is it safe to travel to greece 2023

Update April 12, 2024

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Greece Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 26, 2023, greece - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in Greece.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Greece.

If you decide to travel to Greece: 

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Greece.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Travel Advisory Levels

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Places the U.S. Government Warns Not to Travel Right Now

You may want to reconsider traveling to these countries right now.

Do Not Travel to These Countries

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Crime, civil unrest and terrorism are common risk factors for countries that end up on the State Department's "Do Not Travel" advisory list.

In 2024, tourism across the globe is “well on track” to return to pre-pandemic levels, according to projections by UN Tourism.

Global conflicts and natural disasters , ranging from a series of coups across Africa to catastrophic earthquakes in the Middle East affected international travel patterns throughout 2023. Still, international tourist arrivals reached 87% of pre-pandemic levels in 2023, according to estimates by UN Tourism .

In January 2024 alone, about 4.6 million U.S. citizens left the country for international destinations, 17% higher than the same month in 2019, according to the International Trade Administration . But some destinations warrant more caution than others.

On Oct. 19, 2023, following the outbreak of war between Israel and Gaza and flaring tensions in the region, the U.S. State Department issued a worldwide caution advisory due to “increased tensions in various locations around the world, the potential for terrorist attacks, demonstrations or violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests.” Prior to this update, the most recent worldwide caution advisory was issued in 2022 after a U.S. strike killed Ayman al-Zawahiri, Osama bin Laden’s successor as leader of Al Qaeda, causing “a higher potential for anti-American violence.” The worldwide caution advisory remains in effect.

The U.S. State Department also issues individual travel advisory levels for more than 200 countries globally, continually updating them based on a variety of risk indicators such as health, terrorism and civil unrest. Travel advisory levels range from Level 1, which means exercise normal precautions, to Level 4, which means do not travel there.

About 10% of countries – 19 total – have a Level 4: “Do Not Travel” advisory as of Mar. 4. In Level 4 countries, the U.S. government may have “very limited ability” to step in should travelers’ safety or security be at risk, according to the State Department. Crime, civil unrest, kidnapping and terrorism are common risk factors associated with Level 4 countries.

So far in 2024, the State Department made changes to the existing Level 4 advisories for Myanmar, Iran and Gaza, and moved Niger and Lebanon off of the Level 4 list.

Places With a Level 4 Travel Advisory

These are the primary areas the U.S. government says not to travel to right now, in alphabetical order:

Jump to Place: Afghanistan Belarus Burkina Faso Central African Republic Myanmar (formerly Burma) Gaza Haiti Iran Iraq Libya Mali Mexico North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea) Russia Somalia South Sudan Sudan Syria Ukraine Venezuela Yemen

Afghanistan: The Central Asian country is wrestling with “terrorism, risk of wrongful detention, kidnapping and crime,” according to the State Department. U.S. citizens are specifically at risk for wrongful detention and kidnapping. In 2022, the government reinstituted public floggings and executions, and women’s rights are disappearing under Taliban control. The U.S. Embassy in Kabul halted operations in August 2021. Since the Taliban took control , many forms of international aid have been halted . Meanwhile, in 2023, some of the year’s deadliest earthquakes killed more than 2,400 in Afghanistan while the country continues to face a years-long extreme drought.

Belarus: Belarus, which shares a western border with Russia and a southern border with Ukraine, has been flagged for “Belarusian authorities’ continued facilitation of Russia’s war against Ukraine, the buildup of Russian military forces in Belarus, the arbitrary enforcement of local laws, the potential of civil unrest, the risk of detention, and the Embassy’s limited ability to assist U.S. citizens residing in or traveling to Belarus.” The U.S. Embassy in Minsk halted operations in February 2022.

Burkina Faso: Terrorism, crime and kidnapping are plaguing this West African nation. Terrorist attacks may target hotels, restaurants and schools with little to no warning, and the East and Sahel regions of the country are under a state of emergency. In late November 2023, hundreds died in clashes between state security forces and rebels near the country’s border with Mali. In June, more than 2 million people in Burkina Faso were displaced due to “violence linked to al-Qaida and the Islamic State group.”

Central African Republic: While there have not been specific incidents of U.S. citizens targeted with violence or crime, violent crime and sudden closure of roads and borders is common. The advisory states that “Embassy Bangui’s limited capacity to provide support to U.S. citizens, crime, civil unrest, and kidnapping” is a factor in its assessment. Recent data from UNICEF suggests the country has the worst drinking water accessibility of all countries in 2022.

Myanmar (Formerly Burma): Armed conflict and civil unrest are the primary reasons to not travel to this Southeast Asian country, which experienced a military coup in early 2021. Limited health care resources, wrongful detentions and “areas with land mines and unexploded ordnance” are also listed as risk factors. After Ukraine and Israel, Myanmar had the highest conflict-related death toll in 2023.

Gaza : Hamas, a foreign terrorist organization as designated by the State Department, controls much of the Gaza Strip, which shares borders with both Israel and Egypt. On Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas fighters broke across the border into Israel, killing hundreds of civilians and soldiers in a brazen attack that stunned Israelis. On Oct. 10, Israel hit the Gaza Strip with “the fiercest air strikes in its 75-year conflict” according to Reuters . The conflict has since escalated into war between Israel and Hamas, with regular Israeli airstrikes leading to extensive civilian casualties in Gaza. As of mid-December, nearly 85% of Gaza’s population were displaced from their homes, according to UN estimates . The region continues to face shortages of food , water, electricity and medical supplies , with conditions deemed “far beyond a humanitarian crisis.” The State Department warns of terrorism and armed conflict within Gaza’s borders.

Haiti: In July 2023, the Department of State ordered all non-emergency U.S. government personnel and family members to leave the U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince in response to the increased risk of kidnapping and violent crime in the country , as well as armed conflict between gangs and police. The travel advisory states that cases of kidnapping “often involve ransom negotiations and U.S. citizen victims have been physically harmed during kidnappings.” The travel advisory also states that “U.S. citizens in Haiti should depart Haiti as soon as possible” given “the current security situation and infrastructure challenges.” A series of gang attacks in late September 2023 caused thousands to flee their homes, and many aid groups have been forced to cut or suspend operations amid escalating violence in recent months.

Iran: Terrorism, kidnapping and civil unrest are risk factors for all travelers to Iran, while U.S. citizens are specifically at risk for “arbitrary arrest.” U.S.-Iranian nationals such as students, journalists and business travelers have been arrested on charges of espionage and threatening national security. Executions in Iran rose sharply between 2021 and 2022, bringing the country’s total to nearly 580 people over the year, according to a report by Amnesty International released in May 2023.

Iraq: The State Department cites “terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict [and] civil unrest” as cause for the country’s Level 4 distinction. Iraq’s northern borders, and its border with Syria, are especially dangerous. Since the escalation of conflict in neighboring Israel in October, there has been an increase in attacks against Iraqi military bases, which host U.S. troops and other international forces. In October 2023, non-emergency U.S. government personnel and eligible family members were ordered to leave the U.S. embassy in Baghdad.

Libya: Following the end of its dictatorship over a decade ago, Libya has been wrought with internal conflict between armed groups in the East and West. Armed conflict, civil unrest, crime, kidnapping and terrorism are all risk factors. U.S. citizens have been targets of kidnapping for ransom, with terrorists targeting hotels and airports frequented by Westerners. The U.S. Embassy in Tripoli halted operations in 2014. In mid-September 2023, floods, which some say were intensified by climate change , killed thousands in eastern Libya. Clashes between armed factions escalated across the country in the latter half of 2023, including in the capital city of Tripoli and in Benghazi.

