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First Time in Greece: 12 Things to Know
Practical first-timer tips for Greece: toilet paper, dinner times, siesta, ferries, water, dress codes at churches and more.
By the iLoveGreece editorial team · Last reviewed 2026-10
Quick answer
In many places you put toilet paper in the bin, not the toilet. Greeks eat dinner late (after 9 pm). Many shops close in the afternoon in smaller towns. Cover shoulders and knees in monasteries. Book ferries early in August, and keep a buffer day before your flight home.
Everyday
- Toilet paper goes in the bin in most places — old pipes are narrow.
- Dinner starts late; tavernas fill around 9–10 pm.
- Small shops may close roughly 14:30–17:30.
- Tap water: fine in Athens, often not on small islands.
Culture
- Cover shoulders and knees in churches and monasteries.
- Saying 'kalimera' (good morning) and 'efharisto' (thank you) goes a long way.
- A free dessert or shot after dinner is a common gesture.
Travel
- Book August ferries and rooms early.
- Leave a buffer day before your flight.
- Summer wind can cancel small boats.
FAQ
Can you flush toilet paper in Greece?
Usually no — use the bin provided, unless a sign says otherwise.
What time is dinner in Greece?
Locals eat around 9–10 pm; kitchens in tourist areas open earlier.
Related guides
- Two Weeks in Greece: A First-Timer's Itinerary with Ferries (Athens, Islands, Crete)
- Athens to Meteora: Train, Bus or Day Trip? Times, Tickets and Tips (2026)
- Seasickness on Greek Ferries: How to Avoid It
- Visiting the Acropolis: Time Slots, Heat & Tips
- Athens to Paros by Ferry: Piraeus or Rafina, Time and Tips
- What to Wear in Greece: Clothes, Shoes and Dress Codes
Updated 2026-10. General planning guidance. Check with operators and local authorities.