at two different (unrelated) places called Kostas.

• O Kostas 1 on Pentelis near Syntagma
• Kostas on Platia Agias Irinas just off Aiolou St

You won’t find them open at night though, be there before lunch for the best chance. I haven’t tried either because – much as I love souvlaki, it’s not what I fancy at that time of day.

Peak souvlaki can be found in the heart of Monastiraki Square. Pull up a seat at Thanasis or  Bairaktaris in this prime people-watching spot. Every neighbourhood has its favourite souvlaki joint so just ask around.

Posh incarnations can be found at hipster Hoocut .

DISHES TO TRY IN ATHENS

The key to understanding food in the city is regionality. Athens experienced huge population growth after the second world war, with people migrating from all over Greece in search of work. As such, it doesn’t have a food heritage of its own per se but a strong representation of regional dishes from all around the country. Nowhere showcases this better than the restaurant in the Acropolis Museum.

You’d be hard pushed to leave Greece without trying souvlaki , but I’d also recommend that meat-eaters make a beeline for grilled lamb chops. Ask a local for their recommendations, every carnivore has one. I’m also partial to the grilled sausages.

Another dish you must try is prawn saganaki (and I mean the one with prawns cooked in a tomato sauce with feta and ouzo, not the deep-fried prawn). With a cold beer and fresh crusty bread, it’s one of the best meals for one in Greece. Be sure to clarify what you’re ordering though, saganaki simply means fried.

Feta saganaki is another favourite, particularly the kind that’s wrapped in phyllo pastry and/or sesame seeds, deep-fried, and served drench with honey.

Dakos is a great lunch dish too; a twice-baked barley rusk topped with tomato and cheese. Proper dakos should be served with Cretan myzithra cheese rather than feta. Capers are always a good addition.

And fresh grilled octopus is heaven on a plate.

If you’re lucky your meal might be finished off with a syrupy spoon sweet – whole preserved sweets served in dainty portions with some yoghurt.

ORDERING COFFEE IN GREECE

There’s no shortage of cafes in Athens. Generally speaking, these are venues for enjoying a lingering freddo cappuccino (iced coffee) over many hours. Greece has more of a coffee culture than a drinking culture.

Traditional cafes are called  kafeneion and the types of coffee you will find on the menu are:

• Greek coffee which is thick, brewed in a brass pot and served with the grounds in
• Frappe – a cold frothy coffee made from (very strong) instant coffee, usually enjoyed with lots of sugar and lots of ice cubes
• Freddo cappuccino – espresso served over whole ice cubes (not whizzed up, Starbucks-style) with a big helping of frothed milk
• Freddo espresso – same as above but without milk

In terms of your sugar, you’ll need one of three words:

• sketo (without)
• metrio (medium)
• glyko (sweet aka pretty much a whole mountain of sugar)

English is widely spoken though, so don’t fret if you forget.

You’re welcome to linger over your coffee in Greece. It’s fine (common, even) to nurse it for hours. And nearly every cafe has free wi-fi. This makes Athens a digital nomad’s delight! In prime sit-down locations, you’ll pay a lot more for a coffee – around €4 is not uncommon. A takeaway from the backstreets or a chain such as Coffee Island is about half that. A Greek coffee to go is the cheapest of them all (prices are regulated by the government).

For a Greek coffee made the traditional way – over hot sand – seek out Mokka near the market or Cherchez La Femme .

HIPSTER COFFEE SHOPS

If you’re a bean freak or in need of your flat white fix, set your compass to one of the following cafes:

• Tailor Made Microroastery
• Drupes and Drips
• TAF Art Foundation

CHEAP EATS IN ATHENS

Sometimes it seems every other building in Athens houses a bakery (and the one next to it a cafe). You’ll be able to pick up spanokopita  (phyllo pastry with spinach filling) or tyropita (with a cheese filling). 

You will undoubtedly walk past Meliartos on Ermou Street at some point; this is a top-notch central bakery selling both sweet and savoury goodies and sit. Most bakeries also sell coffee to go, and most takeaway coffee shops also sell baked items – the line is blurred.

There’s not really a traditional street food scene in Athens although you will find koulouri throughout the city, plus kiosks selling confectionary (and the holy trinity of beer, cigarettes and ice-cream) on every street corner. You can try a traditional hot sahlep drink from the man in Monastiraki Square. In summer you’ll find nibbles like fresh coconut.

Pitta gyros and pitta souvlaki are the other mainstays of a budget diet in Greece.

For a change from pastry and gyros though, head to Aiolou Street. This centrally-located street is pedestrianised and home to cheap (but good) Greek food of the fast variety, as are the surrounding streets north of Ermou. There’s the city’s best falafel at Falafellas , and nearby the informal Lebanese Feyrouz where you can pick up lahmacun. There’s cones of fried fish and seafood at Zisis  and pizza/pide/flatbreads at Smak . And Athens’ first street food court at  Str.Eaters .

Or you can always poke around in the alleys immediately surrounding the Central Food Market for traditional working fare.

 Indian restaurant Mirch in Monastiraki does Indian souvlaki wraps to take away.

To feed a crowd on a budget check out one of the four outposts of Ladokolla – the one in  Dafni  is the most central. Instead of plates, you get a wodge of greaseproof paper (although you can ask for a plate if you’re feeling civilised), perfect for piles of grilled meats. I love their carrot spoon sweet with Greek yoghurt too.

Watch out for the Stopotirimou initiative at some cafes and bars, where you get a 10% discount if you bring your own cup or glass.  

ICE-CREAM AND SWEETS

I’m an ice-cream addict and always on the lookout for amazing ice-cream and gelato. Thankfully there are some spots in Athens that don’t disappoint.

Instagrammers, get thee to Dickie Dee where cones come with a flamboyant cotton candy skirt.

Syntagma is ice-cream central:

• Eastern influences at Konstantinidis and Karaköy Güllüoglu where you’ll find authentic  dondurma .
• La Greche  for artisanal organic flavours (see also: Kokkion in Psyrri)

Neighbourhood highlights include Xara in Ano Patisia, local institution Waffle House  out in Vouliagmeni, my own locals L’Arte de Gelato and Bakogiannis in Ilioupoli.

I also love the ice-cream at  Lukumades  on Aiolou Street; a shop which specialises in deep-fried dough balls with various traditional and non-traditional toppings. Ice-cream flavours include  kaimaki (with mastic), bougatsa , kazan , pistachio, and honey (you can order them separately to the loukoumades themselves). You’ll also find modern flavours like cookies and cream.

Dessert cafes are a thing in Greece. The cobbled streets of Psyrri are dotted with them, two of the most well-known being the twin delights of Bougatsa Thessaloniki   and Nancy’s Sweet Home on Platia Iroon. This pedestrianised (circular) square is in the heart of Psyrri and is a lovely spot to chow away on bougatsa or galaktoboureko,  cakes, waffles, enormous piles of ice-cream, etc., and is a popular spot in the afternoon for friends to meet over something sweet.

Hot on the heels of the cronut came the bougatsa/croissant mashup craze called bougatsan. Mainly a thing in Thessaloniki, you can find it in Athens at Estrella .

TOP RESTAURANTS

It’s pretty hard to find bad Greek food. But if you choose to eat at the tourist spots with good views and photo menus you will most likely find mediocre and overpriced moussaka. Conversations with locals will uncover great neighbourhood eats. 

If you’re looking for posh nosh or something special, here’s a selection of the best fine-dining restaurants Athens (with varying price levels):

• Dinner in the Sky (summer only)
• Electra Metropolis Roof Garden
• Grand Bretagne Roof Garden
• Varoulko  
• Vassilenas  
• Vezane  

And here’s a selection of my own favourite restaurants in Athens:

• The Acropolis Museum Restaurant features regional dishes from around the country and has a great views to boot
• Ama Lachei in a converted school building in Exarchia, for incredible salads (skip the French menu and stick to the Greek)
• Exostrefis at the top of Strefi Hill in summer for fun vibes, live music and good value meze 
• I Kriti near Omonia, and  To Laini  in Keramikos both serve Cretan specialities (including amazing pies) at pleasing prices
• Manas Kouzina-Kouzina  on Aiolou Street is a great choice if you’re central and weary from exploring but want to skip the tourist fare in favour of cracking renditions of classic home-style cooking (the name means ‘mother’s cooking)
• Ta Karamanlidika (see photo above) near the Market for deli plates and Greek wine
• The Holy Goat in Petralona is a punk bistro with anarchist credentials serving modern Greek cuisine (you can read all about their unique philosophy in this article )
• Yperokeanio in Piraeus is renowned for its fresh fish (and gets super busy so bookings recommended)

VEGETARIAN AND VEGAN

In general, it’s easy to find vegetable-centred food in Greece, so vegetarians and vegans won’t suffer. There are salads and vegetable meze on every taverna menu, and you will also find lots of freshly squeezed juice stalls in central Athens. The classic favourite vegetarian restaurant of choice is called Avocado . Don’t be fooled by the hippie exterior – the Luminus Vegan is one of the tastiest dishes I’ve eaten in Athens. There’s also Vegan Nation right near Monastiraki,  Lime Bistro  in Psyrri and Veganaki  out near the Temple of Olympian Zeus.

The Travel Porter has an excellent article on Healthy Eating in Athens which features many eateries suitable for vegetarians and vegans.

WHAT TO DRINK IN ATHENS

Greece has an undeserved reputation for dodgy retsina and naff table wine, but an exciting new scene has emerged as part of its cultural renaissance and inclination for local and traditional produce.

Greek wine is an exciting adventure if you’ve never tried it before. After all, it’s one of the oldest wine-making regions in the world and there are hundreds of indigenous grape varieties that you won’t find anywhere else. There is a newfound care and attention to provenance. The Greek wine industry is on the up.

Dry white Assyrtiko from Santorini is the Greek wine you’re most likely to find exported abroad and is a great variety to start with (as it’s delicious). Several of the wine bars in Athens offer tasting flights and introductions to Greek wine – try Winepoint , Zampano  and  Cinque .

I’m quite partial to little retsina myself (wine flavoured with Aleppo pine resin from barrels used to store it).

The excellent Wine Folly has an article on Greek wine for beginners .

WINE BARS IN ATHENS

• Warehouse in Exarchia
• Cinque is a friendly place to get acquainted with Greek wines; it’s tucked away in two locations – one in Psyrri and one in Monastiraki  – and also has Greek charcuterie and tasting flights
• Winepoint  is just around the corner from the Acropolis and has a wide selection (and intro) to Greek wines
• Heteroclito  near Ermou is the place to go for unusual and natural Greek wines
• Nearby Vintage has a great bistro menu if you want food with your wine
• Further towards Sytagma and the National Gardens you’ll find Oinoscent , By The Glass , and Sideways
• Paleo  Wine Store and Restaurant in Piraeus
• Scala Vinoteca for food and wine not far from Panepistimio station
• Materia Prima   in Faliro
• Vinarte in Glyfada
• Zampano is the wine bar and bistro underneath the city’s best luxury hostel, City Circus , and it runs weekly Greek wine tastings for travellers

GREEK BEERS

The Big Three that you’ll find in tavernas and bars around the country are Mythos, Fix and Alpha. I’m a Fix fan.

Craft beer is exploding in popularity in Greece too. Volkan is probably the most famous one; filtered through the volcanic rock of Santorini (although they’ve actually moved their brewery off the island).

