Greece is a holiday destination that’s popular with all different types of travelers.
From those looking to fill their days with learning and discovering, to the people who simply want to do nothing at all from the absolute comfort of their beach towel.
There simply isn’t a right or wrong way to discover this beautiful European country.
Although spontaneity can be fun when exploring the world, to ensure you’re properly prepared, it’s always advisable to have a rough idea before you travel of how you might spend your time.
This way, you can ensure your packing list fully aligns with your preferred activities.
With so much to see and do on mainland Greece and smaller islands, itinerary inspiration is everywhere – narrowing down a shortlist is the tricky part.
If you’re yet to make your final decision, we’re here to help; we’ve listed some popular themes below, along with the most essentials you’ll need to pack for each type of holiday in Greece.
Plus, if you are wondering what to wear, below is a complete Greece packing list for both men and women for every season.
Learn all the essentials, helpful tips, and what not to pack.
Your Ultimate Greece Packing List
Beach Dwelling
No matter the finer details of your itinerary, no Greece trip would be complete without a trip to one (or more) of its countless beautiful beaches.
Sandy oases are scattered all around the mainland’s coast, including some that are regularly recognized among the world’s very best.
Not to mention, the ever-popular surrounding islands aren’t short of a special beach or two either, with Corfu and Hydra being particularly renowned for their seaside style.
Whether you’re staying on the mainland or embarking on an island hopping adventure, here’s what you’ll need for your days at the beach:
Outdoor Exploration
If you’re the type of traveler who enjoys getting to know a new country by spending time discovering the great outdoors, Greece is a treasure trove of opportunities.
From long-ranging hikes to breathtaking heights, there is always something new to enjoy in the Grecian corner of the natural world.
However, to appreciate the sights and sounds of this beautiful country to the fullest, it’s important to have the necessary gear to hand.
Across the country, during the summer months, temperatures can soar well into the 30s, meaning your safety has to be paramount when planning to spend lots of time outdoors – especially in the late morning/afternoon. Essential items to include in your Greece packing list:
Culture Vultures
As impressive as some of the country’s modern amenities are, for lots of travelers, a Greece vacation is a chance to journey back in time and explore the local culture.
From ancient sites like the Acropolis in the capital of Athens to the gorgeous grounds of Meteora, Greece is home to 19 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, each detailing a different perspective of a bygone era.
With historic sites, relics, landscapes, and ancient ruins depicting local life through the years, a culture and history-inspired trip to Greece is bound to enthuse your entire travelling party. Be sure to include this on your Greece packing list:
Solo Travel
Greece is fast becoming one of the more popular destinations for solo travel in Europe.
Its low cost of living, range of attractions, and advanced infrastructure in the main regions make it an attractive option for young and older explorers alike.
Especially if you’re backpacking around the country, you’ll need to make good use of the limited space you have available. Don’t forget these seven essentials:
An Ecotourist’s Escape
As awareness of the global climate crisis grows, lots of travelers are looking for more sustainable ways to see the world without having to quell their wanderlust.
If you want to enjoy a fully green holiday, you first need a country that can support this style of travel.
Greece is one such destination, with strong eco credentials and a clear commitment to maintain its important ecology – around 50,000 species of animals call this place home.
A green holiday does call for a little extra thought when packing, though. Switch out the usuals for:
Tips for Creating Your Greece Packing List
We have discussed the different types of trips that Greece offers and what to pack for each. But besides this, there are other things to take into account when creating your Greece packing list.
Consider the Weather
One major factor to consider when creating your Greece packing list is the weather. Depending on the time of year you plan to visit and the region of Greece you are travelling to, the items you will need can vary greatly.
Visiting During Summer
If you are planning a summer trip when there is warm weather, which typically spans from June to August (the hottest temperatures in July and August), your packing list should include:
Women’s Edition
Men’s Edition
Visiting During the Shoulder Seasons
The shoulder season in Greece runs from April to late May and September to late October. The weather during this season can be a bit unpredictable, so it’s best to pack for both warm and cooler days. Generally, the days tend to be warm and the evenings cooler. Include in your packing list:
Visiting During Winter
Winter in Greece spans from November to March. During this season, you will need to pack warm clothing as the temperatures can drop significantly, especially if you’re visiting northern Greece or mountainous regions. It can also be rainy, so you should prepare accordingly. Your winter packing list should include:
When Visiting Religious Sites
If you are planning to visit churches, monasteries, or other religious sites, it is important to be respectful and dress modestly. The general rule for most of these places, for both men and women, is to cover your shoulders and knees.
If you are travelling during the warm months, consider bringing a couple of scarves and sarongs so you can easily adapt your outfit as needed.
Greece Travel Essentials
HOW TO PACK LIKE A PRO FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP FULL GUIDE
What Not to Pack for Greece
Do not include these items to your Greece packing list:
Gear up for Greece
Packing for Greece doesn’t need to be stressful. Once you’ve got a vague idea of how you’ll spend your time, where, and when, you can make sure you’ve got all the necessary essentials for a comfortable stay. Then, you can hop on the plane with peace of mind, knowing you’re fully equipped to enjoy the trip of a lifetime.
