This part of our guide to holidays in Greece sees us covering the types of accommodation there and how / when to book it...
Greek hotels are, by and large, no-frills operations. Most rooms are small, but they have balconies and air-conditioning, and are kept clean and tidy. In some areas, however, busy roads, restaurants and bars can create a lot of noise. Travelers yearning for more well-appointed hotels can find some in the cities and on some islands, but there a relatively few options and they tend to be more expensive than their amenities justify.
As well as hotels, most popular Greek destinations offer self-catering accommodation, called apartments or studios, which are much like hotel rooms, but also offer basic kitchens. While not often listed in travel guides, these are a cost-effective alternative.
Travelers with bigger budgets can consider renting a villa. As well as being spacious, villas tend to be near - or even on - the beach, offering convenience and good views. With most villas able to comfortably house up to eight people, this is a cost-effective option for groups.
Whichever type of accommodation you opt to stay at, you'll probably be able to book it online as most, even the smaller ones, have web sites and will take bookings by email, though sometimes fax is a more reliable way to communicate. There are also numerous Greek and international hotel booking services which will make bookings.
Otherwise, once you're in Greece, you can usually find a place without a lot of trouble. But don't try this in summer on the most popular islands, where rooms can be difficult to find at the peak of the season, and on major holidays. If you find yourself stuck for a room, you can ask at a cafe whether the owner or staff know of any rooms for rent, or seek help from a local travel agency (if possible, one recommended by a major guidebook).
Greek hotels are, by and large, no-frills operations. Most rooms are small, but they have balconies and air-conditioning, and are kept clean and tidy. In some areas, however, busy roads, restaurants and bars can create a lot of noise. Travelers yearning for more well-appointed hotels can find some in the cities and on some islands, but there a relatively few options and they tend to be more expensive than their amenities justify.
As well as hotels, most popular Greek destinations offer self-catering accommodation, called apartments or studios, which are much like hotel rooms, but also offer basic kitchens. While not often listed in travel guides, these are a cost-effective alternative.
Travelers with bigger budgets can consider renting a villa. As well as being spacious, villas tend to be near - or even on - the beach, offering convenience and good views. With most villas able to comfortably house up to eight people, this is a cost-effective option for groups.
Whichever type of accommodation you opt to stay at, you'll probably be able to book it online as most, even the smaller ones, have web sites and will take bookings by email, though sometimes fax is a more reliable way to communicate. There are also numerous Greek and international hotel booking services which will make bookings.
Otherwise, once you're in Greece, you can usually find a place without a lot of trouble. But don't try this in summer on the most popular islands, where rooms can be difficult to find at the peak of the season, and on major holidays. If you find yourself stuck for a room, you can ask at a cafe whether the owner or staff know of any rooms for rent, or seek help from a local travel agency (if possible, one recommended by a major guidebook).
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