greek tourist food

30 traditional Greek foods you need to try when in Greece

• Greek cuisine

More and more travellers choose Greece as their destination, and our local cuisine is usually one of the main reasons behind their choice. While planning your trip, it’s essential to know what to order at a Greek restaurant, so that you don’t miss out on any of the local flavours.

To help you, we’ve rounded up some of the must-try foods to taste in Greece, many of them already featured in our Athens food tours . Enjoy 10% off with promo code ATHENSFOODTOUR

Greek cuisine – Traditional Greek food

Greek food is based on the staples of the Mediterranean diet according to the values of our ancient cookery; seasonal and fresh raw ingredients cooked in perfection to create light, balanced and clean tastes. Later on, our Greek culinary culture became more sophisticated as part of the Byzantine and the Ottoman Empire, receiving many influences on the crossroads where the East and the West meet.

1. Briam (Mixed roasted vegetables)

This typical Greek summer dish could be described as the Greek ratatouille or the Greek caponata. It’s one of the easiest Greek vegan recipes, made with whatever is available in the farmers’ market or at one’s garden.

Although now considered a classic Greek dish, its ingredients became members of the Greek kitchen relatively recently: Eggplants came to the Mediterranean from Asia through Arab merchants in the early Middle Ages, while zucchini, tomatoes, peppers and potatoes came after the discovery of the New World. 

It’s other name is turlu (Turkish for mixed), while locally you will find it in Ikaria as “soufiko” and as “sympetherio” on Crete – meaning in Greek “in-laws”, as many of the vegetables belong to the same family.

Most probably its name comes from the Persian word “beryan” that means cooked (same root as the Indian dish biryani).

Needless to say, this dish is loaded with an irresistible saucy goodness to scoop up with your bread after.

“Ladera” (cooked in extra virgin olive oil) are the perfect meal for vegans, a staple on our Athens vegan food tour where you can enjoy local recipes with a plant-based approach.

2. Keftedes

Greek meatballs are everybody’s favourite Greek traditional food, whether it’s on a meze platter at a kids party or at a friends & family gathering at a Greek taverna.

The name comes from Persia, where “kufte” -meaning ground meat- travelled all around the Middle East, Turkey and the Balkans. One of its forerunners in ancient Greece was called “myma”, made with minced meat or fish combined with many herbs and spices. 

Each home has its own recipe but usually pork is mixed with beef, onions, stale bread, eggs and parsley. Different variations call for spearmint, ouzo and even feta filling!

In Turkey and the Balkan countries it is estimated that there are more than 400 different ways of making “kefte”, two of them are the most beloved Greek dishes; “soutzoukakia” (see below) and “youvarlakia”, a Greek meatballs soup with rice in rich egg-lemon sauce, our absolute winter comfort food!

In Greece, keftedes are not made with meat only. In every region, there are numerous plant-based keftedes, like Santorini’s tomatokeftedes (Greek tomato fritters), kolokythokeftedes (zucchini fritters) and favokeftedes (made with fava – yellow split peas). 

One thing is for sure, keftedes are the perfect companion to any Greek drink, whether its ouzo, wine, beer or tsipouro.

Save 10% when you book online with promo code ATHENSFOODTOUR for any of our tours.

3. Soutzoukakia (Izmir kofte)

Soutzouki is a Greek veal sausage, air-dried in the form of a horse-shoe, mixed with different spices, where cumin prevails. Soutzouki is ready to be eaten in thin slices, but it releases its aromas better when cooked, on top of pizza, in pasta sauces, or in a pan with eggs (like a shakshuka). Could be considered as our version of pepperoni or chorizo.

Originally from Cappadocia, where the consumption of fresh meat was considered a luxury. All households needed to cure meat (just like pastourma and kavourma) to spend the winter. They would mix the leftovers of veal & sheep’s meat, mince them, mix them with cumin, garlic, salt and pepper, stuff them into animal casings and dry them in the sun. 

In Izmir, on the other hand, fresh meat was plenty, so they invented “soutzoukakia”. These were meatballs with the same kind of meat and spices, made in an oblong shape to resemble soutzouki, their inspiration. Now a favourite to every Greek table, they are served with a deliciously rich tomato sauce on top. 

Are you wondering what kind of Greek wine would pair perfectly with Soutzoukakia? That’s Xinomavro wine!

Interested in more? More than 200 indigenous varieties of Greek wine wait to be discovered by you. Come with us on our wine tasting tour here !

Stifado is a Greek stew dish brought to Greece by Venetians in the 13th century. The word comes from “stufato,” which means steamed, from “estufare”, which derives from the Greek ancient term “tyfos”, meaning steam. Another version is that it comes from the Italian word “stufa”, a small oven attached to the fireplace, where food is slow-cooked in a sealed cooking vessel.

Stifado can be made with all sorts of meat, rabbit and beef being the most common, although the most interesting variations are the ones with octopus and our delicious vegan stifado version, with mushrooms and chestnuts.

The secret to create a melt-in-the-mouth dish is to simmer the meat with pearl onions, tomato*, wine or vinegar, and sweet spices, like cinnamon and clove. This way it becomes “loukoumi”, as we say – sweet and tender as our traditional soft candy. 

*Original recipes did not include tomatoes as they were not introduced to Greece before 1818.

5. Souvlaki

Our most popular Greek street food consists of small pieces of meat grilled on a skewer. Souvlaki can be eaten straight off the skewer, wrapped in pita, or on a plate as a sit-down meal with tzatziki, fries and vegetables on the side. Traditionally it is made from pork or chicken, although beef, lamb and vegetarian versions can be found. Its name comes from “souvla”, meaning spit, and the diminutive suffix “-aki”, therefore the small spit = the skewer. 

Apparently meat on the spit has always been a common cooking method for Greeks that lasts till our days. Excavations in Santorini revealed a clay barbeque in the form of dogs that was likely used for holding skewers 3,700 years ago!

Do you wanna taste the best souvlaki in Athens and more? Join our street food tour and dig into our small bites of heaven while discovering the foodiest districts of the city!

6. Tzatziki

Creamy, tangy and spicy, tzatziki is the cool king of Greek summer and the most traditional greek food. Known mainly as the main souvlaki sauce, tzatziki is not only that. This versatile cucumber – garlic dip accompanies every meze on our table, whether it’s meat, like keftedes, vegetarian, like dolmades or simply bread or paximadia (Greek rusks).   

Tzatziki is based of course on Greek yogurt, known to Greeks since ancient times by the name “oxygalo”, acid milk. Υogurt was popularised by the Turks during Ottoman times. Before they settled down in our area, Turkish nomadic tribes made yogurt as a food suitable to travel and last longer. In Turkey (cacik) and Bulgaria (tarator) are also served as cold and refreshing summer soups.

Learn all the useful tips to make the best tzatziki and impress your friends while taking part in our cooking class !

7. Taramosalata (Greek fish roe dip)

Definitely a delightful appetiser of traditional Greek food to look for during your visit at a Greek fish taverna. Taramosalata is a Greek dip made from preserved fish roe (tarama) of carp, cod or mullet. If you find yourself at a Greek specialty store, don’t be tricked by its enticing pink colour. The original, good quality tarama must always be white! Food colouring was a way food stores invented in the ‘50s to attract more customers. It has worked till now, but at least you know the real deal! 

Mixed with bread or potatoes, with almonds or walnuts, every home has its own taramosalata recipe, along with a strong opinion on how exactly it should be made. Nowadays, in more sophisticated restaurants, you will find it as tarama mousse without its starch base. 

Taramosalata spread on “lagana”, our traditional flatbread, is the indisputable star of our “Clean Monday” tables. Our first day of the Great Lent is celebrated with seafood and shellfish, after days of excessive meat feasts during Carnival season. 

8. Melitzanosalata (Greek eggplant dip)

Αlthough unfamiliar to ancient Greeks, eggplants managed to make their way to the Mediterranean through the Arab merchants in the 7th and 8th c. Associated both with many diseases and cures, eggplants were referred to as “mala insana” (mad apple), therefore their Greek name “melitzana”, thought to cause madness to whoever ate it, as well as “poma amoris” (love apple) stressing its aphrodisiac properties, “people who eat love apples are receptive to flirtation.” 

After they finally got accepted by people, they found numerous ways to enter our kitchens and be part of the traditional Greek food. 

Melitzanosalata is one of them, a dip made with roasted aubergines -who give its irresistible smoky aroma-, olive oil, vinegar (or lemon), garlic and parsley.

One of its most delectable recipes is “agioritiki” from Mount Athos, made with smoked red Florina peppers and optionally walnuts.

A perfect meze for your ouzo or tsipouro, and even more, a delicious Greek vegan appetiser – just keep in mind that sometimes Greek yogurt might be added in it, or mayo, so always double check with the chef. 

A common mistake in every Greek restaurant menu translated as fava beans. Fava, or else yellow split peas, have been cultivated in Greece already for the last 3500 years! At least, this is what excavations revealed on Santorini, where the plant “lathouri” is one of the few crops that could thrive on the island’s unfriendly, volcanic soil. 

In 2010, the unique heritage of “Fava Santorinis” was recognised by the European Union when the product was awarded the status of a protected designation of origin (PDO).

Slow cooked till mashed, fava looks like a bright yellow hummus, which when served with lemon, olive oil, onions and parsley, is called “married”.  With any fava left, Greeks make delicious vegan keftedes, fried fava patties, called “favokeftedes”. 

10. Chickpeas

One of the most popular dishes of the Greek islands, -as it can easily grow on their arid soil-, chickpeas are nowhere praised as much as in Sifnos island. “Revithada”, is Sifnos’ beloved chickpeas stew, eaten as the family’s Sunday’s lunch. Traditionally it is prepared in a clay pot -“skepastaria”, with its lid covered with dough, and taken every Saturday night to the village’s bakery to be cooked slowly overnight in its wood-burning oven.

Coming back from church on Sunday, the island’s homecooks take back their pots to serve their family with a delicious meal, while they find time to relax for the rest of the day. On the island’s feasts – “panigyria”, chickpeas are cooked in large cauldrons to celebrate and share the offerings with the participants. 

Roasted chickpeas are offered also as a snack of traditional Greek food with our drinks, a tradition that started during ancient Greece’s “symposia”, when their attendees had them as “tragimata” = bites for their wine and continued being sold by street vendors in the Byzantine capital of Constantinople.  

This “poor man’s meat” is our superfood full of proteins and nutrients, and can easily substitute minced meat for a vegetarian moussaka , turned into a hearty Greek vegan soup with “delbie”, a thick cream of lemon and flour or enjoyed as a light but satisfying salad, combined with summer vegetables and lots of olive oil. 

11. Sardines

A staple of the Greek diet since ancient times, sardines were always considered the superfood of the poor. Despite their humble origins, sardines are very nutritious, loaded with high omega-3 fats, proteins and vitamins. 

Every summer, sardine festivals are celebrated all around Greece as it’s a traditional Greek food, when season offers copious amounts of this small, beloved fish prepared in various recipes, like the “married” ones = stuffed with garlic and parsley or on the grill wrapped in vine leaves. 

Ouzo is considered the signature drink of the island of Lesvos, and the best treat to pair your aniseed-flavoured drink is “papalina”, the local sardines of Kalloni Gulf, which will soon be the first sea product to receive PDO certification. The island’s fishermen catch them fresh daily, they wrap them in paper with coarse salt, and in just a few hours they prepare a sensational Greek fish meze that can beat the best sushi in the world! 

12. Calamari

Along with octopus, calamari is the main staple of every Greek fish taverna that offers us idyllic moments by the seaside chatting and drinking ouzo. 

Calamari is usually sliced up and batter fried, served simply with our Greek addiction – lemon. Fresh grilled calamari needs skilled hands that will leave it juicy and tender, dressed only with lemon-olive oil and oregano. Stuffed calamari is poetry on a plate. Common fillings include feta cheese, tomato and peppers, whereas other recipes call for rice or bulgur wheat. 

Modern Greek restaurants get more creative with it, serving on their menus black risotto with the squid’s ink or “kritharoto” with Greek ouzo, flavoured with mastiha liqueur, even flavoured with the lesser known and cheaper “thrapsalo”, our short fin squid. 

13. Greek salad

A feast of flavours and colours, Greek salad is the way to enjoy our favourite summer vegetables – tomato, cucumber and peppers- when they are in full bloom! Make sure you taste it drizzled with the finest olive oil to bring the best out of it, along with its briny sisters: Kalamata olives and feta. Variations around Greece are endless: capers and sea fennel on Santorini, xinomyzithra (sour ricotta like cheese) on Crete, colourful cherry tomatoes in modern local restaurants.

In Greece we obviously don’t call it Greek, but “horiatiki” which translates to village salad. No Greek village is its birthplace, but a city. The story has it that our national salad was invented by restaurant owners in Athens who wanted to charge customers more during the rise of tourism in Greece and create the traditional Greek food.

As the price of a regular tomato-cucumber salad was controlled by the government, adding a block of feta gave them more freedom to charge as they pleased. So, voilà! Greece got its own salad, next to France’s nicoise, Lebanon’s tabbouleh and Italy’s panzanella. 

14. Bouyiourdi (Greek spicy baked feta)

This dish shows that a little bit of feta can work miracles! A typical meze from Northern Greece, “bouyiourdi” is washed down with our favourite local distillate – tsipouro. This is the spiciest traditional Greek food can get, which explains its funny name. “Bouyiourdi” is a turkish word meaning a written order issued by an official of the Ottoman Empire, but today it is used as slang for an official document, with unpleasant content, usually a high tax bill to be paid.

Therefore its “bite”. Simply prepared with feta (and kaseri cheese), tomatoes, chillies and chilli flakes (“boukovo” in Greek), oregano and olive oil. Served piping hot, straight out of the oven, baked either in a small clay pot or in a small pan (saganaki). At home it’s easy to make wrapped in baking paper and aluminium foil, and in just 20’ you have a delicious appetiser to scoop up with your bread. 

15. Beans (in various recipes) 

Beans arrived to Europe in 16th c. after the discovery of the New World. Before then, the only kind of beans we knew were broad beans and string beans (and black eyed peas that come from them). 

Bean soup is considered Greece’s national dish, most probably because it provided a hearty meal during times of poverty and saved many from famine during war, served on the breadline. 

In ancient Greece they would hold a “bean festival” to honour Apollo in the month Pyanepsion, meaning “bean-stewing”. This celebration is linked to Theseus, the mythical king and founder-hero of Athens. When Theseus came back to Athens after killing the Minotaur on Crete, he stopped at Delos island to offer a sacrifice to Apollo for his help. Supplies were over and the only food left was beans, so they made a bean soup out of them and gave it as an offering to the God!

Enjoy them in any form, just like baked giant beans (gigantes), black eyed peas salad (salata mavromatika), or green beans stew (fasolakia).

16. Imam Bayildi

Could be easily described as the traditional Greek food with the most whimsical name. “Imam bayldi” means the imam fainted. The story goes like this: One day, during Ramadan, an imam (Muslim cleric) passed by a Christian’s house and smelled this delicious dish cooked with eggplants. Having not eaten all day, he fainted and fell off the minaret. Everybody was worried and started shouting “The imam fainted”, so they named the dish after this incident. 

Another folk-tale has an imam marrying the daughter of a wealthy merchant who gave her as dowry 12 containers of supreme quality olive oil. His wife was a great cook and cooked for him eggplants with onions and tomato. The imam lost his mind and asked her to prepare the same dish every night. 12 days after, the imam didn’t find any food on the table. He asked why and his wife answered that there was no olive oil left! So, the imam fainted after he realised how much his beloved food actually costed him. 

Hope you will not faint with pleasure, but equally enjoy this wonderful Greek vegetarian dish made of halved eggplants with tomatoes and onions and roasted feta on top. Needless to say that this dish is made with plenty of delicious Greek olive oil!

Join us on our Greek food tour and follow our expert olive oil sommelier into the world of premium extra virgin olive oil. Learn all about the local olive varietals and the remarkable benefits of olive oil, which is the basis of the world’s healthiest diet: the Mediterranean diet.

17. Yiouvetsi

Yiouvetsi is a Greek dish traditionally made with lamb or goat and our local pasta “kritharaki” (orzo) or “hilopites” (small square noodles), cooked in rich tomato sauce (with allspice, cinnamon, cloves and bay leaves). 

The turkish word “güveç” refers to the clay vessel originally used and not to the stew cooked in it, as the food has many renditions in Balkan, Levantine and Turkish cuisine. In modern times, most recipes advise the cook to start the dish on the stovetop and finish it off in the oven. 

A Sunday special for every Greek family, nowadays it calls for beef, although seafood (with prawns) or vegan yiouvetsi (with mushrooms) can be found. Our childhood memories include our mothers preparing the dish in the morning before going to church and then taking it to the neighbourhood bakery to be cooked nice and smoothly. 

18. Makaronia* me kima

This is the absolute winner to the question “Which is your favourite Greek food?”. Spaghetti in minced meat-tomato sauce can bring tears of nostalgia to our Greek “makaronades” = pasta lovers, like Anton Ego did in the movie tasting ratatouille. 

This dish could be called the Greek “pasta bolognese”, although the Italian beef ragù is based on “sofrito” -celery, carrots, onions-, whereas the Greeks prefer theirs with cinnamon, bay leaves and allspice. 

Ideally served with our Greek parmesan -sharp kefalotyri or hard myzithra-, this dish is made in heaven!

*Makaronia comes from the Greek word “makaria,” a kind of pastry offered in funerals to honour the dead. Probably this is where the word “maccheroni” and “macaroon” comes from. 

19. Pastourmadopita

A Greek food that has both best friends and worst enemies, pastourmadopita or pita Kaisareias (from modern day Cappadocia) is made with pastourma, kaseri cheese and tomato, baked or fried in small pieces. 

Pastourma could be described as the “Greek prosciutto”, thinly sliced, but made mainly from beef. The meat is salted, dried, pressed, and -for the last 150 years-, coated in fenugreek, garlic and spices.

Byzantine Greeks enjoyed cured meats and it’s even suggested that pastourma comes from the Greek word “pastos” meaning salted. But on the other hand, Byzantines knew nothing of beef meat, so most likely the name comes from the turkish verb “basmak” which means pressed. Indeed the pastourma tradition is deep-rooted in the nomadic culture of the Turks and stories tell about soldiers who kept pastourma under their horsesaddles, hence its flat shape.

20. Moussaka

Many people believe that this famous Greek dish was created in the palatian kitchens of the Ottoman Empire, but moussaka as we know it today did not exist till the end of 19th c. The dish existed before -under the same name – meaning “moistened” in Arabic and was just a dish made out of fried eggplants and tomato sauce in the Middle East. Greece’s most influential chef, Nikolaos Tselementes, in his effort to modernise Greek cuisine, married French cuisine with Greek tradition, and voilà! Three layers of goodness were created, made with sauteed eggplants, minced meat in sweet – spiced tomato and bechamel sauce on top.      

Another version of it is “papoutsakia”, meaning little shoes, which consist of whole eggplants stuffed with minced meat and topped with bechamel.

21. Lamb 

A specialty in Greece since antiquity, lamb is cooked in various different ways throughout the country. The protagonist of every Greek Easter celebration, lamb is roasted whole on a spit, the same way our ancestors did when they sacrificed their animals to appease the Gods.  

On the islands of the Aegean, lamb is stuffed rather than roasted, baked in the oven on top of vine woods or filled with all sorts of grains, herbs and nuts. On Crete, a traditional Greek food, a favourite lamb stew is made with wild greens and artichokes, the ultimate spring specialty. It can also be topped with avgolemono sauce, as we call the Greek fricassee.

22. Gemista

This Greek staple bursts with the freshness and vibrant colours of the summer season. Various vegetables can be made “gemista” = stuffed, but the most common are made with ripe, beef tomatoes and green bell peppers filled with a mix of rice, onions, olive oil and spearmint for an extra kick. Bulgur, wheat and trahana, as well as quinoa or buckwheat could be used instead of rice, each one creating an equally delicious dish. A perfect traditional Greek food and at the same time a vegan dish, as long as you go for the “orphana” (meaning orphans), as some gemista recipes might include minced meat inside. The meat version shines with raisins and pine nuts added to it, an influence we got from the settlers who moved to Greece from Asia Minor. 

Gemista are enjoyed hot or cold, with a piece of feta cheese and fresh bread on the side, paired with a light red or rose wine from a Greek variety like Agiorgitiko.

23. Dolmades 

Although their name was adopted by the Turkish word meaning stuffed, dolma in Greece came to mean the wrapped leaves, usually from vine or cabbage, that are stuffed with rice and aromatic herbs. Ancient Greeks would cook something similar called “thria”, made with tender fig tree leaves. 

Just like gemista, there is the meat and the meat-free alternative, which is funnily called “yalantzi” (meaning liar), served with a squeeze of lemon, or dipped in a yogurt sauce like tzatziki. The “truthful” version with the mince is best served warm topped with a creamy egg-lemon sauce to create one of the most comforting meals of our Greek table and traditional Greek food. 

24. Spanakopita (Greek spinach pie)

Pies are to Greek cuisine what pizza is to Italians. They can be found in any size or shape, sweet or savoury, and even their phyllo can be made differently in every region.

Pitas (as their name is in Greek) were created in order to provide a full and nutritious meal for the whole family, making the most out of both the best ingredients in season and leftover food. 

So, spanakopita is just one out of the immense variety of Greek pies. Made with fresh spinach, leeks and herbs, tangy feta and olive oil, this is a flavour-packed snack to start your day. Just like ancient Greeks did, during their “ariston” (breakfast), dipping pies in wine or later in the day enjoying their “mytlotos” pie filled with cheese, honey and garlic or “maza” kneaded with flour, barley rye, oats and pulses.

25. Fricassée

If there is one dish that embodies Greek nature’s rebirth during spring, this is no other than our local “fricassée”. And we say local, because, even though the name was adopted by French as a compound of the words frire (to fry) and casser (to break in pieces), in every country it represents a different food. 

In Greece, our hallmark dish is lamb fricassée with avgolemono, slow-braised with lettuce or wild greens, like stamnagathi, finished off with the traditional egg-lemon sauce. The tenderised meat melts and the flavours of the season’s greens burst like fireworks in your mouth! 

Under the same category of fricassée you may find “hoirino prasoselino” which is tender braised pork with sweet leeks, celery leaves, spring onions and aromatic fresh dill. 

Vegetarians rejoice! Greek vegetarian fricassée is gaining ground, cooked with mushrooms instead of meat, in the traditional Greek food map. 

26. Kleftiko

Since we recently celebrated 200 years since the Greek War of Independence, let’s talk about the food that is closely attached to 1821’s revolution. 

Greeks bravely fighting for their freedom had to hide away from their enemies up on the harsh Greek mountains. To provide food for them, they would steal animals or accept offers from their compatriots. But how they would cook the meat without the smoke and smell revealing their position? They would dig a hole in the ground, light fire, cover it with earth and sticks, put the lamb on it, with pieces of cheese and herbs and then cover it again. This way the meat would cook slowly, allowing them also time to move around without being seen. After the fight, they would come back to a nicely cooked meal.

Nowadays you don’t need to dig a hole to enjoy “kleftiko”. This glorious dish is enjoyed in traditional Greek food grillhouses cooked in parchment paper, found also under its other name “exochiko”, meaning from the countryside.

27. Loukoumades (Greek donuts)

These heavenly fried donuts served warm with honey syrup and cinnamon are considered to be one of the oldest recorded pastries in the world. They come in different shapes and recipes, the most well known being the Spanish buñuelos and churros, the Italian zeppole, the French beignet and the Jewish sufganiyot. Our own took their name from Arabic “luqma” meaning mouthful.  

These delicious, bite-sized, Greek donuts were made to celebrate saints and offered during their feasts. Early Christians used to make them on the first day of the year in order to honour Virgin Mary, a tradition that was based on the cult of goddess Artemis and soon it was forbidden for being pagan. 

Fun fact: The winners of the Olympic Games (back in 776 BC) were given as a prize honey tokens. The custom was established in order to honour a humble baker who won the first race. 

28. Loukoumi

Our soft, fragrant candy is not only dressed with powdered sugar and aromas, but with many legends and a touch of magic. According to the story, one day the Sultan broke his tooth eating a hard candy. Angry and in pain, he ordered a soft sweet to be made for him so that he wouldn’t break his tooth again.

His confectioner rushed to his workshop and created for his master pillowy bites of “lokum”. Known to many as “turkish delight”, this powdery white sweet travelled soon to the West and was even featured in C. S. Lewis’ fantasy novel “The Chronicles of Narnia”. 

Made of starch and sugar, loukoumi could be flavoured with rose, bergamot or mastiha and sometimes garnished with nuts. A not-to-miss treat to have with your Greek coffee, especially on the island of Syros, where it was recently added in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Greece.

The ultimate symbol of Greek hospitality and traditional Greek food, spoon sweets have always been given as a welcoming treat for visitors coming over to our homes. “Glyka you koutaliou” as called in Greece, they are usually served with Greek coffee and a glass of cold water. Our guests would then express their satisfaction by wishing the host “health to your hands”,  a common compliment for talented cooks. 

29. Spoon sweets

These delightful sweet preserves could be made from any kind of fruit, or even vegetables (like tomato or eggplant), nuts – like the famous Aegina pistachio, or even flower petals, like rose. It was a way in the past to extend the shelf life of fresh foods at the end of their season and keep them all year round. 

The most fragrant preserved fruit come from Chios island, where also a special “spoon sweet” comes from. This sugary fondant flavoured with vanilla or mastiha is called “ypovrichio,” meaning submarine. Our all-time favourite, we serve it on a spoon, we dip it into cold water and then we lick it, taking after a sip of the refreshing water. 

30. Greek coffee

The coffee of pleasure and relaxation. Greeks – especially of older generations, love drinking one cup of it in the morning and the second one after their midday “siesta”; both coffee and siesta are recognised as the Mediterranean secrets to longevity 🙂 Greek coffee needs a special small pot to be made called “briki”, in order to create its rich, creamy foam on top (kaimaki). The beans are very finely ground and sugar is added optionally, but always with the coffee, as this is a brew that is not filtered and the coffee grounds stay at the bottom, so you cannot stir it afterwards.

The secrets of exquisite Greek coffee is the “briki” -the small pot made out of copper- and the “hovoli”, the hot sand where the coffee is made, just like the Bedouins did in the desert, as the first coffee drinkers in the world.

A perfect Greek breakfast always starts with coffee.

Hope you enjoyed our local’s guide to Greek food! For more info on where to enjoy them, check out our 10 classic Greek dishes and where to find them in Athens blogpost or join any of our delicious food tours in Athens , to try Greek specialties in our favourite spots.

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• Food & Drink

The traditional Greek food you need to try when you visit Greece

Dishes you must try while in greece.

Traditional Greek food is one of the great Mediterranean cuisines. Working with ingredients ranging from pita bread and lamb to incredible olive oil and unique cheeses, the Grecian table is a delectable one. Like Chinese food culture or Italian cuisine, Greek food is an entire world that is very much worth exploring, fork in hand.

