Planning Your Greek Escape: Essential Tips for UK Travellers

Planning Your Greek Escape: Essential Tips for UK Travellers

April 18, 2024

Greece is one of the favourite travel destinations of holidaymakers from the UK. The charming country boasts sun-drenched islands, beautiful ancient ruins and mouthwatering cuisine perfect for UK travelers. The best way to experience all these incredible attractions is to have a Greece Visa from UK. But, that’s not the only thing you should know. So, here is a detailed guide that will help UK travellers with some important tips for your Greece trip.

12 Greece Trip Tips for UK Travellers with Greece Visa from UK

12 Greece Trip Tips for UK Travellers with Greece Visa from UK

1). The Best Time to Visit Greece with Greece Tourist Visa

For any holidaymaker, the best time to visit usually depends on your preferences & experiences you want to have. With that being said, the peak tourist season in Greece falls between May to October. And Greece gets the busiest during July & August.

But, if you don’t like crowds and want lower prices too, then you should visit during the shoulder seasons:

  • Spring – April to May
  • Autumn – September to October

The weather is generally pleasant during these seasons and you can have a more authentic and relaxing Greece getaway. However, if you don’t mind the crowds and love a lively summer atmosphere, then the peak summer season is the best time to visit.

2). Do UK Travellers Need a Greece Visa from UK?

If you are a UK resident holding a passport from a different country that mandates a Greece visa, then you will apply for the visa. You can apply for a single entry or a multiple entry Greece visa as per your travel needs. However, if you are a UK citizen holding a valid passport then you don’t need to get a Greece visa UK.

3). How to Apply for Greece Visa from UK? 

Applying for a Greece visa is super easy. Here are some simple steps that you can follow to seamlessly apply online Greece visa:

  1. Fill out a simple Greece visa Application form online and pay a nominal fee to get your appointment booked.
  2. A Greece visa specialist will understand your travel requirements and book a Greece visa appointment for you.
  3. On the day of the appointment, visit the visa centre with all the documents for biometrics
  4. Once your Greece tourist visa is confirmed, you will receive it along with your passport securely via post.

Now, you are all set to head over to the beguiling Greece for an exciting vacation!

4). Documents Needed for Greece Visa From UK

The standard Greece visa requirements for UK residents include:

  • A valid passport with at least 3 months of validity
  • UK Residency Permit
  • Passport-size photographs
  • Travel medical insurance with a minimum coverage of €30,000
  • Proof of accommodation (e.g., hotel booking, rental agreement)
  • Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay
  • Proof of Transport (flight tickets or any alternative arrangements)
  • A Cover Letter

Apart from these, you may need to submit any additional documents. So, be ready to do that if in case you are requested to do so.

5). Cost of Greece visa for UK Citizens You Should Know

The Greece visa fee for UK residents is around £231. This fee includes the consulate fee, services charges and handling charges. This fee applies to both single-entry and multiple entry Greece Tourist Visa. Apart from these, you can also apply for a Transit visa, Business visa or Spouse Visa. The fee for these visas is also £231. 

6) Greek Island Recommendations for UK tourists

Greece is home to countless picturesque islands, each with its own unique charm and appeal. Some top Greek island recommendations for UK tourists include:

  • Santorini: It’s an iconic, Instagram-worthy island with white-washed buildings, stunning sunsets, and dramatic cliffs.
  • Mykonos: A lively, cosmopolitan island famous for its vibrant nightlife, chic beaches, and whitewashed charm.
  • Crete: The largest Greek island, offering a diverse landscape, rich history, and delectable local cuisine.
  • Corfu: A verdant, Venetian-influenced island with beautiful beaches, old towns, and lush, mountainous interior.
  • Naxos: A more laid-back, authentic island with stunning beaches, traditional villages, and ancient ruins.

So, what are you waiting for? Book your Greek visa appointment today to go on a fascinating vacation!

7) Cultural Etiquette Tips to Know Before Getting Greece Visa from UK

When visiting Greece as a UK traveller, it’s important to be mindful of the local customs and cultural etiquette to ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience. Here are a few tips:

  • Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
  • Always greet locals with a “Yia sou” (hello) and a smile.
  • Be patient and flexible, as the pace of life in Greece is often slower than in the UK.
  • Avoid public displays of affection, as they may be seen as inappropriate.

8) Greek Language Basics for UK tourists

Usually, many Greeks, especially in tourist areas, speak English. However, it’s always helpful to learn a few basic Greek words and phrases to enhance your interactions with the locals. Some useful Greek language basics for UK tourists include:

  • Hello: Yia sou
  • Thank you: Efcharistó
  • Please: Parakaló
  • Yes: Ne
  • No: Óchi
  • How much?: Póso kostízi?