Mali: After experiencing military coups in 2020 and 2021, crime, terrorism and kidnapping are all prevalent threats in this West African landlocked nation. In July 2022, non-emergency U.S. government employees and their families were ordered to leave the country due to higher risk of terrorist activity. A U.N. report in August 2023 said that military groups in the country, including both Mali security forces and possibly Russian Wagner mercenaries, were spreading terror through the use of violence against women and human rights abuses. Democratic elections were supposed to occur in February 2024, but Mali’s military junta postponed the plans indefinitely. In December, the U.N. officially ended a decade-long peacekeeping presence in the country, which had been among the agency’s deadliest missions, with hundreds of the mission personnel killed since 2013.

Mexico: Each state in Mexico is assessed separately for travel advisory levels. Six of the 32 states in Mexico are designated as Level 4: Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas and Zacatecas. Crime and kidnapping are listed as the primary risk factors throughout the country. Nearly 112,000 people were missing across the country as of October, a number the U.N. has called “alarming.”

North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea): U.S. passports are not valid for travel “to, in, or through” this country, home to one of the world's longest-running dynastic dictatorships. The travel advisory states that the Level 4 distinction is due to “the continuing serious risk of arrest and long-term detention of U.S. nationals.” In July 2023, a U.S. soldier fled across the border into North Korea, where he is believed to be in North Korean custody, the first American detained in the North in nearly five years. He was returned to U.S. custody in September 2023.

Russia: The travel advisory for Russia cites its invasion of Ukraine , harassment of U.S. citizens by Russian government officials and arbitrary law enforcement as a few of the reasons for the Level 4 designation. Chechnya and Mount Elbrus are specifically listed as Level 4 regions. Terrorism, civil unrest, health, kidnapping and wrongful detention are all noted as risks.

Russia Invades Ukraine: A Timeline

Somalia: A severe drought resulting from five failed rainy seasons in a row killed 43,000 people in 2022, and caused a famine amid conflict with Islamist insurgents . Violent crime is common throughout Somalia , pirates frequent its coast off the Horn of Africa, and medical facilities, where they exist, have limited capacity. Crime, terrorism, civil unrest, health and kidnapping are all risk factors. In January 2024, some passengers aboard a U.N.-contracted helicopter were taken hostage by al-Shabaab militants after the vehicle crashed in central Somalia.

South Sudan: Crime, kidnapping and armed conflict are the primary risk factors for South Sudan, which separated from Sudan in 2011, making it the world’s newest country . Weapons are readily available, and travelers have been victims of sexual assault and armed robbery.

Sudan: The U.S. evacuated its embassy in Khartoum in April 2023, and the country closed its airspace due to the ongoing conflict in the country, only permitting humanitarian aid and evacuation efforts. Fighting has escalated in the region between two warring generals seeking to gain control after a military coup in 2021 ousted the country’s prime minister. Civil unrest is the primary risk factor for Africa’s third largest country by area. Crime, terrorism, kidnapping and armed conflict are also noted. The International Criminal Court began investigating alleged war crimes and violence against African ethnic groups in the country in 2023. Millions have fled their homes due to conflict, and the U.N. has said its efforts to provide aid have been hindered by a lack of support, safety and resources. As recently as December 2023, the United Nations warned of catastrophic famine , with millions of children at-risk for malnutrition .

Syria: The advisory states that “No part of Syria is safe from violence,” with terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, armed conflict and risk of unjust detention all potential risk factors. U.S. citizens are often a target for kidnappings and detention. The U.S. Embassy in Damascus halted operations in 2012. Fighting in neighboring Israel has escalated since October, and the conflict has spilled over into Syria, where the U.S. has carried out air strikes following drone and rocket attacks against American troops in Syria and Iraq, triggered by the Israel-Hamas war.

Ukraine: Russian setbacks in their invasion of Ukraine buoyed hopes in Ukraine in 2023. However, Ukraine is a Level 4 country due to Russia’s invasion, with crime and civil unrest also noted as risk factors. The country’s forces shot down two Russian fighter jets on Christmas Eve 2023, in a move Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said “sets the right mood for the entire year ahead.”

Venezuela: Human rights abuses and lack of health care plague this South American nation, which has been in a political crisis since 2014. In 2019, diplomatic personnel were withdrawn from the U.S. Embassy in Caracas. Threats in the country include crime, civil unrest, kidnapping, wrongful detention and poor health infrastructure.

Yemen: Six of the nine risk factors defined by the State Department – terrorism, civil unrest, health risks, kidnapping, armed conflict and landmines – are all present in Yemen. Despite private companies offering tourist visits to the Yemeni island of Socotra, the U.S. government argues those arranging such visits “are putting tourists in danger.” Civil war and cholera are also both present throughout the country. The U.S. Embassy in Sanaa halted operations in 2015. The country has experienced a relative lull in the civil war fighting, but as peace negotiations have gotten traction, flare ups in the fighting have jeopardized progress. Most recently, the U.S. and U.K. have carried out a series of airstrikes in the country, targeting Iran-backed Houthi sites.

Other Countries to Watch

Since Jan. 1, the State Department has updated travel advisories for 17 different countries as well as for the West Bank and Gaza, adding information about specific regions or risk factors, or simply renewing an existing advisory. Travel advisory levels can change based on several factors in a nation, such as increased civil unrest, policies that affect human rights or higher risks of unlawful detention.

The State Department has given about 25 countries an assessment of Level 3, meaning it recommends people “reconsider travel” to those destinations.

On Oct. 14, one week after the deadly Hamas attack on Israel, Israel and the West Bank were both moved from Level 2 to Level 3, while Gaza remains at Level 4. The region’s travel advisory was updated in November to reflect travel restrictions for certain government employees who have not already left the area, and it was updated again on Jan. 3.

Following the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war in early October, the U.S. State Department raised Lebanon ’s travel advisory level from a Level 3 to a Level 4 level due to “the unpredictable security situation related to rocket, missile, and artillery exchanges” between Israel and Hezbollah or other militant groups. In December, the U.S. Embassy in Beirut returned to normal staffing and presence, and on Jan. 29, the country was moved back to Level 3. Crime, terrorism, armed conflict, civil unrest, kidnapping and unexploded landmines are listed as the country’s primary risk factors. However, the country’s borders with Syria and with Israel, as well as refugee settlements within Lebanon, are specifically noted as Level 4 regions.

China became a Level 3 country in late 2020, with an update in December 2022 citing “the surge in COVID-19 cases, arbitrary enforcement of local laws, and COVID-19-related restrictions” as the reason for the advisory. In June 2023, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) was moved from the Level 3 to the Level 2 list, but travelers are still advised to be cautious in the area due to “arbitrary enforcement of local laws.” Meanwhile, Macau remains at Level 3.

Following an attempted coup in August 2023, Niger was elevated to Level 4 in August and the Department of State ordered all non-emergency U.S. government personnel and family members to leave the U.S. Embassy in Niamey. In early January 2024, the overall risk level for the country was lowered back to Level 3. Despite the new classification, the State Department still asks non-emergency government personnel and eligible family members to depart the country.

In mid-December 2023 there was an explosion at Guinea’s main fuel depot which has since affected access to health care and basic goods and services. The country was subsequently designated a Level 3 nation after having previously been Level 2. Concerns about civil unrest, health, crime and fuel shortages impacting local infrastructure were listed as the primary risk factors contributing to the change.

Several Level 3 countries are among the worst countries for human trafficking, as designated by the State Department’s annual Trafficking in Persons Report . Level 3 countries on this list include Papua New Guinea, Guinea Bissau, China and Chad. There are also nine Level 4 countries designated as among the worst for human trafficking: Afghanistan, Belarus, Iran, Myanmar, North Korea, Russia, Syria, South Sudan and Venezuela.

Over 70 countries are currently at Level 2, meaning the State Department recommends travelers “exercise increased caution” when traveling to those destinations.

