Coming from the US?

1. Slow is part of the charm

Meals take their time, service may be more relaxed, and the bill does not always appear automatically. Enjoy the pause; ask for the check when you are ready.

2. Dinner can be late

Many Greek families eat later than Americans are used to. With little kids, an earlier taverna dinner is absolutely fine; check kitchen hours off-season.

3. Euros, not dollars

Cards work in many places, but a little euro cash helps at small stops. Tipping is appreciated rather than the US-style 18–20% expectation; rounding up or leaving a modest extra is common.

4. Smaller roads, bigger views

Distances look short on a map, but narrow, winding roads make travel slower. Choose one part of the island for each outing and allow time for scenic stops.

5. Kilometers, Celsius, 230 volts

Greece uses kilometers and °C. Bring a European plug adapter (types C/F) and check that any US-only appliance supports 230V; a plug adapter does not convert voltage.

6. Kids are welcome, sidewalks vary

Children are generally part of taverna life. But cobblestones, steps and uneven sidewalks can make a stroller harder to use; pack a baby carrier for the villages.

Passports and entry rules

For regular US passport holders visiting as tourists, Greece generally permits visa-free stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day Schengen period. Passports should be valid at least three months after planned departure and issued within the past 10 years. Every child needs their own travel document. Check official requirements again before departure.

The EU Entry/Exit System (EES) records data at external Schengen borders. ETIAS is a separate, planned travel authorization system: its start date is subject to official announcement, so use the EU's official ETIAS site, not third-party application sites.

Driving and insurance

Bring your valid US driver's license. A rental firm or insurer may also require an International Driving Permit (IDP); confirm before reserving. Arrange child seats and suitable insurance in advance. Greek roads can be narrow and steep, so driving after dark is best kept to a minimum with young children.

Your US health insurance may not cover overseas treatment: check medical and evacuation cover before traveling.

Money and charging

Choose to pay in euros rather than accepting a merchant's dollar conversion if your card gives you a better rate. Check foreign transaction fees. For chargers, look for “100–240V” on the label before using an adapter.

Flying with kids

Carry snacks, a spare outfit, basic medicines and anything you need for a delay in cabin baggage. If just one parent is accompanying the children, check documentation and consent requirements.

Choose the right beach

For little swimmers, start with a sheltered, shallow beach rather than the most dramatic one. Wind and waves vary from day to day; always supervise near the water. Explore beaches →

Make space for naps

Jet lag plus summer heat calls for shorter adventures, plenty of shade and flexible evenings. A quiet afternoon at your accommodation is still a good day on Naxos. Tips for babies →

Pack water and snacks

Carry drinking water when walking or visiting smaller villages. For drinking at your accommodation, confirm local tap-water advice; our family usually plans on bottled water. Water advice →

Plan around the wind

A windy beach day can be a great time for a museum, a village walk or a long lunch. Explore indoor activities →