Because beauty deserves respect.
Greece is a land of gods, myths, and raw beauty — but also of fragile ecosystems and communities shaped by centuries of tradition. As tourism grows, so does the responsibility to protect the very magic we seek. Here’s how to be a better traveler this summer, with specific places to guide you along the way.
1. Respect Local Culture & Traditions – Especially in Sacred Sites
From mountaintop monasteries to tiny chapel-lined islands, Greece is rich in spiritual heritage.
- Visit respectfully: At Meteora Monasteries (Thessaly), dress modestly and observe silence inside.
- In Tinos, where pilgrimages are part of everyday life, show respect for religious customs and local processions.
- Ask before taking photos, especially in small villages like Ano Syros or during cultural festivals.
2. Reduce Plastic Waste — Especially on the Islands
Waste management is a real issue, especially on smaller islands.
- On Amorgos, refill your bottle at natural springs in Chora or Katapola.
- Join beach cleanups on Mykonos with All for Blue or in Rhodes via local NGOs.
- At Navagio Beach (Zakynthos), avoid bringing disposable packaging — there’s no trash bin in sight!
3. Support Local, Sustainable Businesses
Tourism dollars can uplift whole communities — when spent wisely.
- In Naxos, dine at To Elliniko or Axiotissa, both sourcing organic local ingredients.
- Stay in Eleonas Hotel in North Evia — an award-winning eco-lodge.
- Buy handmade ceramics from artisans in Sifnos or olive oil from co-ops in Kalamata.
4. Travel Lightly — Choose Low Impact Transport
Greece is best discovered sl
owly, sustainably.
- Hike the ancient trails on Andros with Andros Routes.
- Rent an e-bike in Tinos or explore Corfu Old Town on foot.
- Use ferries over short-haul flights — especially with eco-fleets like Blue Star Ferries.
5. Respect Nature and Wildlife
Greece is home to endangered species and delicate ecosystems.
- Snorkel responsibly in the Alonissos Marine Park — home to monk seals.
- Avoid disturbing turtle nests in Kalamata and Zakynthos; volunteer with Archelon instead.
- Never collect shells or plants from protected areas like Samaria Gorge (Crete).
6. Choose Green Stays
Your hotel choice can change everything.
- Eumelia Organic Farm & Guesthouse in Laconia offers eco-living and olive harvesting.
- Milos Cove combines luxury and sustainability with minimal environmental footprint.
- Avoid all-inclusive resorts and look for family-run pensions in Ikaria or Astypalaia.
7. Learn, Listen, Connect
Tourism is more than sightseeing — it’s cultural exchange.
- Take a cooking class in Paros using local Cycladic recipes.
- Visit Cretan Olive Oil Farm near Agios Nikolaos to learn traditional production.
- Talk to locals at village cafés in Epirus — ask, listen, share.
Conclusion: Leave a Positive Trace
Being a responsible tourist in Greece isn’t about doing less — it’s about doing better. With simple choices, you help preserve what’s authentic, beautiful, and alive. And you’ll leave with more than photos — you’ll leave with meaning.
Travel tip: May to early July and September are the best times for eco-conscious travel — fewer crowds, cooler weather, and happier locals.