Most eaters have dined at a Greek Restaurant ( Yamas in Walla Walla wine country is one of our favorites) or made a Greek dish like dolmas from the supermarket. That’s great, but don’t stop there. In fact, doing so would be a discredit to one of the torch-bearers of fine food.

Greek cuisine meanders every which way, built around colorful dishes that are great anytime but have even more appeal as we enter the al fresco dining season. From giouvetsi to souvlaki, these are the traditional Greek food items you need to try, whether you’re lucky enough to get to the Mediterranean nation or just your nearest restaurant.

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Iconic, to say the least, dolmas, or dolmades, come from the Mediterranean and have since become popular beyond Greece in places like Turkey and Armenia. Traditionally, they’re grape leaf-wrapped snacks filled with rice and a host of herbs. Those herbs often include some semblance of coriander, dill, and mint. Dolmas are enjoyed with olive oil and are all the better with a bracing white wine from Greece like Assyrtiko.

While you may not have heard of this dish, it’s quite popular in Greece. Giouvetsi is a Grecian pasta of sorts, built around a protein like beef, chicken, or lamb, orzo or some other form of starch. Spices generally include allspice, cinnamon, and cloves, and the end result is a deeply comforting dish with a lively spice profile. We love it with a good medium-bodied red wine. Don’t be fooled by the somewhat pedestrian look of the dish, as the flavor will take you straight to Greece.

Another classic Greek dish, gyros, involves pillowy pita bread, sliced meat, and accoutrements like tomato, olives, onions, and tzatziki. The meat is legendary, cut vertically as it cooks on an upright spit and typically pork but sometimes chicken. A sibling of Turkish doner kebab and shawarma from the Arab world, gyros serve as great meals and in many places on the map serve as the perfect nightcap dish.

Otherwise known as Greek meatballs, Keftedakia are pan-fried and often treated to coriander, garlic, mint, and parsley. The meat varies, often some combination of beef, lamb, or pork and the bite-sized meatballs are often served as an appetizer with feta cheese and tzatziki. They’re also great mixed into a fresh salad or accompanied by pasta.

Considered the national dish of Greece, Moussaka is a lot like lasagna, made with eggplant or potato and ground meat like beef or lamb. The contemporary Greek version is deemed to have been developed a little over a century ago. It’s a layered dish, topped with bechamel and dashed with spices such as allspice and black pepper. But that’s just the template, as some version include additional veggies like mushrooms and zucchini. Some even stuff the eggplant itself with all the ingredients.

Greek lamb chops and Paidakia make for great dinner theater as the presentation tends to be exquisite. The bone-in meat is usually grilled and hit with lemon juice, oil, thyme, oregano, and more. This can be a special occasion dish, as lamb often is in Greece, and goes great with an earthy red wine . Try it with gigandes (Greek beans), fries, or a fresh salad with feta and tomatoes.

Arguably the most comforting dish in all Greek cuisine, saganaki is essentially an appetizer of caramelized and gooey fried cheese. The cheese makeup depends on the region of Greece (you can use something like sheep’s milk feta) and it’s fried in a small pan. Once bubbling, saganaki is drizzled with lemon juice and pepper and munched on with bread. Again, go with a nice local white wine if you’re dining in Greece and enjoying the above.

Souvlaki is like Greek shish-kabobs, a skewered collection of meats and vegetables. Greeks enjoy the contents straight off the stick while hot. The style stems from ancient cooking methods involving skewers and spits and now finds itself in fast food chains and takeout menus in Greece. Some renditions find their way in to restaurants as well. The skewered contents can be eaten as is or wrapped up in a pita with tomatoes and veggies.

Now, get packing for Greece and look forward to some world-class dining.

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For a lot of day hikers, a few Clif Bars, a Snickers, and some beef jerky are considered a proper “trail lunch.” However, if you’re gearing up for an extended backcountry trek or the best hikes in the U.S., it pays to pack more carefully. Snacks and sugary treats might be your go-to for a day hike -- a bag of trail mix can be enough to motivate most people to hit the trail -- but too much of a good thing and you'll find yourself needing some proper hiking food. Tips to avoid hiker hunger on the trail

Hiker hunger can start off slowly. It creeps into your conversations, it turns your cheerful stroll into a plod, and soon you decide that bird song you loved waking up to now sounds shrill in your ears. There's a fine line between hunger and hanger -- or being hangry, and there's a good chance your friends will realize where you are on the scale before you do. Hiking uses a whole load of calories, and you need to keep your body properly fueled up. Here are our top tips to avoid hiker hunger on the trail. Don’t skip breakfast Intermittent fasting is increasing in popularity, and if you regularly skip breakfast, that's fine. When it comes to hiking days, though, you need to start your day right with a breakfast that balances carbohydrates and fats. A blend of simple and complex carbs provides a shot of readily accessible fuel, so you’ll be ready to go. Fats are doubly good for slowing digestion and helping to keep you full. A mix of granola, oatmeal, and nut butter is an ideal way to start the day. Stay hydrated OK, so staying hydrated is important, but what's that got to do with food? Well, hydration goes beyond just drinking water. In fact, if you drink too much water and don't eat, you're likely to flush electrolytes and salts out of your body. If you find yourself lacking in these important minerals, you can experience cramping, headaches, and far higher levels of fatigue than you should be feeling. Sure, you can replenish these with specially designed tablets that you dissolve in water, but you can also get all you need from eating the right food on the trail. Eat less, more often It's not rocket science that eating more often will fend off hunger. The key, however, is eating the right nutrient-dense foods -- in particular, those high in fats -- at regular intervals throughout the day. Some thru-hikers suggest snacking every 60-90 minutes. It’s not as daunting as it sounds, and it rarely requires breaking your stride.

There’s a somewhat hidden player in the spirits game, and her name is neutral. Also known as rectified spirits or ethyl alcohol, neutral grain spirits are a high-octane concoction utilized in a variety of ways within the industry. Neutral spirits tend to be employed in the making of things like whisky, certain liqueurs, and cut brandy. They are very alcoholic, clocking in anywhere between 55% and 95% alcohol by volume. Many are made from distilling wine (grape neutral spirits) while others are made from a variety of grains. But a neutral spirit can be assembled from just about anything, including corn, tubers, beets, and more. Bartenders sometimes rely on them to up the ABV of a cocktail. Some have broken out of obscurity to become household names among the mixologist community. Everclear, for example, which comes in versions as mighty as 190 proof (95% alcohol). It’s the stuff of peer pressure and awful hangovers or a flammable additive to a showy cocktail.

Why neutral spirits?

A vibrant combination of sweet, spicy, and sour, Thai cuisine is one of the most dynamic in the world. While the cuisine is incredibly popular in America, the richness of Thai food goes far beyond standard takeout orders of Pad Thai and chicken satay.

Like the adaptions of Chinese American food (General Tso’s chicken and crab rangoon), American Thai cuisine can be quite different from its Thailand counterparts. For example, Pad Thai is a relatively modern dish, created in the 1930s and far less popular in Thailand than America.

Greece Foodies

• Food in Greece

Food in Greece: The Ultimate Greek Food Guide for first time travelers

Greece might be known for its history, monuments, great weather, and beautiful beaches, but it is also known for its food. Food in Greece follows the pattern of Mediterranean cuisine but also has a lot of unique food combinations, which will make your experience in the country even more remarkable.

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The food is nutritious, flavorful, and frequently made with locally sourced ingredients. While there are many international food options in Greece, it is well worth exploring the local cuisine.

Check our ultimate Greek food guide for first travelers like you below!

What do we mean by traditional Greek food?

The “Mediterranean Triad” of olives, grains, and grapes influenced Greek cuisine. Traditional Greek cuisine was built on these pillar crops. While wheat is the staple grain, olives and wine are essential to the diet. Fresh mint, oregano, thyme, and fennel are used in several cuisines. Greek cuisine offers a wide variety of cheeses as well!

Which dining options are available for food in Greece?

• A restaurant  is known as an estiatorio: In Greece, this can be difficult to distinguish from a taverna (see below). The only difference between the two is the type of table covering. Traditional Greek dishes are served in both of them.
• A furnos: is a savory pie shop that typically serves tiropita (cheese pies) and spanakopita (spinach pies).
• A kafeneion: is the original coffee shop and is one of Greece’s oldest types of establishments.
• Mezethopoleion:  As the name implies, this is a general meze spot with a variety of mezéthes (Greek appetizers)
• Taverna: A taverna is much more casual than a restaurant, but it serves all the traditional Greek dishes you know.

What to eat as a tourist?

If you want to get the ultimate Greek food experience seriously, then you need to eat in a Greek taverna. These places are all around the country, and actually follow the same pattern in the food menu.

Order like a local! Everything made in the Greek taverns is fresh, rich, filling, and bursting with flavor. However, as with many other tourist destinations, navigating the tourist traps can be difficult, and even when you do, you may find yourself unsure of what to order. That’s why we’re going to propose you some Greek food options.

The appetizers vary depending on where you are in Greece. Still, you can always count on tzatziki, tirokafteri (spicy cheese spread), taramosalata (fish roe dip), melitzanosalata (aubergine spread), and, of course, Horiatiki Salata (Greek Salad). Horiatiki is a popular local dish that usually comes in a large bowl. Plenty for everyone!

Aside from the traditional Greek salad, there are a variety of salads to try. The Dakos salad from Crete. Dolmadakia (rice-stuffed vine-leaf parcels), keftedes (meatballs), and cheese saganaki are some other delectable appetizers to try (fried cheese). The main dishes to include in your Greek feast vary depending on where you are in Greece.

Finally, a glass of local wine will skyrocket the dish’s taste in companion with your favorite meal!

How to Order Like a Local in a Greek Taverna?

If you think you went here for statues, a beach, and sparkling sunshine, think twice about it. Greece’s cuisine is an essential element of Greece’s culture. There’s a delight for everybody who comes to Greece, and it shouldn’t be missed. Every product in Greece has freshness and rich flavors. In some cases, it can seem like tourist traps are difficult to follow. Tell me the best way to place an order with the right people in your community!

The most traditional food in Greece!

Take some notes. The following, I would say, are the most traditional options in the food you can eat in Greece.

• Olives and Olive Oil: For millennia, Greeks have grown olives. According to legend, Athena won the favor of the city of Athens by giving it an olive tree. Locally grown olives are frequently served with Greek meals.
• Fresh Fish & Octopus: Visit a seaside taverna and eat as the locals have since ancient times.
• Feta: Fresh Greek cheese is a delight, unlike the plastic tubs found in markets outside of Greece.
• Honey: Honey has been sacred since ancient times and mythology. It is super nutritious, healthy, and tasty!
• Syrupy sweets: Almost everyone adores this kind of sweets there. Don’t miss the chance to get one after your main meals!

Are there any desserts in Greek cuisine?

You shouldn’t even ask yourself about that. The answer is a total yes! Greek cuisine has various range of sweets – desserts!

For a decadent dessert after their main course, locals frequently choose pasty establishments. The richest taste on your lips will be left by a slice of Ravani cake, which is typically provided as a complimentary dessert after your dinner.

Food in Greece is a very sacred thing for everyone. Flavored, tasteful, and healthy food combinations are all around the country. As you understood from the article, you can find all kinds of tastes and personal diet-based dishes. So, what are you waiting for? Make Greece your next food destination!

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35 Must-Try Greek Dishes for 2024

• 35 Must-Try Greek Dishes

Welcome, dear food explorers, to the culinary odyssey of Greek cuisine! 

This guide is your passport to the mouthwatering world of traditional Greek food. 

In this guide, we’ll uncover the secrets of incredible Greek food, show you what you must try on your trip, and reveal the dishes that have delighted locals and tourists for centuries. 

So, grab your fork and find out what to eat in Greece on this delicious adventure together!

The Essence of Greek Cuisine

Greek cuisine is a symphony of flavours, a testament to the country’s rich history and diverse geography. 

It’s a cuisine that celebrates simplicity, with many dishes often comprising just a few high-quality ingredients prepared with care and skill. 

Olive oil, fresh vegetables, succulent meats, and aromatic herbs are the cornerstone of Greek cooking, creating a culinary tapestry that’s as vibrant and varied as the Greek landscape.

Since I started visiting Greece…

I’ve been recreating many of these foods at home myself for years.

I now get through vast quantities of olive oil, lemons, oregano, and full-fat Greek yoghurt, and it’s the most delicious and some of the healthiest food I eat.

The more I try new foods in Greece, the more I like them. I cannot stress enough that you should try as many Greek dishes as possible, as you’ll discover a new world of flavour.

Our all-time favourite Greek food : Gyros

Pronounced  ‘yeeros’ , this is popular Greek fast food that consists of chargrilled meat (usually pork, chicken, or lamb) roasted on a rotisserie, similar to a kebab. 

You’ll be served succulent meat wrapped in soft pitta bread with tomatoes, onions, lettuce, a tzatziki sauce (herby, zesty, garlic yoghurt), and maybe even a few fries.

Meaty, succulent, herby, citrusy… all the flavours combine to make this the most delicious on-the-go meal that you’ll have in Greece.

Whether wandering the streets of Athens or exploring a sleepy island village, you’ll notice the incredible scent of gyros stands almost everywhere.

Five Must-Try Dishes

A hearty staple of Greek cuisine, perfect for those cooler evenings. Resembling a lasagne, fried aubergine, potato, and spiced minced meat in a red wine and tomato sauce are layered and baked to perfection, resulting in a comforting and full-flavoured dish.

Often found at street food BBQ stalls, these succulent skewers of pork, chicken or lamb are a favourite of locals. Marinated in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and various herbs, then grilled over an open flame, they’re a testament to the Greek love of simple, well-prepared meat dishes.

This is what Greek yoghurt was meant for; cucumber, garlic, mint and yoghurt combine to perfectly accompany various Greek dishes. Once you’ve tried it in Greece, you’ll wonder why salsa was ever a thing. It’s so simple, takes just five minutes to make a big batch at home, and is the tastiest dip you’ve ever tried. It’s a taste of the Mediterranean every time you dip!

If you love honey, nuts, and pastry, Baklava is the sweet treat to end your meal. Baklava is a rich, sweet pastry made of layers of filo filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey. It’s super sweet but tastes more authentic than any dessert you’ve tried.

Dolmadakia / Dolmades

A must-try addition to any meze we order at every taverna we visit in Greece (we really can’t get enough). These delicate little packages are marinated grapevine leaves stuffed with rice, herbs, and sometimes minced lamb. They’re fresh, herby, lemony, and even more delicious when dipped in tzatziki! They’re a bite-sized taste of Greece that you’ll find hard to resist.

More delicious traditional Greek foods to try

Spanakopita.

This is a savoury pastry that’s a favourite across Greece. It’s made with flaky phyllo dough, spinach, and feta cheese, creating a crunchy and creamy treat.

Often called Greek lasagne, Pastitsio is a baked pasta dish with ground meat and béchamel sauce. It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for a hearty dinner.

Named after the pan in which it’s cooked, Saganaki is a fried cheese appetiser. The cheese is melted until it’s bubbling and golden, then served with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Loukoumades

These are Greek doughnuts, small, fluffy dough balls deep-fried until golden, then drizzled with sweet syrup and sprinkled with cinnamon. They’re a heavenly dessert that’s impossible to resist.

This traditional Greek dish is all about slow cooking. Lamb is marinated in garlic and lemon juice, then baked on the bone until it’s so tender it falls off the fork.

Not to be confused with the Italian fava bean, Greek Fava is a creamy dip made from yellow split peas. It’s often served with olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

Kolokithokeftedes

These are courgette (zucchini) fritters, a popular appetiser in Greece. They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and often served with a refreshing tzatziki sauce.

Similar to Spanakopita, Tiropita is a cheese pie made with layers of buttered phyllo and filled with a cheese-egg mixture. It’s a cheesy delight that’s perfect any time of day.

Kumquat Liqueur

This is a speciality of Corfu, where kumquat trees are abundant. The tiny citrus fruits make a sweet, tangy liqueur that’s a perfect after-dinner drink.

These almond cookies are a traditional treat found on the island of Hydra. They’re naturally gluten-free and perfect with a cup of Greek coffee.

This is a cheese specific to the island of Lesvos. It’s stored in olive oil, which helps preserve and gives it a unique, rich flavour.

These are sweet cheese pastries from the island of Santorini. They’re traditionally made during Easter and are a delicious treat for anyone with a sweet tooth.

A fresh goat cheese found on the island of Santorini. It’s a soft, creamy cheese that’s perfect spread on fresh bread.

This is a traditional Greek wine made for over 2000 years. It has a unique pine flavour from the resin used to seal the wine vessels.

Galaktoboureko

This is a beloved Greek dessert made with layers of crispy phyllo, filled with creamy custard and bathed in scented syrup. It’s a sweet, creamy delight that’s hard to resist.

Taramasalata

This is a creamy dip made from tarama, the salted and cured fish roe. It’s a savoury spread that’s perfect on fresh bread or as a dip for vegetables.

Known as Greek salad, this dish combines ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, onion, feta cheese, and olives. It’s dressed with olive oil and sprinkled with oregano, creating a fresh and vibrant dish.

This is a sweet pastry with phyllo dough filled with creamy custard and dusted with cinnamon and sugar. It’s a versatile treat that can be enjoyed any time of day, but you’ll often have it during breakfast.

These are sesame seed candy bars with a healthy energy boost. Made with honey and sesame seeds, they’re a sweet treat you can feel good about eating.

This is a dry anise-flavoured aperitif widely consumed in Greece. It’s often served with a small plate of various appetisers called meze.

Souzoukakia

These are aromatic meatballs soaked in a rich tomato sauce. They’re a hearty dish that’s perfect for a family dinner.

This is a foam-covered iced coffee drink made from instant coffee. It’s a popular Greek summer drink that’s both refreshing and invigorating.

This is a baked pasta dish with ground meat and béchamel sauce. It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for a hearty dinner.

Often considered the national dish of Greece, this is a bean soup sometimes referred to as the “poor man’s meal”. It’s a simple, hearty dish that’s full of flavour.

This dish features vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, and zucchinis stuffed with rice and baked in the oven. It’s a healthy and satisfying dish showcasing Greece’s fresh flavours.

This is a Greek sausage made from pork or lamb and flavoured with orange peel, fennel seed, and other herbs. It’s a tasty addition to any barbecue or meze platter.

Raki or Tsikoudia

This strong distilled spirit contains approximately 45 per cent alcohol by volume and is produced from the pomace (the residue of the wine press). It’s particularly popular on the island of Crete.

An omelette speciality from the island of Andros, made with local sausages, stake (a type of butter), and fresh cheese.

Delicious deep-fried dough strips from the Peloponnese region, often enjoyed as a quick snack or breakfast treat.

Insider Tips

Don’t miss out on trying Greek coffee, a strong, rich brew that’s a daily ritual for many Greeks. It’s traditionally served in a briki, a small copper pot, and is the perfect pick-me-up anytime.

When dining in Greece, don’t rush. Greek meals are a time for leisure and conversation, so sit back, relax, and savour every bite.

Try to learn the proper pronunciation of foods you want to try, and you’ll have an easier time in tavernas. One in our party mispronounced  gyros  (actually pronounced ‘yeeros’), thinking it would still be understood, to be met with a confused look.

Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations. Greeks are proud of their cuisine and will happily share their favourite dishes with you.

Greek cuisine is a culinary treasure trove, a feast for the senses as rich and diverse as the country. From hearty moussaka to refreshing tzatziki, there’s a dish to suit every palate. So, why wait? Dive in and discover the delights of Greek cooking today. Kali orexi! (Bon appétit!)

Real Greek Experiences

Greek Culture, Travel Information, Itineraries, Life in Greece

Food In Greece – Everything You Should Know About Greece Food Culture

This guide to the Greece food culture will prepare you for many culinary adventures! Here’s everything you need to know about experiencing incredible food in Greece.

Greek Food Culture

Food is a huge part of Greek culture. There are literally hundreds of dishes! This guide to the food of Greece includes 50 of the most popular Greek dishes.

However, Greek food has to do with much more than just flavours and dishes. It’s all about the excellent ingredients, the lengthy procedure involved in preparing the food, and the culture of sharing dishes with others.

Essentially, it has to do with bonding with others through one of life’s greatest pleasures. Read on for a small introduction to what makes food in Greece so special. 

Just to introduce myself quickly – I’m Vanessa from Athens. Like many Greek people, I grew up in an environment where family meals around the table were very important – and that is the essence of Greek food culture!

Greek food begins with extra virgin olive oil and feta cheese

Extra virgin olive oil and feta cheese! These are the two absolutely essential staples for any Greek person around the world, including myself. 

We take our olive oil and feta cheese extremely seriously, and are not prepared to use substitutes. In fact, there are very few Greek dishes where olive oil is not used. And, as research suggests , it’s good for you!

By the way, feta is just one of the few hundreds different types of cheese that you can buy in Greece. If you ever order a popular fried cheese dish called saganaki , this won’t have any feta cheese in it.  

Greek cuisine has a variety of dishes 

Traditionally, food in Greece is made from fresh ingredients. We use vegetables, various types of horta , pulses, nuts, Greek yogurt, cheese, grains, fish and small amounts of meat. Fresh fruit, honey and spices are popular as well.

A usual meal at a taverna  will typically include several small dishes ( meze ) which are shared with everyone, just like the bill. There is a large variety, and everyone gets to taste everything.

But that’s not all. The Mediterranean diet, where Greek cuisine falls under, is one of the healthiest in the world ! Due to the quality and variety of ingredients, Greek dishes are full of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and healthy fats, which help maintain good health.

Incidentally, many Greek recipes have their roots at the ancient times. As this fascinating myth clearly shows, olive oil was super important for ancient Greeks! 

There are plenty or Turkish and Arab influences as well – just think of the classic baklava or the warm pita bread.

Traditional Greek cooking isn’t about exact quantities

Most Greek cook books offer quantities when it comes to recipes. However, most Greek people, especially yiayias (grandmas) don’t really measure quantities when cooking.

The best measuring system in Greece is “with the eye”, i.e. “however much it takes”. Therefore, the question “how many olives go in a Greek salad?” doesn’t really have an answer.

Traditional Greek food takes time to prepare

Many traditional Greek dishes take several hours to prepare. This is what makes Grandma’s food delicious!

I still remember my own yiayia’s version of a home-made tiropita , or cheese pie. Rather than store-bought phyllo pastry, she used her own handmade puff pastry, following her mother’s recipe. I still remember the taste – it was just divine! Her Greek meatballs and Greek spinach pie were also out of this world…

Another good example is our famous moussaka , a combination of layers of potatoes, aubergines, minced meat, tomato sauce, and a creamy bechamel sauce on top. Or kleftiko , a lamb dish often cooked with garlic, herbs and lemon juice.

And not to talk about gemista, tomatoes and bell peppers stuffed with rice, pine nuts and raisins, and served with potatoes. But as we say here in Greece, all good things take a while to happen.

During important holidays, like Greek Easter , food preparations can go on for days – and time spent consuming that food can be equally long.

After all, “He who receives his friends and gives no personal attention to the meal which is being prepared for them, is not worthy of having friends” ( Jean-Anthelme Brillat-Savarin).

Greeks love eating with friends

Eating food in Greece is a big thing. Dining out is a social event, where you get to share a lot more than just food, similarly to the Greek coffee culture .

To quote the ancient Greek philosopher Epicurus, “We should look for someone to eat and drink with before looking for something to eat and drink, for dining alone is leading the life of a lion or wolf” .

Meals that go on for hours are very typical of Greece. Food, wine and good company make for a great combination, and an ideal setting to discuss everything under the sun!

This is quite similar to the ancient Greek symposia , the gatherings that took place at people’s homes. Plato, the famous Greek philosopher , wrote his work Symposium based on these banquets.

To experience a meal like Greeks do and learn more about local ingredients, you can take a food tour in Athens, or one of the Greek islands like Santorini. 

• Food tour in Athens
• Santorini cooking class and wine-tasting tour

Greeks have their meals later than most other cultures

The hours to eat food in Greece are quite different than in most European countries. First time visitors might have a hard time adjusting!

Depending on their daily routine, a Greek person might skip breakfast. Instead, they could have a coffee or two and a small snack like a koulouri (type of semi-sweet bread with sesame) during the morning.

Most Greeks will have some form of lunch around 2 pm. Strangely, official lunch breaks at work are not as common as in some other countries.

Dinner time in Greece is usually late, after 9 pm, especially when it’s a dinner out with friends. In summer, some people will watch an evening film in an outdoor cinema, and then go for their evening meal at around 11.00 pm!

Note: On weekends, people can be seen having a meal at 4 or 5 pm. This is neither a lunch, nor a dinner – it’s something in between, depending on how late they were up the previous night!

There are many different places to eat food in Greece

When visiting Greece, people are often surprised by how many different types of restaurants we have. 

Here are some of the most common types of restaurants, which, confusingly, are often very similar to each other!

• Taverna  – A basic restaurant with a huge menu, many meat dishes, and, typically, friendly prices > more info here
• Psarotaverna   – A restaurant offering many fish and seafood dishes
• Estiatorio   – A restaurant slightly more upmarket than a taverna , with a huge menu
• Magirio  – A basic taverna  offering hearty, traditional Greek dishes and friendly prices
• Inomagirio  – A basic taverna  offering hearty, traditional Greek dishes, house wine and friendly prices
• Mezedopolio  – A Greek restaurant serving mostly small dishes, where the emphasis is on the company and the drink, rather than the amount of food
• Ouzeri / Rakadiko  – A small mezedopolio  serving food to accompany our strong alcoholic drinks,  ouzo or raki
• Koutouki   – A small, cosy  taverna  with an emphasis on house wine
• Souvlatzidiko / Psistaria / Psitopolio – A place offering souvlaki !

Of course, the ultimate experience of eating food in Greece, is to eat Greek food in a Greek home, especially if the food is made by a yiayia !

FAQs about Greek food culture

Here are a few more questions often asked by visitors:

Why is food important to Greek culture?

Food is a very important part of the culture in Greece. A meal with friends or family is a lot more than just food. It is also a way to share the dishes, discuss, socialize and enjoy other people’s company.

What is the national food of Greece?

One of the most iconic Greek foods is moussaka, a combination of minced meat, potatoes and aubergines topped with a creamy layer of bechamel sauce. Other famous Greek dishes include souvlaki, tzatziki, cheese pie, spinach pie, and Greek salad.

Why is Greek food so good?

The Greek cuisine is rich and varied. We use plenty of fresh ingredients, like good quality vegetables and freshly caught fish. Most Greek dishes are simple in terms of ingredients, yet amazingly flavorful!

Is Greek food healthy?

Traditionally, Greeks follow the so-called Mediterranean diet, which is one of the healthiest in the world. The main ingredients are vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes, fresh fish, bread, cheeses, olive oil and small quantities of meat.

What influenced Greek cuisine?

Greek cuisine has many influences. Some contemporary dishes, like fish or meat dishes, were also eaten in ancient Greece. Greek food has been influenced by Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines, most notably that of the Ottoman Empire.

What time do Greeks have dinner?

Greeks usually have a late dinner, after 9 or maybe 10 pm. 