Botswana became the newest Level 2 country on Feb. 26 after having previously been Level 1, with crime noted as the primary risk factor.

France, which saw nationwide protests throughout 2023, has civil unrest and terrorism noted as risk factors for its Level 2 status, and Sweden’s Level 2 status is associated with risks of terrorism.

The Level 2 travel advisory for the Bahamas was updated in January to reflect water safety concerns. The advisory warns that “activities involving commercial recreational watercraft, including water tours, are not consistently regulated” and notes that government personnel are “not permitted to use independently operated jet-ski rentals on New Providence and Paradise Islands.” It also warns visitors to be mindful of sharks, weather and water conditions. The advisory also says that crime is a primary risk factor with gang-on-gang violence contributing to high homicide rates in some areas. Visitors are asked to “be vigilant” and to not physically resist robbery attempts.

Bangladesh 's Level 2 travel advisory was updated in October 2023 to add a note about the country’s general election , which took place Jan. 7, 2024. The advisory states “demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence.” The U.S. has since claimed the country’s election was not free nor fair.

In November 2023, several Level 2 travel advisories were updated with new cautionary information. The advisory for Ghana was updated to reflect threats against LGBTQI+ travelers specifically, noting “anti-LGBTQI+ rhetoric and violence have increased in recent years.” Meanwhile, the advisory for South Africa was updated in February to note that routes recommended by GPS may be unsafe with higher risk for crime.

Turkmenistan was moved off of the Level 2 list to become the newest addition to the Level 1 list on Jan. 22, meaning normal precautions are recommended but there are no risk factors causing travelers to practice increased caution.

The State Department asks travelers to pay attention to travel advisory levels and alerts , review country information pages for their destinations and read related country security reports before going abroad.

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Is Greece Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

• Greece : Safety by City
• Thessaloniki

Greece is a European country often referred to as the cradle of Western civilization and culture.

It has had a huge impact on European art, culture, history, philosophy, language, etc.

It is brimming with historic artifacts and remains of its history that tourists and visitors rush to see every year, and to top it all off, it also flaunts its gorgeous turquoise coastline, one of the prettiest ones in entire Europe.

It’s got around 6,000 islands, sandy beaches and clear waters, bright as day.

Greece really is a dream for tourists, and while it is generally safe, there are parts of it that should be avoided if possible.

However, following basic common sense and watching out for any possible dangers should get you through the trip smoothly.

• Warnings & Dangers in Greece

OVERALL RISK: LOW

Greece is a very safe country to travel to. Tourists are unlikely to experience any crime or violence. The only concern is petty crime on the streets, but if you apply the basic precaution measures, your trip should go smoothly.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW

Taxis and other means of transportation are, overall, very safe to use in Greece.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM

Pickpocketing and bag snatching does exist, but it's not as common as you would expect. Picpockets usually lurk around popular tourist destinations and big cities like Athens, but applying simple precaution measures should minimize this risk.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW

Other than the ever-present risk of drowning at sea, there are no other threats in Greece when it comes to natural disasters.

MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM

Greece is relatively safe when it comes to mugging or kidnapping. It rarely happens to tourists, but you should avoid dangerous areas. Ask around for advice or in local tourist organizations regarding what parts of Greece to avoid.

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

Even though there haven't been any terrorist attacks in Greece's recent history, they shouldn't be ruled out.

SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM

Since Greece is a top tourist destination, it is no wonder that people will try to scam you, especially during summer when the number of tourists increases. Watch out for street vendors trying to rip you off and overcharge for their service, double check the authenticity of everything you want to buy as well as the change you receive and negotiate everything in advance.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

It is very safe for women to travel to Greece. Just following common sense and applying basic precaution measures (not walking around in the dark, in empty streets, not finding yourself alone with strange men) should ensure that your travel goes without any incidents.

• So... How Safe Is Greece Really?

Greece is very safe to visit.

Ranked 39th on the ranking of world’s safest countries, it is very welcoming towards its tourists and risks that are listed here are unlikely to happen, and even more so to tourists, but they shouldn’t be ruled out due to the serious economic crisis Greece is in and due to the fact that it really is a top tourist destination.

Pickpocketing and bag snatching are serious issues in Greece, especially around tourist landmarks and in crowded places, so it would be best to either leave your money at your hotel or just carry it in a very safe place near your body so it couldn’t get snatched.

Never carry all your money in the same place. Even though petty crime is common, violent crime is unlikely to happen.

The only thing that can happen is fights between intoxicated tourists on the streets and even that doesn’t happen more than it would in any other country.

Since the economic crisis, there have been some organized protests happening in Greece, which can lead to fights between the police and the protesters so you should avoid any kinds of public gatherings connected to the politics, for your own safety.

Apart from looking out for your belongings and staying vigilant for any pickpockets, you are unlikely to experience any crime in this gorgeous country.

• How Does Greece Compare?
• Useful Information

Visas for Greece are usually not required for any stays lasting less than 90 days, and EU residents can stay in the country for as long as they like. Your passport should be valid for at least six months past the date of your return from the country you are visiting. However, if you are not sure about your visa status, visit www.doyouneedvisa.com which will let you know whether or not you need visa based on your nationality.

Euro is the official currency in Greece. You can exchange your money in exchange offices and banks all around Greece, and use ATMs normally. There are, however, some restrictions when it comes to the amount of money you can withdraw per day. Greece is relatively cheap compared to other European tourist destinations, so you can count on spending between 60 and 80€ per day.

The weather in Greece is sunny and warm during summer, mild during autumn and spring and cold during winter. It has all four seasons of the year, although they are milder. The best time to visit is during summer, from May to September, although you should count on major crowds along the coastline at that time of year. Major cities can be visited all year long.

The busiest airport in Greece is Athens International Airport, located in Athens, and the second busiest one is Heraklion International Airport.

Travel Insurance

Just like anywhere else, we recommend getting travel insurance when traveling to Greece, since it covers not only the costs of medical problems, but also theft and loss of valuables.

Greece Weather Averages (Temperatures)

• Average High/Low Temperature

Greece - Safety by City

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51 Reviews on Greece

Stunning islands, recommended.

My family visit Greece every other year! Last time we went to Kos, and although the vacation was boring compared to others, it’s still a very safe and beautiful country. We’re going to Naxos next year following the advice of my parents. I’ve also been to Rhodes, Corfu and Santorini, always a pleasure. Just be careful of street scammers, there are quite a few but are usually easy to spot.

Crete island,you love it.

Safe and beautiful

I travel to Greece once a year to visit my father who never wanted to leave his homeland. I go to Ikaria which is a stunning island with a beautiful blue sea. The ratings on this page are correct but I have to point out that there have been terrorist attacks in Greece, although most have been non-fatal. That aside, you won’t have problems in Greece.

what terror attacks?

What terror attacks?!! Where?

Nice country

I have loved every trip to Greece. I have been there a total of 5 times. I plan on going this year again. The only drawback is for people who are either allergic to cats or don’t like them. My wife, unfortunately, has a cat allergy so it made both our trips there together a bit tricky!

Why cats do they have too many

Only on miow miow island

Greece is not safe pick picketers all over please don’t go the police not friendly

you are right, its the heaven for pick pocketers, I have lost some 800 euros, police just written a complaint to give a receipt for getting insurance if possible..dry city, just ruins are there. not worth to visit as it was a name once.

THE TEAL GREECE....ITS FABULOUS

THIS SIMPLY IS NOT TRUE…….the Grrek people are lovely honest and friendly ….crime is very low and almost always carried put by immigrants from Africa or Arabia..even then this is restricted to pick pockets or bag snatching.. but this is just in the big cities…..on the islands the locals leave there keys in cars when parked!!!