Making the effort to use a few Greek words and phrases will be greatly appreciated by the locals. It will also help you have a more authentic and immersive experience in Greece. 

9) Diverse Stays to Stay in After Getting a Greece Visa from UK

Diverse Stays to Stay in After Getting a Greece Visa from UK

Greece offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit various budgets. These range from luxurious hotels to charming, budget-friendly hostels and vacation rentals. For UK travellers looking for affordable accommodations, consider:

  • Hostels: Greece has a thriving hostel scene, particularly in popular tourist hubs, offering dorm-style rooms at very reasonable prices.
  • Vacation rentals: Sites like Airbnb and Vrbo offer a variety of apartments, villas, and studios, often more cost-effective than hotels.
  • Small, family-run hotels: These boutique-style accommodations provide a more authentic, local experience at a lower cost.
  • Camping: Greece has numerous well-equipped campsites, especially on the islands, perfect for budget-conscious travellers.

So, choose a stay that matches your preferences and apply for Greece visa to ensure a hassle-free trip.

10) Public Transportation Guide for UK tourists in Greece

Getting around Greece is relatively easy, with a well-developed public transportation network. With a Greece Visa from UK, you can take advantage of the following options:

  • Metro: Available in major cities like Athens, the metro system is an efficient and affordable way to navigate urban areas.
  • Buses: Greece has an extensive bus network, connecting cities, towns, and even remote areas. Intercity buses are a budget-friendly option too.
  • Ferries: For island-hopping, ferries are the primary mode of transportation. Book tickets in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Taxis: Taxis are widely available, but can be more expensive than other public transport options.
  • Rental cars: Renting a car offers the ultimate flexibility, but be prepared for narrow, winding roads and aggressive driving.

With so many transport options to choose from, you’re all set for a riveting holiday in Greece. Applied for a Greece visa online yet? Do it now to enjoy a memorable experience in Greece!

11) Top Attractions in Greece for UK visitors

Greece is home to a wealth of iconic attractions and UNESCO World Heritage sites that should be on every UK traveller’s list. Some must-see highlights include:

  • The Acropolis of Athens and the Acropolis Museum
  • The ancient ruins of Delphi, Olympia, and Epidaurus
  • The stunning monasteries of Meteora
  • The charming, whitewashed villages of the Greek islands
  • The world-famous sunsets of Santorini
  • The vibrant, cosmopolitan city of Thessaloniki

Don’t wait anymore! Apply for a Greece Visa from UK today to get started on your Greek vacation!

12) Greek Cuisine Guide for UK travellers

Greek cuisine is renowned for its fresh, flavorful, and healthy ingredients. As a UK traveller, you’ll have the opportunity to indulge in a range of delectable local dishes, such as:

  • Moussaka: A classic baked dish made with eggplant, ground meat, and a creamy béchamel sauce.
  • Souvlaki: Skewers of grilled meat, often served with pita bread, tomatoes, and tzatziki sauce.
  • Feta and Greek salad: A simple yet flavourful salad made with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and feta cheese.
  • Spanakopita: A savoury pie filled with spinach, feta, and herbs, encased in flaky phyllo dough.
  • Baklava: A decadent, flaky pastry layered with nuts and soaked in a sweet syrup.

Read More About Portugal : Portugal Visa from UK| Online Application & Requirements

Conclusion

Planning a trip to Greece as a UK traveller is an exciting prospect. But it’s important to have the right information and tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. From breezing through the Greece visa from UK process to discovering the local culture and cuisine, this comprehensive guide has you covered. With the right preparation, you’ll be well on your way to an unforgettable Greek escape.

FAQs

What is the best time of year for UK travellers to visit Greece?

The best time to visit Greece from the UK is generally considered to be during the shoulder seasons of spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October). These periods offer more moderate temperatures, smaller crowds, and lower prices compared to the peak summer months.

How long does it take to get a Greece visa from the UK?

The processing time for a Greece visa from the UK typically takes 10-15 days. However, it’s recommended to apply for your visa well in advance to ensure a hassle-free visa experience.

What are the most affordable accommodation options for UK travellers in Greece?

For UK travellers looking for budget-friendly accommodations in Greece, some of the best options include hostels, vacation rentals, small family-run hotels, and campsites, especially on the Greek islands.

What are the top attractions in Greece that UK visitors should not miss?

Some of the must-see attractions for UK tourists in Greece include the Acropolis of Athens, the ancient ruins of Delphi and Olympia, the stunning monasteries of Meteora, the charming Greek islands, and the vibrant city of Thessaloniki.

What are some essential Greek language phrases UK travellers should know?

Some useful Greek language basics for UK travellers include “hello” (Yia sou), “thank you” (Efcharistó), “please” (Parakaló), “yes” (Ne), and “no” (Óchi). Learning a few simple phrases can go a long way in enhancing your interactions with the locals.