More about Greece and the Greek culture

If you’ve enjoyed this article, you might like to read these other ones about Greek culture:

• How to order food in Greece
• Tipping in Greece
• Ten things you should know about Greece
• Religion in Greece – Churches, Greek Easter and Christian names
• Greek customs and etiquette
• Why Greek cats are so cute!
• A guide to Greek drinks
• Easy Greek words to learn
• Everything you wanted to know about the Greek flag

Hi! I am Vanessa from Athens , and I love helping people discover more about my country. I grew up among two grandmothers who both loved cooking, and have had my fair share of super long meals with family and friends. If you’ve ever enjoyed a long meal with great company in Greece, I’d love to know what you thought, so please leave a comment below! For more Greece-related news, you can also follow my FB page. 

4 thoughts on “Food In Greece – Everything You Should Know About Greece Food Culture”

It’s great to know that most of the authentic greek food has a lot of olive oil and feta cheese in the ingredients. My partner and I are trying to eat much healthier this year and it’s really important that we have a real Mediterranean diet. WE love the ingredients that are in Greek food because they seem to be really great for our bodies.

That’s great! Yes we love Greek food, and we eat quite healthy as well! We are thinking to try and include a few recipes in the website – is there anything you’d be interested in?

You commented that you don’t know of any Greeks who like retsina. I lived in Greece 20 years, my wife is from Thess, her native village is Meliki. I can tell you that in Imathias they love retsina – Malamatina. Me, NO!!! However, the tsipouro from Meliki and Kouloura are fantastic. Some of the locals will also use a bulb of onion in the distillation process. You can’t taste the onion, but the slightly velvety texture and smooth, warm flow of the tsipouro going down is an absolute pleasure. You should visit BTW: Meliki prides itself on its fasolada…best in Greece they say. And be sure to get some revani from Veria.

Thank you Roger! I’ll definitely keep these ideas in mind when we next go to Thessaly – you are right, the tsipouro from these areas is very well known 🙂

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The 15 BEST GREEK DISHES and Foods To Try in GREECE in 2024

Eleni Gimouki Last Updated: October 26, 2023

Traditional Greek cuisine is based entirely on Mediterranean cuisine. That is to say, all dishes are prepared mainly with oil, salt, various aromatics, and pure products. No visit to Greece would be complete without a thorough exploration of these traditional Greek dishes.

Pro Tip: It’s easier to organize your trip when you have all your resources in one place. Create a browser folder and bookmark this post along with our guide to Athens for more planning resources, our top Athens tours for an easy way to see the best of this historic city, plus the top things to do in Athens .

The Top 15 Foods To Eat In Greece

Greece is a fantastic place to explore Mediterranean cuisine—one of the best cuisines in the world. A lot of countries follow this nutritional diet apart from Greece and it has been inscribed as an intangible cultural heritage of UNESCO.

With that in mind, be sure to try as many traditional Greek dishes as you can on your next trip to Greece! If you love food and travel, you’ll love going on a local food tour. Check out our Athens food tours .

Not ready to book a tour? Check out all there is to do in Athens .

15. Koulouri Thessalonikis

Koulouri Thessalonikis is a round bread roll from Thessaloniki and an ideal choice for a light breakfast. You can buy them from bakeries or street vendors in Thessaloniki, but it’s a snack you’ll find everywhere in Greece.

Nowadays, there are even several types of koulouri. Apart from the classic koulouri, you can try koulouri with raisins, koulouri with chocolate, or even koulouri with cream cheese. Of course, don’t forget to have a cup of Greek coffee with your koulouri.

Where to get Koulouri: Koulourades Agiou Markou

14. Bougatsa

Another option for breakfast is bougatsa . It comes with a sweet semolina cream, powdered sugar, and cinnamon. Bougatsa is a dessert that refugees from Asia Minor brought to Greece. Since then it has become a firm favorite.

Traditionally, you’ll find bougatsa in Thessaloniki, but it’s available everywhere else in Greece at bakeries or at places that specialize in bougatsa. Besides sweet cream, bougatsa come with other fillings as well. For example, you can try bougatsa with cheese or even with minced meat.

Where to get Bougatsa: Bougatsa Bantis

13. Greek Salad

Can you even say you’ve been to Greece if you don’t have a Greek salad? While it’s mainly a summer salad, you can get it all year round. Naturally, it’s our favorite salad! It comes with many delicious and fresh ingredients you’d expect from a salad, such as tomato, cucumber, olives, and onion. But what makes a Greek salad special is the tasty feta cheese, with olive oil, and capers.

Every single tavern in Greece will offer this traditional Greek salad. Don’t forget to start your meal by ordering a Greek salad. Just keep in mind that it’s a dish for everyone at the table—not an individual dish.

Where to get Greek salad: Lostre Kuzina

Check Out Our Best Food Tours of Athens

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From delicious baked spanakopita to classic tzatziki sauce, join this cooking class to prepare authentic Greek recipes with an expert chef. With stunning views looking over the Acropolis, enjoy a 3-course dinner of your creations on this memorable experience in the Greek capital. Bring home the recipes and show your newfound culinary skills, along with amazing photos of the food and views.

Starting at €71

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Athens “Locals” Food Tour in Monastiraki

Explore the gastronomic world of Athens through the city’s central market. Enjoy homemade pastries, authentic wines, cheeses, honey-soaked donuts and much more. Your local guide will lead you through the best spots in the lively Monastiraki neighborhood for a delicious experience in Athens.

Starting at €68

Not ready to book a tour? Explore our  Athens Guide for more resources.

Here’s another salad to try. Fava is a legume that once cooked has the appearance of puree. This cold salad is accompanied by olive oil and onions. Fava is a traditional dish from Santorini island. So, when you visit Santorini , ask for some fava to accompany your meal. Also, remember to try a glass of local wine.

Where to get it: Krinaki

11. Tzatziki

Tzatziki is known around the globe. So, it’s another food you can’t leave Greece without tasting. Typically, it’s a side dish or appetizer that pairs really well with meat main meals.

Tzatziki is made of yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and olive oil. Because of the garlic, you may need some extra water after lunch. But it’s delicious and totally worth it.

Where to get it: Paneri

10. Roasted Feta

If you want to try something different, this is it—roasted feta. You’ll see it on the menu of several taverns, especially in northern Greece. Feta is a type of white cheese produced mainly in northern Greece and made exclusively from sheep or goat’s milk.

Roasted feta is also a side dish and is usually served with honey, sesame, and peanuts of Aegina. Once you try it, you’ll certainly adore it!

Where to get it: To Steki Tis Pareas

9. Dolmadakia Gialanji

Dolmadakia Gialanji is another traditional appetizer that refugees from Asia Minor brought to Greece. The Turkish call it gialanji , which means “false,” because they don’t contain minced meat.

However, we Greeks are used to making them with vine leaves filled with rice, olive oil, and lemon. It’s one of the most delicious choices, especially in the summer. You can combine this meze with a glass of ouzo . You’ll mainly find traditional dolmadakia gialanji in Thessaloniki.

Where to get it: Rouga

8. Antikristo

If you love eating lamb, then antikristo is for you. This is a traditional recipe from Crete. Antikristo means “opposite”. Cretans cook it by making a pit in the soil where they light a fire and place the lamb in a circle on the spit facing each other—hence the name.

This way of cooking comes from ancient times and residents of ancient Crete would follow this recipe when they wanted to make sacrifices to the gods. That means antikristo lamb was their top choice when it came to food. Today, you can pair your antikristo with a glass of wine or raki , which is the Cretan drink.

Where to get it: Petousis Restaurant

7. Pastitsada

Pastitsada is a traditional dish served in Corfu. Its basic ingredients are meat and thick spaghetti. But many women from Corfu villages prefer to add some cinnamon while cooking, which makes it different.

You’ll find traditional meat dishes everywhere in Greece. However, pastitsada is special for its spice mixture of cinnamon, grated clove, allspice, nutmeg, and cumin typically added. They also use red wine and vinegar for the sauce. Another difference in Corfu is that the meat is cooked in butter not oil. It all makes for a delicious meal Corfu-style.

Where to get it: Aegli Restaurant

6. Traditional Pies

If you have the chance to pass through Epirus, then you have to taste some traditional pies. Locals in Epirus cook many types of pies, like Kasiopita, Kothropita, Kimadopita, Pepeki, Kasata, and Blatsaria. Also, if you visit Tzoumerka or Zagorochoria, tasting pies is a must.

The locals in Epirus still use traditional recipes for their pies. So, don’t hesitate to ask them which pies to try and they’ll suggest the right mouthwatering pie for you.

Where to get it: Fyssa Roufa

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Starting at €80

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5. Spetsofai

Another great option for a traditional dish is spetsofai . From Pelion (Volos), spetsofai is cooked with sausages, Florina’s peppers, eggplant, zucchini, onions, and tomatoes. It often comes with either rice or fried potatoes.

Greece is a producer of great livestock. So, local chefs choose Greek meat to make their sausages, which gives it its flavor. You can pair your spetsofai with a glass of wine or ouzo while tasting this incredible dish.

Where to get it: Kritsa Restaurant

4. Spaghetti With Shrimp

Spaghetti with shrimp is a popular dish not only in Greece but in many countries around the world. However, if you’re going to Rhodes, you have to try it here. Fishermen in Rhodes produce fresh shrimp every day, so many restaurants will make their homemade pasta with fresh shrimp.

For this reason, spaghetti with shrimp will be unique in Rhodes. Also, in the traditional recipe, chefs also add some ouzo, which gives it its unique flavor.

Where to get it: Orexi Rustic Cuisine

3. Loukoumades With Honey

After your lunch, try some loukoumades with honey. Loukoumades are a light dessert made with sugar, lemon, honey, flour, and cornflour. They’re like donuts but they aren’t filled with anything.

Some people like adding cinnamon and sesame while others prefer them with some chocolate. So, it’s up to you to decide what you’d prefer from these options. Whatever you do, though, get some traditional loukoumades in Thessaloniki.

Where to get it: Lukumades

2. Künefe Peyniri

Künefe peyniri is a sweet refugees brought from Istanbul to Greece. Like all these sweets, its characteristic is that it’s syrupy. It goes really well with your favorite ice cream and is especially nice in the summer. I recommend Kaimaki ice cream when you try it.

All these sweets belong to the Greek cultural heritage from Asia Minor and we continue to keep the tradition. If you have the chance, celebrate the tradition with us by trying some künefe peyniri.

Where to get it: Zoubourlou

1. Souvlaki

In the top spot is the most popular Greek food, souvlaki . You can get it absolutely anywhere in Greece. It’s a full meal, so if you’re a bit hungry at night, go with the souvlaki. It’s a quick and easy option you can eat with your hands like a sandwich. Choose between pork, chicken, or kebab, and wash it down with a Greek beer.

Where to get it: Hoocut

Where To Stay in Athens

A great hotel at a great price has become the norm in this internet era. Our article explains what areas are the best in Athens, so you can get a great deal in the perfect location!

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Greece Food Diary: 20+ Of The Best Greek Foods To Try

Greece is famous around the world for its amazing cuisine, and it’s no secret that one of the things I was most excited about when planning my trip was the chance to try all the best Greek foods.

So after a week of gorging myself on everything in sight, I wanted to share a list with you of the foods to eat in Greece…and let’s be honest, it wouldn’t be me if I didn’t also call out some delicious drinks.

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On the surface, Greek cuisine shares a lot of DNA with other Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cultures.  What makes Greek cuisine more unique is that it heavily uses flavors such as oregano, mint, garlic, onion, dill, cumin, and other herbs and spices such as thyme and fennel.  There’s a lot of fresh seafood, hearty tavern food, olive oil, and cheeses such as feta.

But just like most countries, “Greek food” isn’t only one thing…as you travel the country (and even between islands), you’ll find different dishes and flavors prominent depending on the region.

For instance, Santorini is famous for the tomatoes they grow there, so their cuisine naturally features tomato fritters and tomato paste.  Alternatively, Naxos—just a couple-hour ferry ride away—is famous for its potatoes and cheese, and so those ingredients feature heavily.

I’ve tried to include a lot of overall Greek classics in the list below, the dishes you’ll find everywhere…but I’ve slipped a few regional specialties in there as well.

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20+ of the best Greek foods you need to try

So let’s get started…the list below is not in any particular order, but I’ve grouped a lot of the most well-known dishes at the top, and the alcoholic beverages are at the end.

This is definitely not an exhaustive list of the best Greek dishes (I only spend a week there), but is a really good checklist to start with!

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#1 – Moussaka

Moussaka was really high on my list of foods to try in Greece, because it’s pure comfort food.  It’s served in almost all tavernas throughout Greece, as well as at big family gatherings.

The dish is often individually-portioned (making it PIPING HOT), made with a minced beef and tomato sauce layered with eggplant, potatoes, and creamy béchamel sauce.

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#2 – Zucchini fritters (kolokithokeftedes)

Guys, I LOVE me a fritter.  Seriously, throw anything in a batter and fry it, and I’m in.  So I was excited to discover Greeks living that fritter life, including these delicious zucchini fritters.

Kolokythokeftedes should be crispy on the outside and creamy (almost under-done) on the inside, and bursting with the flavors of salty feta cheese and a bit of fresh mint.  They’re usually served with a tzatziki or lemony dipping sauce.

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#3 – Tomato fritters (tomatokeftedes)

These tomato fritters are a traditional meze or vegetarian main course, a specialty of Santorini (which is famous for its tomatoes).  They’re made using fresh tomatoes, sweet onion, and fresh mint or oregano in a batter, then deep-fried.

I had them a few times while in Santorini, but the best were definitely at Aspithia, where they were served with a creamy lemony sauce and tzatziki.

Other Greek adventures to help you plan your trip!

A Guide to Oia, Santorini (+ Is Oia Worth Visiting?)

Santorini Beyond Oia: A Roadtrip Exploring The Island

Where to Stay in Santorini:  The Gorgeous Charisma Suites  (check out  Aspaki Exclusive  too!)

Sampling The Delights Of Santorini’s Wineries

Santorini At Sunrise: Solo Hiking From Imerovigli To Oia

Where To Stay In Naxos, Greece: The Best Beach & Mountain Hotels

How To Spend A Day Or Two In Naxos Town

An Epic Solo Roadtrip Exploring The Island Of Naxos

Exploring The Charming Ancient Mountain Villages Of Naxos, Greece

How to Make the Most of a Half-Day In Athens

#4 – Tzatziki

Speaking of that, let’s go ahead and talk about maybe the most omnipresent Greek sauce.  I found it everywhere I went, but the exact taste and texture varied quite a bit from place to place.  The basic ingredients are thick strained yogurt, cucumber, garlic, olive oil, and fresh dill.

Even for someone like me who HATES cucumber (seriously, my least favorite food in the world), I can usually still rock with a little tzatziki as a tangy accompaniment to my deep-fried appetizers.

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#5 – Dolmas, dolmadakia, or sarma

I was familiar with these as “dolmas”, but I think dolmadakia may be more common in Greece.  I didn’t end up seeing them on a ton of menus, but that may have been a because of where I was visiting.

These are stuffed grape leaves, made with a rice stuffing and often ground lamb or beef, then steamed.  They’re traditionally served as an appetizer with lemon wedges and sometimes a dipping sauce.  I find these so comforting for some reason, and can devour a plateful in minutes!

(I’ll be honest, and I realize this is heresy, but if you’re craving dolmas while back in the States, the canned ones at Trader Joe’s aren’t half bad…)

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#6 – Greek iced coffee (frappés & freddo espresso)

We’re going to take a big detour for a minute and dive into refreshing drinks.  Because I would be remiss if I went any further without talking about Greek coffee and frappés, both of which are a major part of the culture.

I didn’t end up drinking much regular Greek coffee because it was so dang hot when I was there, but the main thing to know is that it’s different from both drip coffee and espresso.  Instead, it’s boiled rather than brewed, and typically served in a tea kettle (a bit more like Turkish coffee as well).  This makes it richer and creamier, and stronger (IMO).

Then there are the iced coffee drinks.  The two main ones to know are Greek frappés and freddo espresso, which has become quite popular recently.  Frappés are made with instant coffee, water, sugar and milk, blended til frothy and served over ice.

The freddo espresso has some similarities, but in this case you take one shot of hot espresso poured into a metal cocktail shaker, then shake it with a few ice cubes and a little sugar if desired.  I actually do this to make iced lattes at home (it’s called “shakerato”), and I love it.

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#6 – Bougatsa

NOW. WE. ARE. TALKING.  I’m here for the pastries.  Bougatsa is a kind of lightly-sweet pastry (or pie) made from layers of phyllo pastry and semolina custard, and usually sprinkled with powdered sugar and cinnamon on top.  However, you’ll apparently find lots of variations by region, including some with meat and cheese.

It’s delicious any time of day, but I was excited to find it super early in the morning in Athens, and enjoying it with a coffee and view of the Acropolis before heading to the airport to come home.

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#8 – Galactoboureko

Galactoboureko is very similar in many ways to bougatsa…it’s a delicious flaky filo pastry with semolina custard filling.  However, the biggest difference is that galactoboureko is then soaked in a (lightly) citrus-flavored syrup.

And I was OBSESSED.  I had a piece of it—with a frappé—on my first afternoon in Santorini, and it was exactly what my travel-weary self needed.

You’ll find this all over Greece, and apparently Crete’s galactoboureko is amazing!  This is one of the best foods to eat in Greece, in my opinion.

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#9 – Spinach pie (spanakopita)

Often when Americans think of Greek food, they either think of a Greek salad, or spanakopita.  Also known as Greek spinach pie, this is a delicious traditional dish that I could eat all day, every day.  In fact, I think I ended up having it for breakfast twice because it’s just what sounded good at the moment.

Spanakopita features flaky layers of buttery phyllo pastry, salty feta, spinach, sometimes other flavorings (onions, lemon zest), and usually an egg to hold all the filling together.

You’ll also find other variations on pies regionally, such as in Crete (chaniotiko boureki, usually zucchini), marathopita (a round pie with fennel), kaltsounia (a sweet cheese pie), and sfakiani pita.

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#10 – Feta me meli (feta in phyllo)

I did not know this had a special name when I ordered it, but as my weary self sat down at a restaurant on my first afternoon in Greece, and I saw “feta wrapped in phyllo with honey”…yeah, I was sold.

This can be an appetizer, main course, or dessert.  It’s super simple—salty, soft feta is wrapped in phyllo (filo) pastry, baked in the oven, and then honey and sesame seeds are drizzled over it.  It’s the perfect sweet-and-salty treat.

I had a non-sweet version in a tiny town in Naxos called Apollonas (second pic below) that were wrapped more like samosa-shaped, and still very delicious.

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#11 – Baklava & other pastries

I loooooooovvvveeee baklava!  Always have.  Baklava is comprised of many flaky layers of buttered phyllo dough, with endless variations of nuts, butter, and sugar.  Then, after baking, a sticky sweet syrup is poured over it to bind the crispy layers together.

The origin of baklava (like many foods in this part of the world) is hotly contested.  Greece, Turkey, and various Middle Eastern cultures claim it, and you’ll find some version of baklava all over those parts of the world.

I got a traditional version at a seaside taverna in Naxos, and sampled different types from a bakery in Santorini (a chocolate baklava, a grape phyllo, a mastiha).

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#12 – Greek salad

This is the only one that I don’t have a photo of, mostly because…I absolutely detest cucumbers (and olives), so never ordered one 🙂

But unless you’re like me, it’s definitely one of the foods to eat in Greece.  Greek salads are very different from the ones served in America—they have no lettuce and a ton of feta (which, I can get on board with *that* part).

Usually it’s tomatoes, olives, cucumber, and a large piece of feta cheese.  They’re served undressed, so you can choose what to do with it (usually there’s vinegar, salt, pepper, and olive oil).

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#13 – Fava dip 

This is another classic Santorini dish that makes a great appetizer, or a main when you’re feeling just a bit peckish.  In Greece, fava refers to yellow split peas (not broad beans), and this dip is kind of like the Greek version of hummus.

It’s creamy and delicious, often served hot with a drizzle of lemon juice and olive oil, and bread for dipping.  I highly recommend Roka’s in Santorini (the pic below).

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#14 – Saganaki

I’d heard of saganaki, but hadn’t had it before.  It’s basically a piece of cheese (coated in flour, I believe) that’s fried in a pan until it develops a dark, crispy crust on the outside, with a gooey center.

There are some variations, such as manouri, which is a piece of cheese with a sesame crust that’s fried and served with a delicious sour cherry sauce.  I had one in Naxos (second pic below) called “kefalotiri saganaki” that was coated in nuts .

I’m still a little unclear on how best to *eat* saganaki (just with a fork? with bread??), but it’s definitely one of the best Greek foods to try in order to get the authentic experience!

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#15 – Tirokroketes (fried cheese balls)

Like saganaki, a cheese afficionado will love tirokroketes.  These are fried cheese balls that can be made with a combination of cheeses, wuch as feta, graviera, or gouda.  Then they’re coated in bread crumbs and deep-fried before being served with tzatziki or tomato sauce.

I found these at Rotonda , a remote restaurant in Naxos that has amazing sweeping views.  It was almost like a deconstructed pizza.

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#16 – Greek yogurt with honey

This is one of the best Greek foods of all time!  Yiaourti me meli means yogurt with honey (and often walnuts), and this is a basically-perfect dish—rich in protein, creamy, sweet.  I had it almost every day for breakfast, in some way.

The debate over whether it’s Greek yogurt or Turkish yogurt is fascinating, and you will find extremely opinionated people on both sides 🙂  I will sit here and eat my delicious yogurt with honey in the meantime.

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#17 – Chicken souvlaki

Weirdly, I don’t know whether I’d had chicken souvlaki before?  It’s basically a seasoned chicken that’s grilled on skewers (souvlaki basically means “meat on a skewer”).  It’s traditionally served with tzatziki sauce and often pita.

Wondering what’s the difference between souvlaki and gyro?  Often Greeks will call both souvlaki, but the main real difference is that souvlaki is small pieces of skewered, grilled meat, while gyro have meat shaved off a giant vertical spit of meat.

I ran into souvlaki in the tavernas of tiny remote towns, and both times I had it, it was DELICIOUS.

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#18 – All kinds of local cheeses

This one is a bit of a catch-all, because listing every single delicious local cheese I had would take forever.  Suffice to say, Greece is a cheese lover’s heaven.  I’ll shout out a few that I know I had, but honestly I probably had even more and didn’t realize it.

In Santorini, there’s a cheese called chlorotyri (often just called “chloro”).  It’s a goat’s milk cheese that’s creamy, slightly sour, and really delicious.  It’s hard to find because they only make a small amount, and it basically never leaves the island.  So look for it there if you visit (it’s the first pic below)!

Naxos was super proud of their cheese (and potatoes), and there were tons to choose from.  Graviera was super common (often on top of the Naxian potatoes), along with Arseniko, Xynomyzithra and Xynotiro.  I’ll shout out fried Naxian potatoes here as well, rather than having their own entry.  They’re basically fries or chips, with graviera cheese on top.

I ran across some other delicious soft cheese in Naxos, and had a lovely plate of local cheese in Athens on my birthday as well.  GIVE ME ALL THE CHEESE!

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#19 – Olives and olive oil

This feels like a bit of a “duh”, because Greece is so famous for using olive oil in the cuisine.  But it’s worth seeking out somewhere you can taste various olive oils (and olives, if that’s your thing).  I made a stop at the Eggares Olive Oil Museum in Naxos for a short tour and taste.

One of the most interesting things I tried was a candied olive, which…why??  (It wasn’t bad, just curious what possesses someone to do that)

I picked up some great olive oil pressed by monks in Naxos, and if you’re lucky you’ll make a friend in Greece who will share their homemade stuff with you.  Wine and olive oil are often made locals for their own families, and it’s always super special when they share with you.

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#20 – Tiny Greek donuts (loukoumades)

These are not the droids you looking for…the pic below are *not* loukoumades.  I never found them, sadly (though I don’t think I was specifically looking).  I did find these delightful little donuts in Naxos Town, however, and enjoyed them.

Loukoumades are kind of like donut holes…sweet, fluffy dough balls that are fried and then drizzled with honey, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a dash of sesame seeds.  That sounds 100% up my alley, and it’s one of the best Greek foods that I didn’t get to try.

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#21 – Greek wine

To be honest, Greek wine wasn’t really on my radar.  Certainly I knew Greece MADE wine, but I didn’t really think about it.  So I was pleasantly surprised by the winery tours I did in Santorini , which is famous for its white wine varieties (Assyrtiko) and their Vinsanto, a barrel-aged dessert wine.

But from northern Greece, to Macedonia, to the Peloponnese, any wine lover will find tons of interesting and lesser-known options to try—and a lot of them are really great.

I will shout out the Vinsanto and Kamartis dessert wines that I had in Santorini…they were absolutely amazing (yes, I brought some home), and quite unique.

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#22 – Tsikoudia (or raki or rakomelo?)

While we’re on the subject of alcohol, I only got to try this once but found it delightful.  Tsikoudia (or sometimes called raki, the Turkish name, or rakomelo) is a spirit made from the leftovers of wine production (so it’s grape-based).

It’s traditionally kept in the freezer and served icy cold after a meal, as it’s believed to aid digestion.  It’s sometimes flavored with things like lemon rind, rosemary, or honey

Apparently it’s not uncommon at family-run tavernas to bring out a small glass of it with the check, but I only had it happen once.  However, it was a nice gesture and I think mine had honey and cinnamon flavors in it.

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#23 – Kitron liqueur (& other regional spirits)

When I was on Naxos, I saw kitron liqueur everywhere.  It was offered in shots, it was in cocktails, and even in ice cream!  It’s made from the fruit and leaves of the citron tree, and is a famous Naxan drink with a bright green absinthe-like color.

And you’ll find local liqueurs all over Greece, so sample as many as you can find.  In Corfu they have Koum Quat (as you’d assume, kumquat liqueur), in Chios they have Souma (from figs, similar to ouzo), and on and on.

#24 – Really great & interesting cocktails

So this last one is less about the best Greek dishes, and more about making sure that you sample the drinks beyond just traditional tavernas.  Because let me tell you, cocktail culture is BUZZING in Greece!

I really loved what I was seeing on cocktail menus, and not just in Athens (I stopped by a couple well-known cocktail bars), but even on the sleepier and more remote island of Naxos.  In particular, I saw a lot of fun herbal flavors being paired with fruit, and also great uses of local spirits.

Be adventurous!

So there you have it…24 of the best Greek foods and drinks to sample when you visit the amazing country of Greece.  It’s a wonderful country to explore as a foodie, and I know I just scratched the surface.

