FAQs

Question

Are USD accepted in Greece?

Answer

No, Greece uses Euros as their form of currency and will not accept USD. However, you may be able to use credit cards such as Visa or MasterCard to make payments at many hotels, and some restaurants. It is important to notify your bank of your travel destinations beforehand, to avoid holds on your account. Also refer to your bank regarding specific fees that may be associated with using your card to make purchases in Greece.

Question

How do I get Euros?

Answer

There are several ways of obtaining Euros. First, you may choose to convert cash USD into cash Euros at your departing airport or the airport in Athens, for a fee. Exchanging money at the airport is typically the most expensive option. You instead may use your debit card at any ATM in Greece and the amount of Euros of your choosing will be dispensed. There are an abundance of ATMs available in airports and all throughout Greece. Just note that fees may apply depending on your bank. Lastly, you may choose to arrange for your primary bank to provide you with Euros prior to traveling to Greece. Your bank will typically have a flat rate exchange fee and need to know several weeks in advance.

Question

What is the closest airport to fly into?

Answer

Heraklion Airport (HER) located in Crete, Greece, is the closest airport to fly directly into.

Question

How far away is the St. Nicolas Bay Area from the Heraklion airport?

Answer

The Heraklion airport is roughly 38 miles away, and a 50 minute drive to the St. Nicolas Bay area.

Question

How can I get from the Heraklion airport to the St. Nicolas Bay area?

Answer

Taxi is the best way to get from the airport to St.Nicolas Bay area. The prices range from 55-70 Euros. You can also choose to pre-book a shuttle service, or a taxi in advance from reputable websites such as https://www.crete.cab Simply indicate the pickup location as "Heraklion Airport (HER)" and the drop off location as "Agios Nikolaos City/Hotel" (this can be found in the fourth category listed under Lassithi Area).

Question

How do I call a taxi to get around Greece?

Answer

In most cases, booking a taxi is fairly simple, as airport and hotel staff call taxi companies for you and inform you of the pricing beforehand. This courtesy is provided throughout most of the Greek islands. Many drivers also provide business cards once you arrive at the location, so they can arrange to drop you back off if needed. While most people in Greece do speak English, it is always best to have a print-out or screen-shot of the location to show your hotel concierge, or your taxi driver. This can help avoid miscommunication, as several locations in the area may have similar names.

Question

What if I prefer to rent a car?

Answer

Car rentals can be arranged at the airport, or in advance online. Prices range anywhere between 18-50 Euros per day, excluding taxes, fees and insurance. https://www.rental-center-crete.com/cars.html

Question

How do I get to Crete if I'm flying into the Athens airport?

Answer

There are several ways to get from Athens to Crete should you choose to fly into the (ATH) airport. One option would be to take an approximately 2 hour and 45 minute flight from the ATH to HER airport. Another option would be to travel by ferry for about 40 Euros. The ferry ride is roughly 9 hours and 30 minutes without any stops. It is important to note that Athens has 3 major ferry ports: Piraeus, Rafina, and Lavrion. You are going to want to book the respective port that has the closest proximity to your hotel. The port that will likely get you to Crete is the Piraeus ferry port. This is a very important detail when planning your travel accommodations.

Question

How do I book a Ferry ticket?

Answer

You are able to book a ferry ticket in person the day of, but it is best to book in advance to ensure a seat and avoid long lines. www.ferryhopper.com is a safe and easy way to book your ferry tickets for all of your island hopping needs. Always keep note of your ferry company ie. seajet, blue star ferry, hellenic seaways—to name a few. This is important for taxi drivers to get you as close as possible to your respective ferry and avoid confusion, as there will be multiple ferries and large crowds at the port.

Question

What can I do in Athens?

Answer

If you choose to fly into the Athens airport and stay for a couple of nights, there are many things you can do. In Athens, you can enjoy the rich history of ancient Greece by visiting landmarks such as the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the temple of Zeus to name a few. You should note that taxis from the airport to the city center are typically a flat rate which varies depending on the season. This information will be given to you as you exit the Athens airport. This may cost anywhere between 40-60 Euros.

Question

Where should I stay in Athens?

Answer

It is important to stay somewhere that is near the main attractions of Athens, so that many destinations are either in walking distance, or just a short drive away. I would highly recommend staying at the "Athens Gate Hotel," which features views of the Acropolis and Parthenon from their beautiful rooftop restaurant. This hotel features balconies which may have direct views of the Corinthian columns at the Temple of Olympia Zeus. Please find more details for the Athens Gate Hotel at www.athensgate.gr

Question

What islands should I visit after the wedding events have concluded?

Answer

Santorini which is also referred to as Thira, is a breathtaking island on the Agean Sea with picturesque views of classic white buildings with blue rooftops. Everyone should experience the beauty of Santorini at least once in their lifetime. This can easily be done by ferry transfer. You would search ferries from HER (Heraklion) to JTR (Santorini/Thira). A speed ferry would take only 2 hours to get you from Heraklion in Crete, to Santorini. ferryhopper.com provides a list of ferries running on your desired date. Typically companies such as "sea jets" have speed ferries which have the fastest travel times between islands.

Question

Where should I stay in Santorini?

Answer

If you plan to stay in Santorini you may choose between the two most popular options, which include the village of "Oia" or the city of "Fira". While both areas are beautiful, there are some nuances between the two. Oia is considered to be the most luxurious area of Santorini where you can find romantic restaurants and high-end shopping. Fira is the capital of the island, and considered to be the more lively area. You can find an abundance of shops, restaurants and nightlife in Fira. Finding a hotel in Firostefani would place you in the heart of Fira, where all of your needs are just a short walk away. Regardless of which part of Santorini you choose, be sure to book a hotel with a "caldera view", so you can enjoy the stunning ocean view.

Question

How do I get back to the USA from Santorini?

Answer

Santorini airport (JTR) can get you directly to the main airport in Athens (ATH) in a little under 1 hour. Flights can range anywhere from 40-200 Euros per person, so it is best to book in advance to secure the best price. You would then need to book a flight to leave from Athens Airport, to your destination of choice. (i.e: ATH to EWR or ATH to JFK airport). You may also choose to take a ferry back to Athens which is priced around 40-60 Euros. Keep in mind this trip may take around 8-10 hours, depending on how many stops are being taken along the way.

Question

What are other Greek islands I can easily visit from Crete?

Answer

There are countless beautiful Greek islands to visit. However, if you are looking for the shortest travel time and a smooth transition, you are going to want to travel to one of the Cyclades islands. Islands in the Cyclades have the closest proximity to the Heraklion port in Crete. Islands such as Naxos, Paros, Milos, are just a few options you may want to consider visiting. Mykonos, which is a popular hotspot in Greece is just a 2 hour and 30 minute ride away via non-stop speed ferry. The ride may take longer depending on the company and itinerary of the ferry company. Ferry pricing from the Heraklion port in Crete to Mykonos range from 60-100 Euros.