Greece Travel Guide
Greece is a country with deep history and strong regional character, but it’s best experienced by focusing on individual cities rather than treating it as a single destination. While shared traditions connect the country, Greece is best experienced city by city, where food culture, daily rhythms, and local identity vary noticeably.
Travelers get the most value by choosing specific cities and understanding how each one works on its own terms — particularly when it comes to dining traditions, neighborhood layout, and where to stay.
Food & Travel Across Greece
Greek food culture is shaped by geography, climate, and tradition. What you eat in Athens is not exactly the same as what you’ll find in Thessaloniki or on island cities like Heraklion. Ingredients, preparation styles, and dining customs differ by region.
In general:
Coastal areas emphasize seafood and fresh vegetables
Inland and northern regions feature heartier dishes and baked foods
Olive oil, grains, and seasonal produce form the foundation of most meals
Dining is social and typically centered around shared plates
This variation is why city-specific food guides provide far more value than broad national summaries.
Travel logistics in Greece vary by city and region. Mainland cities are well connected by road and rail, while island destinations require ferry or air travel. Choosing the right base plays an important role in how easily you move around and experience local food culture.
Cities in Greece
Below you’ll find our city-level guides for Greece. Each city includes:
A City Guide (what to know and how the city works)
A What to Eat guide (local food, dishes, and markets)
A Where to Stay guide (best areas and accommodation types)
Athens
Athens is Greece’s capital and cultural center, with a food scene that blends traditional tavernas with modern dining. Neighborhood choice plays a major role in walkability, dining access, and sightseeing.
Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki is known for its vibrant street food culture and strong culinary identity. Food is central to daily life, and staying centrally makes it easier to explore dining neighborhoods on foot.
Heraklion
Heraklion sits on the island of Crete, with food traditions shaped by local agriculture and island life. Where you stay influences access to dining, beaches, and nearby historical sites.
Planning Your Trip to Greece
Greece rewards travelers who focus on a small number of cities and allow time to experience each destination fully. By planning at the city level, you’ll eat better, stay in more suitable neighborhoods, and navigate regional differences more effectively.
Use the city guides above to plan your trip based on how you want to travel, eat, and stay, rather than relying on broad, country-level overviews.