Try them all at specialist craft beer bars such as On Tap Athens , Barley Cargo or Berlin by 5 Drunk Men (yes, it’s really called that) in Pangrati. The student vibe of Exarchia makes it a grand spot for beer-based bar hopping.

GREEK SPIRITS

• Ouzo is the one that tastes of aniseed
• Tsipouro and raki are both pomace brandies distilled from the byproducts of winemaking.
• Tsipouro hails from Crete and is twice-distilled and a higher proof
• Mastica is a sweet liqueur flavoured with mastic resin from Chios

Over winter you’ll find the warming  rakomelo – a drink made from warmed tsipouro, honey and cinnamon.

There are so many great bars in Athens it’s hard to know where to start (but maybe with this lot, which are known for the quality of their drinks as well as atmosphere):

• Baba Au Rum
• The Clumsies

One of the best things about the mass of concrete apartment blocks in Athens is the number of rooftop terraces from which you can enjoy a view of the Acropolis whilst you sup your drink. The climate in Athens is perfect for open-air, and you can’t beat an atmospheric view of the city and the Acropolis as the sun goes down.

Some of the best rooftop bars in Athens include:

• A is for Athens
• Couleur Locale
• Galaxy Bar, Hilton
• AthenStyle Hostel Bar
• GB Roof Garden, Hotel Grand Bretagne 
• Fresh Hotel Lounge Bar
• Thissio View
• 360° Cocktail Bar

CENTRAL FOOD MARKET

Varvakios Agora is the main food market in Athens. Just a 10-minute walk from the Monastiraki area, this is an old-school market for locals which (for now, at least) hasn’t yet become Disneyfied for tourists. It still has a raw and rowdy masculine atmosphere and is a thrilling place to explore, and a favourite of walking tours. The main covered indoors market is home to the meat and fish stalls (best to avoid if you’re squeamish).

The surrounding streets are a warren of treats. Don’t miss nearby Evripidou street for spices and herbs, delis, cheese and sausage shops.

Athens is an excellent picnic city. Shop in the market area for bits and bobs then take them up one of Athens’ hills or to the National Gardens for a picnic.

Local farmer’s markets are called laiki agora and are held on different days in different neighbourhoods (XPat Athens has a list ). Shopping at the markets is an excellent way to practise your Greek skills!

COOKERY CLASSES

Learn to cook or bake Greek classics at  The Greek Kitchen , which also offers tours and wine tasting. All run with a minimum of one so no worries if you’re not in a group. 

Other options include  Onion Athens , The Food Project , and The Cookery Club .

Viator also has a decent selection of cooking classes.

I also recommend checking out  Airbnb , EatWith , Travelling Spoon and WithLocals for immersive food experiences.

ATHENS FOOD TOURS

All visitors to Athens should check out the incredible This Is Your Athens initiative, which matches visitors with volunteer tour guides. There are 6 different themes, food being one of them. I’ve met some incredible and passionate people through this programme and highly recommend it. Don’t leave it to the last minute though, as they do book up.

If learning about and devouring the best food is your topmost priority then the Culinary Backstreets have the most extensive tours (and a variety of interesting routes for depth).

Top-rated tour outfit Alternative Athens have a range of interesting food experiences including the classic Delicious tour, home-cooked meals, cooking classes (including baklava) and tasting evenings.

Vegetarian? Jewish? With the family?) Foodie specialist Athens Food on Foot  has something for everyone.

Intrepid Urban Adventures have an Exarchia Sweet Sins and Anarchy walking tour that including a number of sweet pit stops, and an Extreme Bites tour that takes in some of the more out-there dishes.

And finally, you can be guided through the world of olive oil at GAEA (booking required).

FOODIE DAY TRIPS

If you’re in Athens for a while then you might want to escape the pace of the city for a while, and enjoy the countryside as well as some delicious produce.

The best day trips for foodies include:

• Vineyard trips to the nearby mainland wine regions of Nemea and Attica ( Wine Tours Greece have one day guided trips from Athens)
• Discover the pistachios on the island of Aegina
• Take a cookery class and visit the old Lemon Forest on the island of Poros
• Head to beautiful Cape Sounion for amazing seafood and a beautiful sunset

Read More: The 10 Best Greek Islands for Food and Wine Lovers

SOUVENIRS AND SHOPS

Greece is the spiritual home of the olive tree so leave some room in your luggage for vacuum-packed olives, and beautiful olive-wood kitchenware. You won’t find any problem finding either in the souvenir shops of Plaka and around. 

If you’re hunting for goodies to take home then the best produce shops are on Evripidou Street and the surrounding area, not far from the Central Food Market. Think: meat and cheese delis, specialist dried herb shops, thyme and wildflower honeys, mountain teas, spoon sweets, co-operatives from particular islands, and commercial kitchenware and knick-knacks.

A quick plea : these shops aren’t zoos, they’re someone’s livelihood. Do have a chat, buy something, and ask permission before snapping away with your camera or smartphone. Some of the shop owners are getting understandably annoyed with the hordes of tourists who wander in just to take photos for their social media.

Also on Ermou (the main commercial street of Athens, leading to Syntagma Square) there are a couple of amazing shops selling all sorts of nuts and dried fruits (including dried kiwi).

My current fave tipple is the delicious rose-tinted Otto’s Athens Vermouth, based on a recipe developed for King Otto in 1850 and revived by the bar team at The Clumsies.

Oh – and Athens airport has a decent selection of goodies to buy, including in the duty-free section.

Ultimate Foodie Guide to Rome  – Where to Eat & Drink in the Italian Capital

10 Best Greek Islands for Food-Lovers

Where to Eat and Drink on Santorini

Where to Eat & Drink in the Cinque Terre

10 Best Mediterranean Islands for Foodies

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The best traditional Greek Foods & Drinks to Try while in Greece

Visiting Greece is a journey of a wide range of culinary sensations and possibilities! Join in the game of discovering new experiences, scents and flavors, unique colors and authentic products. The gastronomy of Greek land will excite you; traditional Greek breakfasts, colorful dishes of authentic Mediterranean cuisine, refined wines, tasty beers and strong spirits. Here is a list of Greek foods and drinks that you should taste when in Greece!

1. Bougatsa

Bougatsa is a must for a Greek’s breakfast. Greeks are not big on breakfast but when it comes to leaf pies, especially bougatsa, they make an exception. Bougatsa is a traditional Greek dessert with creamy custard wrapped in phyllo and served with icing sugar and cinnamon on the top. You should try this delicatessen with your morning coffee! 

2. Tomatokeftedes (Santorini Tomato Fritters)

Made by tiny tomatoes from the unique volcanic Santorini tomatoes, this dish is served from small taverns to the most expensive gourmet restaurants. Santorini tomatokeftedes (tomatoballs), are fluffy in the inside and crunchy on the outside. One bite is enough to experience its aromas, flavors and evoke sentiments! Enjoy your tomatokeftedes everywhere in Greece and imagine you are in Santorini by the sea, gazing at the endless blue and the white little houses above the Caldera!

You may also like:   Best Places to Eat in Athens - Food Guide (by Locals)

3. Moussaka

The legendary dish of Greece! Moussaka is served in every tavern and every family table of Greece. It is made with beef mince, rich béchamel, potatoes and layered with sweet eggplants. Prepare your forks and indulge yourself to a creamy, juicy and absolutely delicious experience! 

Tip! To enjoy a truly homemade and authentic dish of Moussaka, avoid the so-called ‘tourist traps’ and search for an authentic local restaurant or tavern. 

4. Ouzo

Eating without drinking is not a thing for Greeks. While enjoying the rich flavors of the Greek dishes you have to accompany your food with a proper drink. And we have the perfect candidate: Ouzo! Add two ice cubes on your glass and fill half of it with ouzo! Taste the aniseed and the island vibes and enjoy the complete Greek experience.

5. Fava

Greek fava is a dish made with yellow split peas to create an appetizer or meze (small dish). For more than 3,500 years the inhabitants of Santorini and neighboring islands cultivate this legume. Creamy and super tasty, fava can be enjoyed as an appetizer or dip with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Today, there are many variations of the dish depending on which part of Greece you are or even in which restaurant. But the one you should definitely try is the classic onion recipe!

Related Tour

Athens Food Tour: Tastes and Stories of Greece

6. Dolmadakia Yalantzi (Stuffed Grape Leaves)

Little bites of heaven! Dolmadakia Yalantzi are made from tender vine leaves wrapped into little rolls and stuffed with rice and fresh herbs. In Greece it is an all-time-honored meze! Taste the Greek olive oil and herbs in the rice; feel the smooth vine leaves holding everything together; put some extra lemon on the top and take a sip of ouzo to complete the procedure like a local!

7. Koulouri of Thessaloniki

If you ever walk the streets of Athens or Thessaloniki, you will see almost in every corner of the city, in every bakery and in every street vendor the famous Greek koulouri! Super crunchy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, koulouri is the most famous breakfast for Greeks, along with a cup of coffee of course. The name comes from the city of Thessaloniki, situated in Northern Greece. Koulouri translates literally as "round". This round piece of heaven is for most Greeks the reason to be happy in the morning (or the evening, or the night, or the dawn). Try it!

8. Raki

Have you ever been to Crete? If the answer is yes, then you know all about raki! Raki is a strong drink that comes from grapes. Many villages and islanders make their own raki from the grapes they grow. If you ever visit their house, the first thing you will be asked, even before the question “how are you”, is “do you want a glass of raki”? Its substance is beautiful as crystal clear water and strong as a lightning. This is not just a drink; it’s a tradition that comes with its own drinking ritual.

Tip! During the winter, you can drink it warm with honey and cinnamon!

9. Greek olives (green or black)

You have heard about the Greek olive oil. But have you ever tried Greek olives? Growing under the amazing Greek sun, these olives are unique and considered among the healthiest foods on earth! They are crunchy, with a subtle fruity flavor, which is also salty, slightly bitter, and charred. They are eaten as appetizers ( meze),  in salads and especially the black ones (olives Kalamon ) are used in the famous Greek salad! 

10. Masticha of Chios Liqueur

The first official reference of Masticha comes from ancient times. Greek doctors such as Hippocrates, the father of medicine, have recognized the therapeutic properties of Masticha as well as its ability to increase the male libido! Masticha comes from teardrops of resin from the mastic trees. Its liqueur has a very unique taste and it is distilled in Greece, exclusively in the island of Chios. 

Bonus: And of course... Greek coffee! 

Try the traditional Greek coffee as your morning coffee or after your meal to ease your digestion process. Research shows that Greek coffee contributes to longevity and good health! If you are in Athens, head to Psyri neighborhood and look for traditional coffee shops that still serve Greek coffee the old way: they roast the coffee in embers and then put it in containers filled with hot sand where they simmer. Enjoy!

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Where to go in Greece for first time: What you need to know

Greece is a beautiful country in Europe. It attracts visitors with its old sites, lovely islands, and friendly people. If you’re wondering where to go in Greece for the first time , you’ll find that from the famous Acropolis to the sunny beaches, Greece is a great place to enjoy history, culture, and nature. Whether you want to relax or have fun, a trip to Greece will be a memorable experience.

