Choosing the shimmering blue of the Aegean Sea as your holiday background when young and looking for a place to host your love is one of the most rewarding decisions you’ll ever make.
The countless striking regions of Greece, along with the incredible weather, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality of the locals, make Greece the ultimate destination for romantic trips or even a Greece honeymoon for young couples.
However, despite Greece being a haven of romance and repose, there are specific tips you can follow to ensure your stay is that much more enjoyable.
After all, getting to know the customs and practices of the country you visit is the best way to gain insight into the local culture. Below are some of the do’s and don’t young couples should follow when traveling in Greece.
Do visit romantic destinations but don’t stick only to the widely-popular spots
No one can deny that traveling to Santorini or Mykonos will be one of the most romantic experiences. The world-famous sunsets from the caldera cliffs and the renowned cosmopolitan beaches that host parties that last until the crack of dawn are once-in-a-lifetime experiences. However, choosing destinations that are this popular can have its disadvantages. If you crave a relaxing, quiet time in offbeat destinations, then you might want to reconsider the places you plan on visiting.
The island of Folegandros and the region of Pelion on the mainland of Greece are excellent examples. They are destinations that hold a striking beauty and an unmatched romantic ambiance that visitors often neglect.
Especially those who only have eyes for the more cosmopolitan and advertised country regions. Venture out of the trite hotspots of Greece and try to find places that stay invisible to the inexperienced eye. It is also a great destination to visit if you’re into Greek island-hopping and you want to explore the alternative side of the Cyclades.
Do learn a bit about our (body) language and take no offence
Greek is one of the most difficult languages on the planet. Therefore, although you can try to learn a few key phrases to help you communicate, relying on your knowledge in Greek to get your point across and get around the country is not a viable option.
‘Yia,’ ‘efxaristo,’ and ‘parakalo’ -respectively mean ‘hello,’ ‘thank you,’ and you’re ‘welcome’- are welcome. Thankfully, however, the vast majority of Greeks speak English.
During a trip to Greece, young couples should also be aware that the Greeks’ body language is quite vibrant due to their Mediterranean temperament. As a result, people can sometimes come across as angry or defensive.
Don’t get offended; this is a country where everyone speaks a bit too loud and gestures too much. Greeks love to talk and will probably open up a conversation with everyone who asks questions. However, they love to speak loudly and animatedly, scaring off the unsuspected.
Do enjoy the excellence of Greek cuisine but don’t fall into tourist traps
It is common knowledge that Greece boasts one of the most hyped-up and sought-out cuisines globally. Visiting the country and missing out on traditional recipes is a sin. Especially if you think that has been passed down through generations. However, despite the abundance of excellent food, there is no shortage of tourist taverns that sacrifice their quality for quantity.
As a rule of thumb, you should steer clear of whatever is within a kilometer radius from any archaeological site. Additionally, try to avoid taverns decorated like a still from ‘Zorba.’ That is particularly true if they boast menus that serve everything from seafood to lamb.
Be picky, and do your research before getting hungry to find tucked-away, family-run eateries with a small but miraculous menu full of local goodies that will make you consider relocating.
Do try to include culture and history but don’t forget about the vibrant nightlife
Greece’s rich heritage and vast history make it a dream destination for history buffs. They also make it irresistible for sophisticated individuals around the world.
If you are a young couple that plans a trip to Greece, you must make a point to try and visit as many archaeological sites, museums, and art galleries as possible. This way, you will gain a deeper understanding of the Greeks and their way of life.
That, of course, doesn’t translate into missing out on the lively nightlife Greece is famous for. If you’re a young couple in love, you should be ready for long nights of dancing and partying. You can do that in the many trendy bars and clubs you can find around every corner.
Ask for recommendations from the locals to choose the most locally-beloved hotspots of every destination you visit. Then, celebrate finding the love of your life and dance the everyday stress away.
Greece’s fun nightlife is also the reason why Greece is one of the best ideas for your bachelor or bachelorette party in Greece!
Do look for a bargain but don’t haggle
As with every country that tends to attract many visitors every year, there is a chance that when visiting Greece, you might come across people trying to overcharge you.
Yes, you should do your research and be aware of the fluctuations in price from shop to shop or from street vendor to street vendor. However, it would help if you also kept in mind that not everyone is out to get you.
More often than not, sellers are accommodating and helpful and care about the satisfaction of their customers -and subsequently the reputation of their shops- more than they care about the profit. Therefore, trying excessively to haggle will result in uncomfortable situations that are easy to avoid.
None of that applies to a visit to the flea market. There, you are expected to try to lower the prices and drive a hard bargain. Don’t get deterred by the sellers’ initial reaction. It’s all just an act. Insist, and you’ll be rewarded.
Do use public transportation and don’t spend all your budget on taxis
Although taxis are without a doubt the most convenient way to get around Greece regardless of the region you visit, they can sum up to an absurd amount of money. Especially if you’re spending your time on the Greek islands. That money could be better spent enjoying spa services and drinks.
For that reason, the wisest thing you can do is get to know the public transportation of each place you visit and learn whether the bus, train, or tram service best accommodates you.
If by any means you find yourself inside a taxi, make sure that the taximeter is on as soon as you get in. Some routes, such as the connection between Athens’ city center and the Athens International Airport, have a flat fare. Make sure to ask the driver the amount of money they charge ahead to have everything under control.
If you opt for public transportation, get an Athens City Pass to save money while being comfortably and efficiently transported around the Greek capital. You can also download the Moovit app, which will help you see all the available roots.
Unfortunately, there are no other helpful services for public transport outside Athens. However, there are a lot of friendly locals who will be eager to help you with everything you need.
Do take your time, and don’t try to cram everything in a fortnight
Young couples planning a trip to Greece may feel the need to pack their days full to the brim; there are so many sights and places that will amaze you that no matter how many spending days you’ll get, you’ll try to fit everything in.
It would be ideal to include the historical city of Athens in your itinerary. Its fascinating history and impeccable urban beauty don’t leave anyone unmoved. At the same time, its wide variety of things to see and do will ensure there are no dull moments during your trip.
After Athens, it is advisable to consider visiting a maximum of 2 or 3 Greek islands or cities. Any more than that will not allow you to appreciate the worth of your destinations, wander its streets, and get insight into the local culture.
Do choose the time to visit Greece wisely, and don’t have the high-season summer months as your only option
If you’re planning a trip to Greece as a young couple during the summer, you must consider a couple of things. Firstly, you need to know that summers in Greece are relatively hot, and you’ll most probably experience the temperature rising to an impressive 40०C during the high season months from June through August.
That’s why the best season to visit Greece would be during late spring or early Autumn, specifically late May and late September.
Of course, you could also choose your romantic escape to take place during winter. Greece is not solely a summer destination, and there are several winter destinations, such as Arachova, Delphi, and Meteora, that will be the perfect hosts for your retreat.
As the weather in Greece is relatively mild, the winters are not too harsh, and you’ll be able to get around without the blistering cold restricting you. However, no matter when you choose to visit, you must not forget to lather on the sunscreen, especially if you’re coming from a cold country that doesn’t get too many sunny days. In that case, you’re sure to burn and ruin both your tan and romantic trip.
Greece has beautiful summer and winter destinations, everything a couple could ever dream of. Small, picturesque villages with wonderful vegetation will give you moments of relaxation. Moreover, the reasons to visit Greece and Italy are too many to mention.
Wherever you choose to visit, there is no doubt that an earthly paradise will await near you. You don’t need to overthink; these destinations are included in our Greece honeymoon packages and will make you appreciate the simple things in life, such as a relaxing trip with your loved one. Eros and Psyche is everywhere!