Greece has it all — and with more than 320 sunny days per year, this country is the ultimate destination. Known for its exotic islands and mainlands, bright blue water and white stone, modern and ancient architecture, and bustling cities and laid-back countryside, Greece is an easy country to venture to and a difficult one to leave. That said, it can also be difficult to know what to pack for Greece!
Whether you’re looking for love, celebrating a special milestone, or enjoying a solo trip, we have curated the ultimate packing list that will provide you with a seamless and stylish romantic Greek getaway (no matter the time of year!).
Summer
If you’re heading to Greece during the summer, you will most definitely be spending some time in the crystal clear Mediterranean waters — so, you’ll certainly want to take with you an underwater waterproof camera to document your aqua activities. This will also prevent you from getting your nice DSLR camera wet or sandy.
For the beach, you’ll also want a hat to help cover your face up from the strong rays you’ll be exposed to. Girls, pack some breezy summer maxi dresses that you’ll be comfortable in as you lounge on your balcony, soaking in the views, or walk around the city. White is a popular color of choice, along with a range of bright colors as well. Another necessity includes a sturdy and comfortable pair of sandals that can take you from the sandy beaches to coastal sidewalks. Rainbow leather sandals are a great, reliable brand that won’t break the budget.
If the island of Mykonos is on your itinerary, make sure to have beach and nightlife outfits lined up, as this is what the island is most known for. For the perfect beach-to-bar, look pack some crop tops that can highlight your bathing suit underneath. Pair these tops with some high-waisted shorts or skirts, and you’ll be ready to party from dawn until dusk. And there’s no need to pack your stilettos — flat sandals are both acceptable and practical. If you can’t go without your extra few inches, a pair of wedges would be the most suitable alternative.
Winter
If you’re planning on visiting Greece sometime between November and March, look out for their winter weather with average temperatures ranging between 48-58 F. You’ll want a few pairs of comfortable jeans that can serve as a versatile item for your day-to-night outfit looks. It is highly unlikely you’ll be comfortable walking around in the streets without a jacket in these winter temperatures. If you have the space in your luggage, pack one casual jacket for sightseeing during the day and one that’s more elegant if you’re planning on going out at night. You can leave your dresses and skirts at home, except for maybe one or two for a fancy dinner or a night out clubbing.
If you’re planning on skiing in Greece, you will need to adjust your packing a bit more. Appropriate skiing clothing involves lots of layers, including a fleece jacket and ski pants, along with a hat and pair of gloves. Your skiing equipment — such as skis, poles, and boots — can all be rented on property.
Year-round Necessities
It’s encouraged that you pack lightly for your Greece travels, as many streets are sloped and made up of uneven stone. (Always leave some room for souvenirs on the way back as well!) Packing cubes are a great option to keep your luggage compact and organized — no more digging around for that one tank top you just have to wear in Greece right away.
If you’re planning on charging your electronics during your time in Greece, you are going to want to invest in a power adapter. The most common outlets in Greece include Type C, E, and F, which aligns with most of continental Europe.
No one enjoys running out of battery when on the go. A portable USB charger block might be your saving grace, especially if you need to look up the directions back to your hotel or snap a few more shots of your vacation.
As not all accommodations provide towels, having your own personal quick-dry travel towel can be a handy item to bring along with you.
Since you’ll be spending a ton of time outdoors, it’s recommended that you invest in a reliable pair of sunglasses that come with adequate UV protection. With that being said, don’t forget your sunscreen with a high SPF! Stay hydrated in the heat with your reusable water bottle. (Stainless steel ones are always a great option as they are well insulated and can keep your beverages cool against the Greece heat.) No matter the time of year, it's always a good idea to have an umbrella nearby while in Greece. Rain showers are common year-round, though they’re usually brief. Mosquitoes can also be a huge nuisance depending on the area of Greece you are visiting. Insect repellent and a travel-sized tube of anti-itch cream are always great things to have on hand.
As always, never travel without your handy passport (and a couple of copies of it), and always double-check your country’s visa requirements long before entry. U.S. citizens are currently allowed to enter and exit Greece freely but may be asked to show proof of their return ticket and sufficient funds during their time of travel. ATMs are the most efficient way to obtain cash while in Greece, but most Greek banks charge very high transaction fees, so you may want to exchange some euros before your travels. A money belt is a great way to hold onto your credit card, cash and important documents in a safe way. And since you’ll most likely be taking a red-eye international flight to or from Greece, a comfy neck pillow can prevent you from losing an entire night of sleep.
With more than 6,000 Greek islands to discover and over 3,000 years of history to explore, you’d better start packing for your upcoming trip to Greece! Let Acanela plan your perfect getaway today.
Post written by: Kirsten Cusack, @kirqsak