How a pre-move visit can make your Relocation to Greece smoother

Eight countries across four different continents. That’s how many times I’ve picked up, started over and relocated my life. And when I say relocated I don’t mean long vacation. I mean setting up taxes, finding a home, enrolling kids in school, managing a business and figuring out how life actually works in a different culture.

If there is one certainty these experiences have taught me, it’s this: the realities of moving are always more complicated than we can ever prepare for.

With a thriving expat community, 300 days of sunshine, endless nature to explore and some of the best quality food to grow on, Greece is certainly one of the most attractive destinations for retirees, families and even digital nomads.

With the right support system you can absolutely make the leap without visiting first. But spending time here before packing will let you experience Greece beyond the IG stories and viral Tik Toks… You will have the chance to meet locals (hi!), find your rhythm, and discover the place that truly feels like home.

Every ‘what if’ about Greece deserves a thoughtful answer. So, let’s get into the insights a visit will give you before your relocation to Greece.

This is, without a doubt, one of the most common questions I get during my consultations. And honestly? It’s one of the hardest to answer, because where you should move in Greece depends entirely on you.

It’s really difficult to get honest, unbiased advice about where to settle when you’ve only seen these places online. A dreamy island might look perfect in photos, but what happens when the tourists leave, the ferry schedule shrinks, and even the local supermarket closes for the season?

And if you’re thinking about buying property in Greece, the ‘where’ becomes even more important. Maybe the place you had in mind isn’t as sound of an investment as you thought. Maybe the area lacks a real community. Or maybe there’s an unexpected issue with zoning laws that no one mentioned.

You can watch every video, read every expat blog, and scroll through endless forums, but until you’re here, living it, feeling the rhythm of daily life, you won’t really know what the right fit is.

Finding the right place to build your Greek life goes far beyond picking a location on a map. It’s about how you want to live. Do you want to be surrounded by a thriving community? Do you need easy access to healthcare? Are you comfortable navigating island logistics? Do you envision yourself embracing local heritage, or do you find comfort in the rhythm of an organized city?

With your answers in mind, I’ll usually create a custom made itinerary with personalized suggestions of places we can visit in Greece, as well as local contacts and experiences that will give you deeper insights.

“What’s The Worst Thing About Living In Greece?”

Greece is beautiful, but it’s not always easy.

Bureaucracy moves at its own pace (often a slow one). Getting anything official done , like setting up a bank account or registering for healthcare, can take patience, persistence, and often, a lot of follow-ups.

Then there’s the question of daily conveniences. Outside of Athens and Thessaloniki, you may not have easy access to certain amenities. Small islands and villages can feel isolating in the winter, and even in larger towns, finding English-speaking professionals (doctors, accountants, etc.) isn’t always guaranteed.

Property laws are complex, and if you’re buying, you’ll want a solid team on your side since things like inherited land, zoning restrictions, and unclear property titles can create serious roadblocks.

That being said, every challenge has a solution with the right approach. And that’s why (if possible), I always recommend to test the waters with a visit to Greece before you decide to relocate. It will give you a firsthand feel for the realities of life in Greece and will lay the groundwork for when you’re ready to make the big move.

“I Love The Idea of Living In Greece, But Still Want To Move Around”

Great! That gets the ball moving. Narrowing down what you DON’T want out of your relocation to Greece is just as helpful as figuring out what you do want.

If your vision includes having a home base in Greece while still enjoying frequent trips abroad, weekend road trips, or spontaneous adventures, a pre-move visit can help you assess just how feasible that is.

How close is the nearest airport? Will you need a car, or is public transport reliable enough for your lifestyle? If you have kids, is it easy to navigate with strollers, or will cobblestone streets and steep hills make daily life more challenging? These are the kinds of details you won’t fully grasp until you experience them firsthand.

Visiting before you move lets you test out the logistics—whether that’s catching a ferry to an island, renting a car to explore the mainland, or figuring out the easiest way to hop on a flight for a weekend getaway. When you know how transportation works in your future home, you can plan a move that truly aligns with your lifestyle.

“How Easy Is It To Relocate To Greece With Kids?”

Greece is a great place to raise a family. It’s got that warm, friendly atmosphere, tight-knit communities, and wide-open nature at every turn that gives kids the freedom to explore and enjoy their childhood.

But when you’re relocating to Greece with kids, there’s a bit more to think about than just how beautiful the sunsets are.

One of the biggest factors to consider is language. If your kids don’t speak Greek, their age will play a huge role in how easily they adapt. Younger children tend to pick up the language quickly, while older kids and teens might struggle more—especially if you’re moving to a smaller town where English isn’t widely spoken. International schools exist, but they’re mostly in Athens and Thessaloniki, so if those aren’t on your list, you’ll need to explore local schooling options carefully.

Then there’s lifestyle and extracurriculars. If your child plays a competitive sport, will they be able to continue at the same level in Greece? Some sports, like soccer and basketball, are widely available, while others may be harder to find outside of major cities.

Healthcare is another key concern. Greece has both public and private healthcare systems, and while the private sector offers excellent care, you’ll need to make sure your family has the right insurance coverage. If your child has specific medical needs, it’s worth researching whether specialists are available in your chosen area.

Visiting Greece with your kids before the big move? Huge win. It’ll give them a chance to check out schools, explore potential neighborhoods, and get a feel for what life will be like. Plus, it’ll help them start to get excited about the adventure ahead. The more familiar they are with the place before the move, the smoother the transition will be.

“What’s It Like to Live in Greece Year-Round?”

Well, the best way to find out is to find out yourself!

If you’ve only seen Greece in the summer, you’ve seen one side of the story—sunshine, crowds, and a lively buzz. But if you’re seriously considering making the move, why not book a visit during the winter months? It’s a totally different vibe, and it’s when you really start to see what life here is like without the tourist rush. You get to experience the slower pace, the quieter streets, and the local culture in its true form. It’s a great chance to get a feel for the rhythm of daily life, how the community operates, and what it would really be like to call Greece home all year round.

For the past 10 years, I’ve had the privilege of showing people the true, raw side of Greece. And every single time I’ve brought someone around, they’ve ended up saying the same thing: “I want to make this place my home.” Well, let’s talk!

With my deep local knowledge, insider connections, and a unique perspective on all things Greece, I can offer you a custom trip that goes beyond the typical tourist experience. I’ll guide you through neighborhoods, schools, and practical spots that will give you a feel for what life here could really be like. Plus, you’ll have the emotional support you need during your relocation—because making such a big move is not just about logistics, it’s about feeling supported throughout the process.

If you’re ready to kick off this amazing journey, book your free 15-minute consultation on me!