Planning Your Itinerary: Where to Start

Designing your perfect trip to Greece is an exciting task. Start by choosing how long you want to stay and the places you want to visit. Whether you love old ruins or want sunny beaches, Greece has something for everyone.

Think about a trip to several cities. Start with the amazing sights in Athens, then head to the beautiful islands. Take enough time at each place. This will let you find new things and truly feel Greek life.

Discovering Athens: The Gateway to Greece

Athens is the lively capital of Greece. It mixes ancient history with modern life. If you are visiting for the first time, you must go to Athens. It is full of historic places. You can see the famous Acropolis, which sits on a rocky hill. There is also the ancient Agora, which used to be a busy marketplace.

The Acropolis Museum has a beautiful collection of artifacts. It takes you on an interesting journey through Athenian history. In addition to these famous sites, Athens lets you explore the lovely Plaka district. This area has many narrow streets that are full of traditional shops and tavernas.

Enjoy some shopping, try tasty Greek food, or just relax in the fun atmosphere of this historic city.

Exploring the Islands: A Beginner’s Guide

No trip to Greece is complete without visiting its beautiful islands. The white houses of Santorini and the lively nightlife of Mykonos are well-known. Each Greek island has its own charm. If you want peace and quiet, islands like Milos and Folegandros have quiet beaches and natural beauty.

Whether you dream of soaking up the sun on beautiful sandy beaches, checking out secret coves, or swimming in clear waters, the Greek islands offer a little piece of paradise. Enjoy the island life by taking a ferry and exploring the various landscapes, lovely villages, and friendly feel that make these treasures of the Aegean Sea special.

Don’t miss the chance to enjoy fresh seafood at a seaside taverna. You can watch the sunset over the Aegean. Also, you can feel the easy-going vibe of island life.

Must-Visit Destinations in Greece

From the ancient wonders of Athens to the sunny shores of its many islands, Greece offers a variety of amazing places to visit. If you love history, want to explore nature, or just wish to relax on beautiful beaches, Greece has something for every traveler’s dream.

Take a journey through time as you walk around the ruins of the Acropolis. You can get lost in the winding streets of Mykonos Town or enjoy the stunning sunsets over Santorini’s caldera. Greece’s must-see spots offer a memorable mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.

No trip to Greece is complete without going to Athens. It is the historical and cultural center of the country. Athens is the home of democracy and Western civilization. It has a rich history just waiting for you to explore. You can enjoy the famous Acropolis, which has the grand Parthenon on top. Think about the ideas of ancient thinkers as you walk through the ruins of the Roman Agora.

Dive into history at the Acropolis Museum, which has many valuable artifacts. Walk around the lovely Plaka district, a maze of small streets filled with local tavernas, shops, and cafes.

Enjoy the flavors of Greece with a traditional meal like moussaka or souvlaki. Savor the tastes that have pleased people for centuries.

Athens Riviera

Escape the busy city center and explore the Athens Riviera. This beautiful coastline runs southeast of Athens. It has amazing sea views and clear waters. There are many beaches in the Athens Riviera, making it a perfect place to relax away from the city’s noise.

Spend sunny days relaxing on the sandy beaches. Take cool dips in the Aegean Sea. You can also enjoy water sports like windsurfing and sailing. When the sun starts to go down, enjoy the lively nightlife. There are beach bars and restaurants that offer a taste of Greek island life.

The Athens Riviera is known for its stylish beach clubs and lovely seaside taverns. Here, you can enjoy luxury and relaxation. It’s located close to the historic core of Greece.

Thessaloniki

Venture up to Thessaloniki, the second largest city in Greece. Here, you can enjoy a mix of history, culture, and lively nightlife. You can see the city’s rich history in its well-kept Roman and Byzantine buildings. Notable sites include the Rotunda, which is on the UNESCO list, and the White Tower, a key symbol of the city.

Explore the busy markets. Enjoy the city’s famous food scene. You can also stroll through Ano Poli, the old town. It has traditional houses and cobbled streets. As the sun sets, Thessaloniki lights up with exciting nightlife.

Thessaloniki has trendy bars and cafes by the water. It also has live music places hidden in small alleys. You can feel the unique charm of Greek city life here.

Santorini is a beautiful place. It has white-washed villages on high volcanic cliffs. You can see the stunning caldera, which is a big flooded crater. A Santorini sunset is magical, known for its bright colors.

Explore the beautiful villages of Oia and Fira. Wander through cute shops and art galleries. Enjoy the island’s special food, influenced by its volcanic land. Santorini has more than just scenic views. It also has lovely beaches, like the red and black sands of Perissa and Perivolos. You can also find quiet spots at Red Beach and White Beach.

Santorini is hard to resist. You can find romance, adventure, or just enjoy the beauty of paradise there.

Milos is a volcanic island in the Cyclades. It is a hidden gem. The island has dramatic landscapes, bright rock formations, and beautiful beaches. There are more than 70 beaches to choose from. Milos is a paradise for people who love the beach.

Explore the moon-like landscapes of Sarakiniko Beach. You can swim in the clear waters of Firiplaka. You can also find hidden coves that only boats can reach. Milos is not just about these natural sights. It also has traditional villages. Plaka is the island’s capital, and Pollonia is a lovely fishing village.

Wander through small streets. Eat at restaurants by the water. Enjoy the calm feel of life on Milos.

Mykonos is known as a popular destination. It attracts people with its lively nightlife, stylish shops, and beautiful beaches. You can dance all night at famous beach clubs. You can wander the winding streets of Mykonos Town or chill on the golden sands of beaches like Paradise and Super Paradise.

Enjoy fresh seafood at a waterfront taverna. Taste a traditional Greek salad or drink a refreshing cocktail while watching the sunset over the Aegean Sea. Mykonos has glamour and excitement. It is a favorite spot for people who want a fun experience on a Greek island.

Mykonos is known for its famous windmills and lovely Little Venice. It offers a unique mix of fun and rest.

Crete is the largest Greek island. It has many types of land like rough mountains, rich valleys, and beautiful coastlines. You can explore the Samaria Gorge, which is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. You can also walk the old streets of Chania that have a Venetian harbor. Another option is to visit the Palace of Knossos, where you can see what is left of the Minoan civilization.

Crete’s food scene is a joy, with fresh fruits, fish, and classic meals like dakos and tzatziki that will excite your taste buds. You can relax on the pink sands at Elafonisi Beach. You can swim in the clear waters of Balos Lagoon, or find the quiet beaches along the south coast.

Crete has a rich history and different landscapes. It also has a friendly feel. This makes it a great place for discovery and fun.

Kefalonia is the biggest of the Ionian islands. It charms visitors with green trees, clear blue waters, and lovely villages. You can explore Melissani Cave, where the sun lights up an underground lake. Relax on the golden sands of Myrtos Beach, which is often called one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. You can also visit the pretty village of Assos, sitting on a hill with views of the sea.

Kefalonia’s food traditions come from fresh, local ingredients. Olive oil, honey, and feta cheese are key items. You can hike on the woodsy slopes of Mount Ainos National Park. Don’t forget to enjoy seafood at a taverna by the water. You can also visit the vineyards that make the island’s well-known Robola wine.

With its natural beauty, relaxed feel, and real Greek spirit, Kefalonia offers a calm and memorable getaway.

Zakynthos , also called Zante, is known for its amazing Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach). This quiet cove has blue waters and a shipwreck on its shore. You can only reach it by boat. Besides this famous beach, Zakynthos has other beautiful beaches. There are the golden sands of Laganas Bay and the quiet coves on the north coast.

Explore the Blue Caves. These are sea caves with bright blue waters. You can also go on a turtle-spotting tour. This will help you see the endangered loggerhead sea turtles that lay eggs on the island’s beaches.

Enjoy the lively nightlife of Laganas. Try local dishes like rabbit stew and mandolato, or just relax and take in the beauty of this Ionian island.

Corfu is famous for its green landscapes and Venetian buildings. It has a rich mix of culture, history, and natural beauty. You can visit Corfu Town, which is a UNESCO site. There, you will find strong fortresses, beautiful squares, and lovely streets filled with cafes and shops.

You can explore the island’s ties to Greek stories at the Achilleion Palace. It was made for Empress Elisabeth of Austria. You can also walk through the green areas of the Paleokastritsa Monastery.

Relax on Corfu’s sandy beaches. You can enjoy the busy shores of Glyfada and Sidari. There are also quiet little coves along the northeast coast.

Rhodes is the biggest of the Dodecanese islands. It has a special charm, rich history, and beautiful beaches. You can explore the old city of Rhodes, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can walk through the Palace of the Grand Masters or go to the ancient acropolis in Lindos.

Relax on the golden sands of Faliraki Beach. You can also visit the warm springs of Kallithea. Take a boat trip to the nearby island of Symi. Enjoy the tasty food of Rhodes’ Mediterranean cuisine. Fresh seafood, local olive oil, and fragrant herbs are the main highlights.

With its rich history, different landscapes, and warm welcome, Rhodes offers an engaging trip through time.

Navigating Local Transportation

Getting around Greece is easy and budget-friendly. You can explore the mainland or visit the islands. Major cities have good public transportation systems. There are also nice ferries that connect the islands. Overall, it is simple to navigate Greece.

In Athens, the metro system gives you a fast and dependable way to get around the city center and visit important sights. Buses and trolleys cover a lot of areas, getting to even the furthest neighborhoods. If you want to go island hopping, ferries are the best way to travel. They offer beautiful rides across the Aegean Sea.

Using Public Transport in Major Cities

Greece’s main cities have good and cheap public transport systems. This makes it simple to travel without a car. In Athens, the metro is a fast and dependable way to move around the city center. You can reach popular spots like the Acropolis, Syntagma Square, and Monastiraki easily. The Athens Metro has modern trains, air conditioning, and clear signs.

The city also has a large bus system. It covers a broad area and goes to the farthest neighborhoods. You can buy tickets for the metro and buses at stations and kiosks.

For short distances or to enjoy the vibe, think about walking or taking a taxi. Taxis in Greece are cheap and you can catch one on the street or book it ahead of time.

Island Hopping: Ferries and Flights

Island hopping is a key part of the Greek experience. Ferries are the main way to travel between the many beautiful islands in the Aegean Sea. Many ferry companies run services between the Greek islands. They provide different choices, from regular ferries to fast catamarans.

Tickets can be bought online early, especially when it’s busy, or at kiosks at the port. When you plan your trips to different islands, you need to check the ferry times. Travel times may change based on the route and the kind of ferry.

What is the best time of year to visit Greece?

The best time to visit Greece depends on what you like. If you want warm, sunny days and great beach weather, the summer months from June to August are the best. Just keep in mind, there will be more people, and prices will be higher during this busy season.

If you want a quieter time with nice temperatures, think about visiting in the shoulder seasons. These are spring (April to May) and late fall (September to October). These months have warm weather, fewer people, and usually lower prices.

Weather can change a bit based on where you are. The mainland usually has colder winters than the islands. This is especially true for the southern islands, like Crete, which have a milder climate.

How many days do I need to explore Greece?

The right number of days to see Greece varies based on what you like and how fast you want to move. Still, to see the main sights on the mainland and the islands, it is best to plan for at least 10 to 14 days.

This gives you a few days to dive into the history of Athens. You could take a day trip to Delphi or Meteora. Then, you have about a week to visit the islands, enjoy the sun, and feel the Aegean charm. You can also take weeks or months to find the hidden spots and different views of Greece.

