Organize your stay Ionian Islands
Money Ionian Islands
Like France, Greece is a member of the euro zone. For the others, at the start of 2024, one euro was equivalent to US$1.07, C$1.45 and CHF1.54.
Budget & Tips Ionian Islands
In Greece, and especially on the islands, accommodation prices can double between June and September/August. Prices are highest in Corfu Town, where supply is more limited, from €80/100 per night in season and beyond, or €150 per day including tavernas and excursions. Elsewhere, you can get away with €60/80 a day all inclusive out of season. No need to haggle. A discount is sometimes offered if you pay in cash. We don't encourage this practice, but it does exist.
Passport and visas Ionian Islands
For European Union citizens, an identity card or passport is sufficient.
Driver's license Ionian Islands
The new credit-card-sized French driving license, the old pink three-part license or an international license are compulsory if you plan to rent a car or motorcycle. And don't forget your green insurance card if you're bringing your own car into the country.
The standard French B license allows you to drive scooters up to (but not including) 125cc. However, some rental companies will refuse to let you have a scooter (even a 50cc) if you don't have a special motorcycle/scooter license, or if you can't prove that you've taken the two-wheeler training now compulsory in France. In the event of an accident, Greek insurance may not cover you.
Health Ionian Islands
Greece presents no major health risks. Just watch out for mosquito bites, sea urchins and sunburn. You should also watch out for the risk of hydrocution when the sun is shining. Overall, it's important to stay well hydrated in summer, and always take a bottle of water with you. If there are no particular risks to report, take your European Health Insurance Card with you so that you can be treated if necessary.
Mandatory vaccination Ionian Islands
Since the end of the Covid health crisis, no vaccinations are required in Greece. Just make sure your vaccination record (DT Polio, etc.) is up to date.
Security Ionian Islands
Apart from the usual precautions in certain seaside resorts late at night, the risk of theft in tourist areas is low. While Greece remains a safe country, with ordinary crime rates, the main danger, in our view, lies in road safety.
Time difference Ionian Islands
GMT +2: 1 hour's time difference with France. When it's noon in Paris, it's 1pm in Athens, in winter and summer alike.
Spoken languages Ionian Islands
The national language is Modern Greek, but most Greeks, especially in the tourist industry, have some knowledge of English. Some are also fluent in French.
Communication Ionian Islands
Greeks are addicted to their cell phones and coverage is very good. You'll also often find free wifi in cafés and hotels.
Electricity and measurements Ionian Islands
Greece is connected to 220 volts AC, 50 Hz like the rest of continental Europe. Here, too, we speak in meters, kilometers and grams, kilograms.
Luggage Ionian Islands
Don't pack too much for Greece. The watchword is "travel light", especially if you want a cheaper ticket!
