Greece – Hellenic Republic

 

Thesaloniki Greece Hellenic Republic visit Greece be in balkan

Be in Greece – Hellenic Republic

Balkans – where every mile gives you a smile! Balkans, the Crossroad of Civilisation

Welcome to Greece – The Cradle of Western Civilisation

A land where myth meets the Mediterranean, Greece is a country of gods and legends, marble temples and vibrant seaside villages. From the ancient ruins of Athens to the whitewashed houses of the Cyclades, the Hellenic Republic offers travelers a timeless escape. Whether you’re trekking Mount Olympus or watching the sunset in Santorini, Greece wraps history, beauty, and warmth into every moment.

To Be in Greece is to step into a world that shaped philosophy, democracy, and art. It’s a place of proud heritage, warm hospitality, and unforgettable cuisine. From mountain monasteries to island tavernas, the spirit of the Greek people makes every experience richer. Visit Greece, and discover how every corner carries stories and smiles.

Greece is incredibly accessible by air, sea, rail, and road. Major international airports like Athens (ATH), Thessaloniki (SKG), Heraklion (HER), and Rhodes (RHO) welcome visitors from around the globe. Ferries connect Italy and Turkey to Greece’s western and eastern ports, and inter-Balkan bus and rail services make it easy to travel to Greece overland.

Whether you visit Greece for its ancient ruins or sunny shores, you’ll find yourself stepping into the Balkans – where every mile gives you a smile.

To Be in Greece, most visitors from the EU, Schengen Zone, USA, UK, and many others do not need a visa for short stays. However, travelers should consult the nearest Greek embassy or consulate for up-to-date visa information.

Be in Balkan recommends checking passport validity and travel insurance requirements before your journey. Smooth entry begins with clear documentation – especially when visiting this historic crossroad of civilisation.

Greek cuisine is one of the most beloved and healthy in the world. Rooted in ancient tradition, it emphasizes fresh ingredients, olive oil, herbs, seafood, and grilled meats. While you travel to Greece, indulge in classics like moussaka, souvlaki, dolmades, and spanakopita.

As you explore Greece, you’ll find village tavernas offering home-cooked meals, and coastal towns serving grilled octopus and daily catch. Pair your meals with ouzo or local wine, and always save room for baklava or loukoumades. To Be in Greece is to eat like family, drink like friends, and celebrate like locals.

Greece has a well-developed healthcare system with public hospitals and private clinics in all major cities. Emergency services are efficient, and most doctors speak English, especially in tourist regions. While you visit Greece, you’ll have access to pharmacies and first aid wherever you go.

Pharmacies (“pharmakeío”) are widespread and well-stocked with both prescription and non-prescription medicine. Pharmacists are highly trained and often the first point of health advice. Be in Balkan ensures travelers are informed, protected, and guided throughout their trip to Greece.

Greek is the official language and one of the oldest living languages in the world. It shaped much of modern Western vocabulary, especially in science, art, and philosophy. While in Greece, you’ll hear the melodic rhythm of a language that dates back over 3,000 years.

Today’s Greek uses a unique alphabet and is spoken with pride by locals. While English is widely understood in urban and tourist areas, learning a few Greek phrases enhances the experience. When you Be in Greece, language becomes a bridge to deeper understanding and connection.

Dining in Greece is a social affair. From sea-view tavernas to lively urban meze bars, meals are meant to be shared and savored. Traditional restaurants serve fresh, seasonal, and local ingredients. Whether you’re tasting grilled lamb, stuffed peppers, or freshly baked bread, every meal reflects Greece’s rich heritage.

When you visit Greece, don’t rush your dining experience – Greek hospitality is about enjoying life slowly. In big cities like Athens and Thessaloniki, you’ll find everything from upscale dining to street souvlaki. Be in Greece, and you’ll never leave the table hungry – or without new friends.