Other regional foodie adventures you’ll love:

• Guide to Turkish Cuisine: 20 Foods You Have to Try
• 10+ Of The Best (Lesser-Known) Wine Regions To Visit
• The Best Key Lime Pie In The Florida Keys: A Definitive Ranking
• A Guide To Coffee In Italy: Un Caffé, Per Favore
• The Quest for the Best Old Fashioned Cocktail in Louisville, Kentucky
• Foodie Diary: The 10 Best Things I Ate & Drank In Charleston

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Greek Food Bucket List: 30 Traditional Dishes to Eat From Greece

Call me crazy, but prior to traveling to Greece I had no idea how delicious Greek food would actually be. But, by the third trip to the Mediterranean country there was a deep love fest forming for the tasty traditional Greek cuisine. My days (and nights) were filled with dishes of moussaka, tzatziki and, of course delicious desserts like baklava. It is some of the best food in the world! 

Greek food spreads its culinary influence throughout Europe and beyond. With an ancient tradition, Greek cuisine has been greatly influenced by both Eastern and Western cultures. Flavors of Greek food changes with season and geography. However, fresh vegetables, fishes & seafood plays a significant role in the dishes mostly because of its long coastline while meat is treated as less popular, with the exception of lamb.

Here are some of the favorites not to missed when traveling through Greece.

Greek Food Bucket List: Names of the Best Traditional Dishes to Eat From Greece Cuisine

1. amygdalota.

Amygdalota is gluten-free almond cookie that is wildly popular in Greece and are the perfect match to a warm cup of Greek coffee. Whether it is a family or friends gathering, Amygdalota reflects the images of good times warm relationships. This food may vary a bit in different parts of Greece, but almonds being the dominant ingredient throughout the regions.

Recipe > Almond Cookies by Saveur

Baklava is the quintessential Greek food experience. This cuisine mostly contains nuts and butter along with sugar. After baking, sweet syrup is poured over it so that the syrup can be absorbed by the crispy layers of phyllo. It is probably the most popular food item among all Greek desserts. It brings a festive mood in the dining room through its exquisite flavor and flaky crust.

Recipe > Baklava by Michael Symon

3. Bougatsa

Bougatsa is a kind of sweet pie (less sweet if you consider Greek standard) made of phyllo pastry & semolina custard. This is a kind of food that tastes good in daytime, delicious at late night and best enjoyed with pleasant memories. If you want to eat this pie from roadside food court you will also get a sprinkle of powder sugar and cinnamon on top.

4. Courgette Balls (kolokithokeftedes)

You are going to want to add this veggie starter to the list of your favorite dishes. This is a very popular Cretan meze, found in most (if not all) Greek restaurants. Your taste buds will be mesmerized by its flavored texture, salty & tasty feta cheese with a bit of fresh mint. The original kolokythokeftedes must be crispy on the outside with a creamy texture on the inside.

Recipe > Courgette Balls  by Lemon & Olives

5. Dolmadakia (Stuffed Grape Leaves)

This is another sign of the versatile nature of Greek food. Dolmadakia are tiny dolmades that are made of stuffed grape leaves. Inside the leaf you will get meat of ground lamb or beef (sometimes both) and rice stuffing. Traditionally, this dish is served as appetizer with lemon wedges.

Recipe > Dolmades by Tyler Florence

6. Tomatokeftedes (Santorini Tomato Fritters)

Tomaotokeftedes or tomato fritters are traditional meze and main course vegetarian food item in Santorini and Syros. Proper draining of tomato is essential for preparing this delicious food item. These fritters have rough edges with bits of mint, tomato and onion chunks.

PS: before heading to Santorini, definitely read our Santorini Bucket List: 30 Best Things to Do on the Greek Island !

Recipe >  Tomatokeftedes (Fried Santorini tomato balls / tomato fritters) by My Greek Dish

7. Ellinikos (Greek Coffee)

Ellinikos is still the most favorite style of coffee adopted in Greece. The coffee is served in the traditional long handled coffee copper pot which is known as briki in Greek. There are three different tastes of Ellinikos like Vari Glyko which means strong & almost honey sweet, Metrios meaning medium sweetness and Sketos mening without sugar.

Recipe >  Greek Coffee (Ellinikos Kafes)

8. Greek Fava Dip (Yellow Split Pea Puree)

This mouthwatering vegetable dish, made with yellow split peas, is mostly popular on the  Greek island of Santorini , however, remains dominant in terms of popularity all across Greece . It is creamy with spectacular taste—great starter for winter days. Enjoy this Fava dish as an appetizer or dip with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.

Recipe >  Authentic Greek Fava recipe (Yellow Split Peas Puree)

9. Feta Me Meli

Another Greek food dish that can be tasted as dessert or an entrée. Feta is wrapped in filo pastry before oven baked and honey is drizzled over it. The optimum balance between salty feta and sweet honey creates a mesmerizing taste.

Recipe > Phyllo-wrapped Feta Cheese Appetizer with Honey and Sesame Seeds

Frappe is an iced coffee drink that makes your hot summer days comfortable. Two main components of Frappe are water and instant coffee granules. Once mixed it becomes addictive, delicious and frothy. With such a strong appeal it’s a perfect pick-me-up drink without extra calories.

Recipe > New York Times Recipe: Greek Frappé

11. Galaktoboureko

Galaktoboureko is a great Greek dessert with crispy perfection. Take a mouthful bite of Galaktoboureko and let your mouth be filled with its juices. This age old Greek dessert is made of crispy phyllo sprinkled with melted butter. Greeks use the most creamy custard & scented syrup to increase the taste of this food by many folds.

Recipe > Traditional Greek Galaktoboureko recipe (Greek Custard Pie with Syrup)

12. Greek Salad (Choriatiki)

Greek salad is a must have for Greeks with almost every meal. Choriatiki are made of tomatoes, olives, cucumber and a large piece of feta cheese and served undressed.

Dressing is left at person’s choice hence all restaurants serve vinegar, salt, pepper and olive oil with the salad. With the tradition of being a starter, Greek salad can also be a great side dish.

Recipe > Bon Appetit Greek Salad

Gyros are an economical meal choice and so yummy! When the meat is roasted vertically and turning on the spit it is known as Gyro. Wait, it is not done yet. Slices of gyro are then placed in pita with various taste enhancers including sauce, onions, lettuce, tomatoes and potato chips.

Recipe >  Gyro Meat with Tzatziki Sauce by Alton Brown

You will be surprised by the deliciousness of such humble food especially when you are looking for a no dairy, no butter and an egg free dessert. Halva is a great combo of four ingredients: oil, semolina, sugar and water.

You will be mesmerized by the taste of these four ingredients when combined. In simple words, halva is semolina pudding which is sweetened by syrup and studded with nuts.

Recipe >  Halva (A Greek Sweet Using Semolina)

15. Kataifi

This is one of the most popular Greek desserts made with a special type of pastry called Kataifi. When rolled up the pastry resembles shredded wheat. A delectable nutty center is rolled inside crisp, thread like strands of pastry, baked, and then soaked in sweet syrup.

The pastry is full of strand so there is always a chance to get messy when you eat this. So don’t try too much to pull them or cut them.

Recipe >  Kataïfi: Almond & Walnut Pastry in Syrup

16. Keftethes (Meatballs)

Give this juicy and crispy Greek meatball a try and bring a delicious twist to your plate. Keftethes is mainly a Greek appetizer dish served with creamy sauce and pita bread. However, this item can also be eaten as a full meal with basmati rice and Greek feta salad.

Recipe >  Margaret’s Keftedes (Greek Meatballs)

17. Loukoumades

Loukoumades are little bite-sized golden puffs of fried dough that are sprinkled with sweet syrup, walnuts and cinnamon. With crispy outside and fluffy inside this Greek donut will give you absolute deliciousness.

Recipe > Loukoumades at All Recipes

18. Moussaka

A legendary, traditional dish that is creamy and juicy. Moussaka is served in almost all tavernas in Greece. In the big family gathering this dish is prepared by Greek homemakers. In Moussaka, tomato sauce is used to cook minced beef which is subsequently layered with sweet eggplants and creamy béchamel sauce. This irresistible cuisine is filling so you don’t need too many side dishes.

Recipe > Bobby Flay’s Moussaka

19. Pasteli

Pasteli is a Greek cusine made of mainly two components; honey and sesame seeds. These pasteli are known as the original power bars in Greece. In additions to honey and sesame different nuts like walnuts, almonds or pistachios are used to bring more variety. Pasteli fits very well as an accompaniment to tea. It can also be eaten as candy or lunchtime snack and energy booster.

Recipe > Pasteli at Epicurious

20. Pastitsio

Pastitsio is a baked pasta dish including ground beef and béchamel sauce. This mouthwatering food is something you can enjoy in every season. The food in Greece is served with mixed green salad dressed with wine vinegar and virgin olive oil.

Recipe > Nikki’s Perfect Pastitsio

21. Retsina Wine

An age old wine bearing all rituals and cultures of ancient Greece for more than 2000 years. The unique test of this wine is believed to have originated from sealing wine vessels with Pine resin. Pine resin prevents air from entering into the bottle while infusing the wine with resin aroma. This wine matches superbly with dishes containing mint, rosemary and dill.

Revani is a very popular dessert which is nutty and grainy with some lemony flavor. This moist cake is sweetened by simple syrup flavored with orange zest. This is not an overly sweet desserts and it is indeed a delightful addition to any dining table.

Recipe > Really Rich Revani Cake

 23. Saganaki – Fried Cheese

This is the food that holds the attention of all cheese lovers. Sagnaki is mostly an appetizer that is prepared in two-handled small frying pan. This beloved traditional Greek food is prepared in less than 10 minutes while using only two ingredients—flour & cheese.

Sagnaki refers to many dishes (which are mostly appetizers) like Shrimp Sagnaki, Mussels Sagnaki etc. However, the most famed one is this Cheese Saganaki.

Recipe > Greek Saganaki: Emeril Lagasse

24. Souvlaki

Souvlaki is a very popular Greek food available in street side restaurants. The dish is well cooked with seasoned meat and then flavored with tzatziki sauce. In Greek language Souvlaki stands for ‘meat-on-a-skewer. Most Greek people call any type of pita wrapped meat a Souvlaki. However, they somehow distinguish the name by the meat that is used. As for instance, Souvlaki with pork skewers or Souvlaki with chicken Gyros.

Recipe > Lamb Souvlaki with Yogurt-Garlic Sauce

25. Spanikopita

Spanikopita or otherwise known as Greek spinach pie is a traditional yet delicious recipe. With its versatility the dish matches with every time of the day. Be it dinner, as a snack or starter Spanikopita will definitely satisfy your taste buds. Feta cheese, butter, olive oil all are mixed and baked until golden crispy perfection.

Recipe > Spanikopita (Spinach Triangles or Pie)

. . . 

26. Taramasalata

Taramasalata is a creamy Greek dip made with fish roe, lemon juice, olive oil and soaked bread. You can also use mashed potatoes instead of bread and add onions, garlic and/or peppers. This dish is typically served as an appetizers or meze with lots of pita bread.

27. Tiropita

Tiropita, otherwise known as ‘Greek cheese pie’, is traditionally popular throughout Greece and can be eaten as a starter or a mid-day snack. This feta cheese food comes into different shapes & sizes. When it is rolled into individual triangular servings that’s when it is called Tiropita.

The main ingredient used in this recipe is various types of cheese (feta cheese mostly). Melted butter and olive oil are also used while preparing this mouthwatering dish.

Recipe > Tiropita (Greek Savory Cheese Pie)

28. Tzatziki

Tzatziki is one of the classic Greek sauces or appetizers with as many varieties as there are cooks who prepare it. Basically, this spectacular food item is made of thick strained yogurt, garlic, olive oil as well as fresh dill. Although it’s a combination of various ingredients but it is simple to prepare and is able to rock any get together.

Recipe > World’s Best Tzatziki

29. Yiaourti Me Meli

Yiaourti Me Meli literally means yogurt with honey. This is simple filler which is rich in protein with creamy sweet flavor. You can have this food in breakfast dishes or as a dessert. Yiaourti Me Meli is a healthy combo of Greek yogurt, honey and walnuts.

The subtle sour taste of yogurt, the sweetness of thyme or wildflower honey, the depth & complexity of walnuts—altogether it is a food from heaven!

30. Yemista

Yemista is a traditional recipe for Greek stuffed tomatoes that comes with vibrant colors and juicy flavors. Instead of tomatoes other vegetables are also used and baked until it turns to brownish color. The stuffing can either be with rice and various herbs or it may contain minced meat. There are countless variations of Yemista and you are allowed to experiment with different types of herbs & spices.

Recipe > Yemista (Greek Stuffed Tomatoes and Peppers)

Are your taste buds salivating yet? If you’re ready to indulge in traditional Greek cuisine an easy way to do so is to take a food tour. 

What is your favorite Greek foods, dishes or cuisine?

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107 thoughts on “Greek Food Bucket List: 30 Traditional Dishes to Eat From Greece”

yummy yummy yummy i want them all i want to sit there and eat one after the other lol :D tasty read

Ha, ha! Me too!

It’s truly amazing that so many amazing foods exist in Greece. Not only is this place magical ,with friendly people,but also it has so many delicious traditional dishes which take your breath away. I’ll make sure I’ll taste them all again when I will be able to do so.

Just Yuummmmm! Now I can’t wait to go. Have you forgotten about Tirokroketes, one of the best Greek food. But I liked these too. I am hungry & just wish to to finish all this one by one. Nice article.

Tirokroketes certainly look tasty!

I could eat this every day and be perfectly happy! It all looks so incredible.

I used to find pastelis in local sumpermarkets, just they weren’t called that way. Delicious! Now I know they’re original from Greece.

Wow ! Very informative indeed. I find it very helpful and relevant. Love your post. :)

Hi Annette , impressive list , you show many delicious greek dishes . I can add just .Paputsakia (eggplants shoes), Octopus with pasta (ohtapodi me kofto makaronaki ) , Octopus in vinegar.You must to know that in Greece fishes dishes are most than common .

I like this blog. thanks for the blog. it was very informative and the pictures are captured very beautifully.

You listed more pastries and sweets, than actual food!

Yummy!! I plan to visit Greece next year. Hope to taste this delicious greek foods.

That shit looks good lol?

jessica that is not good language there could be kids on this website and u are shereing this toxic behaver but i cant lie that shit dose look good…………. ferther more can i have ur bbm babes

you must be fun at parties

Bu liste sanki biraz TÜRKİYE’YE gidince yemeniz gerekenler listesi gibi olmuş.Ne birazı bayaa öyle olmuş.

Greek food definitely has similarities!

Same Turkish foods with different names but you shouldn’t change the names which are accepted Turkish by UNESCO. Like It is Turkish coffee and since it has no difference with it changing its name iz not nice. Same as Cacık(Tzatziki in Greek) At least you should point that it is an share food With Turks. Thanks…

is* shared**

Cacik is not the same with Tzatziki. Cacik often has sumac and it’s more watery. Tzatziki is thicker and never has sumak friend. Only the name is similar:)

Well I have never heard that you put sumac in cacik, Where ever you go in turkey it has always cucumber, garlic , mint and olive oil and sometimes served with a slice of lemon on the side. You should do your research better my friend

In Greece we never put mint in tzatziki and don’t use a slice of lemon (maybe some restaurants would do this, but the people who make it at their homes, never do it). The yoghurt is strained (if that’s the correct wording, please excuse my English). Sometimes we put some dill in it. We always put some salt. Tzatziki existed in ancient Greece (a dip very-very similar to tzatziki, if not exactly the same), with the name ‘myttiko’.

It all looks so delicious! Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful pictures and recipes.

Thank you for sharing all of the amazing, traditional foods one visiting Greece must try. Mediterranean food is packed full of bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and exciting new tastes. It would be a waste not to try them all (if possible) while in the heart of Mediterranean culture. That said, there is hope for those that simply cannot make it out to Greece anytime soon. In fact, many restaurants are serving up replicas of some of the very dishes you describe and they taste just as good. If you can’t plan a trip to Greece to try their delicious cuisine, at least try to visit a local Mediterranean cafe and see what they have to offer. If anything, it will make you want to start saving to visit Greece to try the real thing!

I bet there are plenty of restaurants not in Greece that have very traditional Greek food. You just have to find the right ones!

Excellent list. One small note: The pic for keftethes is the one from sountzoukakia (Smyrna meatballs) that are often served with tomato sauce and have this shape.

Thanks for the heads up!!

And sountzoukakia also contain cumin in large amounts, which regular keftethes don’t. Smyrna meatballs are so incredibly aromatic and full of flavour. Best served with rice and yogurt on the side.

It’s a good list, but there are a few inaccuracies. Spanikopita is definitely not vegan and not in triangles. Turopitakia are in triangles. They are similar in fillings and taste, but there are differences. Gyros are either chicken or pork. The photo you used appears to be a Döner. And Retsina isn’t something to be drunk with a fine meal. It’s cheap, low grade wine that is usually mixed with lemonade (white soda) or drank on its own for the purpose of getting drunk :)

Thanks for the input!

Thank you.. yes that is NOT Gyros and Retsina is not an example of good Greek wine,… we produce some amazing wines, its a shame you listed Retsina as an example

Greeks should change their country’s name as Turkeyoski.It would be lot easier.

You should also add grilled fresh octopus and kaimaki to your list.

That sounds delicious!

Great that we get to have Persian food for the trip we chose to go on! <3

greek foods greatly influenced eastern foods not the other way around

All my favorite foods! Don’t forget Soutzoukakia (meatballs baked in tomato sauce). https://www.mediterraneanliving.com/recipe-items/greek-meatballs-with-tomato-sauce-soutzoukakia/

#15 should be Kataifi, not Kantaifi.

I think you forgot to put in your list a delicious greek dish. Stuffed courgettes with eggs and lemon sauce. Very greek and very tasty.

Sounds delicious!

Great list Annette Slowly learning how to make them all. Here in Corfu potatoes boiled with skins on, till very soft, drained, seasoned and slowly folded into good olive oil with chopped parsley is Heaven on earth. Simple but nothing quite like it! Καλα Σε ευχαριστω πολυ!

That sounds simple and delicious!

Dear bloggers, travellers. I am from Turkey. I travelled Greece two times. I want to say some of them are Turkish food. First baklavaki is not Greek food. It s from Turkish cuisine. I ate baklavaki in Greece, it was bad. It s BAKLAVA. If you want to eat real baklava you can search ”Gaziantep Baklavası”. Also Ellinikos, it s Turkish Coffee. Fava, Helva (halvas), Kadayıf (kataifi), Lokma (loukmades), Revani, Cacık(Tzatziki). All of them are %100 Turkish food. I don’ want to say they stole them to us. We have same foods. Because Greece is taken by Ottoman Empire. Greece is nearly stay 400 years in Ottoman Empire. I want to write true things. Thanks…

Interesting, want to hear something from the author on this topic.

Hahaha you mean the two countries that are next to each other, that constantly fought each other, share the same cuisine?! No way… Looks like Greece has had the better marketing!

YOU NEED TO VISIT TURKEY AND TRY OUR TRADITIONAL FOODS THEN YOU CAN TALK ABOUT TURKISH FOODS. I’M PRETTY SURE THAT YOU’LL LIKE MORE THAN GREEK FOODS

Sorry to tell you this, Merthe – the war is over and the Ottoman Empire has disappeared. It should be no surprise that countries that share a geography and historic trade routes will also share the foods that grow there and the ingredients, spices and methods of cooking. How do you make the claim of where any particular dish originate, which is correct and which came first? Why does it matter?

I like the galaktoboureko. Can I prepare it without egg?

I miss one of my favourite here: spanakotirokopita!

Great list. From Greece I like Taramasalata. It’s a creamy blend with fish roe, potato and lemon.

Even if you don’t go that far south, you could still enjoy authentic Greek food made by Greeks. I always include a trip to Brussels when I go to Holland, just an hour or so by car. There is a street that has many (I would guess 12) Greek restaurants at Rue de l’Argonne close to Gare du Midi (Brussels South) train station. A small street but all of them are plain looking – almost catering to the budget clientele. They offer plat du jour (menu of the day). For that they invite you to come to the kitchen wth a plate in the hand, and ask you which of the dishes you want to have. You just point to the ones you deem interesting. Trust me they are all delicious. Some are not included in the plat du jour and need to be ordered as a side dish. Yes, order some wine too, which is not served in tall glasses, but in plain-Jane 100 cc Duralex glasses (made in France, of course). You eat at one of the long tables that can be shared by many. I started going there in 1972 as I was finishing my engineering study in Amsterdam. I just hope that gentrification has not destroy this major Greek attraction in Brussels (at least for me it is). Sorry, I didn’t Google to see if they are still there.

I would just like to put it out there that Halva is NOT a Greek food. It is part of the Indian cuisine.

I am going there next month so I am doing my research about Greece. This article is very helpful indeed. Thanks for sharing!

I was doing a project that i needed to cook a Greek food and this website was very helpful. THANK YOU

most of these dishes are Turkish food greeks say our own food for a very long time living under the auspices of the ottoman they think they eat this wrong most of these dishes are Turkish and most of them are registered Turkish food

Indeed an informative post! I love to eat Greek cuisine! Thank you for sharing about delicious and traditional Greek foods. Among all dishes, my vote goes to Choriatiki. I found an easy Greek salad recipe yesterday & I will try it tonight!

Yum! I can’t wait to visit Greece and try all of these. They all look so good :)

Great article!! I was in Greece this last April for a month, totally amazing!! The food, wine. People, & places were fabulous. This was a second visit to that beautiful country. Crete had the best overall dishes but Paros had the best stuffed onions and at that same restaurant they had marinated figs in honey for a dessert. Naxos also has some fabulous cheeses and so much more.

Ooh! Marinated figs in honey sound delicious!

It is such a informative list that can help us to know more about the traditional foods of Greek Cuisines. Believe me I haven’t found anything like this before. We just know some global famous dishes. Your article can expand our culinary knowledge i.

I tried Exochiko on my trip this month. It’s glorious!

Where’s all the seafood?! Especially octupus. No snails either?!

I also recommend putting a picture an actual pita and not that “gyro” thing. They are also called “pita” with one of the styles of meat being gyro. I’d also clarify that the “chips” are French fries. Sauce is tzatziki usually, because “sauce” is an actual sauce in Greece. There is def never lettuce.

Thank you very much. Such a wonderful article. All dishes look very appetizing, the photo is super. If hungry, it is better not to watch). I want to try everything!

“25. Spanikopita” should be corrected. It is “spanAkopita”, not “spanIkopita” (no panic included).

I have never been to Greece, I will definitely make time for it, I will save these dishes. Thank you for sharing the valuable experience!!

Ooh, those are some gorgeous pics! I’m a massive foodie and the dishes you’ve posted look mighty tempting. Looks like I’m going to have to add Greece to my travel bucket list!

… eat. now.

I did eat Gyros when i was in Greece and i loved it though it didn’t look as good as in your photo.

Loved your blog. Do you have any restaurant recommendations? We are traveling to Greece in first week of May. We are planning to go to Athens, Naxos and Santorini.

I love saganaki often when you go to a greek restaurant they will give you table some and it dissaperes in less than 10 seconds

Souvlaki is one of my favorites! Greek food is the best

Omg all of them look so good

Royal Curry House Restaurant is an Indian restaurant at the heart of Athens. Our Services include provision and services of Asian, Oriental cuisines, Halal foods, vegetarian & non-vegetarian, healthy food, sea fo

I think i have to correct you because lots of these food traditional for Turkey :) You can search for it if you want. When the Greece army occupied İzmir in Turkey they stole lots of values of our nation. Please search what they did to us, what they did to our values, women and kids. Please don’t close your eyes to realities. I’ll put here my email address, you can send me mail, we can argue about the realities.

at least we have the best one gyros I have been in Greece and in my opinion it’s the best food you can get also I also looked it up Greece was its second occupier and what do you mean by what they did to your women and your kids they did nothing also don’t correct other peoples work

It is such a informative list that can help us to know more about the traditional foods of Greek

Annette White, i have never been to greece but if i ever do i know exactly what to eat, thanks so much for sharing this most incredible post that covers the best greek food in the world!

Nice Turkish foods i want to go to Turkey and eat those

I’m currently in Greece & have to say unfortunately it’s hard to find most of these dishes. They mostly offer 🍕🍟🥪🍔🥧🧇🥗 & on Corfu 🇬🇧 brekkie 🤣 things I’ve found I’ve already eaten in Turkey or other Mediterranean countries. Of course there are similarities, but no need to argue on a nice blog people 🤦🏽‍♀️🙅🏽‍♀️

A lot of these foods are traditionally middle-eastern but are also considered Greek because of shared history. For example, in Arabic the stuffed grape leaves are called yabra.

Sad fact half of them Turkish and other half is Middle Easterian foods.They basically juat add ki and des to end of the name of Turkish food.Sad sad greeks…

Grow up saddo

They are all look great but Unfortunately more than half of the foods are listed belong to Turkiye.

We planned to go to Greece this summer and taste it a bit – but Corona changed our plans. Thank you for this!

WAW Yummy!! Thank you for sharing this information. This blog is really very interesting and effective.Keep it up..!!!

I never knew that Baklava is one of the most popular Greek desserts. My brother is coming to town this weekend and he wants to try some Greek food in our city. I’ll be sure to find one that has some great Baklava that we can enjoy.

It’s interesting to know that there is a cookie called Amygdalota in Greece that uses almond as the main ingredient. I’ve always been a fan of pastries and this dish might be the first food I’d try in the Greek cuisine. I hope there’s a nearby restaurant that sells these cookies so I can have them for takeout.

shame on you gyros is soo much better than that picture also not aTurkish food look it up stupid

Wonderful recipes for Greek food. The Greeks are really very unusual cuisine, which is very different from ours, although at first glance you will not say. Thank you so much for sharing all these recipes!

Glad that you liked the recipes.

Can’t believe how many comment are about the fact that the Greek “stole” Turkish dishes. 90 % of what is called “Turkish food” has been adopted from Byzantine and Middle Eastern cuisine anyway… There have been mutual influences in food all over the world over centuries and even millennia, nothing is truly “original”. Traditions evolve and that’s beautiful :-) Loved the article, we did a road trip in Greece last summer and I just realised that we haven’t tried almost half of the things you list here!!! I guess we’ll have to plan another extensive trip to eat our way through that insanely beautiful country :-)

This article is making me hungry! We love Greek food – especially gyros – yum!!! I can’t wait to be able to travel to Greece again.

Me too! Greek food is something that I really look forward to when visiting Greece :)

There’s alot of overlap between Greek and Turkish food, but both are popular all over the world. Even though I live in South Africa, we eat many of these foods on a regular basis.

Nice! It’s spanakOpita and taramOsalata though :)

Thank you for informing me :)

This is such a fantastic dish. Looks so yummy. I love Mediterranean food, but have tried a few out of this list – baklava’s, stuffed grape leaves with rice stuffing, gyros. They all look so tempting that wanna try them all.

Thanks For Sharing this amazing recipe. My family loved it. I will be sharing this recipe with my friends. Hope the will like it.

Can’t wait to try some of the food on this list on my trip to Greece! Thanks!

I can’t wait in till I eat some food from greece

I (Eric) loved Baklava and couldn’t stop eating it everywhere we went! I have to say some of the best restaurants we have been to were on Milos Island. The lamb was delicious!