Absolutely. You’re right. It’s very safe. I only ever had a few problems with children who threw stoned at me thinking I was a tourist. I think their parents must have had a bad experience with tourists and their children ganged up on me and pelted me with stones on the way home from supermarket in broad daylight. My husband later wen

Dry Dusty City with only relics? Not the Greece, I visited back in ’21. Went in early October weather was breezy towards the evenings but otherwise OK. Loved the beach on Naxos though the one on Paros was filled with jellyfish that hurt. People friendly and helpful and even more when you can speak a little Greek, you’d be surprised how many doors that can open.

You must be a Turk

Beautiful Country, Beautiful People

The scammers and pickpockets are in the tourist-filled areas. Visit the villages and places that aren’t tourist traps and you’ll find that Greeks are good people who can be trusted.

Hospitals jammed if you getbsick or are injured, you are on your own. Save Greece for when pandemic is over. Andrew

Precisely And if you are sick or meaten by a thug, hospitals are full. Don’t go to Greece, especiallynAthens ubless you are a glutton for punishment. Andrew

Pickpocket risks should be high

Got pickpocketed on the first day in Athens metro. Crazy cus we have taken extra precautions. Other places were amazing. Except we can’t hang around places like Monastiraki square without being bothered, approached or scammed!!!

I wana hoi grcee

Amazing Greece

Amazing and safe place to travel

I would love it if you could send me a free Visa of one month to see how the counter is

Don’t knh abt it

Went to Rhodes for many years . Loved Pefcos ,but as we got older it became to hilly for us .So now we go to Zante. Love Greece and the people. They are so friendly

the safest and most beautiful country to visit on the Mediterranean Sea

Amazing capital city of Athens with Acropolis and all the ancient history, traditional food (souvlaki, gyros), the center of ancient Greek civilization. The beautiful tropic Greek islands (over 3.000) with the combination of amazing Mediterranean weather, the crystal sea and wonderful beaches, the always shining sun and the night life (Mykonos, Santorini, Corfu, Rhodes, Kos, Crete etc)

you must visit Greece at least one time in your life and you defiantly going to enjoy it!

This site is spreading total lies and misinformation.Do not believe it. Crime rates and road safety are at hell right now. You better go to Iran. Dressed as a Jew. No offense. Government doesn’t care and you’re better off with the hope of someone random finding you instead of the police. Overall, you’ll be mugged, murdered or driven to insanity by other drivers. Have a great evening everyone. Away from Greece .

u r right, i support yr statmnt

Based on what evidence / statistical data?

Imagine visiting Greece and thinking is just like Iraq / Iran ! I do not know where you live , but i do not think your view is representative of the country. Your name maybe Afroxylanthi , and maybe you live in some of the slums in Athens but the overall crime rate in Greece especially now is well below the average in EUROPE.

When arguing online about something so vital it is good to present facts and not just an opinion. This is the current trend of the crime rate.

It is the lowest its ever been. Greece is much more safer now than it was 10 or 20 years ago! Do not mislead people. Its also good to mention that the overall C02 emissions of Greece have been reduced back to the 1980s period !

Do not assume that a situation affecting your specific region is the same for the whole country. Have a nice day ! I hope i shed some light in to this whole thing! Also if there are statistics that prove otherwise i would be happy to give them a thorough check ! i could not find any in my research!

I used Bing , Google and Qwant to find the aforementioned Results

Here to dismantle propaganda of Afroxylanthi

Your name is not Afroxylanthi and you most probably are a paid troll or somebody who just doesn’t like that Greece is getting so many tourists in comparison to your country (whatever that might be, doesn’t interest anybody). Just because a random troll like you writes a toxic comment without any proof, doesn’t mean we have to take your word for it.

Greece is overall very safe. You can google up US Travel Advisory and figure it out yourself. The crime rate in Greece has historically been amongst the lowest in Western Europe, and continues to be. in 2017, only 78 homicides in a population of 10.5mio. A record 10-year low. So you can shove your “overall, you’ll be murdered in Greece” somewhere else. Maybe in your third-world country you crawled out from.

Police corruption is the lowest in the Balkans. There is not a single case of police officers trying to get money from you. Maybe this happens in your country, so you are salty that Greece has a Western style, non-corrupt police force. Grow up and get over it.

Traffic is indeed a thing in Greece. You have to be careful, since most of the Greek people drive offensively. That’s why Greece has high accident rates. So somebody has to be extra careful when crossing a street or driving, especially two-wheeled motorbikes. But this is common sense, since you are in a foreign country.

You are totally wrong I go to Greece every year ! My wife which is an USA citizen, loves Greece No one bothered us

I have been going to Greece every year for the past 40 years. You are being mendacious.

Disinformation

Totally inaccurate. Otherwise how you explain that millions of tourists visit every year. I go regularly. You have a point about driving. Very aggressive drivers. (I am one of them:). If you can drive in NYC you are good to do in Athens. Otherwise use taxis.

wow, have been to Greece and it is totally safe, honestly cannot compare to other countries and people are extremely friendly. Loved it and extremely beautiful.

I was robbed in the hotel at the ATM as well as in the train in Athens. Not a single cop could be seen in metro area. Travel at your own risk. Also found others who were robbed.

Amazing country, but high risk of pickpocketing, be careful about your stuff all the time. Also, Athens is very dirty and drivers don’t care about your or their life so be careful in traffic. Great food.

Afroxyl is attention seeking. He’s never been out of his mother’s basement.

Stay away from Athens

Athens is a very dirty city. Totally unacceptable. Police does not seem to want to emforce the law. Hordes of illegals and gypsies are everywhere. Very sad but true. The amazingly clean metro system is full of pickpockets and gangs of gypsies and there is no police to be seen. Clearly the country side is more safe.

Greece is actually a very safe country, there is a high risk of pickpockets but take precautions and you’ll be fine. Besides, Greece is 1 of the lowest countries in Europe with police corruption, so don’t believe the comments about corrupt police

I am look for a job

My LOVE FOR GREECE

Love Greece to the max , beautiful friendly people,visited many islands , a favourite SYROS ISLAND ‼️Go to Rome & see how dirty that is & lots of Gypsies !! As An Australian our love for Greece is up for here & we are dying to return to our favourite islands & friends . Have never experienced theft , abuse or scammers!

As a civilian of Greece,stay away from here. Police violence is out of control. We are under strict lockdown since the starts of November 2020. Prime minister will open the lockdown only if tourists come,he does not care for us. 40% of the bars,cafes, restaurants etc. are closed permanently. We are under dictatorship

Beware of the tricksters commenting on this site!

Sounds to me that these naysayers know the truth so who are they and why would they insist on spreading propaganda? I will venture a guess, they are probably Greek Residents that hate tourism and wishes he did not have to encounter tourists. What better way to scare people off than to make them think they may not make it back alive! The stats speak for themselves though so I will just say.. Nice Try!

I wouldn’t really agree woth Greek C.

I’m Greek, and live in Athens, but always wished for more tourists. 🤩

I love when tourists come over to visit us!! It’s always a pleasure to have them here 😄🇬🇷

This is misleading, Greece currently has a junta and police brutality and they do not care about anyone’s health, longest lockdown, most covid deaths in europe etc

Wrong, wrong and more wrong.COVID cases amongst lowest in Europe per capital. I have traveled to Greece six times and find it one of the safest places to visit. All large cities have problems with crime and traffic. I choose islands, small towns and villages when I travel abroad.

The safety of Greece by a Greek

I am Greek and I live in a bad rumoured area of Athens. The only real problem in Greece is pickpocketing. But if you aware areas (in Athens) like Gyzi, Sepolia, Kato Patisia, Exarchia, Omonia and Menidi there is no problem in the rest of Athens. As Greek I recommend Greece I am sure you will not regret it.

