When planning a trip from Ireland to Greece, finding affordable and flexible tickets can improve your travel experience and budget. With departures from Dublin, Cork, and Shannon, Irish travelers have multiple options to consider. Here’s how to book flights effectively, save money, and ensure flexibility for your journey to Greece.
Where to Book Flights from Irish Cities
Depending on your location in Ireland, you have several options for flights to Greece. Here’s a quick guide for each main departure point:
- Dublin Airport (DUB): Dublin offers the most options, including direct flights to Athens with Ryanair and seasonal charters to popular islands like Crete. Full-service airlines like Aer Lingus, Lufthansa, and British Airways provide connecting flights, often through European hubs like London, Frankfurt, or Amsterdam.
- Cork Airport (ORK): Cork has fewer direct flights, but seasonal options may include popular islands such as Corfu or Zakynthos. Most flights will involve a stopover, typically through London or another major European city.
- Shannon Airport (SNN): Shannon has fewer flights to Greece, but you can find connecting routes through London, Amsterdam, or Frankfurt. Airlines like Ryanair and Aer Lingus operate from Shannon, often offering connecting flights with other carriers to reach Greek destinations.
For the best deals, compare prices across Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Momondo. These platforms allow you to track flights from all Irish cities, helping you find the most convenient route at the best price.
Saving with Round-Trip vs. One-Way Tickets
When it comes to international flights, round-trip tickets generally offer better value than one-way fares.
- Round-Trip Savings: Many airlines provide significant discounts on round-trip tickets. You can sometimes save 20-30% compared to booking two separate one-way tickets. This option is especially cost-effective when booking with major carriers like Lufthansa, British Airways, or Aegean Airlines.
- One-Way Flexibility: If you plan to travel between multiple Greek islands or extend your stay, one-way tickets give you more flexibility. However, check if your airline offers “multi-city” tickets that can include various destinations at a reduced cost compared to booking each leg individually.
When comparing one-way and round-trip fares, consider any additional fees for changes, which may be more frequent with budget airlines. Round-trip fares often have more flexible policies, which can help if you need to reschedule.
Travel Insurance Tips for Greek Trips
Travel insurance is an essential part of any international trip, especially when visiting multiple destinations. Here’s what to consider for Greece:
- Comprehensive Coverage: Look for policies that cover trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost baggage. Insurers like World Nomads and Allianz offer packages tailored for European travel.
- COVID-19 Coverage: Some policies include coverage for COVID-related issues, such as trip interruptions or cancellations due to illness. This protection is worth considering for peace of mind.
- Extended Stay Insurance: If you plan on exploring multiple Greek islands or extending your trip, consider a policy that allows coverage extensions.
Travel insurance comparison sites like InsureMyTrip help you compare policies side-by-side, ensuring you choose the best coverage for your needs.
Finding Refundable Tickets and Managing Changes
Flexibility is crucial when booking flights, especially with the risk of unexpected changes. Here’s how to find refundable options and manage your ticket:
- Flexible Fares: Airlines like British Airways, Lufthansa, and Aegean often offer refundable or changeable tickets at a higher price. These fares allow changes without additional fees and are ideal if your schedule isn’t fixed.
- Refund Policies on Budget Airlines: Budget airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet typically do not offer refundable tickets but may allow changes for a fee. Check the airline’s website for detailed policies before booking.
- Booking with Travel Insurance: Even if your ticket isn’t fully refundable, travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage can reimburse you for certain non-refundable expenses.
Opting for flexible tickets may add to upfront costs but provides financial protection if plans shift.
Tips for Booking During Holiday Seasons
Peak travel seasons, like summer and Greek holiday periods, can drive up ticket prices. Here’s how to find better deals during high-demand periods:
- Book Early: For popular travel months like June through August, book flights 6-9 months in advance. Airlines often release tickets up to a year before departure, so early booking helps you lock in lower prices.
- Consider Midweek Travel: Flights are often cheaper on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Traveling midweek can also reduce your chances of delays due to heavy weekend traffic.
- Track Prices: Use tools like Google Flights and Hopper to monitor prices. These apps send alerts for price drops, helping you book at the optimal time.
- Flexible Dates: If your travel dates are flexible, use the “flexible dates” feature on booking sites. This allows you to view price differences across a range of days and choose the most affordable option.
With a little flexibility and advance planning, you can avoid peak pricing and secure affordable fares during the holiday season.
Final Takeaway
Booking flights from Ireland to Greece involves choosing the right departure point, comparing round-trip vs. one-way fares, and protecting your trip with insurance. Plan ahead, consider flexible ticket options, and monitor prices for the best deals. Following these steps ensures a smooth, affordable, and flexible journey to Greece.