Greece offers a captivating blend of ancient history, stunning islands, and Mediterranean culture. From the iconic Acropolis in Athens to the whitewashed villages of Santorini, this sun-soaked destination combines archaeological wonders with pristine beaches and world-class cuisine.
Greece is a safe country for tourists with low violent crime rates. The primary risks are opportunistic petty theft in crowded areas, taxi overcharging at Athens airport, and natural hazards including summer heat and seismic activity. The Greek islands are exceptionally safe destinations.
Current safety advisory
Low
Exercise normal precautions. Athens has higher petty crime in tourist areas; the islands are very safe. Occasional large political demonstrations occur in central Athens. Summer wildfire risk in rural areas.
Last updated: 2025-01
Official advisories
Guidance from national travel-advisory services.
Level 1 - Exercise Normal Precautions
Greece is generally safe for tourists. Take normal safety precautions regarding petty crime in tourist areas.
Generally safe for all travellers
Most visits are trouble-free. Pickpocketing and bag snatching occur in tourist areas and on public transport in Athens.
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Register with your country's embassy upon arrival - the US Embassy in Athens is at 91 Vassilisis Sophias Avenue (+30 210 721 2951)
Watch for pickpockets and bag snatchers in crowded areas like Monastiraki Square, the Acropolis, and on Athens metro Line 1
Avoid large political demonstrations and strikes, which can turn confrontational - check local news before traveling
Be aware of seismic activity; Greece sits on active fault lines. Know your hotel's emergency procedures
Stay hydrated and use strong sunscreen in summer - temperatures regularly exceed 40 degrees C in July-August
Beware of taxi scams at Athens airport - only use metered taxis or the official Fixed Fare (38 euros from airport to center). Use the Beat app for transparent pricing
Watch for the friendship bracelet and dropped money scams targeting tourists near the Acropolis and Monastiraki
Never leave valuables on the beach or visible in rental cars - island beach theft is common in peak season
Dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees) when visiting Greek Orthodox churches and monasteries or entry will be denied
Carry comprehensive travel insurance - EHIC covers EU citizens at public hospitals but private facilities (faster service) require payment
Ocean swimming risks: jellyfish blooms occur in late summer; sea urchins on rocky beaches - wear water shoes
Emergency numbers: Police 100, Ambulance 166, Fire 199, Coast Guard 108, European Emergency 112
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Athens Airport Taxi Overcharging
Unlicensed taxis and some official taxis attempt to charge vastly inflated fares from Athens International Airport. The legal fixed rate to the city centre is €38 day / €54 night.
How to avoid: Only use the official taxi rank outside Arrivals. Use the Beat app for transparent pricing. Confirm the fixed rate before entering the taxi.
Friendship Bracelet / Dropped Money
Near the Acropolis and Monastiraki, scammers approach tourists with 'free' friendship bracelets that are tied on before demanding payment, or drop money hoping you pick it up (then claim it's stolen from them).
How to avoid: Never accept anything thrust upon you by strangers near tourist sites. Decline firmly and keep walking.
Bar / Club Scam
Men are sometimes lured by 'friendly locals' to bars in Athens where they are seated with attractive women and run up enormous bills, then presented with inflated tabs and intimidated into paying.
How to avoid: Avoid invitations from overly friendly strangers near tourist areas. Research bars before visiting and never let someone choose your venue.
Fake Ticket Sellers
Near major archaeological sites, sellers offer 'discounted' or 'last-minute' tickets that are counterfeit. Official tickets are only sold at site entrances or at etickets.tap.gr.
How to avoid: Only buy tickets from official kiosks at site entrances or through the official Greek cultural ministry website.
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
- Vaccinations
- No required vaccinations for Greece. Routine vaccines recommended (MMR, Tetanus). COVID-19 requirements vary - check current rules.
- Water
- Safe to drink in all major cities and towns. Bottled water recommended on some smaller islands.
- Food
- Sunburn and dehydration in summer. Upset stomach from rich food. Minor injuries from uneven ancient sites. Jellyfish stings in some areas.
- Facilities
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Solo travellers
Greece is an excellent solo travel destination with well-established backpacker infrastructure, sociable hostels, and welcoming taverna culture. Solo travellers are generally welcomed warmly. Standard precautions apply in busy Athens neighbourhoods after midnight. Island travel is exceptionally safe for solo visitors.
Female travellers
Greece is generally safe for female solo travellers. Greek men may be flirtatious but serious harassment is uncommon in tourist areas. Take standard precautions: use licensed taxis or Beat app at night, avoid isolated areas after midnight, stay in reputable accommodation. The islands are particularly safe for women travelling alone.
Families
Greece is one of Europe's most family-friendly destinations. Greeks adore children and accommodate them warmly in restaurants and public spaces. Main family safety considerations: supervise children at beaches (often no lifeguards), car seats required by law, ancient sites involve uneven marble surfaces requiring careful footing, summer heat requires constant hydration for children.
LGBTQ+ travellers
Same-sex relationships are legal in Greece and same-sex civil unions have been recognised since 2015. Athens has an established LGBTQ+ scene centred on Gazi and Psyrri neighbourhoods. Mykonos is one of Europe's most gay-friendly holiday destinations. More conservative attitudes may be encountered in rural areas, smaller islands, and religious communities. The Athens Pride parade takes place annually in June.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
- Police
- 100
- Medical
- 166
- Embassy
- Tourist Police