This is a great article and great read for me. It’s my first visit to your blog, and I have found it so useful and informative especially this

We spent 16 days in Greece and ate many of these dishes. Delicious. Our favorite cuisine!

no offense but these are mostly Turkish dishes the fact that you ate them in Greece doesn’t make them Greek foods smh

Change the title to ”Turkish Food Bucket List: 30 Traditional Dishes to Eat From Türkiye”

Literally more than half of the dishes that are listed on this list originate from Türkiye.

Greece and Türkiye are culturally very similar but adding ”ki” and ”des” at the end of Turkish food doesn’t make them Greek…

And the WHOLE WORLD knows that these dishes all have Turkish origin, so please don’t forget to give credit next time. Thanks.

GIVE ME SOME EGGPLANTS. I COULDNT FIND ANY

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What to Eat in Greece – The Ultimate Greek Food Guide

If you’re wondering what to eat in Greece, you’re not alone. I visited Greece for the first time this month, and I was so excited to try all of the traditional Greek foods. Greek cuisine truly has something for everyone – from sizzling skewers of grilled meat to stuffed vegetables, freshly-baked pita dipped in garlicky tzatziki, and Greek salad topped with salty goat’s cheese and drizzled in olive oil, you really can’t go wrong eating in Greece.

Naturally, what to eat in Greece will differ depending on where you go – for example, the islands are famous for their seafood – but there are some Greek food staples that you really shouldn’t miss when visiting Greece, and this Greek food guide includes all the very best traditional Greek dishes that you have to try. So, I hope you’re not hungry, because by the time you’ve finished this Greek food guide, you’re going to be desperate to sample as much delicious Greek grub as you can get your hands on. Here’s what to eat in Greece.

Table of Contents

Greek food at a glance

Many people associate Greek food with meat, specifically grilled skewers of lamb, chicken, beef, and pork. While Greeks certainly do love their grilled meat, the geography of Greece means that actually, seafood is super popular here as well, and you’ll often find grilled sardines, octopus, and fried calamari gracing the menus of traditional tavernas across the country. You’ll also find lots of vegetables in Greek cuisine, often stuffed with rice (and more vegetables!), and grilled. Over the years, Greek food has been influenced by Middle Eastern cuisine, Italian cuisine, and, of course, the Ottomans. Greek dishes are always packed with flavour and are made using fresh local ingredients, such as Mediterranean vegetables, local olive oil, cheese, and yoghurt.

Key ingredients in Greek cuisine

I recently spent some time in Kalamata, home to the most famous olives in the world, and trust me when I say that Greeks are very passionate about their olives. I was lucky enough to go on a tour of a family-owned olive oil mill, and our guide joked that every Greek has at least 300 olive trees, and everyone believes that their olives are the best in Greece. The famous Kalamata olives are black, but much juicier and sweeter than black olives you may have tried from elsewhere. With that being said, olives are great all over Greece , and you’ll be hard-pressed to find a meal that doesn’t begin with some olives for the table.

One thing you must know about Greeks is that they love olive oil. While many people associate quality olive oil with Italy, Greece actually produces a tonne of olive oil (75% of which is extra virgin), and often exports its oil to Italy! Olive oil is generally used to dress salads, and you will often find it on restaurant tables, ready to drizzle on hunks of crusty bread. Fun fact: while the average American consumes 1L of olive oil per year, the average Greek consumes 20L!

Everybody knows about feta cheese, but did you also know that pretty much every Greek island makes its own cheese, that you can usually only buy on the island itself? According to Ancient Greek mythology, Aristaios was sent by the gods to bestow the gift of cheese making onto the Greeks, which may help to explain the fact that over 60 types of cheese have been recorded in Greece, and every region is very particular about how their cheese should be made! Many Greek cheese are crumbly, hard and salty, although you can find some softer yellow cheeses such as kasseri .

From stuffed eggplant to eggplant dip, layered eggplant in moussaka, grilled eggplant, eggplant fritters, and so much more, you can’t fail to notice how popular this humble vegetable is in Greek cuisine! While I’m not usually a huge fan of eggplant, I have to admit that I was surprised by how delicious many of the eggplant dishes were that I tried in Greece!

While many people are familiar with using lemon to season seafood, the Greeks squeeze lemons over everything! From grilled chicken to chunky chips (fries), you’ll often be served your meal with a fat wedge of lemon on the side!

This is another Greek staple when it comes to seasoning dishes. Although Greek food incorporates a multitude of herbs and spices, oregano is a definite favourite, and is the herb of choice for seasoning Greek salads. Something I particularly loved was that Greek fries usually come tossed in salt and oregano, which was a game changer for me!

Pita bread really needs no introduction, as I’m sure you’re all familiar with this flat, round bread, but just know that if you visit Greece, you will not be able to get away from pita! Usually pita bread is served complementary in tavernas, and you can pay a little bit if you want extra. It can be used for wrapping up your souvlaki, mopping up olive oil, or dipping into meze staples such as tzatziki.

Traditional Greek Dishes

Gyros is one of the most famous Greek foods on this list, and if you’re wondering what to eat in Greece on a budget, you can’t go wrong with gyros. The meat (usually pork, but sometimes chicken), is cooked on a vertical rotisserie (like Doner meat), and stuffed in pita bread, along with French fries, tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki. Gyros are typically eaten as a street food the go (in Athens , you can expect to pay around 3 EUR), although you can also get them in restaurants. If you order gyros in a restaurant, you can expect to get all of the ingredients stacked on top of a flat pita bread rather than in wrap form.

Moussaka is probably one of the most famous Greek dishes there is! Moussaka is a layered eggplant (aubergine) casserole made with a tomato meat sauce and topped with a thick coating of béchamel. It is seasoned with cinnamon, nutmeg, paprika, and oregano, and is a very filling dish, so be careful not to load up on appetisers if you’re ordering moussaka!

Another one of Greece’s most famous foods, souvlaki are skewers of grilled meat (pork, chicken, beef, or lamb), that can be served either on the skewer, or wrapped in a pita, similar to gyros. Unlike the meat in gyros, which is cooked vertically and resembles Doner meat, souvlaki meat is small cubed meat that is grilled. In a restaurant, you can typically order a simple souvlaki for a couple of euros (which will come served with a side of pita), or as a ‘portion,’ which will come with fried potatoes, salad, tzatziki, and bread.

Pastitsio is a less famous Greek dish (at least, I’d never heard of it before visiting Greece!), that can be thought of as a Greek lasagne, or as a kind of moussaka that replaces the eggplant with pasta. This baked pasta dish consists of layered pasta noodles and ground beef seasoned with cinnamon and cloves, held together in a tomato sauce, and topped with a generous portion of béchamel sauce and a sprinkle of nutmeg.

Grilled sardines

The best traditional Greek food is the simple stuff, and while not unique to Greece, grilled sardines with olive oil and lemon are a summertime favourite in many of the tavernas that line the Greek coastline. Grilled sardines can be enjoyed either as a starter (as part of a larger seafood meze), or as a main dish.

Shrimp saganaki

Imagine big juicy shrimp, cooked in a garlicky tomato sauce with chunks of salty feta and a dash of olive oil – are you drooling yet? Shrimp saganaki was one of the first Greek dishes I tried in Kalamata, and while I wasn’t exactly sure what I was going to get, I certainly wasn’t disappointed. Shrimp saganaki is usually enjoyed as a starter and served with hunks of crusty bread to mop up the sauce – yum!

While technically yogurtlu is a Turkish dish, the Ottoman influence on Greek cuisine means that you can find yogurtlu in tavernas all over Greece. I can’t speak for the yogurtlu you’ll find in Turkey, but in Athens I had a delicious portion of yogurtlu that consisted of toasted pita bread, topped with grilled lamb kofta, a big dollop of Greek yogurt, and a sprinkling of paprika.

Bakaliaros Skordalia

If you’re wondering what to eat in Athens and are craving a good old-fashioned fish n’ chips, Bakaliaros Skordalia might just scratch the the itch! While it is typically eaten on the 25th March (Greek Independence Day), you can still find Bakaliaros Skordalia on restaurant menus around Greece. This dish is made by frying salted cod coated in beer batter (the bakaliaros), and serving it with a side of incredibly garlicky potato puree that is more like a dip than mashed potato (the skordalia).

Grilled octopus

Another simple yet delicious dish you can find in tavernas all over Greece is grilled octopus, seasoned with salt and pepper, garlic, fresh parsley and dried oregano. It is served drizzled with high quality olive oil and a fat wedge of lemon.

Kalamarakia Tiganita

Fried calamari in greasy batter, salted, and with a generous squeeze of lemon, is another dish you’ll find on menus all over Greece! I lost count of the amount of times I had this during my 2 weeks in Greece, and I was never disappointed!

Taramasalata

Taramasalata is a creamy Greek dip that you’ll usually find in meze platters with lots of pita bread. It is made from salted and cured fish roe (cod, carp, or grey mullet), mixed with olive oil, lemon juice, and a starchy base of stale bread or mashed potatoes. The taste of fish is very subtle, and it’s almost like a fish-infused mayo (?!).

Melitzanes Papoutsakia

The word ‘papoutsakia’ actually means ‘little shoes,’ which is what this adorable Greek dish takes its name from! The traditional melitzanes papoutsakia is eggplant stuffed with meat sauce and topped with béchamel and a hard, salty cheese, although we had a lovely vegetarian version stuffed with cheese, mushrooms, onions, and peppers.

Vegetarian Greek food

Greek salad (horiatiki).

I’m sure most people reading this have eaten Greek salad before, but trust me – until you’ve had a Greek salad in Greece , you’ve not had a Greek salad. Roughly chopped tomatoes, cucumber and red onions are thrown together, along with a sprinkle of olives and a gigantic slab of feta cheese, drizzled with (you’ve guessed it) extra virgin olive oil. The beauty of this salad is the freshness of the ingredients and the simplicity of the dressing (olive oil and oregano, sometimes with salt).

Ahh, the ultimate guilty pleasure! Saganaki is a slab of cheese, tossed in flour and fried. The end result is crispy on the outside, and melty on the inside, and it’s a greasy, salty, cheesy dream. Saganaki is a typical starter, to be enjoyed alongside meze dips, salads, and other appetisers. The name saganaki comes from the pan used to fry the cheese, which is called a saganaki or sagani.

In bakeries all over Greece, you will find various ‘pies,’ which are not like an English pie at all, but rather like burek , a traditional Balkan pie . Tiropita is made with layers of flaky phyllo pastry stuffed with feta cheese, baked until golden brown and cut into triangular shaped pieces that are perfect as a snack on the go or a quick lunch.

Spinach pie

Spanikopita is the name given to spinach pie, another traditional Greek pie made with phyllo pastry and stuffed with – you’ve guessed it – spinach, as well as feta cheese. Served as a starter, snack, or quick bakery lunch, you will find spinach pies all over Greece (and I have to admit, my 2 weeks in Greece left me never wanting to see a spinach pie again!).

Tirokroketes

Tirokroketes are a very popular meze dish, and you can find them in almost any taverna in Greece. Tirokroketes are cheese balls, made with 3 different types of cheese (feta, graviera, and gouda), coated in cheesy breadcrumbs, and fried until golden brown – mmm !

Tomatokeftedes

Tomatokeftedes, or tomato fritters, are most popular on the islands of Santorini and Syros, although I was delighted to find them in Athens as well! While common on meze platters, you can also order tomatokeftedes as a starter, to be served alongside pita bread, or as a side dish to accompany your main. The crushed or pureed tomatoes are fried until crispy in oil, sometimes also with feta, oregano, zucchini and onion.

Kolokythokeftedes

Even better than tomatokeftedes (in my humble opinion), are kolokythokeftedes , or zucchini fritters. Made with zucchini, feta, and tonnes of fresh herbs such as mint and dill, zucchini fritters are the perfect summertime dish.

Tsouhti is a pasta dish that originated on the Mani peninsula , which was where I tried it. Tsouhti was originally a peasant food, made from necessity when all the crops were gone and all people had was dairy products, oil, and eggs (and no refrigerators to keep them fresh!). The pasta is cooked, tossed in melted butter and olive oil, sprinkled with grated mizithra cheese (a hard cheese similar to Pecorino Romano), and topped with a fried egg. It’s simple, but it’s comfort food at its finest, and is especially good during the winter months.

Yemista are stuffed tomatoes or peppers, and make a great main dish for vegetarians (although occasionally they are stuffed with meat, so be sure to double check before you order!). They are usually stuffed with rice, vegetables, cheese, and a tomato-based sauce, as well as a myriad of herbs and spices – there are so many variations of yemista, that it wouldn’t be much of a stretch to say that every household has their own version!

Dolmades are grape leaves that are stuffed with herbs, rice, and onions, and folded into tiny little parcels. While this dish is traditionally vegan, sometimes the leaves are also stuffed with minced meat, so make sure to ask before you order!

Even if you have no clue what to eat in Greece, I’m sure you’ll be familiar with tzatziki, an incredibly popular dip that is typically served as an appetiser that makes up a meze. Like many other things on this list, there are endless variations of tzatziki, but the traditional version is made with thick strained yoghurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and dill.

Melitzanosalata

Melitzanosalata is referred to as a salad, but it’s really more of a dip, specifically a very garlicky eggplant dip. While I’m generally not a fan of eggplant, I couldn’t get enough of this dip when I was in Greece, although you must be warned – when I say that melitzanosalata is ‘very garlicky,’ I truly mean it!!

Greek desserts

Now, I have to admit that before writing this article, I thought that baklava was originally Turkish, and when I went to double check, I fell down a massive rabbit hole, and now I don’t know whether baklava comes from the Ottomans, Ancient Greeks, or somewhere else (there’s a fascinating article about the ‘Baklava Wars’ here , if you’re interested). However, what I do know is that Greeks consider baklava to be Greek, and you can find it everywhere in Greece, so therefore it deserves its place on this list! In case you don’t know, baklava is an incredibly sweet dessert made from layers of flaky phyllo pastry that is filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with honey or syrup.

Loukoumades

Often referred to as ‘Greek doughnuts,’ loukoumades are bite-sized pieces of fried dough that are sprinkled with syrup, walnuts, and cinnamon. The best loukoumades are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, and served piping hot straight from the fryer.

Yiaourti Me Meli

Greek yoghurt with honey and walnuts is a delicious and healthy dessert and popular breakfast. Packed with protein and carbohydrates, it’s a great start to the day, as well as being perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth!

Often translated as ‘milk pie’ by locals, galatopita is what I would call a ‘custard pie.’ Whatever you want to call it, this creamy pie is made with milk, semolina, eggs, sugar, and butter, and often topped with a little bit of honey and/or cinnamon.

Pasteli is an Ancient Greek snack that warriors or Olympic athletes would eat for energy – you can think of it as the world’s oldest energy bar! Pasteli is made by pressing sesame seeds and honey into a bar, and it is still a common snack in Greece today, although it is generally seen as a candy rather than something to consume before going into battle!

Revani is another sickly-sweet Greek dessert made from semolina sponge soaked with a sugar or orange syrup. Served cold and in small cube-shaped portions, revani is a light but incredibly sweet dessert, so one is often enough!

Greek drinks

Ellinikos kafes.

Ellinikos Kafes is Greek coffee, and you may also know it as Turkish coffee, Serbian coffee, Albanian coffee …you get the gist. Coming from the Ottomans, this type of coffee is a very strong coffee that is brewed on the stove in a special brass pot, called a briki . It is always served black, and with the grounds in the bottom of the cup, and sugar is added during the roasting process rather than after. You should take your time to savour this coffee, and it is usually served with a glass of cold water on the side.

Another popular Greek coffee is a frappe , a frothy iced coffee that is the perfect caffeine hit on a Greek summer’s day! It is made with instant coffee (Greek Nescafe, if you can find it), sugar, milk, ice, and water, all shaken vigorously together to create a foamy drink, similar to whipped cream coffee.

Ouzo, a liquor with a distinct anise flavour, is crafted from grape must, which is the residue left after wine-making. No other beverage holds such a distinctive association with Greek culture as ouzo does, and it is deeply intertwined with the Greek way of life. Ouzo is certainly not for the faint-hearted!

Even more hardcore than Ouzo (in my opinion!), Tsipouro is a distilled spirit that is similar to Italian grappa Balkan rakija . Tsipouro is usually enjoyed as an aperitif or a digestif in Greece, and it is often served neat in small glasses. Just like rakija, Tsipouro holds cultural significance in Greece, with many families and communities having their own traditional production methods and recipes passed down through generations.

Greek food FAQs

There are lots of vegetarian dishes in Greece. Some great veggie options include spinach pie, cheese pie, stuffed eggplant, zucchini fritters, dolmades, yemitsa, and saganaki.

Undoubtedly, the most popular and famous dish in Greece is moussaka.

A typical Greek breakfast usually consists of bread, pastry, fruits, and Greek yogurt, often with honey.

Mainland Greece is very affordable for food and drink. Expect to pay no more than 12 EUR for a main course in a taverna, and no more than 5 EUR for half a litre of table wine.

There is not a strong tipping culture in Greece, but these days, tourists are expected to tip. If you would like to tip, leaving some small change for your server is more than enough.

Always ask at your accommodation, especially if you are visiting a Greek island, but generally the tap water is safe to drink in Greece.

What to Eat in Greece | Final Thoughts

As you can see, the vibrant culinary scene of Greece is a must for foodies. Greek cuisine offers a rich tapestry of flavours, and whether you’re indulging in classic dishes like moussaka and souvlaki, or discovering lesser-known delicacies like spanakopita and papoutsakia, you’re sure to be captivated by its simplicity, freshness, and the use of quality ingredients. Dining in Greece is not just about the food itself; it’s an experience of hospitality and togetherness, and this is what truly stood out to me during my time in Greece. The warmth and generosity of Greek people, combined with the tradition of sharing meze, allowing the wine to flow, and listening to traditional music, create a wonderful atmosphere that makes every meal a special occasion. That’s about it for today, but as always, if you have any questions, please leave them in the comments section below and I will get back to you! Until next time, XOXO

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Delicious Greek Food – 29 Traditional Greek Dishes To Try Now

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: March 14, 2024

Traveling to Greece? We share the best Greek food to make you look like a pro when ordering meals at your hometown Greek taverna or when visiting this beautiful Mediterranean country. Get ready for mouthwatering goodness.

Traditional Greek cuisine is a feast for the senses, but ordering a proper meal can be a bit confusing. We paired with local Greek expert Dejan Kvrgic from the island of Zante, Greece to share his favorite traditional Greek dishes, plus we’ve added more of our picks by pulling from our four separate visits to Greece and many a trip to the Danforth in Toronto . So, let the mouth-watering begin!

Table of Contents

Traditional Greek Foods

Eating out in Greece is an event. With multiple courses that start with an array of delicious dips followed by dishes of stuffed pastry with fresh seasonal vegetables cooked to perfection in olive oil and garlic, we looked forward to our meals each day in Greec e. The food doesn’t stop there, it’s then onto the main course of seafood and kebabs before ending with sweet sticky treats like Baklava. When you eat in Greece, you’ll never go hungry.

Greek cuisine has barely changed in centuries. Original recipes have been passed down through families from generation to generation – starting with the base of extra virgin olive oil. Originating on the island of Crete, olive oil is a staple for all cooking in Greece. Add strong spices and herbs to the recipe and you have healthy and delicious meals. This Greek food guide will give you the confidence you need to order when eating at a Greek restaurant anywhere in the world .

Greek Appetizers – Dips and Salads

Greeks love appetizers. There is a solid risk of filling up with starters alone when dining out in Greece. Usual Greek appetizers include an array of Greek salads with many vegetables and minced meat dishes. There are also meatballs, fries, and the unavoidable dips including the famous Tzatziki. Read more about Greece: 25 Best Things to do in Santorini, Greece .

Many Greek dips are served as a Meze – a selection of small dishes for dipping and snacking – with pita or bread. So are you ready to have a mouth-watering delicious tour starting with these scrumptious appetizers? Let’s go!

1. Melitzanosalata – Greek Eggplant Dip

Melitzanosalata is an eggplant dip perfect to accompany meaty dishes. This traditional dish is similar to baba ganoush but not exactly, it’s a little less complicated with simple ingredients of eggplant, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt and pepper. Just a few ingredients pack a delicious punch. Just remember, the eggplant is roasted, pureed, and combined for the perfect addition to your order when deciding upon Greek dips for starters. You can eat it with bread or pita and it is also a great addition to a meze platter served with pita bread. Make your own Mlitzanosalata dip at home: Get the recipe here.

2. Taramosalata

Taramosalata (or Taramasalata) is another delicious Greek dip made with taramas, ( salted and cured fish roe ) olive oil, lemon juice, and a base of bread and potatoes. This fish roe dip sounds worse than it is. First of all, its smoky fish flavoring adds a savory finish to any Mezze platter. (Mediterranean party plater). Mix it with – you guessed it olive oil, lemon, breadcrumbs, and milk and you have yourself Taramosalata. Give it a try, you’ll like it. You’ll really like it. Onions and garlic can be added to taste. Serve it with bread and you have a delicious appetizer. Make your own Tarama dip at home.

3. Saganaki

Who doesn’t love fried cheese? If you like cheese, you are going to love Saganaki. This classic Greek dish is fried cheese that is melted and gooey on the inside and crunchy and delicious on the outside. It’s a perfect start to any meal let alone a Greek meal. Make your own saganaki at home with this recipe.

You may want to read: Is Greece Expensive, a complete guide to costs for travel in Greece.

4. Dolmadakia – Stuffed Grape Leaves

Dolmadakia is one of the most popular Greek dishes you’ll see on many Greek menus. These tasty rice and herb stuffed grape leaves can be filled with whatever you desire. They can be vegetarian with onions and parsley added or stuffed with lamb or beef. Learn to make this traditional Greek dish at home here.

5. Keftedes

Keftedes are Greek meatballs that make for a great appetizer for a crowd to share, they can be served at parties, and they can also be the main course. Seasoned with herbs and garlic and paired with tzatziki, you’ll love Keftedes. Garnish with fresh mint and you have a mouthwatering flavorful dish. Make your own meatless Greek meatballs at home this weekend!

6. Courgette balls

Courgette balls are a vegetarian starter made with cheese, flour, and breadcrumbs combined with egg, fresh mint, parsley, dill, garlic, spring onion. They are the veggie answer to Keftedes. Make sure the mixture is firm enough to form balls, bake and serve with a side dish of Tzaziki. Check out the menu here.

7. Tyropitakia (Tiropita)

Tyropitakia is a phyllo pastry pie stuffed with cheese. Lots of cheese. This delicious traditional Greek cheese pie is filled with feta cheese, ricotta, cream cheese, and melted butter make for a scrumptious appetizer. A personal favorite of mine is this small crunchy pastry filled with feta cheese. Fold the phyllo pastry into triangles for a canopé that will impress all your friends. Get the recipe here

8. Baked Zucchini with Potatoes

Oven-baked zucchini is a great addition to small plates. Tossed with butter and oregano this is a delicious and common starter when preparing Greek foods. Plus it is healthy too!

9. Fasolada (Traditional Greek Bean Soup)

Fasolada is a traditional white bean soup that is a staple meal in any Greek household. It is considered the national dish of Greece. It is simple to make with white beans, vegetables, and extra virgin olive oil. Greeks really don’t eat a lot of meat and instead substitute legumes and beans for their protein. This healthy food is considered the cornerstone of a Mediterranean diet. Make this at the beginning of your work week and you have a go to hearty meal that is filling and delicious. Get the recipe here.

Read More About Cool Food Around the World

• Jamaican Food – 20 Traditional Dishes You Have to Try
• Best Canadian Food To Try In Canada
• Polish Cuisine – Traditional Polish Food
• Top 10 Brazilian Foods To Eat In Brazil
• Cuban Food: 20 Cuban Dishes You Can Try at Home

Popular Greek Dips and Traditional Dishes

10. Tahini Sauce

Mmm, Tahini. It is a versatile Greek dip that can also be used as a sauce or dressing. This dense paste made from sesame seeds is used for many Greek dips. The nutty, creamy ground sesame mixture is often mixed with Yogurt and dill. Grab some bread and dip it into deliciousness or add it to salad dressings for some texture and pop. Dip your vegetables in it or even mix it in with your stir-fries. Try this tahini sauce at home.

11. Tzatziki

Probably the most well-known traditional Greek dish is Tzatziki. I know it was the first thing I ever ordered on the Danforth in Toronto’s Greek Town. This classic Greek dish combines yogurt and cucumber and is so refreshing with pitas. Add garlic, extra virgin olive oil (a staple for any Greek recipe), herbs like mind and dill, lemon juice and a dash of salt and you have a creamy spread or dip that everyone will love. Make this simple recipe at home.

12. Tirokafteri

If you want to add some spice to your Greek dips, Tirokafteri is a great choice. This yummy Greek feta dip is rich and delicious. Combine a generous portion of feta cheese, roasted red peppers, garlic and crushed chili flakes for just the right amount of spice. Naturally, extra virgin olive oil is involved in this recipe. Make this easy-to-follow recipe at home.

13. Tapenade

I saved the best Greek dip for last. Tapenade is my favorite Greek dip that I always include in a platter. (It’s Dave and Debs too!) This greek olive dip is perfect as a spread or dip. It’s easy to make too. Just take fresh Greek Olives finely chopped and mixed with garlic and olive oil. My mouth is watering as I write this! Learn how to make Kalata Olive Tapenade here.

Main Courses – Greek Specialties

The main courses of any Greek dish are rich in flavor. Traditional dishes are accompanied by pita bread and Greek salad. When in Greece, don’t be surprised if there is some kind of performance when dining at a traditional Greek tavern. Greeks love performing. When you read the name “specialty meal” it usually means that it comes with fire, plate smashing, music, and attention-grabbing theatrics. To truly eat like a Greek, you should try these special traditional dishes .

14. Moussaka

This world-famous meal is made from eggplants, minced meat, and bechamel sauce. (white flour and milk sauce). Moussaka with béchamel sauce is certainly a classic Greek dish that most people have heard of. Traditional Moussaka uses lamb, but it can also be cooked with beef. When ordering a Greek dish at a restaurant this is a good traditional dish to get your feet wet.

• Try cooking Moussaka at home tonight by following these steps.
• Make your own béchamel sauce at home with this recipe

Kabobs are found everywhere in Greece and are popular street foods and go-to dish. They are a mixture of grilled meat and veggies on a skewer. From steak, chicken, and lamb to mushrooms peppers, and onions. This is a light and lean choice for Greek Cuisine.

16. Pastitsio

A pastitsio is a baked pasta dish that is the ultimate Greek comfort food. It is Greece’s answer to lasagna. This dish involves layers of pasta with minced beef and tomato sauce and bechamel sauce – (butter and flour that have been cooked together) to create a milky texture making it the ultimate comfort food. What sets it apart from regular pasta is the herbs and spices and hollow bucatini pasta. Enjoy it with a fine glass of red wine and you have a delicious meal. Make Pastitsio with béchamel sauce at home with this recipe.

17. Stifado

A yummy casserole-baked Greek stew made with meat (beef or lamb), tomato sauce, pearl onions, white wine, garlic, cinnamon, and oregano. In Greece, this dish is often served with pasta as a side dish. Jamie Oliver has a good stifado recipe to follow.

