This part of our guide to holidays in Greece covers the cuisine of the country…

Greece offers many different experiences, landscapes and activities. Famous for its dependable summer sunshine, Greece has many beautiful beaches and a long coastline with many inlets and islands in the Mediterranean, Ionian and Aegean Seas. But it is also noted for its historical sites, natural beauty and nightlife.

These features attract more than 15 million visitors each year, making this southern European country one of the world’s top 20 tourist destinations. While 90% of its tourists come from other European countries, in recent years there have been growing numbers of visitors from other parts of the world too.

The most popular destinations include the capital, Athens, and the islands, especially Crete, Rhodes and Corfu. Some areas are very tourist orientated, but people seeking a quieter experience can still find places free from mass tourism.

The vast majority of visitors arrive during tourism season, which is April through October, with the peak of the season being July through to August. Outside of this time, most of the country’s tourist infrastructure goes into hibernation, particularly on the islands.

The majority of scheduled international flights go via Athens and Thessalonki. But in the tourism season, charter and low-budget flights flying from numerous European cities arrive daily at a range of popular island destinations and smaller mainland cities.

A valid passport is required on entry and a visa may also need to obtained by residents of non-EU countries. However, citizens of select non-EU countries (including Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United States) are allowed a 90-day visa-free stay.

The country’s rates of theft and violence against visitors are relatively low and travelers are neither required nor advised to have immunization vaccinations prior to entering Greece.