What to Pack for Greece: Complete Packing List

What to Pack for Greece 2026: Complete Packing List

Greece packing prioritizes lightweight + sun protection + reef shoes for island beaches. Modest options needed for monasteries + churches; comfortable walking shoes for ancient sites.

Quick Pack List Summary

Greece packing prioritizes lightweight + sun protection + reef shoes for island beaches. Modest options needed for monasteries + churches; comfortable walking shoes for ancient sites.

Greece Packing List by Category

Essentials

EU Type C/F plug adapter

Passport + photocopies

€100-150 cash for island ferries + tavernas

Crossbody bag

Reusable water bottle (refill at hotel)

Strong SPF 50+ sunscreen

Wide-brim hat + UV sunglasses

Clothing (Summer May-Oct)

Linen + cotton — Athens + islands 30-38°C July-August

Sundresses + maxi skirts (modest enough for some churches)

Swimsuits — bring 2 (one always drying)

Beach cover-up + sarong

Comfortable walking sandals (ancient sites have uneven stone)

Reef shoes for rocky beaches + sea urchins

Light cardigan for evening ferry rides

Clothing (Off-Season Nov-Apr)

Layers — Athens 8-15°C winter, occasional rain

Light waterproof jacket

Closed shoes (sandals not enough)

Many islands close November-April; check tavernas open

For Monasteries (Meteora, Mt Athos)

Long pants/skirts (knee-length minimum)

Shoulders covered (bring a wrap)

No bright colors at Mt Athos

What NOT to Pack

White clothing for islands — sand + olive oil + iron-rich water stain quickly

Heels (ancient sites + Cycladic island stairs impossible)

Hair dryer (all hotels provide)

More than 2 swimsuits + 1 cover-up

Pro Tip: Don’t flush toilet paper in Greece — plumbing is delicate. Use the bin next to toilet. Also: Meteora monasteries provide wrap-around skirts for women in shorts, but it’s cleaner to come prepared.

Planning your Greece trip? See our Greece travel guide, best time to visit, destinations index, or our Ultimate Bucket List.

Greece Packing FAQ

What should I wear in Greece?

Light, breathable cottons + linens in summer. Modest for monasteries (knees + shoulders covered). Comfortable walking shoes for ancient sites + uneven Cycladic streets.

Are reef shoes necessary for Greek islands?

Yes for many — Mykonos, Naxos, Paros have rocky beaches + sea urchins. Sandals or aqua shoes save your feet.

Do you need cash in Greece?

Yes for ferries to smaller islands + tavernas + roadside markets. ATMs in main towns; bring €100-200 in small bills.

Is Greece sunscreen sufficient?

Bring own — Greek sun is intense (UV 11+ in summer). SPF 50+ minimum, reapply every 2 hours.

Can you wear shorts in Greek churches?

No — monasteries especially require covered knees + shoulders. Cycladic island churches less strict but always carry a wrap.