Greece, with its ancient history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, has long been a dream destination for travelers worldwide. Whether you’re planning to explore the iconic ruins of Athens, lounge on the picturesque beaches of Milos, or immerse yourself in the local charm of Crete, booking your flight to Greece is the first step towards an unforgettable adventure. Since I’m often asked about the best time and way to book international flights to Greece from the US, I wrote this little guide to searching for & buying international air tickets which will hopefully give you some guidance. Here I’ll explore the best practices for booking your flight, including timing, online search tools, and the ultimate booking site.
When to Book Your Flight:
The best time to book your flight to Greece depends on various factors, including the time of year you plan to travel, your flexibility, and whether you’re aiming for the best deals or specific travel dates. As a general rule of thumb:
- High Season (mid May-September): If you’re traveling during the peak summer months when Greece experiences an influx of tourists, it’s advisable to book your flight well in advance, ideally 10 – 12 months prior to departure. This allows you to secure better prices and more options, especially for popular routes and dates.
- Shoulder Season (April-early May, October – early November): For those looking to avoid the crowds and enjoy pleasant weather, the shoulder seasons offer a great compromise. Booking 2 – 5 months in advance should still provide reasonable fares and decent availability.
- Low Season (mid November-March): Winter in Greece sees fewer tourists, except for popular destinations like Athens and Thessaloniki. If you’re traveling during this period, you can often find good deals closer to your travel date, though it’s still wise to book at least a few weeks ahead.
Where to Search Online
With numerous online travel agencies (OTAs) and flight comparison websites available, finding the best deal can be overwhelming. Here are some of the top platforms to streamline your search for flights to Greece:
- Google Flights: Known for its user-friendly interface and comprehensive search capabilities, Google Flights allows you to compare prices across different airlines, dates, and routes. Its intuitive calendar feature also helps identify the cheapest days to fly.
- Skyscanner: Another popular choice, Skyscanner aggregates flight options from various airlines and online travel agencies, enabling you to find competitive fares and set up price alerts for your desired route.
- Kayak: Kayak offers a robust search engine that scours hundreds of travel sites to find the best flight deals. Its flexible date search tool and price forecasting feature are particularly useful for budget-conscious travelers.
- Expedia: As a one-stop shop for travel bookings, Expedia provides a wide range of flight options, accommodation packages, and car rentals. Its loyalty program and occasional exclusive deals make it worth considering for your flight to Greece.
Best Site to Book Your International Air Tickets
While the above platforms excel at comparing prices and options, when it comes to making the final booking, it often pays to go directly through the airline’s website. Booking directly with the airline offers several advantages:
Direct Communication with the airline: By booking directly, you have a direct line of communication with the airline, which can be invaluable in case of flight changes, cancellations, or other issues.
Potential Discounts: Airlines occasionally offer exclusive deals or discounts on their own websites, which may not be available through third-party platforms.
Earn Loyalty Points: If you’re a member of a frequent flyer program or loyalty scheme, booking directly with the airline allows you to accrue miles or points towards future travel.
Ultimately, the best site to book your ticket will depend on factors such as price, convenience, and personal preference. Whether you opt for a third-party aggregator or book directly with the airline, conducting thorough research and comparing options will help you secure the best deal for your flight to Greece.
Booking a flight to Greece requires careful planning and consideration, especially during peak travel seasons. By following the tips outlined in this guide and utilizing the recommended online resources, you can streamline the booking process and embark on your Greek adventure with confidence. So pack your bags, prepare to be mesmerized by ancient wonders and breathtaking scenery, and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime in this enchanting Mediterranean paradise.