Be aware always

Overall, Greece is a lovely country. That said, Athens can be treacherous as there are many pickpockets especially around the travel hubs like ports and train stops. I have travelled all around the world and Athens is the only place I was robbed. Be smart and aware of your surroundings at all times- true of any place you travel. And do not look like a tourist!! Do not wear expensive clothes and especially no jewelry!

Great visit to Greece, despite event of pickpocketing.

We visited Athens, several cities and areas on the Peleponese penninsula and the island of Amorgos in 2019. We suffered pickpocketing on the subway from airport to hotel in centra Athens on the first day in Greece. Lost phone and credit card. Despite that, it was one of the best trips we have ever had. We made some mistakes in security. I pulled out my phone and talked to seemingly friendly strange and fellow travelers, but they may have been part of the scam. Our hotel host was amazingly helpful in dealing with this. My husband got all his wallet contents back, and lost only cash. Of course, it was unsettling, but not terribly painful. We are returning in Sept 2021 and look forward to it.

Our summer heaven

Greece has been our summer go-to destination for over 10 years. Since their economy went through so many crashes some people are left in extreme poverty. Yes, this doesn’t justify robberies or pickpocketing but at least it provides a good background to understand the why. I’m paranoid by default so I always keep as little money on me as possible. Also, no to fancy jewelry or flashing your phone.

So many options

Greece will forever be a top destination for our little summer getaway! Our first vacation there was in 2015 and we have come back every year since.

Having visited different locations every time I can safely say that you get a different experience depending on what you decide to visit.

Safety-wise, most problematic areas are in bus stations, crowded markets or regarding belongings left unattended on the beach. We had zero problems so far but we’re the kind of couple that always looks out four times before crossing the road haha. If you’re on an island and stay at a resort it’s obvious you won’t have any problems. If you explore ruin sites or any other touristy crowded destination I would suggest keeping your phone, spare change and ID safe, they have some very slick pickpockets, especially the children.

There are tons of villas on Airbnb that even offer accommodation for pets so don’t rush into booking a suite. Sometimes trendier destinations are way overpriced while also offering the bare accommodations – we got screwed once, never again.

Santorini is great for a couple escape, they have one of the most luxurious hotels. Canaves Oia Suites was a lucky win for us. We knew we wanted to visit Oia when this gorgeous village started pooping on our insta quite a lot.

Kefalonia, Lefkada, Corfu, these are great family destinations with activities for the whole family.

If privacy is a huge issue for you, I would definitely check Serifos. My wife was the one who booked this stay where we managed to relax like never before. Blue waters, quiet beaches, a modern paradise.

Travel insurance is a must, we never travel without, especially when traveling abroad. Since covid is still present and flights can be delayed at any moment this gives us some peace of mind.

My son lives in Greece. I visit often and when he at working I go shopping. My camera was stolen and found the people very rude. They are only nice when you are in a tourist area.

Not so safe for women, but a beautiful place to travel

This says that Greece is safe for women but I found Crete to be extremely unnerving to travel around as a woman. The island itself was awesome and I would recommend it generally but I was with my sister and her friend and I swear 95% of the men we passed by would cat call and actively chase after us (even turning around on the road and chasing after us in their cars and scooters).. that may be a slight exaggeration from memory but not by much. If you look Greek no one will bother you but if you are pale skinned with lighter hair and lighter eyes oh man… it was crazy. And yet no one warned us about this and I haven’t heard anything about it since! This was a while ago now so maybe things have changed a bit but I would really question the high safety rating given here – it’s a bit deceiving.

Never been but wondering how safe for young teenage boys & girls. Kidnappings?

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Article Contents

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• Transport & Taxis Risk
• Pickpockets Risk
• Natural Disasters Risk
• Mugging Risk
• Terrorism Risk
• Women Travelers Risk
• Weather Averages (Temperatures)
• User Reviews
• Share Your Experience

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Greece Travel Advisories and Warnings

In addition to planning trips and packing, travelers have another item on their to-do list: checking for current travel advisories related to their destination. Travel advisories are complex, and deciding whether or not to travel when there is a travel advisory or warning in place, is not an easy decision. The U.S. Department of State provides up-to-date information that will help a traveler decide whether or not to travel in Greece.

It is recommended that travelers sign up for the U.S. Department of State Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) which helps the embassy alert you in times of trouble. STEP is a free service allowing U.S. citizens and nationals traveling and living abroad to enroll their trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. The program also assists family members in contacting you during your travels should there be an emergency.

About U.S. Travel Advisories

The United States issues two types of advisories, the "Travel Warning" and the "Travel Alert." Though the wording may be a little confusing, The "Travel Warning" is actually the more serious of the two and tends to be put in place when a country is so unstable that travel may be actively dangerous. At any given time, several dozen continuously unstable or dangerous countries may be on the list. There is a general "Worldwide Caution" in effect as of July 2018. When a Worldwide Caution is put in place, the advice from the State Department is, "U.S. citizens are strongly encouraged to maintain a high level of vigilance and practice good situational awareness."

The less-serious "Travel Alert" is usually issued in response to a particular event or condition such as a storm, planned protests, potentially contentious elections, even sporting events with a history of generating violent outbursts among fans. Usually, there are five or six countries listed for various reasons. If there is an expected problem in any country, it would most likely generate a "Travel Alert," usually for a relatively short period of time.

Understanding advisories are made more complicated because some news services, bloggers, or social media outlets may hear of a "Travel Alert" or "Travel Advisory" and rephrase it as a "Travel Warning" when they mention it. So don't assume your trip is at risk until you check the details directly with the State Department.

Travel Alerts and Warnings in Greece

Greece is rarely under a travel alert or travel warning, and in general, it's a very safe country to visit compared with some other nations. Though strikes and protests occur and often garner media attention, for most Greeks it's business as usual. And, there are steps travelers can take in Greece to have a safe trip.

The U.S. State Department is advising citizens to carry their passports with them at all times. It's always good practice to carry your passport and/or a color copy of your main passport pages on you as a proof of your identity and citizenship. And, if it's convenient, add a copy of the page showing your entry stamp into Greece once you are in the country.

Although, as of July 2018, there is no warning or alert listed for Greece , specifically, the U.S. Department of State warns of the potential of transnational terrorist attacks in European countries. The warning indicates that all European countries are potentially vulnerable to terrorist attacks focused on public areas where tourists and locals may gather and provides detailed  safety information  to help tourists avoid becoming an opportunistic target.

If there is a current Travel Warning or Alert for Greece from the U.S., it will be listed on the  Travel Advisory  page of the U.S. State Department website.

You may also want to check the official U.S. Department of State General  Information Sheet on Greece. Aside from providing travel information for those going to Greece, the page links to the American Embassy in Athens and to any special announcements the Embassy releases.

Other nations may issue similar travel warnings and alerts but generally, the U.S. alerts are based on the same information and reflect the situation accurately. Frequently, mild warnings are just included under the general "Travel Advice" pages on the various nations' websites.

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Warnings and insurance

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

• advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
• information for women, LGBT+ and disabled travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on X (formerly known as Twitter), Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

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If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

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Exercise normal safety precautions in Greece. 

Greece (PDF 325.12 KB)

Europe (PDF 2.62 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies, advice levels.

Exercise normal safety precautions in Greece.

• Extreme temperatures are affecting many areas of Greece, and more wildfires are possible throughout the summer months. Contact your travel provider and monitor the media for the latest updates. Read our advice on what to do if you're overseas and  there's a bushfire near you . 
• Strikes, protests and demonstrations take place regularly and can turn violent. Rioting can break out with little warning. Violent clashes have occurred between supporters of rival football teams. Avoid affected areas, monitor media and follow the advice of local authorities.
• Petty crime and theft are serious issues in tourist areas and on buses and trains. Pickpocketing, bag snatching, and slashing luggage to steal belongings are common. Pay close attention to your belongings.
• Terrorist attacks have occurred at or near popular tourist areas in central Athens. Always be alert. Take official warnings seriously.