If you’re low on time, think about focusing on certain areas or things you like. A week could be spent visiting the Cyclades islands. A shorter trip might look at the historical sites in Peloponnese. Keep in mind, even a brief trip to Greece can be an amazing experience.

Greece has a wonderful mix of history, culture, and natural beauty for first-time visitors. If you’re wondering where to go in Greece for the first time , you can explore old ruins in Athens and enjoy the sun on beautiful islands. Your Greek trip will provide unforgettable memories. Don’t forget to pack what you need, learn some simple Greek phrases, and enjoy local food. While you stroll through Athens or visit the islands, Greece will charm you. Plan your trip, enjoy traditional meals, and take in the lively culture. Get ready for a great journey through the amazing sights of Greece. Safe travels!

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Unlocking Greece: Unraveling the Must-See Gems of an Ancient Land

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Greece : A timeless realm, where ancient whispers float through modern streets. But with a landscape dotted with wonders, how do you choose the best of Greece’s places to visit? Don’t fret! Let’s sift through the clutter and craft the perfect Grecian escape.

• Over 33 million tourists flooded Greece in 2019. It’s THAT popular!
• From serene islands to ancient relics, Greece boasts 18 UNESCO sites.
• A journey that speaks to your soul, just like it did for Leonard Cohen.

The Grand Allure of Greece: Where Antiquity Romances Modernity

Whispers on the travel circuit are hard to ignore, especially when they sing praises of a country as enchanting as Greece.

The Greek Ministry of Tourism reveals a mind-bending fact: 33 million adventurers set foot in Greece in 2019 alone. Imagine almost the entire population of California choosing this one destination for their grand escape.

It begs the question – what makes this Mediterranean gem consistently shine in the global top 20 tourist spots?

The Architectural Grandeur & UNESCO Marvels

Describing Greece merely as scenic would be an injustice. It’s akin to a meticulously curated museum where every nook holds a relic , every cranny whispers tales of yore.

With a jaw-dropping 18 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, you’re spoiled for choice.

The Acropolis in Athens: More than just stones and pillars, it’s a testament to human artistic spirit and architectural genius. Amidst the sprawling city of Athens , it stands resolute, a beacon of what was once the epicenter of knowledge and culture.

Medieval City of Rhodes: A city where history is the silent resident of every alley. Every step takes you back in time, with Byzantine, Ottoman, and Venetian influences wrapping you in a nostalgic embrace.

Delphi: In ancient times, it wasn’t just a city but the center of the world for the Greeks. Its mystique is still palpable, urging you to seek answers among its ruins.

Island Diaries: The Mediterranean Stars

The allure of the Grecian islands is legendary!

It’s not just about the azure waters or the postcard views ; it’s also the celestial dance that happens once the sun sets.

Leonard Cohen , a symphony in human form, was so ensnared by this dance, especially on the island of Hydra. He said,

“Greece is a good place to look at the moon, isn’t it? You can read by moonlight, you can read on the terrace, you can see a face as you saw it when you were young.”

Hydra: A Time Capsule in the Aegean

If there’s an embodiment of timelessness, it’s Hydra .

Cohen’s affection for this slice of paradise was palpable. The island’s charm?

A world sans the hustle-bustle of modern vehicles. Just the rhythmic clip-clop of donkey hooves and the soft murmur of waves.

In Hydra, you don’t just visit; you travel back in time, immersing yourself in simplicity and serenity.

Secrets Only Kevin Knows

Renowned travel journalist, Kevin Erickson , is always hunting for those hidden gems, the places unsullied by massive tourist footprints.

Amidst his Grecian escapades, Kevin has dusted off some hidden marvels of this Mediterranean masterpiece.

Join us as we journey with him, uncovering spots where myths intertwine with reality and where every site narrates a spellbinding story.

Nafplio: Echoes of the Revolution and a Medley of Cultures

Located on the Peloponnese peninsula, Nafplio stands as a testament to Greece’s rich and tumultuous history.

Once the epicenter of the Greek revolution, the city is a delightful mesh of Venetian fortresses, Ottoman fountains, and neoclassical architecture.

The Palamidi Castle offers a panoramic view that Kevin insists is worth every one of the 999 steps to the top.

The cobblestone streets, lined with boutique shops and cozy tavernas, resonate with tales of sieges, battles, and love stories penned in history.

Mount Olympus: The Celestial Abode

Every mythology enthusiast knows Mount Olympus as the dwelling of the mighty Greek gods.

But Kevin will tell you, it’s not just about the legends.

The highest mountain in Greece is a haven for trekkers and nature lovers.

With diverse flora and fauna, and paths ranging from beginner to expert, it’s an adventure for all.

As you ascend, the landscapes unfurl like poetry – from dense forests to alpine meadows.

And if you’re lucky, perhaps you might catch a whisper of Zeus and Hera, discussing the affairs of mortals.

Loutraki: Nature’s Own Spa

Just an hour’s drive from Athens, Loutraki is a spa town that Greeks have cherished for centuries, but most tourists are yet to discover.

Known for its therapeutic thermal springs, the town promises relaxation and rejuvenation.

The waters here, rich in minerals, are believed to have healing properties.

Beyond the springs, Loutraki woos with its azure coastlines , where the blue of the sea competes with the sky.

Kevin’s tip? Don’t leave without trying the local seafood, fresh from the Corinthian Gulf, a delightful culmination to the Loutraki experience.

Dive into the heart of the Mediterranean, and you find Greece , a land where history passionately kisses the present. It’s not just about the breathtaking landscapes or the remnants of legends painted across the skyline. Greece offers a transcendent experience, a journey that ebbs and flows through time, inviting you to be a part of its grand tapestry.

Each cobbled street narrates tales of gods, heroes, and civilizations that once commanded the world’s attention. The islands, each with its unique personality, echo the harmonious confluence of nature and culture. They sing songs of epic battles, romantic sagas, and the insatiable human spirit that never ceases to explore and marvel.

The bustling streets of Athens, the serenity of Santorini’s sunsets, the rugged allure of Crete, or the untouched charm of lesser-known havens like Nafplio — every fragment of Greece offers a different shade of wonder. It’s a country that doesn’t just show you its treasures; it lets you live them.

Leonard Cohen’s enamor with Hydra captures the essence of what Greece does to a wandering soul. It becomes more than a destination. It morphs into a muse, an inspiration, a love affair that lasts a lifetime.

So, as you contemplate your next journey, remember Greece isn’t just another spot on the map. It’s where myths awaken, horizons expand, and where every traveler finds a piece of themselves they never knew existed. Embarking on a Grecian odyssey isn’t just travel; it’s coming home to stories that resonate for a lifetime.

Why is Greece so popular among tourists?

A blend of ancient sites, mesmerizing islands, and an enriching culture makes Greece a favorite.

How many UNESCO sites does Greece boast of?

Greece is home to 18 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Did Leonard Cohen really have a house in Greece?

Yes, Cohen had a house on the island of Hydra, which he deeply cherished.

What’s special about Hydra?

Hydra is a unique island where no cars are allowed. It retains its old-world charm.

Are there any lesser-known spots in Greece?

Certainly! Locations like Nafplio, Mount Olympus, and Loutraki are treasures waiting to be explored.

• Greek Ministry of Tourism (2019 statistics)
• UNESCO World Heritage Sites List
• Leonard Cohen’s biographical details

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One response to “Unlocking Greece: Unraveling the Must-See Gems of an Ancient Land”

Kevin, another home run! Your insight into urban farming is inspiring. I’ve been composting in my backyard for years, but never thought about the social aspects you mentioned. Have you considered the impact of climate change on urban farming? Also, how about the role of urban farming in food deserts? 🌱 I’d love to hear more about the intersection of these topics. Thanks for always pushing the conversation forward!

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The latest Foreign Office travel advice for anyone heading to Spain, Greece, Turkey or the Canary Islands

The Foreign and Commonwealth regularly updates its advice for travellers

• 12:31, 2 SEP 2024

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The summer may be over and the nights are drawing in but for many this is the perfect time to get away for a break.

With the schools returning popular destinations are both quieter and cheaper. Travel is a great way to relax, learn, and meet people. But it does have some risks.

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) advises UK citizens on travel to all countries and has plenty of important information to people travelling to holiday hotspots Greece, Spain, and Turkey to help them keep themselves and their families safe. We have put together the information below. It is important to bear in mind that the vast majority of trips to these countries are issue-free but it is still worth familiarising yourself with current advice.

Spain has something for everyone. Beaches for the sun worshippers, history for the culture vultures, and some of the best food around for, well, people with mouths. But, as with anywhere, there are things that all savvy travellers should be aware of.

Terrorism in Spain

Terrorists are likely to try and carry out attacks in Spain.

Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

In January 2023, one person was killed and others injured in a machete attack at two churches in Cadiz.

Political situation

Demonstrations, political gatherings or marches can take place with little or no warning, particularly in cities. Follow the advice of police and local authorities.

While most demonstrations are peaceful, there is a risk of unrest or violence. If you’re near areas where demonstrations are taking place, be aware of what is happening around you and move away if there are signs of disorder.

Lost or stolen passports

If your passport is lost or stolen, you must renew your passport or apply for an emergency travel document. You cannot use a police report to leave Spain.

Protecting your belongings

Be alert to the risk of street crime. Thieves use distraction techniques and often work in teams. Take care of your passports, money and personal belongings, particularly when collecting or checking in luggage at the airport, and while arranging car hire.

Do not carry all your valuables in one place. Keep a copy of the photo page of your passport somewhere safe.

Make sure your accommodation has adequate security. Keep all doors and windows locked. If you’re concerned about the security of your accommodation, speak to your travel operator or the property owner.

Vehicle crime

‘Highway pirates’ target foreign-registered and hire cars, especially those towing caravans. They may flag you down, claiming there is something wrong with your car or that you have damaged theirs. If you decide to stop to check the condition of a vehicle, stop in a public area with lights, such as a service station. Be wary of anyone offering help.

When driving, be wary of approaches from people posing as plainclothes police in unmarked cars. In all traffic-related matters, police officers will usually be in uniform.

Unmarked police vehicles have a flashing electronic sign on the rear window saying ‘Policía’ or ‘Guardia Civil’. Genuine police will only ask you to show vehicle documents – not to hand over your bag or wallet.

Attacks and sexual assault

Attacks, including sexual assaults, are rare but do occur. In an emergency call 112.

Avoid splitting up from your friends, do not leave drinks unattended and do not go off with people you do not know. Save the location of your accommodation on your maps app, so it’s easy to find.

Drink spiking and alcohol

Be alert to the possible use of ‘date rape’ and other drugs including GHB and liquid ecstasy.

Buy your own drinks and always keep them in sight to avoid them being spiked. Alcohol and drugs can reduce your vigilance, making you less in control. If you drink, know your limit. Drinks served in bars in Spain are often stronger than those in the UK.

Thieves posing as police officers may ask to see your wallet, claiming they need to see it for identification. Genuine police officers will ask to see ID but will not ask for wallets or purses. All police officers, including those in plain clothes, carry official ID.

Personal ID

You must provide photo ID if asked by a police officer. This includes the Guardia Civil and national, regional and local police forces. The police have the right to hold you at a police station until they have confirmed your identity.

