Spain and Greece are wonderful destinations for tourists from all over the world because 1) both are part of the European Union and 2) they are both beautiful Mediterranean countries.
Whether you’re an amateur or an experienced traveller, there are several things you need to know about the differences and similarities between Spain and Greece that will surely help you to stop worrying about little things and just relax and enjoy your trip.
Languages
Spain’s official language is Spanish and Greece’s official language is Greek; even though they’re different languages, there are some words that are very similar in pronunciation and phonemes. However, while Greece uses the Greek alphabet, Spain uses the Latin alphabet.
Currency
Both countries are members of the Eurozone, a monetary union of 19 of the 28 European Union (EU) member states which have adopted the euro (€) as their common currency. As a traveller, this means that you will be able to create your budget according to just one currency.
Food
In Spain, the jamón serrano (cured ham) and chorizo (a seasoned sausage) are very popular along with seafood and fish in coastal areas. Other popular foods include cheese, eggs, rice, nuts (especially almonds), and bread. However, the best-known Spanish dish is a stew called paella, made with rice as the main ingredient and a variety of shellfish (such as shrimp, clams, crab, and lobster), vegetables (tomatoes, peas, and asparagus), chicken and/or rabbit and more. Or try gazpacho, a delicious cold vegetable soup ideal for those hot summer days.
On the other hand, fresh fruits and vegetables play a large role in the Greek diet. With its long coastline, Greece also relies heavily on fish and seafood. Meat tends to play a less important role. It is often used as an ingredient in vegetable dishes instead of as a main dish. The islands and coastal areas of Greece favor lighter dishes that feature vegetables or seafood.
Weather
Due to their geographical position, both countries tend to have Mediterranean climate recognized by mild and rainy winters, along with warm and sunny summers cooled by different kind of seasonal winds. However, due to its specific location, there are particular locations on Greece that create micro-climates like the west of the Pindus mountain range, where the climate is generally wetter and has some maritime features. Alternatively, Central Spain has a generally low rainfall though winter snow can be heavy on the sierras, while North and North West Spain are the wettest and cloudiest parts of the country.
Fantastic Attractions
Spain and Greece have very rich cultures and their streets are full of ancient monuments and buildings with historical meanings distributed along different landscapes, which makes it impossible to say which one is more beautiful than the other.
Both of these countries are beautiful and interesting in their own particular way; they constitute great touristic destination for every traveler looking for new and fun experiences, but they each offer different and unique aspects.
Many travelers choose to join a Mediterranean cruise that will take them to both of these countries, while others prefer to first visit Spain and then join trips to Greece from Spain .Enjoy the taste of the Greek food and take a walk in Mikonos, or enjoy a great Spanish Paella while you watch the running of the bulls in Navarra; there is no doubt that Greece and Spain are unique places you won’t want to miss.
