His best travel tips for Greece
Greece is one of the most popular destinations for Swedish travelers. But how can you really experience the country, beyond the tourist trails, beaches and vacation packages? To get a more authentic picture of modern Greece, we wanted to talk to someone who knows the country in depth.
That's why we contacted Peter Pålsson, the man behind the website. The Påluffen in Greece, who has been sharing his experiences, advice and practical guidance for many years with Swedes who want to travel more independently and discover the authentic Greece. Today he is considered one of the most informed and trusted Swedish voices when it comes to traveling in Greece beyond the usual tourist paths.
In this interview he shares his best advice to Swedish travelers about the best time to travel, budget, price trends, common mistakes to avoid and experiences not to be missed.
What is, in your opinion, the best time for Swedes to travel to Greece and why?
The best time to travel to Greece is May–June, when the heat has not yet become intense and the climate is very pleasant for both sightseeing and swimming. Also, September–October are excellent months, with mild evenings, pleasant temperatures during the day and warm seas until mid-October. In the months of July–August the heat is much more intense and this period is more suitable for those who mainly want a beach holiday.
What should Swedish travelers pay attention to before visiting Greece for the first time?
Those traveling in July and August should drink plenty of water and protect themselves from the sun. August is the most important holiday month for Greeks, which means that beaches, tavernas and tourist areas fill up very quickly. It is therefore important to plan and book accommodation well in advance.
How much does a Swedish traveler need on a budget for a good vacation in Greece today?
The budget naturally varies from person to person, but when traveling outside of organized packages, one can roughly estimate:
Accommodation: around €80–100 per night
Breakfast outside the hotel: approximately €10
Light meal with beer or wine: around €10–15
Dinner with beer or wine: around €15–25
A village salad, often used as a price indicator, currently costs around €8. A half-liter of beer usually costs €4–5, while draft wine costs around €5–10.
Has Greece become more expensive or cheaper for Swedes in the last year?
Greece has become significantly more expensive since the pandemic. Dairy products in particular, such as milk, cream and butter, seem in some cases even more expensive than in Sweden. On the other hand, fruit and vegetables remain relatively cheap, especially in local markets. Beach loungers have also become a significant additional cost for many travelers, although there are still taverns that offer them for free with the consumption of food or drink.
What mistakes do tourists often make and how can they have a more authentic experience in Greece?
Many tourists only stay in the most touristy areas. For a more authentic experience, it is recommended to visit smaller villages outside the tourist areas, where prices are often lower and the food more traditional. Also, traveling by local buses is a good way to see more places and enjoy the scenery at a more leisurely pace.
Is there a big price difference between the tourist islands and mainland Greece, for example in the Peloponnese?
The islands are generally a bit more expensive than mainland Greece, mainly due to transportation costs. Also, moving between multiple islands increases the overall cost. Mainland Greece, including the Peloponnese, is usually a bit cheaper, but the differences are small and depend on the region.
When are prices lowest during the year?
During the winter months and generally during the low tourist season, the cost of accommodation in Greece is lower, mainly because demand is lower and the beach is not a key element of the vacation.
Which areas of Greece are most suitable for visiting outside the summer season?
Greece is a year-round destination. Athens is always an attractive destination, while Rhodes and Crete remain more "lively" in winter compared to other islands. The Peloponnese is also popular in the winter months due to its mild climate, although there can be rain. Costa Navarino is also a well-known golf destination that attracts many visitors from October to April.
What three Greek dishes should Swedish travelers definitely try?
Three classic dishes that no one should miss are:
Grilled octopus
Moussaka (with potatoes, eggplant, minced meat and béchamel)
Stew (cooked meat with small onions)
Of course, there is also the classic souvlaki, which is found everywhere and is always a safe choice.
What three experiences in Greece should Swedish travelers definitely not miss?
A visit to Athens and the Acropolis is almost a must for any traveler. Other important historical destinations include Olympia, where the ancient Olympic Games were held every four years, and Delphi, which in ancient times was considered the center of the world. All of these sites are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and offer unique historical experiences.