Greece offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury resorts on the islands to charming boutique hotels in historic towns. Whether you’re after beachside bungalows or mountain guesthouses, there’s something for every traveler.

Be in Balkan partners with handpicked accommodations to provide convenience, comfort, and cultural charm throughout your trip to Greece. Whether you’re island-hopping or exploring the mainland, we ensure your lodging meets your style and expectations while you Be in Greece.

Greece is one vast museum, but its curated institutions are among the best in the world. The Acropolis Museum and the National Archaeological Museum in Athens are must-visits. In Thessaloniki, the Museum of Byzantine Culture showcases Greece’s Christian heritage.

Beyond the big cities, local museums offer insights into folklore, maritime life, and ancient settlements. From Delphi to Knossos, Greece’s museums connect the past to the present. Explore them while you Be in Greece, and see why this land is the eternal crossroad of civilisation.

Greece comes alive after dark. In Athens, rooftop bars, open-air cinemas, and live music venues light up the city. Gazi and Psiri are the epicenters of the capital’s vibrant nightlife. Visit Greece, and you’ll find an urban nightlife culture that’s young, energetic, and open late.

Thessaloniki, the country’s second city, is known for its café culture by day and spirited bar scene by night. The Ladadika and Valaoritou districts host wine bars, jazz spots, and dance clubs. Thessaloniki is the beating heart of northern Greece’s social life.

In Mykonos, Santorini, and Crete, the island nightlife is legendary. Whether it’s beach clubs at sunrise or romantic evenings under the stars, Greece’s islands know how to party. Be in Greece, and let every sunset lead you into a night of celebration.

Greece uses 230V electricity and Type C and F plugs (European standard). Mobile coverage is excellent, and internet is widely available in hotels, cafes, and public spaces. Providers like Cosmote, Vodafone, and WIND offer affordable SIM card options for tourists.

Postal services are reliable, and public services like banks, taxis, and local transport are generally well-run. While you visit Greece, Be in Balkan supports you with practical tips and on-the-ground help to make your journey seamless.

Greece uses the Euro (EUR), part of the Eurozone. Card payments are widely accepted, though carrying some cash for rural areas or small vendors is recommended. ATMs are abundant in cities and towns.

Top banks include National Bank of Greece, Piraeus Bank, Eurobank, Alpha Bank, and Attica Bank. They offer secure and internationally compatible services. Whether you’re a tourist or business traveler, you’ll find everything you need for smooth financial transactions during your trip to Greece.

In an emergency or a confusing moment during your trip to Greece, these numbers can help:

  • Emergency (All services): 112
  • Tourist Police: +30 210 322 2230
  • Medical Help: 166
  • Ambulance: 166
  • Pharmacy Hotline: 14944

Be in Balkan always provides backup assistance and local knowledge to keep your travel safe and easy.

Greece operates on Eastern European Time (EET, UTC+2) and observes Daylight Saving Time, switching to Eastern European Summer Time (EEST, UTC+3) from late March to late October.

When you visit Greece, be aware of the time change if you’re traveling from or to countries that don’t adjust. Be in Greece, and enjoy longer sunny evenings during the summer, perfect for al fresco dining and seaside strolls.

Public Holidays (2025)

Date Holiday
Jan 1 (Wed) New Year’s Day
Jan 6 (Mon) Epiphany
Mar 3 (Mon) Clean Monday (Lent begins)
Mar 25 (Tue) Greek Independence Day & Annunciation
Apr 18 (Fri) Orthodox Good Friday
Apr 20 (Sun) Orthodox Easter Sunday
Apr 21 (Mon) Orthodox Easter Monday
May 1 (Thu) Labour Day
Jun 8 (Sun) Pentecost
Jun 9 (Mon) Holy Spirit Monday
Aug 15 (Fri) Assumption of the Virgin Mary
Oct 28 (Tue) Ohi Day (National No Day)
Dec 25 (Thu) Christmas Day
Dec 26 (Fri) Synaxis of the Mother of God