18. Paidakia

Lamb is a staple dish when dining out in Greece, and a Greek food centerpiece for grilling is lamb chops. Paidakia are well-seasoned lamb chops marinated in extra virgin olive oil. A great garnish with lamb is most certainly fresh mint.

19. Skordostoumbi Melitzana

This Zakynthos recipe is made with eggplants and one hundred cloves of garlic. Skordostoumbi is usually made with meat around the rest of Greece, it is the eggplant that makes it unique in Zante (aka Zakynthos). Mix together all of the cooked eggplant, garlic, vinegar, and tomatoes to create a fresh tomato sauce, and then bake them together to create a savory sauce that is eaten with bread and feta cheese. Get the recipe here.

20. Yemista (Gemista)

Bursting with juicy flavors, Yemista is a dish of baked tomatoes stuffed with minced meat, spices and herbs. Other vegetables can be used as well. We love stuffed peppers and zucchini. It doesn’t have to be minced meat either, vegetarian versions include rice with chopped vegetables and tomatoes sauce.

21. Stuffed Meats

Other Greek favorites are stuffed duck, chicken, turkey, rabbit, and fish. On Zante, the rabbit is especially popular. Pair meats with a side dish of Fasolakia (Greek green beans braised with tomato sauce, onion, olive oil, and garlic) and moussaka and you have a rich and delicious meal.

Greek Desserts

The most consumed desserts in Greece are fruit, yogurt, and some honey. Restaurants in Zakynthos have adapted to the tourists and added popular and familiar desserts from many cuisines. The fruit salads are the most common in Zakynthos, and all of Greece. These are the five most popular desserts in Greece – (With lots of variations)

22. Baklava

Baklava is a very rich and sweet filo pastry (phyllo pastry) filled with syrup and honey, nuts, and cinnamon. A classic Greek dessert, Baklava is usually the first sweet people will order when visiting Greece. AllRecipes has an easy Baklava recipe to follow.

23. Kataifi

Kataifi is one of the most popular desserts next to Baklava. It’s made with layers of thin angel hair pastry dough filled with walnuts, almonds, cinnamon, and sugar drizzled with honey. Make this homemade recipe now.

24. Fruit salads with yogurt

Nothing compares to Greek yogurt. Mix it with fresh fruit and berries and layer it like a sundae topped with fresh honey and you have a perfect Greek dessert. While many people think Greek cuisine is always complicated. Some of the classic Greek dishes are made of simple and fresh ingredients. It doesn’t get more pure than this.

25. Bougatsa

Bougatsa is a lovely puff pastry stuffed with cream and covered with icing sugar and cinnamon.

26. Galaktoboureko

Galaktoboureko is a popular Greek dessert made of custard and phyllo pastry. It’s best served warm straight out of the oven and topped with sugary syrup and cinnamon.

Greek Snacks and Fast Food

Many Greek recipes are made to satisfy the hunger on the go. They are not only delicious, but they are also healthy too. I dare you not to get hooked on Gyros. You can choose from chicken, lamb, or pork gyros. Many Greek restaurants have a stall out front for passersbies to order on the go.

The world-famous Gryos originated in Greece. It is the most popular fast food in Greece and you’ll find that when visiting the country, you’ll be craving them yourself! This common sliced meat snake is prepared with lots of spices, wrapped up with pita (Greek tortilla) with fries, salads and topped with tzatziki sauce.

28. Souvlaki

Souvlaki is the second most popular fast food in Greece. It is basically pieces of meat on a skillet, roasted alongside with some veggies (especially onions), and served in pitta, or sandwich. Additions like salads and sauces share the same practice as gyros.

29. Spanikopita – Puffed Pastry

Spanikopita is a Greek spinach pie stuffed with feta cheese and olive oil that is cooked to fluffy and buttery perfection. We made this from scratch in Costa Navarino and there is nothing better than taking a cooking class in Greece to see how meals are prepared. Impress your friends and make your own Greek spinach pie at home: Recipe here.

 Giouvetsi

Eating out in greece.

Now that you have a better understanding of Greek cuisine let me take you to experience a Greek lunch. When ordering your meal in Greece, there’s always a lot of choices on the menu. Don’t worry though, it is usually sorted by categories, and written in multiple languages.

I suggest starting with Ouzo, a licorice flavor liqueur that goes perfectly with your appetizers. Strong coffee is also offered and often served during the starters. When the meal comes, be sure to order a fine glass of wine (or Greek beer, Mythos)

When ordering starters, begin with an array of dips, and salads that are usually designed to complement your meal. If you order a fish meal, make sure that seafood is a part of your starters.

For a truly authentic Greek experience be daring and try, Stifado, Moussaka, or a stuffed rabbit. Main courses come with vegetables, fried potatoes, and salads. On top of all that, you’ll have a basket of pitas on the table. I told you it’s a lot of food!

The servings in Greece are huge. Usual Greek dining will be heavy; expect at least 2000 Kcal in your belly. But it’s worth it. Dining in Greece isn’t just about the food, it’s an experience! On my island of Zante, your Stifado is brought in a flaming bowl covered with aluminum foil. Musicians play guitars, and the mood is festive.

We learned how to make Spanikopita in Greece. If we can make this spinach and cheese pie, anyone can! Check out the video below.

And that is your complete guide to Greek food. Have you eaten Greek before? What is your favorite dish? Let us know in the comments below what you would choose to eat in Greece.

Plan Your Greece Vacation With these Resources

• Where to Stay in Santorini
• Discover The Natural Beauty of Costa Navarino, Greece
• Introducing Pelion – An Island Alternative in Mama Mia’s Greece
• 25 Interesting and Fun Facts About Greece
• 24 Amazing Things to do in Athens, Greece
• Where To Stay In Athens – A Guide To The Best Neighborhoods

Photo Credits

• #2: Robert Kindermann [ CC BY-SA ]
• #6: Tanya Bakogiannis – Attribution 3.0 Unported (CC BY 3.0)
• #14: Katrin Morenz – CC BY-SA 2.0
• #17: Georgia About Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported (CC BY-SA 3.0)
• #20: Apostoloff – Attribution 3.0 Unported (CC BY 3.0)

Dejan is the founder of Zante Holiday Insider, a blog about the Greek island Zakynthos – Zante where you will find great inside info about Zante, deals, travel advice and knowledge, and great help exploring Zante. You can also follow the Insider on  Twitter , Facebook & Pinterest .

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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32 thoughts on “Delicious Greek Food – 29 Traditional Greek Dishes To Try Now”

Can’t wait to try this!

I never try Greek food before. i definitely I will try after reading this article.

You really outdid yourself. You brought back all my memories from study, work and holiday stays. I’ve spent so much time in this country and now I’m seriously missing it so badly. I love all the goods you mentioned and unfortunately when in Greece, it’s always a let’s gain weight experience. Greek cuisine is just simply one of the best in the world. And if I am to decide between the islands, then definitely Crete. Zante was great too but Crete had seriously made taste buds addicted. Awesome post!

Greek cuisine is filled with wonderful dishes, but there are some that stand out more than others. This article is filled with all the best Greek foods that one should try when getting to know the cuisine!

Impressive article! Thank you so much

We ate our way through Greece when there in 2019 – the food was fabulous! The most memorable meal we had was prepared by the owner of the house we rented on the bay in Corinth, and served on their patio. The eggplant spread was delicious, and the entire meal was heaven. It was followed by digestivos, which we sipped while watching the night descend on the bay of Corinth. A fantastic night with a wonderful Greek couple, and an overabundance of Greek food. Love your articles on Greece! You are an inspiration to me and my husband as we work on our 5 year plan to leave our desk jobs and become world travelers.

Great post, I got hungry just looking at the pictures and will put a trip to Zante high on my travel list. I love the freshness of Greek food and could live on the appetizers and dips alone.

A very informative article to read. Thanks a lot for sharing this. Fine work. Keep it up.

Mediterranean cuisine is healthy and nutritious and thanks for introducing various culinary delights available on Zante Island.

While in Zante Tsilivi I had a Lamb Fricasee which was the most flavour full meal I have ever tasted . They gave me a recipe ,but it was in greek. If there is a recipe for the best Lamb Fricasee ever I would appreciate a heads up to where the recipe can be found . John

A very nice blog for a very nice place. I would very much like also to go here! I just want to ask, how much sun it gets morning vs afternoon?

Loved the cuisine of Greece .. I have already visited the restaurants of the place and loved it. It really is at the top of my list of the best restaurants.

Greece is one of the places I’m still dreaming of visiting mainly because there are many restaurants with very interesting and different menus. Worship experience the cuisine of this region and Embrace I intend to meet. Very good article liked the tips.

Legal these tips … I feel like visiting Greece and mainly enjoy to dine at some restaurant with some of the best local menus.

Ahh yu reminded me of gyros, amazing taste. The food is crazy good in Greece, I personally love it. I’m 2 weeks till my summer vacation starts and Greece is on the map.

Yes!!! Greek cuisine is very delicious, is light a and have lot of herbs, fish, salads, starters, I love Greek food !!! I have some propositions for you what do you like ? http://www.belmare.gr/corfu-blog-taste/best-greek-food-in-Corfu/

Thanks guys, glad to bring Zante and Greek food closer to you!

wooo, nice info

great post i love Greek this is awesome looking great.

waoooo very nice post i like Greek amazing seen awesome.

It’s been more than a decade since we went to Greece, but I remember the cuisine so well. We loved that even though there is a lot of meaty food in Greece, no one batted an eyelash at our vegetarian ways. For veggies on their way to Greece, there’s no need to miss out on Gyros. Just ask for them to hold the meat and double the fries for a super-cheap and super-filling variation.

Yum. Now I want to go back.

Greek food is addictive, and Zante is amazing. Everybody should check it out!

It bring a water in my mouth 😀 !!!! I found the Greek Desert much more delicious than other.

Greek is my favourite type of cuisine! My mum is greek so I grew up with her cooking and my Yia Yia’s cooking.

So many fond memories cooking and eating with both of them. I love dolmades! They are my absolute favourites. Can’t wait to experience Greece for the first time, this time next year!

The food looks yummy and healthy!

Mmmm! ‘Love this post. I’ve always loved Greek food and I still do!

Wow. This is like comprehensive! Bookmarking this page. Have never been to Greece but now I Know I have to make Zante one of this tops 🙂

Argh, this post really made my mouth water. I love Greek cuisine. Never been to Zante though. Personally I don’t think you can beat a good gyros. I amazes me how they have not taken off here in London. If there was a gyros shop in my high street I would grab one at least once per week. Love it!

Of course Stefan! I’m glad you like it! We all should eat like Greek! 🙂

Delicious cuisine, looks great..!!

Great post! It made me really hungry and eager to go back to Zakynthos,

Ahhhhhh really pleased you used our lovely recipe guest post xx

Great article btw.

Traveling with Thyme

Food, Travel, Reviews, and more

Greek Food 101: Top 25 Greek Dishes You Must Try In Greece

Greece is definitely a holiday favourite with its crystal clear blue waters, beautiful beaches, and rich history. However, you can’t leave Greece without trying their traditional Greek dishes (and drinks)!

You can learn a lot about Greek culture through their cuisine.

Due to its location on the the Mediterranean sea, Greece is abundant with what are considered some of the finest ingredients including olive oil, honey, herbs such as rosemary and thyme, and many more. Most Greek food is considered very healthy too!

Greek cuisine is also influenced by Ottoman cuisine, and therefore shares some dishes such as Baklava, Dolmades, and others with Greece’s neighbouring Mediterranean countries. However, even if you’ve tried these dishes elsewhere, it’s always worth a try to compare them since there are usually some alterations… eat for “research” purposes, you know?

Taste Greece as the locals do with this Greek food guide featuring the top foods you need to eat (and drink!) in Greece.

Tip: Your best option to cover more “food ground” is to sign up for a food tour! Our Athens food tour was a life saver allowing us to tick many of the must-try Greek foods from our list!

Here are 25 traditional Greek f oods you MUST try in Greece!

1. tzatziki.

Tzatziki is one of my favourite traditional Greek dishes; it’s made from thick Greek yogurt, lemon, garlic, and dill, then drizzled with olive oil. This dish is usually served with bread.

2. Fava Dip (Yellow Split Pea Puree)

This fava purée dish made from yellow split peas is a great appetizer (mezze item) that can be eaten as a dip or even in a sandwich! It’s considered a staple food in the Greek diet with a high protein and low fat nutritional value.

3. Greek Salad (Choriatiki)

Greek Salad was the one thing I couldn’t bring myself to part with. Traditional Greek salads include cucumber, tomato, green bell pepper, red onions, Kalamata olives, and a giant block of crumbly creamy feta cheese (which is divine) – order this refreshing salad at every restaurant.

4.  Gyros

Gyros are the most basic traditional Greek street food you’ll have in Greece. This pita wrap / sandwich is known and loved worldwide and is said to have multiple origins with recipes varying from country to country. Pick your protein (beef, lamb, chicken, or pork) and watch them stuff the wrap with veggies and fries and then pour over that fresh tzatziki sauce on top! Gyros are considered cheap and fast food.

Our favourite was Tylixto near Monastiraki. However, a popular choice is O Kostas paired with a long queue of hungry humans; get there early!

5. Souvlaki

Souvlaki is a very popular choice when ordering food in Greece. They’re basically seasoned grilled meat skewers and can be eaten in a wrap like a gyro, except they’re much less fatty!

We had lunch at O Thanasis in Monastiraki on our first and last day in Athens (yes, it was that good!) and ordered souvlaki as well as a succulent kebab with yogurt and tomato sauce. Highly recommended!

Dakos (ντάκος), also known as koukouvagia or kouloukopsomo, is a Cretan meze dish made up of a slice of soaked dried bread or rusk which is topped with chopped tomatoes, crumbled cheese, olive oil, and herbs. The one at Cafe Avissinia  in Athens was absolutely delicious!

7.  Moussaka

When T and I visited Greece, we were informed by many locals that Moussaka, the eggplant and ground meat casserole dish that kinda looks like lasagna, is actually not really Greek and is just eaten by tourists. We found that to be rather strange since it’s on all the Greek food lists and guides on the internet. I wasn’t sure whether to omit it from my Greece Food Guide, but then went ahead and included it because I didn’t want the poor citizen-of-nowhere dish to feel neglected or abandoned… Plus, it looks delicious!

8. Bougatsa (Savoury and Sweet “Pies”)

A Greek Bougasta is a baked crunchy layered phyllo pastry and stuffed with a sweet or savoury filling. The most common Bougatsa filling is a sweet semolina custard and dusted with powdered sugar and sometimes cinnamon. Savoury fillings include simply cheese, spinach and feta cheese (delicious!), or minced meat.

The most delicious Bougatsa T and I had in Athens was at  Bougatsa Thessaloniki Cafe  in Psyri neighbourhood during our Athens Food Tour ! This café prepares it right before your eyes!

9.  Keftedes

Keftedes, or fried meatballs, are mainly served as an appetizer (meze) with pita bread and usually have tomato sauce poured on top.

10. Tomatokeftedes (Santorini Tomato Fritters)

Tomatokeftedes (i.e. tomato fritters), another traditional meze item, originates from Santorini. These Santorini Tomato Fritters are basically a fried mix of tomatoes, mint, and onion chunks. Simple, but delicious!

11. Courgette Balls (Kolokythokeftedes)

On my Greece food guide, this would be the third “keftedes” item: Kolokythokeftedes aka Courgette Balls. This meze dish is famous in Crete and can be found in most traditional Greek eateries. It’s crispy on the outside with a creamy interior. We had these with Tzatziki during our Athens food tour and it was a great pairing!

12.  Dolmades

Dolmades are one of my favourite Greek dishes because the recipe is similar to one of my favourite Lebanese meze staples known as “Wara2 Enab”. Grape leaves are stuffed with rice and herbs (and sometimes meat). Fresh dolmades taste nothing like what you buy in the store, so if you’ve tried them store-bought; you have to give them another try fresh 😉

13. Yemista

I tried Yemista for the first time in Athens last summer and let me tell you, this stuff is good! It’s very similar to the dolmades stuffing with or without the meat addition; except it’s stuffed into tomatoes and peppers. It’s delicious!

14.  Saganaki

If you’re into cheese, you’re probably gonna love with this traditional Greek dish. Saganaki is basically fried cheese which got its name from the frying pan used to make it. The type of cheese varies; expect Greek cheeses such as halloumi, kasseri or graviera (cheese that can withstand high heat before melting).

15. Octopus

Octopus is a common and oh-so-delicious Greek dish that’s usually marinated and grilled, served as meze.

Fun fact: When drinking Ouzo, in order to avoid getting drunk, it’s best to consume octopus at the same time to inhibit the drink’s effects! Cool, huh?

16.  Koulouri

The ever-so-popular Koulouri (sesame bread rings) can be found on every corner of the street in Athens! This traditional Greek street food are sold at small kiosks throughout the day and are eaten by the locals as breakfast and sometimes as a snack! They’re best when they’re fresh in the morning because they go stale after a while. The chocolate variety is also worth a try if you have a sweet tooth – You either love it or hate it!

Moving on to the sweet stuff of my Greece food guide…

17.  baklava.

Picture this: Phyllo pastry, butter, sugar & nuts, phyllo pastry, butter, sugar & nuts, phyllo pastry, butter, sugar & nuts… times infinity! After baking, sugar syrup is poured all over it and absorbed by the now-crispy buttered phyllo layers. The taste, the texture… YUM!

By the way, the baklava at this  address  in Athens is a must try; they seriously have the BEST baklava I’ve ever had!

18.  Loukoumades

Do you like donuts? What if I told you the Greeks have their own version? Fried and crispy sticky donuts dusted with powdered sugar and/or cinnamon, drizzled with honey, and sometimes topped with nuts! Need I say more?

Halva is a sweet treat made of oil, semolina, sugar, and water; it’s referred to as a “semolina pudding” and sometimes contains nuts. The texture is crumbly and melts in your mouth. Definitely a must on your Greece food to-do list!

20.  Yogurt with Honey (Yiaourti Me Meli)

Greeks mainly have coffee for breakfast, but I ate Greek yogurt almost every morning in Greece. I absolutely LOVE it with sticky golden thyme or wildflower honey and crunchy walnuts. By the way, it tastes nothing like the packed yogurt containers in the supermarket.

Now for things you should drink in Greece:

21. ellinikos (greek coffee).

Greek coffee is very similar to Turkish coffee or Lebanese coffee. Watch your coffee “roast” in the sand in its traditional copper pot known as “Briki”. Ask for it “Vari Glyko” (strong and very sweet), “Metrios” (medium sweetness) or “Sketos” (without sugar).

22. Ouzo 

Ouzo is known as the national drink of Greece; a dry anise-flavoured aperitif. It tastes very similar to Sambuca. It’s pretty strong.

When in Greece, Frappe is a must-try in the hot summer weather! Frappe is an iced coffee made by mixing instant coffee and water, which results in a frothy virtually-calorie-free coffee drink!

24. Retsina Wine

Retsina wine has been used in ancient Greece for over 2000 years! It’s a type of wine with a flavour derived from exposure to pine tree resins. Find out more about the wine process  here .

25. Raki (Tsikoudia)

Raki is an unsweetened (and sometimes anise-flavoured) alcoholic drink which is produced by distilling grape pomace (the remaining skins, twigs, and mash left after a wine press) twice in traditional copper alembics and then sometimes flavouring it with aniseed.

Love cooking? Check out these must-try classic Greek recipes !

This Greece food guide is only a part of the vast list of traditional Greek food and drink you must try in Greece!

What are your favorite things to eat and drink in Greece?

LIKED THIS ARTICLE?  CHECK OUT MORE TRAVEL ARTICLES IN GREECE !

Unless otherwise noted, all posted content and photographs are owned exclusively by me. None of the content / photographs may be reproduced, modified, recirculated, commercially exploited or reused in any form whatsoever without my prior written consent.

Non-watermarked photos in this Greek food guide were sourced from Moussaka / Bougatsa /  Greek Meatballs /  Tomatokeftedes /  Halva

For further information regarding permission to use content or photographs, please contact me .

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Very informative guide! Im goin to try the lukumade donuts they look like Lebanese donuts!

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The Do's and Don'ts of Eating in Greece

A trip to Greece equals an exciting journey through Greek gastronomy; after all, it is common knowledge that in order to get a fully local experience when traveling around the country, trying local delicacies and diving into the mouth-watering Greek cuisine is definitely a must-do. 

For that reason, here we present to you some  do's and don'ts of eating in Greece  and hints for Greek dining etiquette to help you transform your trip into an unforgettable Greek culinary adventure no matter which of our Greece tours or  Greece vacation packages you go for!

We will try to reply to questions such as: Are there any  foods to avoid in Greece?  What to eat in Greece?

Do try the street food

We can't stress this enough, but if you want to feel like a local and explore the most exquisite cuisine in the world, try the Greek street food ! Undoubtedly, the king of Greek street food is the world-famous souvlaki .

 Available in every corner around the country, it is perhaps the cheapest way for you to enjoy a full meal. Fresh vegetables, fries and delicious sauces such as tzatziki, are sided with meat wrapped in warm pita bread .

There is a variety of meat you can choose to add to your souvlakis such as gyros, chicken or lamb. In some places, there might be vegetarian options available such as halloumi cheese or falafel.

Tip : Ordering souvlaki in Greece might turn out to be quite a task depending on where you are. In Athens and generally in the southern part of the country souvlaki means the whole wrap, while in Thessaloniki and the northern part of Greece this is not the case.

There, you have to ask for a pita with souvlaki, otherwise, you will end up holding just a skewer of meat, and no one deserves that kind of disappointment!

The most popular street snack in Greece , apart from souvlaki, is  koulouri . Koulouri can be found all around the eastern part of the Mediterranean and the Balkan countries, but each country claims to have a different recipe for it.

The traditional koulouri  in Greece is a thin circular bread with lots of sesame seeds covering it. It is hands down the favorite breakfast option for Greeks, along with a cup of Greek coffee .

Get yours from a traditional vendor on the street; it will set you back only 50cents and it will be a treat to your senses!

In case you feel hungry while walking around Athens or another Greek city, the cheapest way to fill your tummy is to choose from an array of traditional pies .

Spot the nearest bakery shop and get the chance to try spanakopita (spinach pie), tyropita (cheese pie), or ask the baker to recommend something new.

When it comes to pies, the sky's the limit! Each region is particularly famous for a type of pie depending on the season and its ingredients. Therefore, keep your eyes open and follow the scent of the freshly baked phyllo  pastry to enjoy a piece of a traditional Greek pie !

Apart from the options mentioned above, there is an endless amount of options regarding Greek street food . From seafood to middle-eastern delicacies, Greece has it all! Do not hesitate to ask the locals and find the place that suits you best!

Do taste the traditional Greek cuisine

A quick bite is nice, but not as nice as a full Greek meal consisting of traditional Greek dishes , such as mousaka or pastitsio .

Layers of flavor in the form of mince, pasta, and béchamel await you in almost every local restaurant, along with an array of other local delicacies.

One of the best places to try local dishes in the heart of Athens is -ironically- 'Lesvos', the meze restaurant in the neighborhood of Exarcheia , where you can try delicacies from the island of Lesvos at affordable prices.

The local dishes of grilled octopus, fried courgette balls, and local cheeses will make your mouth water, while its friendly staff and old-time aesthetic will seal the deal!

Other areas that Athenians love to go out for food are the picturesque neighborhoods of Psyrri  and Monastiraki right at the city center.

There, all you have to do is to have a walk through those neighborhoods and find a place that, along with delightful culinary creations, offers a magnificent view of the Acropolis !

Do ask the local people for information and advice

Don't let your ego get in the way of your wonderful trip to Greece !

You are in a foreign country, so it is normal to be unaware of the best places to go, the best things to see, and the best spots to eat (although a short exploration of our blog would have given you the insight you need, we're not going to be bitter about it!). 

Lucky for you, loving food is in the Greek's DNA; therefore, you can get advice from locals about the best places to eat.

Most probably, they will introduce you to a cheap, off-the-beaten-path restaurant where you are going to taste  unique Greek flavors .

The hospitality of the locals isn't just an urban myth, and you'll soon figure it out yourselves. They'll be more than happy to give you advice and help you in any way possible so as to ensure you love Greece just as much as they do! 

Don't say 'no' - keep an open mind!

Once you find the delicious and affordable restaurants Greece is known for, you will enjoy not only the food but also the hospitality of the owners, who are sure to will propose some dished to you. You shouldn't refuse.

They know better, and they want you to have a good time and try the best of what they have to offer. They will probably even treat you to a traditional Greek drink like ouzo , tsipouro,  or rakomelo . 

Again, refusing it won't get you far; drink with them, but be careful to drink with reason, the Greek liquors are quite strong. Alternatively, If you don't want to drink alcohol, you can just take a sip and thank the locals for their hospitality.

Furthermore, keep in mind that the Greeks prefer to use their fingers rather than cutlery on many occasions - especially when chicken legs and steak bones are involved. Don't judge! Instead, follow their lead, and you might notice that food tastes better that way.  

Do praise the cook

If you are enjoying your food, don’t hold back; offer your compliments to the people responsible for your exquisite meal! They will appreciate your kindness, and it will make their day. If you enjoyed both the service and the food, don't forget to leave a tip.

The locals are generous tippers, and when they have a good time, they make sure everyone responsible for it knows it!  Don’t stress over the amount of money; your gesture is more important.  

What is a typical meal in Greece?

A typical Greek meal includes one or two appetizers, a slice of freshly-baked bread, the main meal, a glass of the alcohol or soft drink of your choice, and dessert for the end.

When you hear about the Greeks living the good life and knowing their food, the rumors are true-mors!  

What is a typical Greek breakfast?

Pies, buns, rusks, honey, jams, eggs, olives, feta and cheese, legumes, and pastries. Fresh, tasty fruits, juices, and coffee.

The delicious and quality products of the traditional Greek breakfast take their rightful place, displacing croissants, bacon, pancakes, and fatty sauces from most other countries. 

The local specialties, with the unique flavors of each region, make the stay of the visitors even more enjoyable, as it helps them discover the gastronomic heritage of Greece through the local delicacies.

A typical Greek breakfast depends on what each place produces, according to the climatic conditions, the soil, its historical course, and the influences that have shaped its gastronomic culture. 

What is a typical Greek lunch?

A typical Greek lunch includes a Greek salad and a second appetizer that is usually either boiled greens or homemade french fries, depending on how healthy you want to be that day.

Following the first dishes is the main dish, which can be anything from the world-renowned mousaka to stuffed wine leaves -also known as ' dolmades '- or some kind of roast. As always, food is almost always accompanied by a glass of wine, beer, or ouzo!

After your main dish, more often than not, comes dessert, which can be anything from traditional baklava and spoon sweets to cake and chocolate. 

What time is dinner in Greece?

In a country that never sleeps, no time is "too late" for dinner. You will find most eateries open until past 12 at midnight.

