Planning a Trip

Greece remains one of the world's oldest and premier destinations for travelers, and a visit there should be an occasion for sheer enjoyment -- even exultation. But as with any destination, the ease, comfort, and pleasure of your time in Greece will be greatly improved with some planning ahead. In fact, Greece doesn't require all that much in the way of specialized preparations. A valid passport is the only document required -- and E.U. citizens don't even need that. Oh yes, and to be extra cautious, if you are planning to rent a car, you probably should get an International Driver's License from your national automobile association; although most car-rental agencies do not seem to require them, some might. We also remind everyone that a valid credit card is now essentially absolutely required to rent a car in Greece.

Another thing: If you are planning to visit Greece during the peak season -- from July through August, and even from mid-May to mid-September -- you are advised to make reservations for transportation, hotels, and even major cultural events well in advance.

Museum & Site Hours Update -- It's always a good idea in Greece to double-check the official hours that museums and sites are open. Unfortunately, the opening hours posted at sites and listed at the tourist office often vary considerably. Most major attractions plan to be open 8am to 7pm in summer, and from 8am to 3pm in winter. That said, many open at midday on most Mondays, and some keep irregular hours and are often closed a day a week in winter. Head immediately for what you most want to see: What's open today may be closed tomorrow, as staff strikes often close attractions without warning. I speak from painful (and repeated) experience.