Full travel advice: Safety

• Heatwaves are becoming more frequent over the summer months. Drink plenty of water, wear light clothing, stay in air conditioning or shaded areas, and follow the advice of local authorities.
• Dust storms occur in Greece, particularly during Spring.
• Medications such as codeine are subject to special rules. Carry a prescription and a letter from your doctor.
• Measles is common in Greece. Make sure your vaccinations are up to date.
• The standard of medical care varies. Public hospitals are short on medical supplies and provide limited nursing care. Family or friends usually provide care. 

Full travel advice: Health

• Always carry an ID, such as a photocopy of your passport.
• It's illegal to take photos of military sites and personnel. It's also illegal to smoke indoors.
• You may have to do military service if you're a male dual national. If you're of Greek descent and born outside of Greece, even if you don't think you're a Greek citizen, get advice from the nearest Greek  Embassy or Consulate  before you travel.
• Same-sex relationships are legal in Greece, though attitudes vary throughout the country. Avoid public displays of affection, especially in rural areas. Attitudes are generally more accepting on Greek islands such as Mykonos, Santorini and Ios.

Full travel advice: Local laws

• Greece is a part of the  Schengen area . This allows you to enter without a visa in some cases. Get an entry stamp in your passport from border control when you first enter the Schengen area.
• Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest  Greek embassy or Consulate  for enquiries about your ability to enter Greece from your departure country.

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

• The Consular Services Charter details what we can and can't do to help you overseas.
• For consular help, contact the Australian Embassy  in Athens.
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the Embassy’s social media accounts.

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

Petty crime.

Petty crime is a serious issue in tourist areas, including Monastiraki and Syntagma Square in central Athens. It also occurs on public transport and in accommodation, including short-term rentals.

Theft, including pickpocketing, bag snatching and slashing luggage, is common on buses and trains to and from the Athens airport.

Organised groups of thieves often use distraction techniques, such as crowding and pushing at metro stop exits.

To reduce the risk of theft:

• stay in physical contact with your belongings, particularly on public transport and on buses and trains to and from the airport
• be alert at tourist spots in central Athens and on the islands
• don't leave bags on the back of chairs or the floor in cafés or restaurants
• carry your day bag with one strap across your body and carry small backpacks at the front of your body
• if driving on holiday, keep your valuables with you, always lock your vehicle, and park in a well-lit area or a secure car park.

Tourist scams

Tourist scams exist in Greece, including taxis, hotels, restaurants, and vehicle hire services. If you've been the victim of a scam, report your claims to the nearest Police station and be prepared to support your claim with evidence.

Under Greek law, all suppliers of goods and services must issue you a receipt. 

Physical and sexual assault

Serious  physical  and  sexual assaults   occur in Athens and on islands, including Mykonos, Santorini, Zakynthos and Ios. There's also a risk of drink spiking with the intention of sexual assault.

Racially motivated and homophobic attacks have occurred.

To protect yourself:

• don't walk alone in isolated areas at night, especially in the Athens suburb of Omonia and at the railway and bus stations of Larissa and Peloponissos
• save the location of your accommodation on the maps app on your phone for easy access
• keep an eye on your drink, and don't accept drinks from strangers or leave drinks unattended.
• create a shared communication chat with your fellow travellers to stay in touch if separated.

If you're a victim of sexual assault in Greece, it's your decision whether to report it to the police. In Greece, health professionals must notify the police when they have a patient who alleges they've been assaulted. Hospital staff may refuse to provide a full medical examination without a document from the police confirming you've reported the crime.

There have been instances where an alleged abuser has laid defamation charges against their accuser and/or their family members at the same time. This can result in the accuser being arrested.

If the case goes to trial, the victim is generally expected to attend court in person to testify, regardless of whether they live in another country. 

Before you travel, read our guidance on  reducing the risk of sexual assault . We also have an  advice page  on what to do immediately after a sexual assault, reporting a sexual assault overseas, and available counselling.

More information:

• Partying safety

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:   

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Terrorism occurs in Europe. Targets across Europe have included:

• public transport
• transport hubs
• public places popular with tourists

European security services have disrupted some planned attacks in recent years.

Radical groups have staged attacks, mainly in Athens. Attackers have previously used bombs or guns. People have been injured but rarely killed. Substantial damage to buildings and vehicles can occur.

Terrorist targets have included:

• government institutions
• former government ministers
• the offices of members of parliament
• foreign diplomatic missions

Terrorists haven't targeted tourists. But some attacks have happened near popular tourist areas in central Athens, such as Syntagma Square.

To protect yourself from terrorism:

• be alert to possible threats, especially in public places
• take care around areas terrorists tend to target
• monitor the media for new threats
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the advice of local authorities

Report suspicious activity or items to the police.

If there's an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe. Avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Civil unrest and political tension

Protests and riots.

Public protests, strikes, demonstrations and events that draw large groups of people occur regularly and often with little notice, mainly in central Athens around Syntagma Square, Omonia Square and Exarchia. They can also occur in major cities, including Thessaloniki around Aristotelous Square, Egnatia Street, the Arch of Galerius and the campus of Aristotle University. These protests can disrupt public transport and roads. Protesters and police could also clash. Sometimes petrol bombs and fireworks are thrown by protesters, and police deploy tear gas. 

Civil unrest is more likely on days of national or commemorative significance, including:

• 1 May — Labour Day
• 17 November — the anniversary of the 1973 student riots
• 6 December — the anniversary of the 2008 riots

Violent clashes can occur between supporters of rival football teams. Molotov cocktails and stones have been thrown and people have been killed.

To protect yourself during periods of unrest:

• avoid public protests
• monitor local media for possible unrest or strikes
• keep a low profile
• plan to avoid areas known for unrest on days of national significance
• change your travel plans if disruptions arise

Road closures

Road closures are common in Athens. Officials don't always announce them in advance.

Contact your airline, travel agent or insurer for help with transport disruptions. 

Monitor the media for news on strikes that may cause road closures.

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Adventure activities

Transport and tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards.

If you plan to do an adventure activity :

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Climate and natural disasters

Greece experiences  natural disasters  and  severe weather .

Information on national disaster incidents and severe weather is posted by local authorities and @112Greece (in Greek) on social media. Alert messages (in Greek) may be sent by local authorities to mobile numbers advising of critical incidents. For updated information on natural disasters, see  civilprotection.gov.gr .

Heavy rainfall can lead to flooding in some regions, with road closures and interruptions to power and other services. Seek shelter, monitor the media and follow the advice of local authorities.  

Bush and forest fires occur during the summer months, from June to September. Fires can start close to cities and tourist locations with little warning and travel quickly. Fatalities have occurred. 

Expect travel disruptions if you're due to travel to an area that might be affected by wildfires. Monitor the media and contact your travel provider for the latest updates. The air quality during these periods may deteriorate due to heavy smoke. Forest fires are highly dangerous and unpredictable. 

• Floods and fires
• There's a bushfire

Earthquakes and volcanoes

Greece is in an active seismic zone and experiences  earthquakes  and  volcanic activity .

Get updates from the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System .

Natural disasters

If a natural disaster or severe weather happens:

• monitor local media and other sources
• keep informed about possible safety risks
• Travel insurance

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away.

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Greece. Take enough legal medicine for your trip in its original packaging. The name on the prescription should match the name on your passport.

Carry a copy of your prescription and a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medicine is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Codeine and other prescription opiates can only be issued with a prescription from an accredited Greek medical professional.