Ignoring direct requests of a police officer can be considered as ‘disobedience’, which is a criminal offence.

Hotels, tourist accommodation and car rental companies have a legal duty to register passport details of tourists who check in or collect a vehicle.

When checking in to your accommodation, wait until hotel staff have registered your passport details, or taken a copy of your passport. Do not leave your passport at reception to collect later.

You may need to show ID when buying goods with credit or debit cards. Some shops will accept your driving licence or a copy of your passport, but some may ask for your passport.

Alcohol laws and bans

It’s illegal to drink alcohol in the street in some areas of Spain. You can get an on-the-spot fine. There are strict controls on drinking and sexual activity in public places, including on beaches.

Alcohol laws in the Balearic Islands

Local laws limit the sale and availability of alcohol in areas of some resorts on the Balearic Islands, including:

• Magaluf (Calvià), Mallorca
• Playa de Palma, Mallorca
• San Antonio (San Antoni de Portmany), Ibiza
• happy hours
• open bars (such as ‘all you can drink in one hour’ offers)
• the sale of alcohol from vending machines
• self-service alcohol dispensers
• organising pub crawls and party boat trips
• ‘off-licence’ sales between 9:30pm and 8am

Hotels and other establishments will evict you if you behave dangerously on balconies. You could also get a fine.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

Possession of even a small quantity of drugs can lead to arrest and detention. Possession of large quantities will usually result in prosecution and a prison sentence.

Illegal commercial parties in villas and private homes

There have been a number of serious accidents involving people attending illegal commercially promoted parties in villas and private homes on the islands of Ibiza and Mallorca.

Licensed clubs and bars have to meet safety and security standards, including emergency exits and capacity limits, and have trained, licensed security staff. Illegal commercial parties may not meet these standards. Take care of your belongings, make sure you know where emergency exits are and do not take unnecessary risks.

You may get a fine for attending illegal commercially promoted parties.

In some parts of Spain it’s illegal to be in the street wearing only a bikini or swimming shorts. Being bare-chested is also illegal in some areas in Spain. You could be fined if you’re caught wearing swimwear on the seafront promenade or adjacent streets.

For security reasons, some public authorities in Spain do not allow the burka or niqab to be worn in their buildings. If you visit town council buildings wearing a burka or niqab, you may be asked to remove it while inside.

Changing money

Always use official money exchange offices or banks because unofficial money changers may give you counterfeit money. Possession or use of counterfeit money is considered a serious crime in Spain and may lead to prosecution.

Spain is a generally tolerant and progressive place for LGBT+ travellers. There are active LGBT+ communities and social venues, particularly in big cities. Same-sex marriage is legal. Transgender people can register under their preferred sex in public documents such as birth certificates, identity cards and passports without undergoing prior gender reassignment surgery.

Falls from height

There have been a number of serious accidents, some fatal, involving British nationals falling from height, including from balconies.

Do not take unnecessary risks around balconies or other high places, particularly if you’re under the influence of drink or drugs. If you are staying in a room with a balcony, follow the safety advice at the hotel or apartment, and watch out for friends who may be at risk.

In some regions you may be fined or evicted from your hotel if you are found to be behaving irresponsibly around balconies. Your travel insurance may not cover you for incidents that take place on a balcony or if you were under the influence of drink or drugs when the incident happened.

Swimming and beaches

Every year, people drown in the sea and in swimming pools in Spain. Always supervise children, even if they can swim or there is a lifeguard present.

Take care when swimming in the sea. Some beaches, especially around Spanish islands, may have strong undercurrents.

Hidden rocks or shallow depths can cause serious injury or death. Do not dive into unknown water and do not swim at beaches where a river runs into the sea.

Many beaches have a flag system. Make sure you understand the system and follow any warnings (a red flag means you must not enter the water). Take extra care and get local knowledge if there are no lifeguards, flags or signs.

If you are walking along unmonitored beaches, be aware that waves can come in further than expected and have strong undertows.

Road travel

You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Spain. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence. Provisional licences are not valid for driving in Spain.

Low emission zones

Some inner-city areas in Spain have introduced permanent low emission zones (‘Zonas de bajas emisiones’ – ZBE) where Spanish vehicles must meet specific exhaust emission standards and display an air pollution sticker. The stickers are not issued to vehicles with foreign registration plates, but some cities require you to register your vehicle in advance – for example, Barcelona.

Only use official registered or licensed taxis, or reputable transport companies you recognise. Licensing regulations differ across Spain and in certain cities pre-booking is required.

Passengers caught using unlicensed taxi services are liable for fines of up to 600 euros. Make sure you book your taxi or airport transfer through a licensed firm.

Extreme temperatures

Extreme temperatures can affect many areas of Spain over the summer months. Follow the Spanish Meteorological Office (AEMET) and European Meteorological Services for severe weather warnings.

Wildfires happen often in Spain, including on the islands, during the summer months.

Causing a wildfire is a criminal offence in Spain, even if unintentional. Make sure cigarette ends are properly extinguished, do not light barbecues and do not leave empty bottles behind. You can be heavily fined for not following the rules against lighting outdoor barbecues in forest areas. Make sure you know the rules if considering a barbeque.

The birthplace of democracy and boasting some of the most beautiful islands in Europe, Greece is one of the top destinations for Welsh visitors. These are all the issues you need to be aware of before you travel.

Terrorism in Greece

Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Greece.

Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals.

There have been several attacks involving explosives and automatic weapons against Greek institutions, shopping malls, banks, media offices, diplomatic premises and the police.

Political protests

Greek authorities have increased security at some prominent locations, including tourist sites, due to events in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories.

There is currently a heightened risk of such protests, particularly in central Athens.

Stay aware of your surroundings, stay away from protests and follow the advice of local authorities.

Strikes and demonstrations

There are regular strikes, sometimes called at short notice, that can cause disruption to buses, trains, ferries and air travel, as well as road networks and borders.

Demonstrations often take place around major squares in central Athens, in particular Syntagma Square. Political demonstrations may take place on certain dates:

• 1 May ( Labour Day)
• 17 November (anniversary of when student protests against a military dictatorship were put down violently – ‘Polytechnio’)
• 6 December (anniversary of the shooting of 15-year-old student Alexandros Grigoropoulos)

Some demonstrations in the past have turned violent. Avoid demonstrations wherever possible and move away to the last known safe place. Security forces often use tear gas to break up demonstrations, which can harm your breathing and vision.

Thefts of passports, wallets and handbags are common on the metro and in crowded tourist places, particularly in central Athens. Carry your valuables in different bags and pockets and keep a copy of your passport photo page somewhere safe.

When driving on holiday, keep your valuables out of sight and lock your vehicle at all times. Always park in a well-lit area or secure car park. Be alert to car crime.

Sexual assault

To reduce your personal risk, especially late at night and around clubs and bars:

• save the location of your accommodation on your maps app, so it’s easier to find at the end of the night
• set up a WhatsApp group to keep in touch with others in your group
• keep an eye on each other’s drinks to make sure they do not get spiked
• do not let a friend walk back to their hotel alone
• do not give a drunk person more alcohol

Use pre-arranged transport or taxi-hailing apps such as Uber or Free Now which supply licensed cabs.

Report anything that does not feel right to local authorities or hotel or club management.

Racially-motivated attacks

The majority of visitors experience no difficulties related to their race, but there have been some racially-motivated attacks, particularly in inner-city areas.

Always carry your passport, to show to the police if they request identification. Police may not accept a copy.

Public offences

The Greek police will arrest you for any behaviour they find rowdy or indecent, especially where excessive drinking is involved. Some fancy dress costumes may be regarded as offensive and therefore against decency laws.

The courts are likely to impose a heavy fine or a prison sentence if they judge the behaviour to be illegal. Your travel insurance may not cover you if you miss flights because of an alcohol-related arrest.

Smoking bans

It’s illegal to smoke in indoor public places, including shopping malls and transport hubs. You could get a fine of up to 500 euros.

Possession of even small quantities of illegal drugs can lead to a long prison sentence.

Nitrous oxide is illegal to buy or sell for recreational use. You could be arrested or fined.

LGBT+ travellers

Same-sex sexual activity is legal in Greece, and civil unions between same-sex couples have been legal since 2015. The age of consent in Greece is 15, this applies to partners of both the same sex and opposite sex. Transgender people are able to change their legal gender. Anti-discrimination and hate speech laws apply to gender identity.

Public attitudes towards same-sex couples vary throughout the country. Couples showing affection in public may be frowned on, especially in rural areas. Attitudes are generally more welcoming in Athens and on many Greek islands.

Using cameras or approaching sensitive locations

It is illegal to approach or take photos or videos of military installations, vehicles or buildings. The authorities will arrest and possibly prosecute anyone doing so. Border areas are also militarily sensitive. If you visit such areas, do not take photos or videos.

Quad biking and mopeds

Quad biking is an extreme sport and carries the risk of serious injury or death. You need specific travel insurance to cover quad biking. Always read the details of your insurance cover – especially the small print and exclusions on your policy.

Make sure you get full instructions and training before your activity.

Insurance sold by the hire company usually only provides third-party insurance. It’s likely the company will charge you for any damage to the rental vehicle, and you may face arrest if you do not pay.

If you hire a moped, you need a valid driving licence with at least category A1 – ‘light motorcycle’. Choose a category in accordance with your driving licence and age. Category P, which is valid in the UK for driving mopeds up to 50cc, is not valid in Greece.

Make sure the vehicle is in good condition. Drivers and passengers must wear helmets before operating quad bikes and mopeds. Failure to do so may invalidate your insurance. If police stop you, they will fine you and take your licence.

If you are planning to drive in Greece, see information on driving abroad and check the rules of the road in the RAC’s Greece guide. The guide lists driving regulations and other legal requirements you need to be aware of.

You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Greece. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence or get the 1968 version of the international driving permit (IDP) as well.

Driving conditions

Traffic can be busy, fast and chaotic, especially in the larger cities. Local drivers regularly ignore speed limits, including in built-up areas.

Pedestrian crossings

When walking roadside, take care when crossing the road and if possible use a pedestrian crossing. Drivers do not always stop at crossings, even though they are supposed to. The green pedestrian crossing signal sometimes allows cars to turn right on to a crossing, so cross with caution.

There is a high risk of wildfires during the summer season from April to October.

Wildfires are highly dangerous and unpredictable. The situation can change quickly.

To avoid starting wildfires:

• leave no litter, especially not glass which is known to start fires
• make sure cigarettes are properly extinguished
• do not light barbecues

Causing a wildfire or a forest fire is a criminal offence in Greece – even if unintentional. If you see a fire, call the emergency services on 112.

Earthquakes

There is a risk of earthquakes and earth tremors. You should:

• familiarise yourself with safety procedures in the event of an earthquake
• follow advice given by the local authorities
• call the Greek emergency services on 112 if you are in immediate danger

The Civil Protection website has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake (in Greek), and reports on incidents.

A must for history buffs and sun worshippers alike, Turkey is a popular destination. These are all the things you should be aware of before you travel.

Areas where FCDO advises against travel

Border with Syria

FCDO advises against all travel within 10km of the border with Syria.

Sirnak (city)

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Sirnak (city).

Hakkari province

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Hakkari province.

Terrorism in Turkey

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Turkey.