Regardless, traditionally, dinner in Greek homes is served at around 8-9 pm. Of course, you can eat whenever you feel like it; no one's going to stop you!  

How much does a meal cost in Greece?

The prices vary depending on where you get your food from. There are high-class restaurants that charge up to 80 euros a dish, souvlaki places where you can eat the beloved wrap for 2 euros, and everything in between.

Therefore, the amount of money you'll spend on food depends solely on your decisions.

Our advice would be to do your research and find family-run taverns that serve delectable dishes at incredibly affordable prices. Yes, there are plenty of those in Greece!  

Can you drink tap water in Greece?

In most big cities, including its capital, Athens, it is perfectly fine to drink water from the tap. Unfortunately, this doesn't stand true for most of the Greek islands and the countryside.

In order to be on the safe side, we would highly suggest you buy mineral water from the supermarket during your stay or just ask the locals of each region you visit. An upset stomach is never welcome, especially during your holidays.  

Do you leave a tip in Greece?

Unlike many countries, the tip is not included in the bill in Greece. This means that you should tip to your heart's desire separately. You can either leave your tip on the table or at the hands of your waiter/waitress; both will be fine.

The amount of your tip really depends on you and the sum of your bill. However, a good rule of thumb is not to go under 20% of the listed price.  

What can I eat in Greece during my pregnancy?

Greek cuisine uses fresh and nutritious ingredients, while traditional dishes don't typically use any kind of raw or unpasteurized food.

It is common knowledge that sushi -which may not be Greek, but you can find it everywhere in the country- is forbidden, and salmon is not preferred for pregnant women, but other than the obvious, there are no hidden threats in Greece's gastronomy.

Therefore, even if you're pregnant during your trip to Greece, you will still have the opportunity to try all of its cuisine's riches.   

What can you not eat in Greece?

That is a tough question, and the immediate reaction is to answer "nothing." Greek cuisine is very different from any other cuisine in the world, especially Asian cuisine. Therefore, it is unlikely to find insects and other eccentric food of that kind readily available.

However, especially in Athens and the most popular and cosmopolitan regions of Greece, you can find dishes from all over the world to feast upon. To be honest, the only thing you will not have the opportunity to eat in Greece is bad-tasting food. 

Final thoughts

In conclusion,  Greek eating etiquette consists of a few simple rules.

Don’t settle for less when it is easy to find more, cheaper, and better food. Don’t say no to treats and offers, but don’t get carried away -a hangover is fun only as a film.

Compliment and show your gratitude to the owners and waiters. Be open to advice from the local people and explore the culinary excellence of Greece.

Don't forget you can also plan your own culinary exploration of Athens or check out one of our Greece tours  to optimize your gastronomic experience in our country in an easy and clever way that will ensure you get to live your myth in Greece to the fullest!

• Walking tours
• Local Experiences
• History & Mythology tours
• Cultural & Heritage tours
• Private tours
• Athens excursions
• All Themed Tours
• Curated Trips

• Tailor-Made

• Themed Tours

The best traditional Greek Foods & Drinks to Try while in Greece

Visiting Greece is a journey of a wide range of culinary sensations and possibilities! Join in the game of discovering new experiences, scents and flavors, unique colors and authentic products. The gastronomy of Greek land will excite you; traditional Greek breakfasts, colorful dishes of authentic Mediterranean cuisine, refined wines, tasty beers and strong spirits. Here is a list of Greek foods and drinks that you should taste when in Greece!

1. Bougatsa

Bougatsa is a must for a Greek’s breakfast. Greeks are not big on breakfast but when it comes to leaf pies, especially bougatsa, they make an exception. Bougatsa is a traditional Greek dessert with creamy custard wrapped in phyllo and served with icing sugar and cinnamon on the top. You should try this delicatessen with your morning coffee! 

2. Tomatokeftedes (Santorini Tomato Fritters)

Made by tiny tomatoes from the unique volcanic Santorini tomatoes, this dish is served from small taverns to the most expensive gourmet restaurants. Santorini tomatokeftedes (tomatoballs), are fluffy in the inside and crunchy on the outside. One bite is enough to experience its aromas, flavors and evoke sentiments! Enjoy your tomatokeftedes everywhere in Greece and imagine you are in Santorini by the sea, gazing at the endless blue and the white little houses above the Caldera!

You may also like:   Best Places to Eat in Athens - Food Guide (by Locals)

3. Moussaka

The legendary dish of Greece! Moussaka is served in every tavern and every family table of Greece. It is made with beef mince, rich béchamel, potatoes and layered with sweet eggplants. Prepare your forks and indulge yourself to a creamy, juicy and absolutely delicious experience! 

Tip! To enjoy a truly homemade and authentic dish of Moussaka, avoid the so-called ‘tourist traps’ and search for an authentic local restaurant or tavern. 

4. Ouzo

Eating without drinking is not a thing for Greeks. While enjoying the rich flavors of the Greek dishes you have to accompany your food with a proper drink. And we have the perfect candidate: Ouzo! Add two ice cubes on your glass and fill half of it with ouzo! Taste the aniseed and the island vibes and enjoy the complete Greek experience.

5. Fava

Greek fava is a dish made with yellow split peas to create an appetizer or meze (small dish). For more than 3,500 years the inhabitants of Santorini and neighboring islands cultivate this legume. Creamy and super tasty, fava can be enjoyed as an appetizer or dip with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Today, there are many variations of the dish depending on which part of Greece you are or even in which restaurant. But the one you should definitely try is the classic onion recipe!

Related Tour

Athens Food Tour: Tastes and Stories of Greece

6. Dolmadakia Yalantzi (Stuffed Grape Leaves)

Little bites of heaven! Dolmadakia Yalantzi are made from tender vine leaves wrapped into little rolls and stuffed with rice and fresh herbs. In Greece it is an all-time-honored meze! Taste the Greek olive oil and herbs in the rice; feel the smooth vine leaves holding everything together; put some extra lemon on the top and take a sip of ouzo to complete the procedure like a local!

7. Koulouri of Thessaloniki

If you ever walk the streets of Athens or Thessaloniki, you will see almost in every corner of the city, in every bakery and in every street vendor the famous Greek koulouri! Super crunchy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, koulouri is the most famous breakfast for Greeks, along with a cup of coffee of course. The name comes from the city of Thessaloniki, situated in Northern Greece. Koulouri translates literally as "round". This round piece of heaven is for most Greeks the reason to be happy in the morning (or the evening, or the night, or the dawn). Try it!

8. Raki

Have you ever been to Crete? If the answer is yes, then you know all about raki! Raki is a strong drink that comes from grapes. Many villages and islanders make their own raki from the grapes they grow. If you ever visit their house, the first thing you will be asked, even before the question “how are you”, is “do you want a glass of raki”? Its substance is beautiful as crystal clear water and strong as a lightning. This is not just a drink; it’s a tradition that comes with its own drinking ritual.

Tip! During the winter, you can drink it warm with honey and cinnamon!

9. Greek olives (green or black)

You have heard about the Greek olive oil. But have you ever tried Greek olives? Growing under the amazing Greek sun, these olives are unique and considered among the healthiest foods on earth! They are crunchy, with a subtle fruity flavor, which is also salty, slightly bitter, and charred. They are eaten as appetizers ( meze),  in salads and especially the black ones (olives Kalamon ) are used in the famous Greek salad! 

10. Masticha of Chios Liqueur

The first official reference of Masticha comes from ancient times. Greek doctors such as Hippocrates, the father of medicine, have recognized the therapeutic properties of Masticha as well as its ability to increase the male libido! Masticha comes from teardrops of resin from the mastic trees. Its liqueur has a very unique taste and it is distilled in Greece, exclusively in the island of Chios. 

Bonus: And of course... Greek coffee! 

Try the traditional Greek coffee as your morning coffee or after your meal to ease your digestion process. Research shows that Greek coffee contributes to longevity and good health! If you are in Athens, head to Psyri neighborhood and look for traditional coffee shops that still serve Greek coffee the old way: they roast the coffee in embers and then put it in containers filled with hot sand where they simmer. Enjoy!

You may also like:

• One day in Athens: How to make the most of it
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Greece Travel Guide

Last Updated: June 6, 2024

It’s also one of the more affordable countries on the Euro.

You can travel around Greece for a fraction of what you’d spend in other Western Europe, which is just one of the many reasons why I absolutely love visiting Greece.

I’ve been to Greece many times and have spent months exploring this country. I cannot say enough good things about it.

Visiting Greece is always the highlight of my summer European travels. There’s just something magical about this country. There’s an energy in the air and you can’t help but think, “Maybe I should never leave?” It sucks you in.

And, while the Greek islands get the most attention, the interior of the country — with its small towns, historic ruins, and mountain hikes — is too often overlooked and underappreciated.

So, while you may have a strong desire to stick to the islands, try to get to some of the places in the interior if you can. You won’t regret it.

This Greece travel guide combines all my knowledge and experience to help you plan an epic, affordable trip!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Greece

Click Here for Island and City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in greece.

1. Visit the Acropolis

Located in Athens , this magnificent hilltop complex from the 5th century BCE includes ancient buildings and ruins like the temple to Athena and the famous Parthenon. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is an excellent place to learn about the city’s history. You’ll also get to enjoy an expansive view of the skyline and the nearby ruins. During the summer, it’s swarming with tourists so get there early. Admission is 20 EUR, or for 30 EUR you can get a 5-day combined ticket that includes many other archaeological sites in Athens. For a guided tour, Athens Walking Tours runs guided tours for around 55 EUR (including admission) that skip the line.

2. Discover historic Crete

Crete has a long, long history. It was once home to the ancient Minoan civilization (which predated Greek civilization), and you can still visit the Bronze Age ruins of Knossos, the ancient capital of the Minoan empire (also considered the oldest city in Europe). The island is the largest in all of Greece and has beautiful beaches (including a beach with pink sand), plentiful hiking, quaint towns, and delicious food and wine. It’s affordable and because of the island’s size, you can still escape the summer crowds. Don’t skip this island!

3. Hike up Mount Olympus

Mount Olympus is the legendary home of the Greek gods. Any climb to Mount Olympus starts from the town of Litochoro, 150 kilometers (93 miles) south of Thessaloniki. At 2,917 meters (9,570 feet) high, it’s the tallest mountain in Greece. The hike up is both strenuous and mystical. As you climb, it becomes abundantly clear why Greeks thought it was this mountain from which the gods ruled!

4. See Meteora’s monasteries

Meteora is famous for its monasteries that sit atop sheer rock mountains . They are a stunning sight to see and worth the steep trek up to the top. The monasteries date back to the 9th-10th centuries when Orthodox Christian hermit monks isolated themselves on the cliffs and in the many caves in the area. In the 12th century, the monastic community became more organized and in the 14th century the Great Meteoron Monastery was constructed (one of the ones that you can visit today). Although more than twenty monasteries used to perch on these sandstone cliffs, only six remain today. They are still active, with around 50 nuns and 17 monks living here. It’s a 3 EUR entrance fee per monastery.

5. Explore the islands

Other things to see and do in greece, 1. learn some history.

Greece is where western civilization began and everywhere you turn, you’ll find ruins that are thousands of years old. Start in Athens with the museums, the Acropolis and surrounding ruins in the Agora, and then set off to explore the ruins of Delphi, Sparta , Corinth, and Crete . There are also great archaeological museums everywhere to see artifacts up close and learn even more. This country is a history lover’s dream!

2. Explore Sparta

Sparta was the ancient rival of Athens and known for its fierce warriors (the entertaining but historically-inaccurate film 300 was based on the Spartans). The city has a long history and plenty of ruins to explore. There is no shortage of things to do , museums to visit, excursions to take, and places to eat when you visit the city. Be sure to check out the King Leonidas statue, visit the Archeological Museum, and explore the Diros Caves. I especially enjoyed the Museum of the Olive and Olive Oil, which takes you through how olives have become a staple of everyday life in Greece. It’s an often-overlooked city even though it’s only a 2.5-hour drive southwest of Athens. It’s a great place to learn some history without the crowds.

3. Attend the Athens Epidaurus Festival

Every summer, the Athens Epidaurus Festival hosts concerts and performance theater, including reenactments of famous Greek plays. There are operas, indie musicians, dance performances, lectures, and more. It’s a unique celebration of the performing arts in all their forms and worth your time if you’re in the city when it’s happening. Started in 1955, it’s one of the country’s top cultural events and runs for the whole summer (May-October). If it coincides with your visit, you’ll see just how proud the Greeks are of their past. Tickets for each performance cost as little as 5 EUR.

4. Soak up the sun in Corfu

The Cyclades Islands may get all the press but sunny Corfu on Greece’s west coast is also a good place to enjoy the beach too. It’s a popular destination for young backpackers, but once you get out of the main town, you can avoid them and their partying ways and get the island to yourself! There are plenty of quiet beaches, ancient ruins, and beautiful villages to explore. I especially recommend checking out the Achilleion a palace from 1890 as well as Nymfes Village, historic Corfu Town, and the incredible views from Angelokastro Castle. You’re just a stone’s throw away from Albania too.

5. Explore the Delphi Ruins

Delphi was a place of spiritual significance to the ancient Greeks. Located around 2.5 hours northwest of Athens, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is where the omniscient Oracle would contact the god Apollo and give his advice to those seeking good fortune. Although the eternal flame no longer burns inside the temple, a visit to the Temple of Apollo is obligatory if you’re nearby. Admission is 12 EUR and includes entry to the museum as well as the archaeological site itself (which includes far more than just the Temple of Apollo). There are a lot of day trips to Delphi from Athens starting around 48 EUR.

6. Explore Melissani Cave

This otherworldly cave grotto can be accessed by a short yet postcard-worthy boat tour. Located on the island of Kefalonia on the western side of Greece, here you can admire the seemingly magical ultramarine waters and the monumental walls that envelope you as you make your way through this hidden underground landscape. I love how you can see the lush forest and trees just above the cave walls. It’s totally surreal and the water is so clear that it looks like the boats are floating on glass. Admission is 7 EUR and includes the boat ride.

7. Hike the Samaria Gorge

Samaria Gorge in beautiful Crete is one of Greece’s National Parks and a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. For outdoor enthusiasts, this is considered one of the best hikes in Greece. While it isn’t the shortest or easiest trek (it’s 16 kilometers/10 miles), the gorge does promise beautiful landscapes, fantastic photo opportunities, and a great workout. Along the way, you’ll see the White Mountains and the trek ends at the lovely beach town of Agia Roumeli. The whole trek takes 5-7 hours to complete so make sure you bring water, sunscreen, and a hat as the heat can be overwhelming. The views are worth it though!

8. Experience the Patras Carnival

Every year in mid-January, the city of Patras (located 2.5 hours west of Athens) hosts what is basically a month-and-a-half-long party that starts on January 17th and runs to the beginning of Lent. There’s a slew of events both major and minor, increasingly crazy weekends, treasure hunts, and various costume parades (which even feature floats). It’s a lively time and as the largest such festival in Greece, attracting tons of revelers. If you want to attend, it’s a good idea to make hotel reservations well in advance as things fill up.

9. Tour the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion

The number one attraction in Crete , this museum also happens to be Greece’s second-largest archaeological museum (the museum in Athens is the largest). The artifacts here cover more than 5,500 years of history. One of my favorite pieces was a game board that dates all the way back to 1600 BC. The stunning collection here highlights the Cretan civilization (dating back from Neolithic times through to the Roman empire), with ancient pottery, jewelry, sarcophagi, colorful frescoes from Knossos, and more. Its Minoan collection is the most extensive in the world. You could easily spend hours here — especially if you love history like me. Admission is 12 EUR in the summer and 6 EUR in the winter.

10. Party on Ios

Ios has the wildest nightlife out of all the Greek islands. It is the summer party island where days are spent hungover on the beach and the nights are spent eating cheap food and drinking. If you don’t want to do that but still want to see Ios, it’s best to go to the eastern part of the island where it’s quieter. Don’t let Ios’ party reputation deter you from visiting though, it’s a beautiful, rugged island (and home to the grave of Homer, who wrote The Iliad and The Odyssey). It’s only busy from June-August so you can visit in the shoulder season to escape the party crowd.

11. Visit Thessaloniki

With more than 1 million inhabitants, Thessaloniki is Greece’s second-largest city after Athens. Although it dates back to 315 BCE, a lot of the city was destroyed by fire in 1917 and then by bombing during World War II. The result is a combination of more modern European city urban planning alongside Early Christian, Roman, and Byzantine monuments. In fact, Thessaloniki has more UNESCO World Heritage Sites (15!) than any other city in Europe. Be sure to visit the White Tower, the Rotunda, the Arch of Galerius, and Galerius Palace as well as the many churches (such as the Hagia Sofia and Hagios Demetrios). There are also several great museums here, including the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Byzantine Culture, the Jewish Museum, and the Olympic Museum.

12. Go to Zakynthos

Just south of Kefalonia in the Ionian Sea is Zakynthos , one of Greece’s most popular islands. With its soft, sandy beaches and charming villages, it’s easy to see why this island is a fan favorite. It can be busy, particularly in the summer, so head away from the main tourist area (go north, west or inland) or visit in the off-season to escape the crowds. Zakynthos is also a breeding area for loggerhead turtles and you can see them on Lagana Beach or on Turtle Island but take care to do so responsibly. Other activities include seeing the Blue Caves, Marathonisi Islet, and Shipwreck Beach (you’ll need to take a boat tour to get there). There are also tons of churches, monasteries, and ruins to check out too.

13. Visit Monemvasia

Monemvasia is a medieval castle town in Laconia on the coast of the Peloponnese, around 90 kilometers (56 miles) southeast of Sparta . It’s a spectacular island to visit as it is built into the side of a huge rock! Monemvasia was founded by the Byzantines in the 6th century and is a quiet town perfect for relaxing on the beach before dining under the stars at seaside taverns or on cobbled streets in the town. There are ruins to explore and a mosque from the 16th century now houses the towns Archaeological Museum. You can also walk out to the lighthouse for incredible sea views. If you’re into hiking, there are some trails that will take you past chapels and settlements up to hilltops to admire the views or down to secluded beaches.

14. Explore Ioannina

Next to Lake Pamvotida in northwestern Greece, Ioannina is a castle town that is bursting with museums. Don’t miss the Byzantine Museum, the Ethnographic Museum, the Archaeological Museum, and the Silversmithing Museum (the area is well-known for its beautiful jewelry). Head to the castle at sunset for a peaceful end to your day. You can use the town as a base for exploring the nearby Pindus National Park, the Tzoumerka mountain chain, the Cave of Perama, and the Byzantine town of Arta as well. You won’t need more than a couple of days here but it is well worth stopping if you are passing through.

15. Go wine tasting

While Greece isn’t as internationally renowned for wine as other European countries such as France or Spain, it should be. The Greek wine-making tradition goes back at least 6,500 years and is still going strong. Wine regions are spread across the country, but Crete has one of the oldest wine-making traditions (and over 30 wineries to visit around the island), while the wineries of Santorini make for an interesting tour due to the way that grape vines must be grown here (to protect against harsh winds). Wine tours start around 50 EUR for a full-day tour.

16. Take a cooking class

Greek food is legendary. If you’re a foodie like me and want to learn more about the cuisine and culture behind it, try a cooking class . Bring a taste of your trip home by learning how to make some traditional recipes (including favorites like tzatziki and moussaka) while learning about the importance of each dish directly from a local chef. Cooking classes generally last 3-4 hours and cost 70-100 EUR.

17. Take a boat tour

A boat tour is one of the best ways to see the islands, especially as some beaches are only accessible by water. You can find these on most of the islands and they’ll take you to incredible places you can’t get to by car. Most tours also have stops for snorkeling and lounging on the beach, and many include drinks and lunch. Half-day tours start at 20 EUR, while full-day tours are around 30 EUR. Prices can vary greatly depending on where you’re taking the tour from.

18. Go diving

Diving has become increasingly popular in the Greek Islands. On Mykonos , Paradise Reef has a large variety of marine life, including sponges, barracuda, octopus, and starfish. Ios is popular with beginners due to its crystal-clear waters and relatively calm waves. On the other hand, Santorini has less marine life but tons of shipwrecks. Shore dives start around 50 EUR, while a two-tank dive on a boat starts around 70 EUR. You can also take a beginner discovery course for around 70 EUR or a variety of PADI courses starting at 65 EUR.

19. Tour an olive oil farm

  For more information on specific destinations in Greece, check out these guides:

• Athens Travel Guide
• Corfu Travel Guide
• Crete Travel Guide
• Ios Travel Guide
• Mykonos Travel Guide
• Naxos Travel Guide
• Santorini Travel Guide
• Sparta Travel Guide

Greece Travel Costs

A room in a budget hotel that sleeps two can be found for 40-60 EUR (expect much higher prices — up to 50% higher — during the summer). Amenities at these hotels typically include free Wi-Fi, TV, a private bathroom, AC, and sometimes breakfast as well.

On Airbnb, you can find private rooms for 25-45 EUR in many cities and entire homes (including studio apartments) start at around 50 EUR per night.

Food – Greece is known for its food. Think seasonal vegetables (like olives), seafood, grilled meats, bread, feta cheese, and yogurt — all the staples of a fresh Mediterranean diet. To eat cheap, stick with eating gyros, souvlaki, and kebabs. These cost 3-6 EUR and easily fill you up. If you’re on a budget, you can live off these for as little as 15 EUR per day.

At a casual restaurant that serves traditional cuisine, expect to pay around 8-12 EUR for a main dish like moussaka and about 3-6 EUR for a glass of wine. A Greek salad costs between 6-8 EUR. Fish is more expensive, costing around 17-22 EUR for the catch-of-the-day.

Most restaurants charge for bread. The price is between .50-1.50 EUR. A bottle of water is about 2 EUR.

Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 9 EUR for a combo meal. A large pizza costs 8-11 EUR while Indian/Middle Eastern/Chinese food can be found for around 7-8 EUR for a main dish.

If you’re going out for dinner at a traditional taverna, expect to spend between 12-25 EUR depending on how much food you get. After that, the prices go up depending on how fancy the restaurant is!

Beer is 3-5 EUR while a latte/cappuccino is 3-4 EUR. Bottled water from the supermarket is 0.50 EUR.

If you cook your meals, expect to pay 35-50 EUR per week for groceries including pasta, vegetables, chicken, and other basic staples. It’s easy to eat on the cheap in Greece.

Backpacking Greece Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Greece, my suggested budget is 40-60 EUR per day. This assumes you’re staying in a hostel, eating cheap food, cooking some of your meals, doing only free activities like hiking and relaxing on the beach, limiting your drinking, and using local transportation to get around. If you’re visiting the Greek islands or traveling during peak season, expect to spend on the higher amount of that. If you plan on drinking, add 5-15 EUR per day to your budget.

On a mid-range budget of 100-130 EUR per day, you can visit some museums and ruins, stay at a private hostel room or Airbnb, eat out more, enjoy some drinks, take the occasional taxi, and rent a bike or scooter to get around.

If you keep your drinking and costly activities down, you can easily do this closer to 100 EUR per day. On the other hand, if you’re staying on one of the more expensive islands like Mykonos or Santorini and drinking a lot, expect to spend closer to 150-180 EUR.

On a “luxury” budget of 235 EUR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink as much as you want, do paid tours and more expensive activities (like diving), rent a car to get around, and generally enjoy the finer things in life! This is just the ground floor for luxury though. Expect to pay upwards of 50 EUR more per day on the islands.

Greece Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Greece is affordable. Sure, islands like Santorini and Mykonos are expensive but, for the most part, if you are “keeping it local” you aren’t going to spend a lot of money here. Here are my favorite ways to save money when you travel to Greece:

• Use the Greek salad/bread rule – If the bread cover is .50 EUR or a Greek salad is less than 7 EUR, the restaurant is cheap. If the cover is around 1 EUR and a salad is 7-8.50 EUR, the prices are average. Anything more than that and the place is expensive. Use this rule to figure out how to eat at cheap restaurants.
• Eat super cheap – Gyros and other street snacks only cost a few euros and can keep you full for around 15 EUR per day if you’re on a tight budget.
• Rent a moped – It’s cheaper than a car and a fun way to see the various towns and cities — especially on the islands. You can usually rent a moped for around 15 EUR per day. Just drive carefully as Greek drivers tend to be aggressive.
• Get off the beaten path – Greece is a cheap country and even cheaper when you get away from the touristy islands or popular destinations. Head off the beaten path and you usually see prices drop by 30% or more.
• Book overnight ferries – Greece’s inter-island ferries can get expensive if you are visiting a lot of islands. Taking the overnight ferries can save you up to half off the normal price. Plus, it saves you a night of accommodation. Moreover, if you book the ferries around two months in advance, you can save up to 25% off the cost of your ticket.
• Get a ferry pass – Eurail has a ferry pass that has 4- and 6-trip options. The only caveat is that you can only take Blue Star and Hellenic Seaways ferries. Those tend to be the larger, slower ferries and, depending on the islands, might require you to connect somewhere. You’ll need to research routes in advance to see if the pass is worth it. I would search routes on FerryHopper to see if it works for you.
• Take public transportation – Buses, while sometimes running on inconvenient schedules, are the best way to get around Greece. Taxis are very expensive so minimize their use whenever you can and stick with the buses.
• Visit in the off-season – July and August are the most expensive months, so skip the middle of summer if you’re on a budget. Prices will be significantly cheaper.
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing is a great way to get a free place to stay and meet locals. There are a ton of hosts throughout the country (I stayed with one in Athens) and it’s my favorite way to get to know the “real” Greece.
• Buy wine at the store – You can buy a great bottle of wine for around 5 EUR at the store. It’s a lot cheaper than drinking at the bar.
• Have an ISIC Card – To save on the cost of admission to museums and other tourist attractions, be sure to present a valid student card. The ISIC is typically accepted in places where a foreign student ID is not.
• Go to museums on their free admission days – Most museums have some days when admission is free. Check the Odysseus Culture website for details as they vary from museum to museum.
• Get combined tickets – Historical attractions in Greece are often priced so that it’s always a better deal to buy a combined ticket. If the sites you are going to offer one, buy it. It will save you money.
• Use points for accommodations – If you have credit card points that can be used for cash, using them to book accommodation can save you a ton of money. This post has more information to help you with the basics so you can start collecting points now and use them on your trip .
• Rent a car – Car rentals can be incredibly cheap in Greece. Prices start at just 20 EUR per day when booked in advance. Drivers need to be at least 21 and have had their license for one year. An International Driving Permit is also required. Discover Cars is an excellent place to find a car for your trip.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is generally safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Greece

Greece has something for everything and you can often find small family-run operations on the islands. It’s not hard to even find budget accommodations with nice extra like pools either! The specific destination guides have more places but here are some my suggested places to stay in Greece:

• Selina (Athens)
• Athens Hawks Hostel (Athens)
• BedBox (Athens)
• Studio Eleni (Mykonos)
• Caveland (Santorini)
• Bedspot Hostel (Santorini)
• Asterolithos Hotel (Santorini)
• Rethymno Youth Hostel (Crete)
• Intra Muros (Crete)
• The Pink Palace (Corfu)
• Francesco’s (Ios)
• FarOut Beach Club (Ios)
• Castle View Camping and Bungalows (Sparta)
• Lakonia Hotel (Sparta)

How to Get Around Greece

Buses – KTEL is the main bus operator in Greece. You can look up schedules and prices online, but their website is pretty outdated and you’re better off booking tickets at the actual bus station. Getting from Athens to Sparta takes around 3.5 hours and costs around 20 EUR, while Athens to Thessaloniki takes around 5.5 hours and costs around 42 EUR. Thessaloniki to Ioannina takes 3.5 hours and is 24 EUR.

