Real experience of people from chats on «Shopping» in Greece — as it is, no fluff. For your case — ask Luky.
From real experience
Georgioupolis is a recommended area on Crete, located between Chania and Heraklion, approximately 20 minutes from Chania. For dining in Agios Nikolaos, consider local fish tavernas where fresh fish is prepared on-site, offering a delicious and affordable experience.
For affordable leather sandals in Athens, Greece, priced around 50 euros, avoid high-end shops like Melissinos, where prices start from 150 euros. Explore local markets or smaller shops to find more budget-friendly options that meet your price point.
For Mykonos, beach clubs and premium venues like Scorpios require advance reservations. Pre-booking sunbeds is essential during high season. Be prepared for deposit requirements at major nightlife spots. Consult local hotel staff for reliable transportation, such as pre-arranged minivans or private drivers.
Official tickets for the Athens Acropolis should be purchased directly through the official website (etickets.tap.gr) to avoid third-party markups. If lacking a foreign-issued bank card, be prepared for significant wait times in physical ticket queues during peak season.
For an authentic Greek experience, avoid tourist-heavy coastal resorts. Seek out inland village tavernas for local specialties like goat stew (katsikaki), saganaki (fried cheese), and stuffed zucchini (gemista). Authenticity is often found away from mainstream tourist zones and 'touts' in major port towns.
For authentic and affordable dining experiences in Crete, Greece, focus on local tavernas, particularly those located in villages rather than tourist hotspots. Recommended establishments include:
- Στου Μαρκουλακη at Markoulakis (Babis Markoulakis traditional and family restaurant) near Chania, known for its authentic atmosphere and host hospitality.
- Aléxandros and Tasos Taverna in Gerani village (near Chania), offering generous portions and local Raki.
- Poseidon Tavern near Georgioupoli, praised for fresh fish and seafood.
Using Google Maps to find highly-rated local eateries and checking reviews can also guide your culinary choices.
Greece offers a good variety of vegetarian and vegan options:
- **Traditional Dishes:** Many traditional dishes are naturally vegan or can be easily adapted. Look for:
- **Gemista (or Gemistes):** Stuffed vegetables (tomatoes, peppers) with rice and herbs (ensure no meat is added).
- **Spanakorizo:** Spinach and rice.
- **Fasolakia:** Green beans cooked in tomato sauce.
- **Fasolada:** White bean soup.
- **Revithia:** Chickpea soup.
- **Horta Vrasta:** Boiled wild greens, often served with lemon and olive oil.
- **Dairy & Egg-Based:** Vegetarian options include Greek salads (with feta), various pies (pita), and dishes with eggs.
- **Key Ingredients:** Greek cuisine relies heavily on olive oil, lemon, fresh vegetables, and herbs, making many dishes naturally suitable for plant-based diets.
- **Sauces:** Tzatziki, a yogurt-based sauce, is common, but vegan alternatives using plant-based yogurt are increasingly available.
- **Resources:** Apps like HappyCow can help locate vegan-friendly restaurants.
When traveling from Greece to Russia, you can import up to 2 liters of alcoholic beverages per person over 18 years old, according to Russian customs regulations. However, the experience of consuming these beverages may be diminished outside of the Greek context, such as its atmosphere and accompanying cuisine.
The Evgeniadi family dairy (Τυροκομική Μονάδα Ευγενειάδη) in Skopia, Serres region, Northern Greece, is a third-generation producer of dairy products, specializing in goat cheese made from free-roaming animals grazing on Mount Menikio, which has over 500 types of herbs. The facility combines traditional methods with modern quality standards.
In Athens and its surrounding areas like Glyfada, many establishments, including supermarkets and shops, remain open after 4 PM, especially during tourist season. Unlike some smaller islands or towns where activity might cease in the late afternoon, Athens and its suburbs generally maintain a lively atmosphere with businesses operating into the evening. This allows for exploring and shopping later in the day.
In Greece, cash withdrawal may not be available for certain purchases. However, funds can typically be used for groceries and other essentials, but not for entertainment. Services like 'Trip.com' and 'Aviasales' can be used for booking flights and accommodation.
Thessaloniki offers a variety of Greek culinary experiences:
- **Gyros:** Widely praised as a popular and delicious Greek street food, often served with tzatziki, tomatoes, and fries in pita bread. While some debate its authenticity compared to other dishes, it's a common and enjoyable option.
- **Traditional Dishes:** Explore options like Moussaka, Souvlaki (skewered meat, served with or without pita), Gemista (stuffed vegetables with rice), Greek salads, and various seafood dishes.
- **Offal and Meats:** Liver, particularly in Veria, is highly recommended. Bifteki (meat patties) and sausages are also available.
- **Vegetarian/Vegan Options:** Many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, including various salads, feta cheese, olive oil-based dishes, yogurts, stuffed vegetables with rice, and fruit.
- **Specific Recommendations:** One user suggests checking out "rouga" and a place at 176 Leoforos Vassilissis Olgas, Thessaloniki, known for liver, bifteki, sausages, and salads.
Russian food products are unlikely to be found in small Greek towns like Edipsos. They are more commonly available in larger cities like Athens. Chalcis (Halkida) might also have such stores.
The restaurant Salvanidas is mentioned as a place that might still be open. No specific opening hours or contact information are provided, but it's implied to be a dining option.
The perception of Gyros in Greek cuisine is a topic of discussion among travelers:
- **Proponents:** Many view Gyros as a quintessential Greek street food, delicious and authentic, especially when served with tzatziki sauce. It's often cited as a must-try item.
- **Skeptics:** Some consider Gyros similar to shawarma and prefer other traditional Greek dishes like Moussaka, Souvlaki, or seafood.
- **Common Practice:** Despite differing opinions, Gyros remains a very popular and accessible food option for tourists in Greece.
In Agios Nikolaos, Crete, consider dining at local fish tavernas where you can select fresh fish on-site and have it prepared. This offers a delicious and affordable culinary experience. The restaurants also typically feature diverse Mediterranean menus.