Greek food is fresh, simple and loaded with flavor. Greek salads are a perfect example; tomato, onion, cucumber, maybe a few peppers and olives, all smothered in olive oil and topped with feta cheese and oregano – fresh, healthy and delicious. For even more traditional foods while you travel through Greece, try authentic soublaki (meat on a stick), gyros (a relative of the Turkish kebap), moussaka (baked eggplant and potato based dish), pita bread and what the Greeks will tell you are the best olives and olive oils in the world. Tzatziki sauce is a must while Baklava (filo paistry, nuts and honey) is one of the desserts of choice.

When it comes to beverages, the Greeks perhaps are most well known for Ouzo, clear and often strong liquor of consumed as a shot or sometimes as an aperitif, however on any beach you will find locals and sun-worshiping tourists alike sipping on a Mythos or Alpha beers. The almost over-abundance of beach bars and clubs on islands like Mykonos, Corfu and Santorini ensures that the summers are filled with a great mix of cocktails while if you want to get a little more traditional, try some retsina (fortified white wine).

Summer is hot but the locals still manage to get their caffeine fix as you will see the Athenians and islanders alike sipping on frappes day and night.

Contiki Tours that travel to Greece >