Greece Travel Guide for South Africans
Greece at a glance
- Flight time from Johannesburg
- About 12 hours with one connection
- Visa for SA passport holders
- Schengen visa required. Apply at least 3 months ahead
- Currency
- Euro (EUR)
- Language
- Greek. English widely spoken
- Best time to visit
- May, June, September and October
- Spending money guidance
- From R8,000. Lunches and dinners are not included
- Time difference
- Same as South Africa
- Plugs
- Type C and F, the European two-pin
Last reviewed August 2026. Visa and entry rules change — always confirm with the embassy before booking.
When to visit Greece, month by month
| Month | Weather | Crowds | Price | Our verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January–March | Cool and wet, 6–16°C | Quiet | Lowest | Athens is cold and many island businesses close entirely. |
| April–May | Mild, 12–24°C | Building | Medium | Spring. Wildflowers, comfortable walking, sea still cool. |
| June | Warm, 20–30°C | Busy | Medium-high | Excellent. Warm sea, long days, before peak crowds. |
| July–August | Very hot, 24–35°C | Extremely busy | Highest | Peak. The Acropolis in August is genuinely punishing heat. |
| September | Warm, 20–30°C | Easing | Medium-high | Our pick. Sea is warmest, crowds thinning, everything open. |
| October | Mild, 16–25°C | Quiet | Medium | Lovely and good value. Some island businesses start closing late month. |
| November–December | Cool and wet, 10–19°C | Quiet | Low | Athens works year-round. Santorini largely shuts down. |
Our Greece tours
What our travellers say
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Sandwich harbour on the Namibia tour was my highlight. I loved this more as the sights on the drive in the desert/on the dunes was breathtaking, and the picnic was a nice treat. The tour leaders; Sam and Jeff were awesome with my son. They really put effort in making him comfortable. I really appreciate it so much, he can't stop talking about the trip. Thank you so much …this was my 3rd trip with Thrifty and I hope to come back for more. Congratulations to you
Greece: your questions answered
Do South Africans need a visa for Greece?
Yes — Greece is in the Schengen area, so South African passport holders need a Schengen visa. Apply well in advance: appointments are limited and this is the single most common reason people miss European departures. Start at least three months out.
How much spending money do I need for Greece?
From R8,000. Lunches and dinners are not included and Greece is a euro economy — a casual meal is around R250 to R400. Add site entrance fees: the Acropolis, Ancient Agora and Akrotiri all charge. The Caldera yacht cruise is a separate optional cost.
Is the ferry to Santorini included?
Yes — the ferry between Athens and Santorini is included in both directions. It's a scenic crossing of several hours and part of the experience rather than just transport.
How much walking is involved?
A lot, and much of it uphill on uneven stone. The Acropolis is a steep climb on polished marble, and Oia is built into a cliff with hundreds of steps. Bring proper walking shoes with grip — this is not a sandals trip.
What should I pack for Greece?
Comfortable walking shoes above everything else. Light clothing for summer, layers for spring and autumn evenings. Sun protection — there is very little shade at the archaeological sites. Swimwear for Santorini's volcanic beaches.
Is Greece safe for solo female travellers?
Yes — Greece is one of the safer European destinations. Ordinary city precautions in Athens, particularly around Omonia at night. Santorini is very relaxed. Most of our group travels solo.
What is included in your Greece tour?
Return flights from OR Tambo, shared accommodation, all breakfasts, a welcome dinner, the ferry between Athens and Santorini in both directions, guided city tours, ground transport and a tour experience leader throughout.
What is not included?
The Caldera yacht cruise, entrance fees to the Acropolis, Ancient Agora, Temple of Olympian Zeus and Akrotiri, the Mount Lycabettus cable car, lunches and dinners unless stated, travel insurance and visa fees.