For more information, contact the Greek National Organization of Medicines:

• By telephone: 0030 213 2040 395 / 285 / 225 / 000
• By email:  [email protected]  /  [email protected]  
• Australian Embassy in Athens

Health risks

Heatwaves are becoming more frequent over the summer months. They can cause heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Drink water, wear a hat and light clothing and stay in air conditioned buildings or shaded areas. 

Many major tourist sites have little shade. At peak tourist periods, queues at major attractions can involve waiting over an hour in the sun. Plan your visit to these sites, keep an eye on the weather forecast, and follow the advice of local authorities.  

Dust storms

Storms of dust from the Sahara Desert are increasing in frequency across Greece, particularly during Spring, worsening the air quality and reducing sunlight and visibility. If you have respiratory conditions, you should limit outdoor activities and consider wearing masks outside until the skies clear. 

Measles  is common in Greece. The country is experiencing an increase in measles cases.

Make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel.

• Department of Health and Aged Care Measles Outbreaks 2019
• Department of Health and Aged Care Measles Immunisation Service

Insect-borne diseases

Cases of  West Nile virus (WNV)  have been reported in Greece. There's no vaccine to prevent it.

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
• Infectious diseases
• Hellenic Center for Disease Control and Prevention

Foodborne diseases

Outbreaks of foodborne diseases, including  brucellosis , sometimes happen.

To protect yourself from illness, avoid:

• uncooked and under-cooked food
• unpasteurised dairy products

See a doctor immediately if you suspect food poisoning or have a fever or diarrhoea.

Medical care

Medical facilities.

Services provided by hospitals and medical centres aren't free, and payment is required before you leave the facility. Sometimes, the medical provider may ask you for payment before you receive treatment.

The standard of medical facilities and care vary in quality. Public hospitals in Greece are below the standard in Australia. Considerable delays may be encountered with non-urgent surgeries and other medical treatments at public hospitals.

Public hospitals can have shortages of medical supplies, including essential medication. They also have limited nursing care. You may be asked to pay a minor fee for medical treatment at a hospital or medical centre. Friends and relatives are usually required to give around-the-clock care.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you may need evacuation. This is more likely if you're in a remote area or on a Greek island. You might be moved to Athens or another place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

Public ambulances can be slow to respond to emergencies and vary in quality. Private hospitals operate their own ambulances and provide better quality service.

Private hospital costs are high.

You're subject to local laws and penalties, including those that appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling, especially for an extended stay.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail. 

Breaking the law can lead to severe penalties, large fines and jail.

Penalties for drug possession, use or trafficking, even small amounts, include heavy fines and prison sentences.

• Carrying or using drugs

Commercial surrogacy is illegal in Greece.

• Going overseas for international surrogacy

In Greece, it's illegal to:

• not carry a photo ID, such as a clear photocopy of your passport
• carry weapons of any type (including pocketknives and pepper spray) 
• smoke in indoor public places. The penalty is a fine of up to 500 euros.
• engage in sexual conduct with a person aged under 18
• breach customs rules about the export of Greek antiquities

It's also illegal to take photos of:

• military installations
• military personnel
• places with signs banning photography

Recreational and commercial flying of drones is regulated. Drones must be registered for use across the European Union. 

Non-compliance may lead to fines and drone confiscation. 

Useful links

• Information for visitors concerning drones  - Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA)
• Civil drones  - European Union Aviation Safety Agency

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognised in Greece.

Greek males aged 19 and above have military service obligations. You may have to do military service if you're a male Australian-Greek dual national. This can apply if you are of Greek descent and were born outside of Greece, even if you don't think you have Greek citizenship.

There are penalties if you don't comply, and you may be prevented from leaving Greece.

Get advice from the nearest Greek  embassy or consulate  before you travel if you:

• have Greek citizenship
• may be eligible for Greek citizenship

Local customs

Dress codes are relaxed in tourist areas and resorts. Dress modestly in places such as churches and religious buildings.

Take care not to offend. If in doubt, seek local advice.

Avoid public displays of affection, especially in rural areas.

Same-sex sexual activity is legal but isn't widely accepted.

Advice for LGBTQIA+ people

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Greece is a part of the  Schengen area . This allows you to enter without a visa in some cases. Get an entry stamp in your passport from border control when you first enter the Schengen area. 

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice, and you'll need a visa in some situations. Contact the nearest Greek  Embassy or Consulate  for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

• Visit Greece
• Embassy of Greece

Other formalities

Recognition of nationality.

If you were born in Greece, you might have problems entering if the place of birth stated on your Australian passport is no longer officially recognised by Greece.

Officials may deny entry, especially if you're entering Greece from the Republic of North Macedonia.

We can't intervene on your behalf if Greek officials refuse you entry to Greece.

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport .

Always carry your passport when crossing borders, even within the Schengen area .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier 

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

More information:  

• LGBTQIA+ travellers  

The official currency of Greece is the Euro.

You must declare amounts over 10,000 euros or equivalent if you're travelling between Greece and any non-European Union (EU) country. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

You don't need to declare it if you're travelling to or from another EU country.

You'll be fined if you don't declare it or declare the wrong amount when entering or leaving Greece.

Greece has daily ATM withdrawal limits. However, they don't apply to most major foreign debit and credit cards.

If you have Greek citizenship, you can only take up to 10,000 euros when leaving Greece.

Local travel

Extension of stays.

Extension of stays in Greece beyond the allowed 90 days isn't automatic. Requests for extension with the relevant local authority should be lodged at least 4 weeks before your visa-free period expires. Present your request to the office of the Greek police on aliens issues.

Driving permit

Australian driver's licences are officially recognised as valid for use in Greece. If you plan on driving in Greece, you may not need an International Driving Permit. Contact the  Greek Embassy or Consulate  for more information on your licence type.

Your licence must be valid for the type of vehicle you'll drive, including quad bikes, motorbikes, mopeds, motor scooters and other similar vehicles.

You could face a large fine if you don't have the correct licence. Your insurance won't cover you if you have an accident.

Road travel

Driving is hazardous due to aggressive driving and poor-quality roads and vehicles.

Traffic police sometimes direct traffic at major intersections. If the traffic lights conflict with police directions, follow the directions of the traffic police.

During peak season, severe traffic congestion occurs in the main cities and on the islands. 

Drivers and motorcyclists often ignore traffic signals. They rarely give way to pedestrians.

Take care when crossing the road, including at pedestrian crossings, controlled intersections, and footpaths. Drivers often don't stop at pedestrian crossings.

Footpaths in Greece are very narrow and often blocked.

Check your insurance covers car hire and the use of quad bikes, motorbikes or jet skis. Get advice on any gaps. Your insurance may have conditions such as holding the correct licence for vehicles. Make sure you're covered. Check what additional fees may apply for any damage to hire vehicles.

Driving while intoxicated or under the influence of any illegal substance is illegal. Insurers won't cover accidents when drivers are under the influence of alcohol.

Driving offences may also attract heavy penalties.

• Driving or riding
• Driving in Greece - European Commission

Quad bikes and motorcycles

Quad bike and motorcycle accidents cause serious injuries and deaths every summer on the Greek islands. Operating or riding quad bikes and motorcycles while intoxicated is illegal.

Always wear a helmet. It's illegal not to wear one. It may also invalidate your travel insurance if you have an accident.

If you experience any issues with the operation of the bike, it's recommended that you return the bike as soon as possible to the rental company.

Only use licensed taxis. Always ensure the driver uses the meter. Be careful when using credit cards to pay fares. Ask for and check your receipt.

Ferries and large catamarans carry the bulk of visitors to the Greek islands. Some services do not provide suitable access for people with disabilities.

During the tourist season, from May to October, be prepared for high temperatures and large crowds at popular seaports.

Usually, there are only one or two brief announcements on ferries before arrival or departure.