Most terrorist attacks have occurred in southeast Turkey, Ankara and Istanbul. You should remain aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

Attacks could be indiscriminate including in places visited by foreigners, such as:

• public buildings
• places of worship
• large public gatherings (including major events, public holidays, religious occasions)

There have been a number of recent significant attacks in Istanbul:

• In February 2024, one person was killed in an armed attack on the Çağlayan courthouse by the terrorist group DHKP/C
• In January 2024, one person was killed by two gunmen in the Santa Maria Catholic Church in Sariyer, in an attack claimed by Daesh
• In 2022, six people were killed in an explosion in central Istanbul.

Extremist groups based in Syria, including Daesh and Al-Qaeda linked groups, have the capacity to carry out attacks in neighbouring countries, including Turkey. Daesh has previously targeted border crossings and nearby locations on the Syrian side of the border.

Occasional demonstrations can occur in cities and may become violent. Police have used tear gas and water cannon to disperse protests.

Events in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories have led to heightened tensions in the region and demonstrations are ongoing in locations across Turkey. Large demonstrations have been reported outside diplomatic missions connected to the conflict in major cities, particularly Israeli diplomatic missions in Ankara and Istanbul.

Avoid all demonstrations and leave the area if one develops. Local transport routes may be disrupted.

Street robbery and pickpocketing

Street robbery and pick-pocketing are common in the major tourist areas of Istanbul. Be aware of your personal belongings and make sure they are always secure.

Drink and food spiking

Buy your own drinks and always keep sight of them. Be wary of strangers:

• approaching you to change money
• taking you to a restaurant or nightclub
• offering you food and drink these could be spiked

Counterfeit alcohol

In a small number of cases, counterfeit branded bottles of alcohol have caused deaths of tourists. If you have any concerns, ask for advice from your tour operator or the Turkish authorities.

In 2023, 42 cases of sexual assault, including rape, were reported to British consular staff in Turkey. Most cases happened during summer holidays in coastal tourist areas. Crimes were committed at night by someone the victim met during the day, including hotel and spa workers. There have also been sexual attacks on minors visiting toilet facilities alone. Be extra vigilant in these situations.

Vehicle safety

Accepting lifts from strangers can be dangerous. Find a registered taxi and note the registration number before entering.

It is illegal not to carry some form of photographic ID in Turkey. Always carry your passport or residence permit. In some busy areas, especially Istanbul, the authorities may stop people for ID checks. There are also several police checkpoints on main roads across Turkey. Cooperate with officials conducting checks.

Dress visiting mosques

Dress modestly if you’re visiting a mosque or a religious shrine to avoid causing offence.

Personal injury claims

There are reports of tourists being encouraged to submit a claim for personal injury if they have experienced gastric illness in Turkey. Find out what you can do if you have suffered a personal injury on the Citizens Advice website. Only make a claim if you have genuinely suffered from injury or illness. If you make a false or fraudulent claim, you may face legal proceedings in the UK or Turkey.

Turkey has strict laws against the use, possession and trafficking of illegal drugs. You may receive a fine or prison sentence of 4 to 24 years.

Most towns and cities have stray dogs. Packs congregate in parks and wastelands and can be aggressive. Take care and do not approach stray dogs. If you’re bitten, get medical advice immediately. Rabies and other animal borne diseases are present in Turkey.

Using cameras

Do not take photographs of or near military or official installations. Ask for permission before photographing people.

Same-sex sexual activity is legal in Turkey. However, many parts of Turkey are socially conservative and showing affection in public could receive unwelcome attention.

Comments about the nation and flag

It is illegal to insult the Turkish nation, state or the national flag, or to deface Turkish currency. These laws can also apply to comments or images online wherever they were uploaded. Offences under these laws carry a penalty in Turkey of a prison sentence of between 6 months and 3 years.

If you are planning to drive in Turkey, see information on driving abroad. You must carry a green card in Turkey.

Take care when travelling by road, particularly at night. Approach checkpoints slowly and follow the instructions of security personnel. Roads between major cities are generally in excellent condition, but can be poor in remote, rural areas. Accidents are common and mainly due to poor or reckless driving.

It is illegal not to wear a helmet on motorcycles and mopeds. You may get a large fine if you do not wear a helmet.

Do not drink and drive. The police fine drunk drivers and your licence could be confiscated for 6 months.

Extreme temperatures can affect many areas of Turkey over the summer months.

Many parts of Turkey regularly experience earthquakes and tremors. These can be a high magnitude, cause damage to infrastructure, and pose a risk to life.

A 7.8 magnitude earthquake hit Gaziantep and neighbouring provinces in the south-east of Turkey in February 2023. Strong earthquakes may continue to affect the region and it remains heavily damaged.

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How to Plan a Trip to Greece on a Budget — Affordable Hotels and Money-saving Tips Included

Want to visit Greece without breaking the bank? Here's how to see Greece on a budget.

• Consider a Destination Dupe

How to Save on Flights

Finding affordable accommodations.

• Getting Around for Less

Free and Affordable Things to Do

• Use AI to Save Even More

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

As a travel writer, friends, family, and readers often ask me, "Where should I go on vacation next?" And almost every time, my answer is Greece. The southern European nation has long been a personal favorite, and not just because my family is from here. It's also because it's a place filled with culture, history, natural beauty, and, dare I say, the best food on Earth.

However, there is one potential downside to vacationing in Greece: It can be expensive, especially if you visit the famed islands during the peak tourism season from June through September. But don't worry — there are still a few ways to see Greece on a budget without feeling like you're missing out. Here's how to plan your trip without breaking the bank. 

Consider a Destination Dupe 

Greece is filled with fantastic spots, including popular islands like Santorini and Mykonos , but as several locals note, visitors can save a little money by spending their time on under-the-radar islands. 

"Traveling to the Greek islands on a budget doesn't mean sacrificing beauty or charm," Lena Korres, co-founder of the Greek skincare brand Korres , shared with Travel + Leisure . "While Santorini and Mykonos are iconic, these two islands annually welcome hundreds of thousands of visitors. However, there are several lesser-known sun-soaked islands, with their sandy beaches, turquoise bays, rocky cliffs, and white and blue houses, that offer affordability without compromising on stunning landscapes, rich culture, and delicious cuisine." 

Here are a few destination dupes that can help you score deals and explore with fewer crowds. 

Amanda Blackard/Travel + Leisure

Syros Instead of Santorini

While Santorini is famous for its sunsets and caldera views, Syros offers similar charm and equally alluring beaches. "In Syros, the capital of the Cyclades, tourism is not yet the first income for the island. It's an interesting island to discover with a less expensive budget than the nearby Mykonos or Santorini," Athens local and voice behind One Quarter Greek , Nicoletta Barbata, shared.

Thessaloniki Instead of Athens

Thessaloniki , Greece's second-largest city, is home to plenty of historical and cultural sites that will leave you just as satisfied as Athens. Here, travelers can explore Byzantine churches, ruins, and vibrant markets, and, it's a spot where delicious food abounds. The city was even named a UNESCO City of Gastronomy. 

Naxos Instead of Paros

Naxos, the largest of the Cyclades Islands, is often overshadowed by its neighbor Paros, thanks to the more popular island's party atmosphere and Instagram-ready cobblestone streets. However, Naxos offers just as much charm with far fewer tourists and, in turn, lower prices. From ancient ruins to pristine beaches, Naxos has it all. 

Courtesy of Play Airlines

Saving on flights to Greece is all about timing and having a little flexibility with your travel plans. "For those looking to explore Greece on a budget, the shoulder seasons — late April to early June and September to early October — are ideal," Eduardo Vega Augusto, editor at travel deals platform TravelPirates , explained. "During these times, the weather is delightful, the crowds are thinner, and accommodation prices are more reasonable." Augusto has two tips for finding affordable flights to Greece: Book with a budget airline, and buy tickets as early as you can.

"Numerous budget airlines, such as Play Airlines, offer affordable flights from major U.S. cities to Europe, making Greece an accessible destination," Augusto said. "Norse Air also provides a direct summer route from New York to Athens at a fraction of the usual cost." Flexibility is key to saving on flights, too. "Flexibility with travel dates can lead to significant savings. Set up Google Flights alerts to monitor price fluctuations from nearby airports," Augusto added. "Booking accommodations in advance, especially before the high season begins, can also secure lower rates." 

Courtesy of Marriott

Even the best hotels in Greece offer great deals if you travel in the off-season. 

“You can spend as much as you want or as little as you want in Athens, which is still a great-value-for-money European capital," Andria Mitsakos, president of AMPR and owner of Anthologist in Athens, explained.  "Luxury hotels such as our iconic Hotel Grande Bretagne (which celebrates its 150th anniversary this year) or the chic, boutique Dolli hotel have lower rates in the off-season. Both are perfect for a long weekend escape." Here are a few more budget-friendly hotels to consider.

The Zillers Boutique Hotel, Athens

Located in the heart of Athens, The Zillers Boutique Hotel offers a luxurious experience at an affordable nightly rate. The hotel offers excellent views of the Acropolis from its rooftop restaurant, which serves locally sourced Greek bites that will have you coming back for seconds.

Porto Naxos Hotel, Naxos

Taking a Greek island break on a budget is totally possible if you book stays at spots like Porto Naxos . The hotel perfectly balances luxury comfort and affordability, and it offers excellent deals for those who book well in advance. Its location near the city of Naxos and the island's best beaches is a plus.

Artemis, Milos

The Artemis is still a bit of a splurge, but compared to other hotels on the island of Milos, it feels like a downright steal. And it may be worth treating yourself to a few nights here as the hotel sits directly on the beach and is home to one of the hottest beach bars on the island.

Getting Around for Less 

Socrates Baltagiannis/picture alliance via Getty Images

Visitors looking to island-hop around Greece via ferry should consider the Eurail Greek Islands Pass , which allows travelers to explore for four days within a month starting at $84 or six days within a month starting at $192. 

"Another tip is to make a trip to another port that is less known, the port of Lavrio in the Attica region," Melanie Marten, Athens local and PR consultant at The Coup, said. As Marten additionally noted, it will take you to a hidden gem of an island, too. "This port has a ferry that takes you to the nearby beautiful island of Kea. Since there is no ferry from the mega-busy port of Piraeus, but only from Lavrio, Kea has never been overrun and makes a great destination from April to October." 

The good thing about visiting Greece is there is no shortage of historical sites to visit — and you can do so for less than you think. Here are a few ways to save on some of its iconic attractions. 

Ambika Verma/Travel + Leisure

Tour the Acropolis in Athens.

Visiting the Acropolis is practically mandatory when visiting Greece. The entrance fee is about $16 during the high season; however, admission is reduced during the winter, and the site offers several free visit days a year .

Browse the National Archaeological Museum.

See some of the world’s most important ancient artifacts on display at the National Archaeological Museum in Athens. The general entrance fee is already modest, but the museum also offers free admission on the first Sunday of every month from November through March. 

Go for a hike.

Mother Nature's beauty is on full display throughout all of Greece. The country is home to hundreds of miles of hiking trails to explore for free, including trails across the mainland and on the islands. See all the best routes to explore — including the top-ranked Fira trail on Santorini — on All Trails , and plan a walk to remember for $0. 

Hit the beach.