Trains – Train travel in Greece isn’t great. Trains are unreliable and slow and there are only a few routes in the country between Athens and other major cities, like Thessaloniki and Patras. You’re better off driving or taking the bus. However, if you do get the train, a trip from Athens to Thessaloniki takes about 4.5 hours and costs at least 20 EUR.

Ferries – Because Greece has a lot of islands, you have to deal with taking ferries to get around. Expect to spend an average of 35 EUR per trip, though you could spend as little as 10 EUR if the islands are really close together. From Athens, most ferries to the Cyclades Islands start around 40 EUR.

Taking the overnight ferries can save you up to half off the normal price plus save you a night of accommodation so if you’re not in a rush, book those!

There are many different ferry companies, and most are created equal. High speed ferries or catamarans cost a lot more (book in advance). You can research routes and ticket prices using FerryHopper and gtp.gr .

If you’re ok traveling on the slower ferries and your routes match the available routes, the Eurail/Interrail ferry pass is worth considering as you’ll get discounts with this pass. Search routes on FerryHopper to see if it works for you.

Flying – Flying is a quick and affordable way to get around Greece and between islands (though not all islands have airports). A one-way flight from Athens to Santorini or Mykonos takes less than one hour and costs around 25-35 EUR. Flights can dip to as little as 20 EUR when booked in advance.

Scooter/Quad rentals – Renting a scooter or ATV is a really popular way to discover many parts of Greece, particularly the islands. It lets you explore at your own pace and is quite affordable. Scooter rentals cost between 15-25 EUR per day depending on the location and if it is peak season or off-season. ATVs cost around 38-50 EUR per day.

Car rental – Car rentals here are super affordable, starting at just 20 EUR per day for a multi-day rental. Expect manual transmissions. Drivers need an International Driving Permit before renting as well and need to be at least 21 years old. For the best rental car deals, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Greece

Peak season in Greece is from June-August. Temperatures hover around 33°C (92°F) and popular destinations like Santorini and Mykonos experience a huge influx of visitors. Prices increase during this time as well. But the overall atmosphere and weather are great during this time, so it’s still worth visiting during peak season.

Personally, I think the best time to visit Greece is shoulder season (March-May and September-October). It’s still warm during these times but there aren’t as many crowds and prices are cheaper. It’s also easier to meet locals during this time. There is more rain during this time of year, so pack for that. Overall, it’s a particularly great time to hang out in the Mediterranean.

Winter is from November to February. It gets cold and tourist crowds thin out considerably. There’s quite a bit of rain and temperatures vary quite a bit from north to south, with it sometimes dropping to 11°C (52°F) in some places (Athens sometimes gets snow). Many of the islands — particularly Santorini and Mykonos — almost shut down entirely during the off-season. In short, I’d skip a winter visit unless you’re only planning to visit museums.

How to Stay Safe in Greece

Greece is very safe for backpacking and solo travel. Violent attacks are uncommon. Petty crime is about the worst that could happen to you, specifically pickpocketing in Athens, where it is prevalent. Fortunately, Greek police have really cracked down on perpetrators. Nevertheless, be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables out of sight when you’re in markets, on busy streets, or when using public transportation.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here. However, the standard safety precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). For specific information about a place, check out one of the many incredible solo female travel blogs on the web. They’ll give you tips and advice that I can’t.

You won’t find a lot of travel scams in the country but read this article on common travel scams to avoid so you know what to avoid.

If you go out hiking, always check the weather first. Bring sunscreen, water, and a hat. It can get incredibly hot here!

Be careful when driving as Greek drivers tend to be on the aggressive side and some of the roads aren’t very well maintained.

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Greece Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• Ferry Hopper – If you’re looking to book your ferries, this website is an easy way to search the various companies, piece together routes, and book your tickets.
• Take Walks – This walking tour company provides inside access to attractions and places you can’t get elsewhere. Their guides rock and they have some of the best and most insightful tours in all of Greece.

Greece Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Greece travel and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Athens

The 6 Best Hostels in Athens

Where to Stay in Athens: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The Best Walking Tours in Athens

Traveling Greece: How Much Does It Cost?

Fulfilling Childhood Dreams in Crete

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How to see the best of Greece in 10 days

Sep 12, 2022 • 6 min read

Here's how to make the most of your trip to Greece in 10 days © borchee / Getty Images

You can see a lot of Greece in under two weeks and get a real feel for its history, ruins, beaches, food, late-night revelry and a few of its many iconic islands. Ferries link many of the best places to visit , and lazing away the hours on deck gazing at the passing turquoise water is an irresistible interlude to more storied sights. 

We’ve put together a detailed ten-day itinerary to show you the best Greece has to offer. Don’t have that much time available? Never fear – you can also curate your ideal locations from our picks to plan a blissful long weekend.

Day 1: start in Athens, the nation’s cradle

Don’t delay; climb the hill in the center of Athens to the magnificent Acropolis . Descending back into the land of mortals, wander the ancient Agora neighborhood before joining the merry mobs hopping from one taverna to another in the  Plaka  district . For extra credit, pause at some point at the extraordinary Acropolis Museum .

Go from Athens to Mykonos: Catch one of the many ferries that make the run from Piraeus , the main port of Athens, to Mykonos. The fast times are on speedy hydrofoils, while the slower runs are on traditional boats, with their broad and sunny decks.

How to get around Greece

Day 2: sail the Aegean to Mykonos

Burn off your pre-trip stress on the island of Mykonos . One of Europe’s fabled party destinations (St Tropez and Ibiza are rivals), this small island has just enough to keep you occupied by day. Explore the maze of covered lanes, boutiques and flower-bedecked cafes in the old town of Hora . Head to nearby beaches for your first dip in the ever-blue Aegean. But save some energy for well after dark when the notorious clubs like to party until dawn – or later.

Go from Mykonos to Delos: Boats to Delos make the run in a quick 30 minutes starting in the morning. 

Day 3: walk with the ancient Greeks in Delos

Fight off any after-effects of the night before and catch a morning boat to Delos , the mythological birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. The entire island is a sacred shrine – ruins stretch across the sunbaked landscape. Let your imagination run wild as you reconstruct this once magnificent center in your mind. Make the quick return to Mykonos by boat and cool off at a beach. Then get lost in Hora until you stumble upon the perfect seafood dinner.

Go from Mykonos to Paros: Several ferries a day make the run in about one hour.

Day 4: relax on Paros

Something of a ferry hub for the Cyclades, Paros – the group of islands that in many ways defines Greece – literally has something for everyone. Flower-draped tavernas in the port town of Parikia make great post-ferry lunch spots.

Get a rental car and drive the circumference of the island. This can be an all-day adventure and includes plenty of beach access along the east coast. The island is also noted for its produce – especially the tomatoes – so enjoy something delicious in the oh-so-cute mountain village of Lefkes or the locally popular beachside town of Aliki.

Go from Paros to Antiparos: Car ferries link the adjoining islands in under 15 minutes.

Day 5: slow down on Antiparos

Almost touching its much larger neighbor, the diminutive island of Antiparos really is the anti-Paros. Parts of the island qualify as sleepy, and there’s an unhurried vibe across its narrow, windy roads. Take the quick boat ride to Despotiko, a restored ancient sanctuary, then enjoy a seafood feast in Agios Georgios at a waterfront taverna. If you’re feeling sporty, join the windsurfers taking advantage of some of the most reliable winds in Greece.

Go from Paros to Santorini: Ferries take 2–3 hours.

Day 6: join the throngs on Santorini

With its polychromatic cliffs soaring above its drowned caldera, Santorini  is the definition of a ‘Greek island’ for many. Steep and narrow lanes are lined with brilliantly whitewashed houses topped with cerulean domes. Beaches dot the curving coast, and gentle hiking paths follow the island’s spine, offering sweeping views. Sunsets are mesmerizing. Take in the spectacle from tiny hillside Oia , which offers a choice of tavernas serving deeply traditional Greek fare (expect grilled meats, creamy tzatziki and more).

Go from Santorini to Crete: There’s usually one speedy ferry daily, making the two-hour run to Iraklio in Crete.

Day 7: get lost in Greece’s best palace at Knossos

The island of Crete is so big that it almost feels like its own country. The main city of Iraklio is best enjoyed for a quick lunch in a café and as a place to secure a rental car. Then charge south for barely 20 minutes to one of the top ancient sites in a nation of ancient sites. The Palace of Knossos was built by the Minoans and is a vast and somewhat restored ruin that can easily absorb half a day or more. If you have time to take a tour, there are more than a dozen wineries nearby that make the excellent local wines you’ll enjoy with every meal.

Go from Iraklio to Hania: Rental car prices on Crete are competitive, and distances are manageable. The run between the island’s two main cities takes only two hours, although endless stops and diversions to admire incredible views can greatly extend that .

Day 8: revel in the stunning beauty of Crete

Crete’s second city of Hania is really the island’s first city in the hearts of those in the know. The old town and harbor combine the legacies of the Minoans, the ancient Greeks, the Venetians and countless other influences from occupiers and others who just happened to sail by. The food here is extraordinary, and the chefs put Crete’s fabled produce to remarkable use. Two excellent detours are the absorbing ancient port town of Rethymno and the grand and glittery Orthodox churches in the hills, such as Moni Arkadiou .

Go from Hania to Elafonisi: Driving direct will take about two hours, but, as always, detours and myriad excuses to pause and enjoy the scenery will extend that greatly.

Day 9: hit the beaches of Crete

The Samaria Gorge is the most famous of southern Crete’s many gorge walks, which start high in the craggy hills and follow often-lush, stream-fed canyons down to little villages and beaches. If the crowds at Samaria are daunting, consider the Agia Irini Gorge instead. Finish your day at sublime Elafonisi Beach , where the sand has a pinkish hue in a certain light, and the swimming is superb.

Go from Hania to Athens: Frequent flights to Athens take under an hour from Crete’s second-largest airport.

Day 10: stroll around Athens

The Acropolis is never far from view as you stroll the compact and endlessly fascinating center of Athens. Catch the changing of the guard at the center of government (and Athens) in Syntagma Square . Choose from sights such as the antiquity-stuffed Benaki Museum , the lush National Gardens , the ornate Hadrian’s Arch and the grandiose Temple of Olympian Zeus .

Finish your time in Greece with a languid session in the upscale neighborhood of Kolonaki and cafe-lined Plateia Kolonakiou.

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This Secluded Greek Island Resort Has Private Villas and the Island's Largest Indoor Pool — and We Were Among the First to Visit

Domes Novos Santorini is "designed to evoke a sense of relaxation and carefreeness."

Food and Drink

• Activities and Amenities

Family-friendly Offerings

Accessibility and sustainability, how to get the most value out of your stay.

GEORGE FAKAROS/Courtesy of Domes Novos Santorini

It had felt like we were on a bachelorette, except none of us knew each other, and no one was getting married. We were simply a group of women who, through various life experiences, ended up on the same trip to Greece. A fierce ensemble bound together by a love of writing, exploration, adventure, luxury, and food — lots of food.

As we stepped off our FlyCycladic charter flight, the thought settled: We had just traveled from Mykonos to Santorini in 30 minutes, a time unimaginable by ferry. With a hop, skip, and jump through the airport, we were quickly whisked away to Domes Novos Santorin i, Domes Resorts’ newest property, freshly opened in April 2024.

Upon first glance, you would think we were entering a wellness ranch in Arizona with its terracotta-colored exterior, sleek lines, and clean, minimalist design. The hotel exuded subtle luxury and, more importantly, relaxation.

“Every detail is designed to evoke a sense of relaxation and carefreeness,” said Stella Moumouri, the public relations and communications executive at Domes Resorts. How she spoke of life in Greece as a young woman made me wonder what my life would have been like had I grown up there.

Designed by Kiros Pagkalidis Architects, the earthy-toned haven used local materials like volcanic stone and blonde oak in its construction, while the neutral- and black-accented palette truly embodied the island's geography — I couldn’t get enough of it.

We each checked into our own suite by walking the property's exterior and finding the individualized path directly to the front door of our room. My eye immediately caught the suite’s private pool. It may have been off-season, and the weather was a drizzly 60 degrees, but the water nonetheless looked enticing for a dip.

I was ready to explore Santorini for the second time in my life — the first time as a teen and this second time as an adult.

Below, my review of Domes Resort’s 12th addition to its portfolio and its inaugural property on the beloved island of Santorini. 

Domes Novos Santorini

• Each suite and villa comes with its own private pool. 
• At the resort’s restaurant, Vatanee, guests can enjoy farm-to-table dining by Chef Dionysios Anastopoulos.
• The Soma spa has Santorini’s largest indoor heated pool. 
• The property is a 15-minute walk from Oia’s famed coast on the northwestern tip of Santorini. 

Courtesy of Domes Novos Santorini

The hotel features 50 suites and two villas — just enough to feel like you’re in your own little resort but not crowded enough to be overwhelmed. No matter where you stay, you can catch stunning sunset views from the loungers in your private pool area. Fresh aromas from the olive trees waft into each space, almost as if on purpose.

The rooms, or “bungalows,” as they call them, have a king bed, walk-in shower, sitting area, Marshall speakers, bathroom amenities from The Naxos Apothecary, and 24/7 room service. There’s everything you need and nothing you don’t — a true minimalist’s heaven.

“Our goal is to offer an oasis of relaxation with spacious rooms and resort-expected services for a complete experience, away from the crowds,” Duarte Ralha, the hotel manager, told Travel + Leisure .

I ate a few times at the only on-site restaurant, Vatanee, which never disappointed. It was an intimate space designed with the same elements as the rooms. Meals there were candlelit, and the peaceful room made slipping in and out of conversation easy.

For breakfast, you can grab-and-go buffet-style. I opted for eggs, potatoes, fruit, and a must-try in Greece: an iced freddo cappuccino. For lunch, I would recommend the tagliolini nero kakavia, a seafood pasta blackened with squid ink.

The night before we left was the most memorable meal, beginning with the starter — a bouquet from the land: sourdough with a Florina pepper spread. Fresh sea urchin and a delicious fava dip of split peas, bonito, and capers followed it. Our main course was octopus with eggplant and eel, something I would rarely order but was delighted to try. The second: cod in seaweed and lettuce. My favorite part of any meal, though, is the dessert: Here, it was an exquisite lemon pie scented with chamomile and verbena and a rich pink chocolate fudge with violet.

Created by Chef Dionysis Anastopoulos, the menu emphasized the philosophy of gathering together — and we did indeed gather and eat together for hours on this trip.

Activities and Amenities 

For amenities, there is a state-of-the-art gym and a deck for yoga and meditation. Activities on the property include painting during the Mark Experience, and while out of the property, you can explore Oia’s streets, sail the Aegean Sea, or discover nearby vineyards.

The spa was most definitely my favorite amenity. At Soma, you can get volcanic-infused treatments or treatments that use technologies like microcurrent muscle stimulation and light therapy. I received a neck, back, and shoulder massage with Elemis products. It was so good you could easily fall asleep.

After treatment, I proceeded to the sauna, steam room, and indoor pool. Alone in the pool with a few other spa-goers, I floated on my back, with my ears in the water. “I am in a heated, indoor pool in Greece, so far away from home. No one can reach me at this moment, and I love it here,” I thought. It’s safe to say I didn’t want to get out and leave the spa.

“We welcome families in this famously romantic destination,” Rose Vernikou, senior sales manager, told me of this family-friendly property — a rarity in Santorini, where many hotels are adults-only.

The resort also has a package for kids to stay and play for free. With this package, children under 12 can participate in daily activities and stay without charge with code DOMESKIDS24 upon booking. Some childcare activities include crafts, scavenger hunts, and board games.

Domes Novos Santorini has two rooms that are ADA compliant — both are Senses Sea-View Bungalows.

Located on the island’s northwestern coastline, Domes Novos Santorini is in the perfect location. Just a 15-minute walk from the touristy alleyways of Oia, this hotel is close enough to be in the action but far enough for a peaceful, tranquil rest away from the crowds.

“Many properties cling to the cliffs, but we offer the luxury of space on the flat side of Oia,” Vernikou says.

Domes Novos Santorini offers a complimentary airport transfer that is exclusively available to Haute Living Selection guests, and there is a free shuttle service.

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4,000-year-old Greek hilltop site mystifies archaeologists. It could spell trouble for new airport

Greece Archaeology In this undated photo provided by the Greek Culture Ministry on Tuesday, June 11, 2024, the ruins of a 4,000-year-old hilltop building newly discovered on the island of Crete are seen from above. The wheel-shaped structure is puzzling archaeologists and threatening to disrupt a major airport project on the tourism-reliant island. Greece's Culture Ministry said Tuesday that it's a "unique and extremely interesting find" from Crete's Minoan civilisation, famous for its sumptuous palaces, flamboyant art and enigmatic writing system. (Greek Culture Ministry via AP) (Uncredited/AP)

ATHENS, Greece — (AP) — A big, round, 4,000-year-old stone building discovered on a Cretan hilltop is puzzling archaeologists and threatening to disrupt a major airport project on the Greek tourist island.

Greece's Culture Ministry said Tuesday that the structure is a “unique and extremely interesting find” from Crete's Minoan civilization, famous for its sumptuous palaces, flamboyant art and enigmatic writing system. Resembling a huge car wheel from above, the ruins of the labyrinthine, 1,800-square-meter (19,000-square-foot) building came to light during a recent dig by archaeologists.

The site was earmarked for a radar station to serve a new airport under construction near the town of Kastelli. Set to open in 2027, it's projected to replace Greece's second-biggest airport at Heraklion, and designed to handle up to 18 million travelers annually.

Archaeologists don't yet know what the hilltop structure was for. It's still under excavation and has no known Minoan parallels. So for the time being, experts speculate it could have been used for a ritual or religious function.

Ringed by eight stepped stone walls up to 1.7 meters (5.6 feet) high, the inner structure was split into smaller, interconnecting spaces and may have had a shallow conical roof.

The ministry's statement said it didn't appear to have been a dwelling, and the finds from inside it included a large quantity of animal bones.

“It may have been periodically used for possibly ritual ceremonies involving consumption of food, wine, and perhaps offerings,” the statement said.

“Its size, architectural layout and careful construction required considerable labor, specialized know-how and a robust central administration,” it said, adding it was certainly some kind of communal building that stood out in the entire area.

Culture Minister Lina Mendoni, an archaeologist, pledged that the find would be preserved while a different location would be sought for the radar station.

“We all understand the value and importance of cultural heritage ... as well as the growth potential” of the new airport project, she said. “It's possible to go ahead with the airport while granting the antiquities the protection they merit.”

The ministry said the building was mainly used between 2000-1700 B.C, and was founded around the time Crete's first palaces were being built — including at Knossos and Phaistos.

It said some of its features were comparable with early Minoan beehive tombs that were surmounted by stepped conical roofs and burial mounds in other parts of Greece.

Greece's rich cultural heritage often results in conflicts of interest during construction projects.

At the end of the last century, an entire hilltop fortified settlement from the 3rd millennium B.C. was excavated and then destroyed during construction work for Athens International Airport.

So far, at least another 35 archaeological sites have been uncovered during work on the new Kastelli airport and its road connections, the ministry said.

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

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Taverna Agora Greek Kitchen & Bar Review: a taste of Mediterranean Bliss

W hen it comes to Greek restaurants in Raleigh, there are none that match the quality, service, and ambiance of Taverna Agora Greek Kitchen and Bar in Glenwood South Raleigh.

Having visited the Greek Islands many times in my 20+ years of travel, it’s hard to find a restaurant that takes me back to my days island hopping, beach bumming, and dancing on the tables of Ios nightclubs.

Back then, I remember eating mouthwatering BBQ whole snapper at a restaurant with views of the turquoise water and complete with Greek music and the ubiquitous blue and white tablecloths. Ah, the tastes and colors of Greece are hard to match!

I was surprised and thrilled to discover an authentic Greek kitchen restaurant here in Raleigh.

Here’s why Taverna Agora is my favorite Greek restaurant in Raleigh…

About Taverna Agora in Raleigh

The best way to be transported to a taste of the Mediterranean lifestyle in Raleigh is to dine at the Taverna Agora Greek Kitchen & Bar .

Owner, Lou Moshakos, is a native of Lykovrisi, a small village in Greece outside of Sparta. His love for connecting over good food inspired him to create this homely, family-centered restaurant that reflected its name.

Taverna Agora Raleigh was born from his frustration of not being able to find good local Greek food in Raleigh!

In 2003, he opened Taverna Agora on Glenwood Avenue and moved to its current home in 2015 after recognizing the opportunity to be placed in the middle of Raleigh’s revitalization.

His location on Hillsborough St connects Glenwood South to the Warehouse District. 

Moshakos is the savvy restaurateur behind LM Restaurants, Inc. Founded with a Florida seafood restaurant in 1978, it now boasts 35 restaurants and 2,000 employees throughout the Southeast , including the Carolina Ale House chain and the popular Mediterranean restaurant, Vidrio on Glenwood South, which we are still yet to try!

Reasons To Dine at Taverna Agora in Raleigh

Raise your glass of retsina with an Opa and join us as we walk you through what makes Taverna Agora one of the best places to eat in Raleigh.

Authentic Gathering Place

In Greek, a taverna is a small restaurant and agora means a central gathering place.

From the intimate interior dining spaces to the shaded outdoor patio on the roof, every corner of the restaurant has a romantic air and relaxed ambiance.

The decor goes back to their rustic roots. It’s simple and elegant, and doesn’t detract from the reason for visiting – to dine with friends and family.

It feels overall very welcoming, from the politeness of the staff to the softness of the decor.

Upstairs Patio Dining

In my opinion, Taverna Agora has the best restaurant patio in Raleigh. This open-air, second-floor rooftop patio is a Mediterranean Oasis that overlooks Hillsborough St.

The outside uncovered area is tastefully designed, tree-shaded space with lush green vines wrapped around trellises, classic Greek Statues, twinkle lights, and olive trees.

The lush Mediterranean rooftop is winterized so you can enjoy it year-round, and you’ll find shaded areas to sit during the warmer months.

Downstairs Dining

Downstairs is the more enclosed taverna part of the restaurant, which maintains the typical village style Greek restaurant with the same table decorations and feel.

There’s another outdoor seating area with a few curbside tables, and the inside of that part of the patio has ceiling fans to keep you cool during the summer.

Authentic Greek Food

Food is the focal point of Greek culture. True to the Greek Mediterranean flavors, you’ll find your favorite traditional Greek dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, Greek village salad, Spanakopita, and baklava.

Lamb (our favorite) features heavily on the menu. The chef’s signature dish is a braised lamb shank in a tomato-red wine sauce.

You’ll find chicken penne, seafood dishes, and a variety of beef dishes, such as rib eye steak.

They have a hearty menu of classic fare, old world flavors and gourmet cuisine, made with a combination of simple ingredients and using time-tested cooking techniques.

Check the Taverna Agora menu online in case of changes.

We love starting with the Greek Spreads Trio appetizer: a sample of Taverna Agora’s best dips: tzatziki, spicy feta, and eggplant. Served with pita or vegetables for the gluten free version.

The dinner and lunch menus vary slightly, and we have not experienced dinner at Taverna Agora yet.

My lunch favorite is the grilled octopus and moussaka. Craig loves the lamb burger for entrees, and the chicken kebabs are the most popular dish on the menu.

Tell us your favorite dish on the menu in the comments below! We’d love to try it on our next visit.

Sunday Brunch

Sunday Brunch at Taverna Agora is the only brunch spot in Raleigh we’ve visited multiple times.

You just can’t beat the complete experience, especially for special occasions, and especially when mimosas are only $3.

You’ll find some of the lunch items on the menu plus a few delicious breakfast options. Gyros comes in a variety of versions: scrambled, frittata, omelet, or traditional pita. 

Craig loved his Gyros Benedict , and my lamb sweet potato was one to remember. Also the Baked Eggs and Pita (shakshuka style) is good.

There’s one meal the girls order with each brunch visit: Homemade doughnuts (loukoumades) drizzled with baklava syrup and topped with cinnamon, powdered sugar, and chopped walnuts.

Oh, and the Baklava Sticky Buns or Baklava Cheesecake. If you love pastitsio, you’ve come to the right place!

Be sure to reserve ahead as it gets busy. Brunch is every Sunday from 11am to 3pm.

Retsina Greek Wine

How had I never heard of this ancient Greek wine before? I was not a wine drinker back when I was 21, so didn’t pay any attention to this white (or rosé) resinated wine, which has been made for at least 2,000 years.

After the first sip of its earthy, herbal flavors I was hooked on this wine that told stories.

It’s made mostly in Central Greece , where pine trees surround the vineyards. Its unique flavor comes from pine resin that is added during vinification and seals the wine vessels.

Can you think of a better wine to drink in a city that is filled with pine trees? That deserves an Opa for sure!

The wine menu is extensive and features many other good wine, not just Greek wines.

They also have an extensive menu of craft cocktails available from the full bar. Refreshing is the vodka blueberry lemonade made with basil, also served as a mocktail for the kids. Our girls love it.

You’ll also find modern Greek twists to your cocktails. Try the popular Greek Mule Cocktail made with lime juice, baklava syrup and ginger beer. Or how about a Greek coffee?

Michael Garcia, general manager of Taverna recommends the Greek Sangria as his favorite drink. “It’s not overly sweet, has a fine citrus balance, and is a very refreshing drink for these warm days in Raleigh.”

There was a Greek restaurant in London my friends and I would go to for special occasions. At some point in the evening, the whole restaurant would get up, hold hands, and dance around the tables.

It brought such joy to the dining experience with friends and strangers as we all laughed and showed off our styles.

While there is no dancing at Agora Taverna…yet, or that I know of, I love the warm, friendly, and casual ambiance of the restaurant.

The Greek music they have playing in the rustic dining room instantly transports me to the islands and those fun moments shared with friends.

The ambiance is very authentic to the small villages on the Greek Isles, right down to the music, the attentive service, the blue and white checkered tablecloths, Greek statues, and olive trees and hanging vines.

But in keeping with the Raleigh vibe, there’s also gorgeous 200-year-old oak trees covering the terrace giving a stunning City of Oaks forest feel.

The Verdict: Would We Recommend Taverna Agora?

I feel so happy eating at this restaurant as it brings me back to happy Greek Island memories, while reminding me of why we chose this wonderful city to live in.

From the flavorful dishes to the craft cocktail recipes to the shade of the trees, there isn’t much to dislike about Taverna Agora, so we absolutely recommend it.

Have you dined at the Taverna Agora restaurant? What dish or drink do you recommend? Let us know what you think in the comments.

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