Let’s talk about Greece, a land of ancient history, stunning landscapes, and enough feta cheese to fill a whole Olympic stadium. Seriously, if you’ve ever dreamed of sailing the Mediterranean with the wind in your hair and a gyro in hand, this is the place. The Ionian Islands, specifically, are the cool cousins of Greece, and they’re calling your name.
Geographically, Greece is like a pizza. It’s made up of islands, and you’re gonna want a slice of each one. The Ionian Islands sit off the western coast, with turquoise waters so clear you’ll wonder if you’re swimming in a Pinterest board. These islands have been shaped by centuries of history, from Greek mythology (hello, Zeus!) to Venetian rule, so there’s plenty to explore in between your beach naps.
The language here is Greek. Yes, that alphabet will make your brain do somersaults, but don’t worry, most people in tourist spots speak some English. Are locals friendly? Absolutely! They’ll offer you a seat, a drink, and maybe even a small lesson in how to pronounce Greek food names without embarrassing yourself.
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How to get around Greece
Now, let’s talk logistics, if you like hopping between islands, great news! There are airports nearby on each one, so it’s like playing island-hop bingo. Ferries are the main mode of transport, but honestly, renting a car is your best bet for exploring. Check the best deals here.
Public transport? Let’s just say it might take you a few hours to get to the next village… if you’re lucky. But, hey, the roads are so pretty, you’ll want to stop for a photo every two minutes anyway.
Which islands should you hit up in Greece?
Zakynthos is the party animal of the bunch, with more tourists than you can shake a souvenir at, but Lefkada and Kefalonia are the quieter, more laid-back islands. Think of them as the introverted, super-stylish siblings who know how to throw a good dinner party.
When to Go
The best time to visit the Ionian Islands is between May and September. Summer months bring hot, dry weather perfect for beach days, hiking, and sailing around the islands. The high season (July and August) can get crowded, especially in Zakynthos, so if you prefer a quieter experience, try visiting in late spring (May-June) or early autumn (September). The temperatures are still warm, but the islands are a bit less packed, letting you enjoy those stunning landscapes without the rush of summer crowds.
Summers are hot and dry, winters are cool and rainy, but let’s be real, who’s going to Greece in the winter?
Average Spend in Greece
So, how much will your Greek adventure cost? Well, it really depends on your travel style. For the budget backpacker, you can live your best life for about $40-$60 a day. This includes staying in hostels, eating souvlaki from street vendors, and hopping on ferries like you’re a local.
If you’re after a little more comfort (no more 12-bed dorms, thank you), expect to spend around $100-$150 a day. Think cozy guesthouses, meals at mid-range tavernas, and the occasional glass of wine that isn’t from a box.
For those with a luxury mindset (because why not?), you’ll be looking at $200+ a day. This means staying in swanky hotels, dining like royalty, and maybe even booking a private yacht tour around the islands. Either way, Greece is stunning at any price, but be warned, it won’t be a “backpacker-hostel-rice-and-beans” kind of budget.
Safety
As a solo female traveler, you’ll find Greece pretty safe. Sure, like any country, common sense is key, don’t wander around deserted alleys at night, and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. But for the most part, locals are warm, welcoming, and make you feel like part of the family. Even in tourist-heavy spots like Zakynthos, you can explore solo without much concern. That said, always trust your instincts, if something feels off, it’s okay to just leave the situation. Overall, Greece is one of those places where you’ll feel comfortable solo-traveling, especially in more touristy areas, where English is widely spoken and locals go out of their way to make sure you’re having a good time. Just stay alert, and you’ll be sipping your frappe with no worries.
WIFI/Internet Speed and Best Local Travel Sim Card in Greece
WIFI and Internet Speed in Greece
Internet access in Greece is widely available, with most accommodations, restaurants, and cafes offering free WIFI. In urban areas, average internet speeds are around 30-50 Mbps, suitable for streaming and remote work. However, on smaller islands or rural areas, speeds can drop to 10-20 Mbps, and connections might be less reliable.
If you’re working remotely, co-working spaces and larger towns tend to have better setups. Be mindful that during peak tourist seasons, network speeds might slow down due to high demand. Consider downloading important files or maps in advance when traveling to remote locations.
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Best Local Travel Sim Card for Greece
For hassle-free connectivity, here are the top options for local travel SIM cards:
- COSMOTE: Offers the best network coverage, even in remote areas and smaller islands. Prepaid plans start at around €10 for 5 GB of data.
- Vodafone Greece: A reliable option with decent coverage in urban and tourist-heavy areas. They offer prepaid SIM cards starting at €10 with a mix of data, calls, and texts.
- WIND Hellas (now Nova): Budget-friendly, but with slightly less coverage on remote islands. Plans start at €8 for 4 GB.
SIM cards can be purchased at the airport, local stores, or kiosks called “periptero.” You’ll need your passport for registration. If you’re planning to island-hop, COSMOTE is your best bet for staying connected everywhere.
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FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About Greece
The best way to hop between islands is by ferry. The Ionian Islands are well-connected with regular ferry routes, and you can easily book tickets online or at the port. For faster travel, consider taking a domestic flight between major islands, like Corfu and Kefalonia. If you’re exploring smaller islands, renting a car and using ferries can give you more flexibility to discover hidden gems. Check the best deals here.
Yes, there can be a few surprises! Some beaches charge for sunbed rentals (usually €10-€20), and certain attractions, like museums or archaeological sites, may have entrance fees. During high season, ferry tickets and accommodations can be pricier, so booking in advance is wise. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated, typically 5-10% in restaurants. Also, watch out for cover charges in some tavernas – they’re usually listed at the bottom of the menu.
Tap water is generally safe to drink in most mainland areas, including Athens. However, on the islands, it’s better to stick to bottled water due to the high mineral content of tap water, which might not be suitable for everyone’s taste or digestion. Bottled water is inexpensive and widely available, costing around €0.50 for a 1.5-liter bottle.
Is Greece worth it?
Spoiler alert: yes. If you like sunny days, azure seas, and a healthy dose of history, pack your bags (and your sunscreen), the Ionian Islands are ready for you!
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