If you are planning a holiday that extends to the deep blue waters of the Aegean, a Greek Islands holiday may be perfect for you. With their historical texture, calm bays and delicious food, the visa-free Greek islands offer ideal routes for travelers who want to escape from Türkiye. However, there are some details you need to know before going to these islands. We have answered all the questions such as “How to get to the Greek Islands?”, “Which island should I choose?”, “When should I go?” in this guide. Here are 15 important pieces of information that you should definitely take a look at before planning your trip to the Greek Islands…

1. Decide Which Candidate to Choose

The Greek Islands offer a variety of faces. Deciding how you want your holiday to be plays a big role in choosing the right island. Santorini and Mykonos are popular with romantic honeymooners and nightlife enthusiasts. However, if you are looking for a quieter, more authentic and peaceful experience, you can check out lesser-known islands such as Simi, Leros and Kalymnos.

My suggestion would be this: If you are interested in cultural exploration and nature walks, give alternatives like Patmos or Nisyros a try. You will be away from the crowds and have the chance to get to know the local life better.

2. Check Visa Status in Advance

Some of the Greek Islands can be entered without a visa, but not all of them. For example, Turkish citizens can get a visa on arrival for islands such as Rhodes, Lesbos, Chios, Samos and Kos. This visa allows you to easily enter certain islands. The Greek Islands visa on arrival guide will answer all your questions on the subject.

If you plan to visit different islands or go to the mainland like Athens, you need to get a Schengen visa. Don't forget to check the current visa applications on consulate websites, especially before your trip.

3. How to Get to the Greek Islands?

There are several transportation alternatives for traveling to the Greek Islands. It is possible to reach these islands from Türkiye by ferry or plane.

Transportation by Ferry

Getting to the Greek Islands by ferry is quite easy, especially from coastal cities such as Izmir, Bodrum, Marmaris, Ayvalık and Kuşadası. Ferry services to the Greek Islands increase depending on the season. For example; you can find regular services from Ayvalık to Lesbos and from Kuşadası to Samos.

It is important to follow the Greek Islands ferry ticket prices on Bilet.com and buy them in advance, both in terms of finding a place and in terms of price advantage.

Transportation by Plane

It is also possible to find direct flights to some Greek islands via Istanbul and sometimes Izmir. However, it is generally more common to fly from Istanbul to Athens and then take a connecting flight or a Greek island ferry ticket to the islands.

4. Choose the Right Travel Season

You can visit the Greek Islands in any season, but it is important to choose the best time depending on what you are looking for.
  • Spring (April-June) : Nature is vibrant, weather is warm, crowds are few.
  • Summer (July-August) : Ideal for a seaside holiday, but crowded and prices are high.
  • Autumn (September-October) : The sea is still warm, a more peaceful atmosphere.
  • Winter (November–March) : Although not suitable for a seaside holiday, it offers a different atmosphere to experience local life, especially on the larger islands (such as Crete and Rhodes). No crowds, low prices, but some touristic businesses may be closed.
If you are looking for peace and quiet, you can choose late summer or spring. Especially in August, the islands can be quite crowded with tourists from all over Europe.

5. Research Accommodation Options

There are many different accommodation options on the Greek Islands. You can find a place that suits your style and budget among hotels, boutique guesthouses and rental apartments.

Prices can vary significantly depending on the season. Early booking is especially important in July and August. My suggestion is to choose a place with a view but not too far from the center. This way you will have a peaceful stay and easy access to restaurants and beaches.

6. Currency and Spending Plan

The euro is used in Greece. Credit cards are accepted in most places, but it is important to have cash in small businesses and seaside villages.

Daily expenses can vary between €40-70 per person on average. It may be advantageous to plan your spending during your holiday in advance and, if possible, obtain euros from Türkiye.

7. Internet and Phone Use

If your phone line is open for international roaming, you can use it by purchasing a package. However, if you use the internet frequently, it may be more economical to buy a local Greek SIM card.

Many hotels, restaurants and cafes offer free Wi-Fi, but for instant needs like using maps or translation apps, mobile data can be a great convenience.

8. Health and Travel Insurance

Emergency medical services in Greece are generally regular, but can be expensive for foreign tourists, so getting travel insurance is a good precaution for both your health and your wallet.

Also, if you are taking medication, don't forget to take your prescription medications with you. Although pharmacies are widespread, they may not have equivalents for every medication.

9. Eating and Drinking Habits

Greek cuisine is very close to Turkish cuisine. Be sure to try seafood, olive oil dishes, gyros, souvlaki, moussaka.

There are also plenty of options for vegetarians and vegans. Although tap water is drinkable on some islands, most travelers prefer bottled water.

10. Language and Communication

The official language is Greek, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. However, learning a few basic Greek words can be a nice gesture:
  • Kalimera (Good morning)
  • Efharis (Thank you)
  • Parakaló (Please)
These kinds of little words can make your communication with locals much warmer.

11. Transportation Options in the Greek Islands

There are several options for getting around the islands:
  • Car rental : Provides freedom but not mandatory on small islands.
  • Scooter/ATV : Fun and practical, especially for young travelers.
  • Public transport : Bus services are adequate on most islands.
  • Walking : Especially on small islands, it is possible to walk between the beaches and the center.
When preparing a Greek islands travel guide, researching the transportation structure of the island in advance will prevent surprises.

12. Cultural Differences

Greek people are very hospitable. However, there are some traditions that should be taken into consideration:
  • In restaurants, a tip is usually left at 5–10% of the bill.
  • When entering sacred places such as churches and monasteries, shoulders and knees should be covered.
  • It is especially important to get people's permission when taking photos.

13. Shopping and Gift Items

Local products are very original and of high quality. Especially:
  • Olive oil and soaps
  • Ceramic plates and bowls
  • Handmade lace, jewelry
  • Authentic spices and herbal teas
Although bargaining is not common, you can ask for small discounts when buying in bulk.

14. What You Need to Take With You

If you are traveling during the summer:
  • Sunscreen, hat, light clothing
  • Water shoes are especially useful for rocky beaches.
  • Electrical sockets are the same as in Türkiye, but in some places you may need an adapter.
  • If you are going around September-October, don't forget to take a thin cardigan as the evenings can be chilly.

15. Security Situation in the Greek Islands

In general, the Greek Islands are very safe places. However, I would recommend that you pay attention to your bags and wallets, especially in tourist areas.

It also offers a very comfortable environment for female travelers. Those who plan to travel alone can travel to these islands with peace of mind.