Greece is also a nation that believes access to the country's beaches should be free for everyone — it even passed the " Beach Bill " in 2024, ensuring beaches wouldn't be overrun by pay-for-play sun beds. So bring your towel and your sunscreen, and enjoy it all for free. 

Use AI to Save Even More 

Greece is filled with ancient relics, but that doesn't mean it's living in the past. As Ross Borden, the CEO of Matador Network , pointed out, the official Discover Greece website has a brand-new AI chat buddy (built by Matador Ventures) that will help you plan every aspect of your trip, even on a budget.

Simply tell Pythia (named after the high priestess of the Temple of Apollo at Delphi and known as an all-knowing oracle) your interests, your budget, and how long you've got to spend in Greece to get a tailor-made itinerary. "Visitors to the Discover Greece website will find Pythia in the bottom right corner, and they can converse with the AI like a friend who knows everything about Greece, including the best deals," Borden explained. "For instance, travelers can ask Pythia to plan an entire itinerary within a set budget. There are no ads, and Pythia’s responses are completely tailored to the question, so if you ask for stays and activities within a certain budget, that’s all you’re going to get." 

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• Travel Tips

Secrets To Shopping Like A Local In Santorini, Greece

Published: September 3, 2024

by Arline Jameson

Shopping in Santorini, Greece, offers a unique experience that goes beyond typical tourist spots. Want to shop like a local ? Start by visiting the bustling markets in Fira, where you can find everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. Wander through the narrow streets of Oia, where small boutiques sell local art , jewelry, and clothing. Don't miss the chance to buy some Santorini wine directly from vineyards. For a truly authentic experience, head to the village of Pyrgos, where you can find traditional Greek products and interact with friendly shopkeepers. Shopping in Santorini isn't just about buying items; it's about immersing yourself in the culture and connecting with the people.

Discovering Hidden Gems in Santorini

Santorini, Greece, is famous for its stunning sunsets, white-washed buildings, and crystal-clear waters. But beyond the tourist hotspots, there's a world of local shopping waiting to be explored. From unique boutiques to bustling markets, here's how to shop like a local in Santorini.

Traditional Markets

Traditional markets offer a glimpse into the daily life of Santorini's residents. Here, you can find everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.

Fira Market : Located in the island's capital, this market is a bustling hub of activity. Vendors sell fresh fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies. It's the perfect place to pick up ingredients for a picnic or try some traditional Greek snacks.

Pyrgos Market : This lesser-known market is situated in the charming village of Pyrgos. Known for its friendly atmosphere, it offers a variety of local products, including olive oil, honey, and herbs. It's a great spot to find authentic souvenirs.

Unique Boutiques

Santorini's boutiques are filled with one-of-a-kind items that you won't find anywhere else. These shops often feature local designers and artisans.

Atlantis Books : Nestled in Oia, this independent bookstore is a treasure trove for book lovers. With a carefully curated selection of books in multiple languages, it's a must-visit for anyone looking to pick up a unique read.

Spira Marble Art Gallery : Located in Fira, this gallery showcases stunning marble sculptures and artwork. Each piece is handcrafted by local artists, making it a perfect place to find a special keepsake.

Artisan Shops

Artisan shops in Santorini offer a chance to see traditional crafts being made and purchase unique handmade items.

Koukla Jewelry : Situated in Oia, this boutique features beautiful handmade jewelry inspired by the island's natural beauty. Each piece is crafted with care, making it a perfect gift or personal memento.

Santorini Mou : This shop in Firostefani specializes in handmade ceramics. From colorful plates to intricate vases, the items here are both functional and decorative. Watching the artisans at work adds to the experience.

Local Food Stores

Sampling local food is a big part of the shopping experience in Santorini. These stores offer a taste of the island's culinary delights.

Santo Wines : Located in Pyrgos, this winery offers a wide selection of local wines. You can sample different varieties and even take a tour of the vineyard. It's an excellent place to pick up a bottle or two as a souvenir.

Ergon Santorini : Found in Fira, this gourmet food store offers a range of local products, including cheeses, cured meats, and sweets. It's a great spot to find delicious treats to take home or enjoy during your stay.

Fashion Boutiques

Santorini's fashion boutiques offer stylish clothing and accessories that reflect the island's chic vibe.

Sand Lily Boutique : Located in Kamari, this boutique features trendy clothing and accessories. With a focus on local designers, it's a great place to find unique pieces that capture the essence of Santorini style.

White Boutique : Situated in Fira, this shop offers a range of elegant clothing and accessories. From flowing dresses to stylish handbags, it's the perfect place to update your wardrobe with a touch of Greek flair.

Embrace Local Shopping in Santorini

Shopping in Santorini offers a unique experience. From handmade jewelry to local wines, there's something for everyone. Visit Oia for art galleries and boutiques. Head to Fira for a mix of traditional and modern shops. Don't miss the local markets where you can find fresh produce and unique souvenirs.

Remember to haggle politely; it's part of the culture. Take your time to explore and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Supporting local businesses not only gets you unique items but also helps the community.

Whether you're looking for authentic Greek products or just want to soak in the local culture, Santorini's shops have it all. So pack light, because you'll want to bring back a piece of this beautiful island. Happy shopping!

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Money blog: Roaming charges for all major networks listed

Roaming charges for all the major networks and a report suggesting the state pension will rise £400 next year are among today's Money blog posts. We'll have personal finance and consumer news and tips through the day - leave a comment on anything we're covering below.

Wednesday 4 September 2024 12:57, UK

• State pension could rise by more than £400 next year
• How your pension could be taxed
• European country cracks down on holiday rentals

Essential reads

• How data roaming charges compare by network
• 'They have 22-inch pizzas - hello!': Israeli-born chef picks budget eats
• Big Issue seller reveals how it works financially and his technique
• Best of the Money blog

Tips and advice

• Basically... Free school meals
• Cheapest holidays dates before Christmas
• Money Problem : 'My dog died but insurance still wants a year's payment'
• How else to eat Greggs on cheap as O2 Priority scraps freebies

Ask a question or make a comment

When you've forked out hard-earned money for a holiday abroad, the last thing you want is to be landed with an expensive phone bill at the end of it.

Brexit brought an end to the guarantee of free roaming for UK residents who visit countries inside the EU – but the good news is some providers still offer free services up to a certain point for travellers in Europe.

Here, we take a look at the UK's major phone providers and what they're offering customers when it comes to roaming across the globe...

Vodafone splits its roaming charges into four different "zones".

For pay monthly customers who took out their contract on or after 11 August 2021, how much you pay depends on which zone you're headed to:

Zone A - Ireland, the Isle of Man, Iceland and Norway - no extra charge

Zone B - Europe and EU member states (49 destinations) - £2.42 a day for customers without the Xtra Euro Roam plan

Zone C - 32 destinations including the US, Australia, Barbados and South Africa - £7.39 a day for customers without the Xtra Global Roam plan

Zone D - 75 destinations from Argentina to Uzbekistan and Vietnam - £7.39 a day

All charges are dependent on customers adhering to the 25GB fair usage limit.

Countries outside zones A-D are deemed "rest of world zones" by Vodafone - these include destinations such as Belize, Nepal and Angola. Data is charged for each megabyte (MB) used, with charges typically £1.20 per MB. 

Those with contracts before 11 August 2021 pay nothing for Zones A and B, and £6 a day for Zones C and D.

Unlike some other major providers, O2 hasn't brought back EU roaming charges for customers using up to 25GB data abroad.

That means both pay monthly and pay-as-you-go customers heading to its Europe Zone (more than 40 destinations) are free to call, text and use data as they would in the UK.

For anyone travelling further afield, the charges depend on what plan you're on.

Customers whose contract includes the O2 Travel Inclusive Zone can roam in 27 destinations outside Europe, including Australia, New Zealand, the US and southern American countries.

If it's not part of your plan, you can purchase a travel bolt-on for £6 a day which allows for data roaming in 63 destinations.

Contract holders with O2 Travel Inclusive Zone Ultimate can roam freely in 75 destinations outside Europe.

Three's Go Roam Europe service lets pay monthly customers use their data allowance in 49 destinations at a cost of £2 a day.

Those using the Go Roam Global service (22 destinations outside Europe) pay £5 a day while Go Roam Global Extra (92 destinations outside Europe) comes at a cost of £7 a day.

The charges apply to customers who took their contracts out on or after 1 October 2021 - there are no charges for customers who were with Three before that.

Three imposes a 12GB fair usage cap for all customers on a monthly contract when roaming abroad and 9GB for those on pay-as-you-go.

Anyone with an EE plan that began before 7 July 2021 will have EU data roaming included.

For newer customers, it costs £2.47 a day to use data roaming while travelling in its European zone, up to the 50GB fair usage limit.

For customers heading abroad to Europe for 11 days or more, it's cheaper to add on EE's Roam Abroad Pass which costs £25 a month (it can be cancelled at anytime, meaning you can scrap it after your holiday if you want to).

Customers heading to Australia, New Zealand, Canada or the US and wanting to use their data can select the Roam Abroad Pass as an add-on.

Alternatively, they can pay £6.74 a day for 500MB of data only in Canada and the US, £8.45 a day for 500MB in nine countries including Australia, India and China, or use 150MB of data for £8.45 a day in 45 other destinations including Brazil, Japan and Jamaica. 

Customers can use their phones abroad in 47 destinations without paying extra roaming charges with BT Mobile's Roam Like Home scheme.

If travelling outside Europe, BT mobile customers can use still use their phones but will need to buy a Mobile Travel Data Pass to access their data.

It costs £6 for 500MB that must be used within 24 hours. It covers 12 countries, including the UAE, US, Australia and Canada.

Giffgaff lets customers roam for no extra charge within the EU and other selected locations, with a 5GB fair usage cap. If this is exceeded, roaming is charged at 10p per MB.

Anyone travelling outside the 37 locations in the EU and beyond will have to add credit to their account to use their phones as normal.

They'll also be charged a rate per minute, text or MB, which varies depending on where you go.

Tesco Mobile

Until 2025, anyone travelling to one of Tesco's 48 Home from Home destinations can use their phone as normal with no extra charge.

Roaming charges apply for travel outside these countries - but Tesco will cap data usage at £40 for anyone who hasn't already put in a safety buffer, to avoid anyone coming home to a shockingly high bill.

Generally, data costs around £5 per MB and texts 40p, but costs for calls can vary.

Sky's Roaming Passport Plus lets customers access their UK allowances for £2 a day in more than 55 popular holiday destinations, including EU countries, the US, Australia and more.

The pass is valid for 24 hours. Unused data can be carried over but the £2 charge still applies.

Anyone heading to other far-away destinations will see out-of-tariff roaming charges apply.

If you've got a phone or SIM-only contract with iD Mobile you can use your UK monthly allowances in 50 destinations worldwide, up to 30GB.

Roaming has to be activated beforehand through your online account or the iD Mobile app.

Lyca Mobile

Anyone with a Lyca Mobile SIM can roam in the EU or use data in India as normal up to the 12GB fair usage limit.

What about e-SIMS?

Standing for "embedded SIM", e-SIMS are virtual SIMS that have been built into most newer devices like phones, tablets and smartwatches.

While perhaps not so useful inside the UK and for short EU trips, they could be a way to avoid those hefty out-of-tariff fees for travel further afield.

As they can be activated without a physical card, it makes them particularly useful for overseas trips as you can easily switch between several different carriers if you need to. 

