10 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Traveling to the Greek Islands

Editor’s Note: Travel might be complicated right now, but use our inspirational trip ideas to plan ahead for your next bucket list adventure.

Some 32 million foreigners traveled to Greece in 2018, up from about 15 million in 2010, according to the Greek National Tourism Organization. Many visitors flocked to the nation’s stunning islands dotting the Mediterranean Sea.

Need proof? Just look at Instagram. On the platform, you’ll find more than two million posts with the hashtag #GreekIslands. If the thought of all those people heading to Greece and sharing their island journeys has you feeling a little envious, then it’s time to start planning your own Greek island vacation.

However, there are some essential considerations before you go. It’s easy to get lost in the haze of Instagram posts, Pinterest guides, and the very idea of sipping ouzo on a white-sand beach, forgetting the planning process altogether. To help you on your travels, we’ve compiled 10 common mistakes to avoid on any trip to the Greek islands, whether it’s your first or fifth time visiting.

1. Picking the Wrong Island for Your Desired Vacation Vibe

Though you may already be familiar with places like Santorini and Mykonos, it’s important to think outside the box when planning a Greek island vacation. The Greek archipelago comprises more than 6,000 islands, and each comes with its own distinct flavor.

• If you’re looking for a super-relaxing getaway, consider Milos. Located just a 45-minute flight from Athens, it has only a few thousand residents and provides ample coastline for visitors to unwind.
• For something in between, look to Paros. Here, travelers can rent a car or ATV to explore quiet, remote areas, or enjoy the lively town of Naousa.
• If a vibrant party scene is what you seek, then Ios is the place to be, nestled between Naxos and Santorini, offering great nightlife and a unique vacation experience.

2. Mismanaging Your Transportation Between Islands

Planning a visit to multiple islands requires careful coordination. On a world map, the islands may appear much closer than they are in reality. Traveling from Athens to Mykonos can take about five hours by ferry, yet only 40 minutes by plane.

However, frequent flights can become burdensome if you’re looking to hop from one island to another, as many flights require travelers to return to Athens before heading to another destination. Therefore, when planning, consider the time needed for transportation and determine whether to travel by plane or ferry. It might also be beneficial to stick to a specific island group, such as the Cyclades, Dodecanese, or Ionian Islands.

3. Underestimating the Difficult Driving Conditions

The Greek islands have thousands of years of human habitation, leading to roadways built long before cars existed. Before hiring a car for each island, check Google Maps to understand the road conditions. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider renting an ATV, as they are well-suited for navigating the rugged terrain of the islands.

4. Flushing Toilet Paper

Never flush toilet paper, feminine products, or anything besides human waste down the toilet on any Greek island. This action can create significant issues within the delicate plumbing systems there. As explained by World Nomads, Greek sewage pipes are about two inches in diameter, which is considerably smaller than American or British plumbing, making clogs or ruptures a genuine concern. Instead, use the bins provided next to each toilet for disposal.

5. Bringing the Wrong Footwear

While you may want to look stylish on vacation, the Greek islands are not ideal for wearing stilettos or new leather loafers. Most streets are dirt, cobblestone, or only lightly paved. Instead, prioritize comfort with sensible footwear like sneakers, which can be both stylish and functional.

6. Packing Too Much

The breathtaking landscapes and rugged terrains of the Greek islands can make lugging heavy bags cumbersome, especially since many hotels may require walking up inclines or stairs. Therefore, packing light is advisable. Bringing a carry-on can facilitate seamless travels between islands. Fortunately, temperatures rarely dip below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, even in winter, so heavy jackets are usually unnecessary.

7. Overlooking the Smaller Islands

While Santorini, Corfu, and Crete are renowned tourist destinations for good reason, incorporating lesser-known islands into your itinerary offers unique experiences. Consider visiting Milos or Paros, both of which often appear on iBestTravel’s best-of lists, as well as Symi. With fewer than 2,500 residents, Symi features colorful homes along the coast and boasts historic sites like the 18th-century monastery of the Archangel Michael Panormitis.

8. Skipping the Local Coffee Shops

The Greeks excel at iced coffee, particularly the frappe—a refreshing drink made from instant coffee blended with ice. Additionally, the Freddo espresso is becoming quite popular, featuring a shot of hot espresso blended with ice for a creamy, delicious beverage. Make sure to explore local coffee shops during your trip, as they also offer delectable pastries like baklava and koulourakia cookies.

9. Never Leaving the Hotel for Food

While many hotels in Greece serve excellent food, dining in Greece is about more than just the meal. The outdoor seating and marvelous sunsets create a vibrant dining atmosphere. Exploring local eateries can enhance your experience as you savor fresh seafood and enjoy the lively ambiance that characterizes Greek culture.

10. Treating Athens as Just a Layover

Yes, you will need to return to Athens between islands; however, don’t just limit your visit to the airport or ferry docks. Allocate at least a day to explore one of the world’s oldest cities. Athens is rich with history, cultural attractions, and a vibrant food scene. Skimming the surface would mean missing a truly enriching experience. If you’re unsure about what to do in the city, be sure to check out cultural guides and itineraries to help you navigate this fascinating destination.