To use one, you'll need to purchase an e-SIM for the country you're heading to and adjust the settings on your phone to allow it to be used.

There are many different providers offering e-SIM services at varying prices for different destinations, making them difficult to compare.

On a similar theme to our last post... The pension pot needed for basic retirement has risen more than 60% in the last three years, two thinktanks have found. 

This means the average pension pot required has risen from £68,300 in 2020-21 to £107,800 in 2023-24. 

Rising housing, energy, food and transport prices have all contributed to the increase, a study by the Resolution Foundation and Living Wage Foundation suggests. 

Researchers say a person requires an average income of £19,300 a year in retirement to sustain a "basic" standard of living. 

However, this figure differs depending on whether a person owns or rents their home, and if they live alone. 

For example, single home-owning pensioners need  £13,500 annually while pensioner couples that own their home need £20,600. 

At the moment, the full rate of the state pension is £221.20 a week, or £11,502 a year.

The rest of the "basic retirement" fund would need to come from other sources such as a private pension with a balance of £107,800. 

To reach the amount needed in retirement, the research found a person working full-time on the Living Wage (£11.44 an hour) would need to contribute 9% of their earnings a year from the age of 25 to 68. 

State pensions could rise by more than £400 next year, according to reports.

The triple lock means pensions rise each April by whatever is highest out of inflation, average wage growth and 2.5%

This year that looks set to be wage growth, with figures set to be released next week.

The Treasury's internal working calculations, seen by the BBC, show this would lead to a £400 increase for anyone on the full state pension.

That would take the full state pension to around £12,000.

Pre-2016 retirees who may be eligible for the secondary state pension could see a £300 per year increase.

None of this has yet been confirmed but the Office for Budget Responsibility's spring forecast of earnings growth was 3.7% for the triple lock reference period - which all ties in with the suggested hikes above.

Any decision on a pension increase will be made by Pensions Minister Liz Kendall ahead of October's budget.

Yesterday, Chancellor Rachel Reeves reiterated the government's backing of the triple lock - which this year resulted in a £900 rise.

The Treasury has been contacted for comment.

Keep scrolling for news of a popular European country clamping down on Airbnb and this week's Cheap Eats

By James Sillars , business news reporter

A US-led stock market sell-off is hitting values on this side of the Atlantic for a second day.

The main worry, which was first seen a month ago, continues to be the performance of the world's largest economy.

Weaker than expected US manufacturing data sparked drops in oil and commodity costs, which bled into share prices.

The big losers, however, were tech shares.

Analysts said a decline of almost 10% in AI chipmaker Nvidia's stock was down to some profit-taking on fears the best news for the company's outlook was in the rearview mirror.

Brent crude dropped almost 5% to $73 a barrel.

The FTSE 100 largely mirrored Tuesday's declines at Wednesday's open, falling 0.8%.

Energy and mining stocks were among those worst affected again.

Every Wednesday we ask top chefs to pick their favourite Cheap Eats where they live and when they cook at home. This week we speak to Israeli-born Eran Tibi, executive chef at Michelin-recommended Bala Baya, and Kapara, in London.

Hi Eran, can you tell us your favourite places in London where you can get a meal for two for less than £40?

One of my favourite place has to be Voodoo Rays  (Dalston, London Fields and Peckham) - it serves New York-style pizza which you can't get anywhere. They have 22-inch pizzas - hello! 

You're able to go in, pick slices of whatever pizza you want; they also do a great negroni. It's great value and the quality is fantastic and consistent, so it's a no brainer.

I also love Afghan Kitchen in Angel  -   it's cheap, cheerful, delicious and authentic. It's unique as not many people are familiar with Afghan cuisine; all the dishes are great value and it's a fantastic place to explore new dishes. 

What is your go-to cheap eat to cook at home when you have a night in?

If I'm making something at home, I go to Ridley Road Market in Dalston to pick up my ingredients. Here you'll find the best produce for the most reasonable price.

The go-to for a cheap home cooked eat is roast beef with roasted seasonal vegetables and a slow braised bulgur wheat, covered with some dips (either fresh or from what's left in the fridge).

With dishes like this, the key is to always have a good pantry and look to the freezer; throughout the year, freeze seasonal vegetables and ingredients so when you need an easy and cheap dinner (even out of season), simply take them out and get cooking! 

We've spoken to lots of top chefs - check out their cheap eats from around the country here...

We've seen Spain do it, along with France and the Netherlands, and now the Czech Republic has announced plans to crack down on holiday lets.

The Czech government has proposed new regulations that could limit the amount of Airbnb-style rentals available in popular cities such as Prague. 

The proposals could cap the number of days a property can be rented out each year and require a minimum amount of space per guest. 

Authorities could also be allowed to place more local taxes on the rentals. 

Owners would be required to register their accommodation and guest details via an online platform. 

They will then be given a registration number, which would have to be displayed on their listings. 

The new system, if given the green light, will aim to bring down the cost of living for locals by freeing up accommodation and increasing tax revenues. 

EuroNews said officials estimate that between 40% to 70% of online bookings are not reported, which could equate to €32m in unpaid taxes each year. 

Labour is facing a drop-off in confidence among business leaders amid plans for tax rises and improvements to workers' rights, according to a survey.

The Institute of Directors noted a leap in optimism in July among its membership as the new government came to power.

But its latest economic confidence index showed a slump from a three-year-high, falling into negative territory in August.

Read more below...

The number of hospitality establishments across the UK has grown for the first time in two years - a sign of recovery for the industry.

Between March and June there were 462 new openings of pubs, restaurants, bars and hotels in the UK - an average of five per day - according to the Nationwide Caterers Association.

The organisation said casual dining establishments in particular have experienced growth in numbers for the first time since COVID.

"While there is still a way to go for the sector to return to pre-COVID heights, tangible growth in hospitality premises is clearly a positive development and hopefully a sign of more growth to come," the association said.

Aldi is in talks with the government over planning reform in a bid to speed up the opening of new stores.

The discount supermarket is offering investment to tackle "under-resourcing" across local authorities, which is currently leading the planning application process to take more than a year, Aldi UK's national real estate director George Brown wrote in LinkedIn.

Mr Brown said to "unlock" significant investment in the UK economy, the retail sector should be given more weight in the decision-making process to reflect the number of jobs it delivers.

Aldi said in February that it plans to open 500 more stores in 2024, which would also lead to the creation of 5,500 new jobs.

An "urgent review" into dynamic pricing has been launched as the backlash from the price of Oasis concert tickets continues. 

The Competition and Markets Authority said it was looking into the ticketing market to make sure consumers were being treated fairly. 

Oasis fans were disappointed at the weekend when tickets for their reunion tour more than doubled while on sale due to dynamic pricing systems. 

Tickets shot up from £148 to £355 on Ticketmaster within hours of their release - and while fans were stuck in long online queues.

Dynamic pricing is common within industries beyond music - it's used frequently in the travel industry, with hotel rooms and airline tickets.

"The CMA is urgently reviewing recent developments in the ticketing market, including the way dynamic pricing is being used in the primary market," a CMA spokesperson said. 

They noted that consumer protection law requires businesses to be fair and transparent in their dealings with consumers. 

They are also required to give clear and accurate information about the price people have to pay. 

"The CMA wants fans to get a fair deal when they buy tickets," they added. 

"We have already acted against major resale websites on the secondary market to ensure consumer law is being followed. 

"But we think more protections are needed for consumers here, and made recommendations to the previous government in 2021 about the changes that are needed." 

The government has promised to look into dynamic ticket pricing, with Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy saying it would be reviewed in an upcoming consultation. 

Female founders have been dealt a "blow" after Innovate UK delivered just half the number of grants pledged in a funding competition for women business owners.

The Women in Innovation programme was aimed at encouraging women leading small to medium-sized businesses to apply for grants of up to £75,000 each.

The government-backed agency said it would be offering the grants to 50 female founders when it launched the competition earlier this year - but subsequently changed the wording to say "up to 50". 

Only 25 ended up being chosen to receive funding, out of 1,452 applicants.

Dearbump and Femtech founder Emma Jarvis said in a LinkedIn post that the situation will have left many female entrepreneurs "pretty disheartened"

The post  has been shared more than 100 times and has garnered nearly 830 reactions.

"Innovate UK's decision is a blow not just to existing female founders but future ones," Ms Jarvis said. "It's really disappointing to hear that the number of awards was cut in half and that the wording was changed after the results were announced."

She said the "only way forward" was for Innovate UK to honour its original commitment of 50 awards.

Meanwhile, Patricia McGirr, Repossession Rescue founder , said female founders "deserve more than lip service". 

She said Innovate UK's decision "isn't just trimming fat, it's cutting opportunity and ambition".

"This broken promise to the women fuelling our future is a step backward for innovation and a slap in the face to countless women who dare to lead."

And Debbie Porter, managing director at Destination Digital Marketing , said the move was "hard to believe".

"Innovate UK ought to go back over those 1,427 other applications as a matter of priority to fix this situation," she said. 

In a statement to the Money blog, Innovate UK apologised and said its decision was a "mistake". It also said it would honour its original commitment to award 50 applicants with funding.

The added: "We recognise the impact this has had on the many applicants and on the community as a whole, and we apologise wholeheartedly.

"We confirm we will be funding a total of 50 awards."

Our Money blog reporter Jess Sharp spoke to women who are  leading figures in their respective fields for our eight-part Women in Business series earlier this year. You can read some of their stories here...

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has refused to rule out heavier taxation on pensions in the October budget. 

"I'm not going to speculate on what will be in the budget, but I'm absolutely determined to ensure that working people are better off," she told MPs in the House of Commons. 

"This budget will be a budget to fix the foundations of the economy after the mess left by the previous government."

How could your pension be taxed further? Let's have a look at some of the possibilities...

Leading left-wing thinktank The Fabian Society said the government could raise at least £10bn a year by reducing pension tax relief for high earners. 

At the moment, pension tax relief depends on an individual's tax band. 

But Ms Reeves could create a single flat rate of tax relief for all tax bands, the society said.

"First, the rate of income tax relief should be equalised for people on all tax bands - for example at 30% of gross earnings, midway between the 20p and 40p rates of tax," the thinktank said in a report. 

Ms Reeves could also reduce the maximum tax-free lump sum  you can get on retirement from £268,275 to £100,000 or 25% of pension wealth. 

"The Institute for Fiscal Studies estimates that this might eventually save over £2bn per year, which would be targeted entirely at people with high lifetime earnings or assets," the report added. 

Another suggestion was to charge national insurance on private pension incomes . 

The organisation said it would lead to today's affluent pensioners making a higher tax contribution.

Other possibilities could be to levy income tax on all inherited pensions. 

It said pension pots could also be liable to inheritance tax in the same way as other assets. 

What else did the chancellor say today?

Away from refusing to rule out pension tax changes, Ms Reeves also confirmed a cap on corporation tax.

Speaking during Treasury questions, she said the tax would be capped at its current level of 25% to "give business the confidence to grow". 

Corporation tax applies to the annual profits of UK resident companies and branches of overseas companies.

The 25% main rate is payable by companies with taxable profits above £250,000.

A small profits rate applies for companies with profits of £50,000 or below, meaning they will pay 19%.

Up until April 2023, the previous corporation tax main rate was 19%.

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