In most cases, you'll need to carry your luggage up and down stairs. Help with luggage is usually unavailable unless you've booked a private cabin in advance.  

On some Greek islands, such as Santorini, smaller boats or tenders transport cruise ship passengers to and from shore. Passengers using tenders may have difficulty getting up and down stairs.

Arrange for a coach or taxi to collect you in advance, or you may find it difficult to get transport.

Make sure your insurance covers the following:

• any existing health condition
• your planned activities
• travel on ferry and cruise ships

Australian-flagged sailboats or yachts sailing in the Mediterranean may be subject to Greek and EU taxes and duties. Seek advice from the Hellenic Coast Guard or the nearest  embassy or consulate   of Greece before you travel. If you've been involved in a maritime accident, the Greek Coast Guard may request under its regulations to inspect your vessel to confirm it is seaworthy.

• Going on a cruise
• Travelling by boat

To find out about flight delays at Athens International Airport, check their  website  or phone (+30 210) 353 0000.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  Greece's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

For non-urgent criminal issues, contact local police at the nearest police station.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Tourist police

Are available 24/7 and can be contacted on 171.

The Tourist Police help with non-serious crimes and can provide police reports and certificates for theft of personal items and lost travel documents.

There are tourist police offices across Greece, including on major islands.

The main office is at 4 Dragatsaniou Street, Klafthmonos Square, in Central Athens and is open all year. Call (+30 210) 322 2230 or (+30 210) 322 2232.

Consular contacts

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular help, contact:

Australian Embassy, Athens

5 Hatziyianni Mexi Street

Athens 115 28, Greece

Phone: (+30 210) 870 4000

Website: greece.embassy.gov.au

Facebook: Australia in Greece

X: @AusAmbAthens

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

As wildfires continue in parts of Greece – is it safe to travel to Corfu, Crete and Zante right now?

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After a state of emergency was declared in Rhodes – wildfires triggered by the heatwave continue to rage across Greece , holidaymakers are wondering whether it is safe to travel to the Greek islands .

Evacuations took place from Rhodes and Corfu last week, and the raging wildfires have forced thousands to flee , including British tourists, as the owners of dozens of private boats pitched in to help ferry people to safety.

More than 19,000 people have been evacuated from Rhodes so far in what police told local news outlet  Ellada 24  is the largest fire evacuation operation ever carried out in the country.

The latest decision from the minister of civil protection, Vasilis Papageorgiou, means emergency measures apply for the entire island of Rhodes, a popular tourist destination.

The wildfires in Greece caused an explosion on Thursday night, as the flames spread to an ammunition dump.

Two pilots have also died after their plane crashed while attempting to put out fires over Karystos near Athens.

Many tourists initially took to social media to vent their fears and frustration at not being given any information on what to do by travel companies, and some stranded Brits reported being left to sleep on sunbeds .

TUI, Jet2 and Easyjet repatriation flights have been taking place, but  hundreds of tourists had to spend the night sleeping on the floor of Rhodes Airport  as flights home to  London  are delayed.

Greece’s prime minister is now urging people to come back next year by offering them a free one-week stay.

The Cerberus and Charon heatwaves have caused extreme temperatures in southern Europe , with Gythio in Greece topping the temperature charts so far at 46.4C.

So if you’re due to travel to Greece, or had been planning to book a trip there, is it safe to go?

Here is what you need to know.

Is it safe to travel to Greece right now?

The current advice from the Foreign Office is that if you are planning to travel to any areas in Greece which are experiencing wildfires, you should check with your travel operator or hotel prior to travel and make sure you have appropriate insurance .

The Foreign Office says to be cautious if you are in or near an area affected by wildfires, and that you should:

• Follow the guidance of the emergency services
• Call the Greek Emergency Services on 112 if you are in immediate danger
• Contact your airline or travel operator who can assist you with return travel to the UK.
• iPhones go to Settings > Notification. Enable the “Emergency Alerts” option at the bottom.
• Android 11 and higher go to Settings > Notifications > Advanced Settings > Wireless Emergency Alerts
• Samsung Devices go to Settings > Apps > Messages > Notifications > Emergency Notifications. Enable the Emergency Alerts option
• Read the  Greek Government’s protection guidelines  in the event of a forest fire.
• Register via the  Greek government’s Emergency Communication Service  (in Greek)

The Greek government has also set up a Crisis Management Unit to help with the evacuation of foreign visitors from Rhodes due to the ongoing fires. Contact them for advice on:

• +30 210 368 1730
• +30 210 368 1259
• +30 210 368 1350

Several holiday firms and airlines are cancelling flights to Rhodes, and Jet2 has cancelled all flights and holidays to Rhodes up to and including Sunday, July 30.

Is Crete safe from fires?

At present the latest official map below shows Crete– the very large island at the bottom of the map in the ‘blue zone’ – is at a low risk of fires.

If you’re due to travel to Crete, it’s important to check with your hotel, airline or tour operator, but at present, flights are continuing as scheduled.

Is Santorini safe from fires?

The island of Santorini is in the Cyclades, the small islands in yellow above Crete.

As it is currently zoned in yellow, Santorini is not at present at dangerously elevated risk for wildfires and travel to and from the island is continuing as planned.

However, the situation in Greece is fast-moving and this could change.

Is Zante safe to travel to?

Popular party island Zante is in the Ionian islands, one of the islands in blue to the left of the mainland.

This means that, at the moment, the island is at not a high risk of wildfires.

At the moment there are no travel restrictions to the island but tourists should be very wary of the fire risks.

However, this could change at short notice, so make sure to check with your travel operator before flying.

Is it safe to travel to Kos?

The island of Kos – which is situated on the right of the map just off Turkey – is currently zoned in blue, indicating a low risk of wildfires.

So while it is not in the red ‘danger zone’, and there are currently no travel restrictions, wildfires can break out at any time.

Trips to Kos are continuing as planned at present but as with all wildfires, the situation is fast-moving and can change suddenly.

Can I get a refund on a Greece holiday?

Unless you are advised to cancel your holiday by the Foreign Office, or it is cancelled by the airline or tour operator, there is no guarantee you’ll get your money back if you choose not to travel.

Most insurance policy claims will only pay out on a trip cancellation under certain circumstances, such as illness, a family bereavement or an exceptionally long delay in travel.

Thousands evacuated from homes and hotels on Greek island of Rhodes as wildfires spread https://t.co/NBbPSpvoRx pic.twitter.com/Pnr0JH1vNb — BBC News (World) (@BBCWorld) July 23, 2023

To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video

Airlines are also not under any obligation to refund you if you cancel a trip due to factors beyond their control.

That said, if you have a pre-existing medical condition and travelling to Greece could be a health risk, you may be able to claim a refund under the terms of your insurance policy.

Likewise, some travel experts have suggested that airlines may offer some compensation due to the current temperatures.

To encourage tourists to return next year, however, the Greek PM has said that those who were forced to cancel or cut their holiday short can get a free week’s holiday.

Kyriakos Mitsotakis told ITV: ‘For all those whose holiday was cut short as a result of wildfires, the Greek government in cooperation with local authorities will offer one week of free holidays on Rhodes, next spring, the next fall, so that we make sure they come back to the island and enjoy its natural beauty.’

He said that the wildfires affected 15% of Rhodes and that the situation is ‘back to normal’ now but authorities ‘understand that it caused some inconvenience for visitors’.

MORE : As Greece is devastated by wildfires, do we know what sparked the major blazes?

MORE : ‘Fire whirl’ vortexes unleashed by massive wildfire burning western US

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Where the Greece wildfires are and what it means for your holiday

Yet more wildfires have broken out around Alexandroupolis in Greece due to continued extreme heat, and Athens is considered at high risk

As the European heatwave rages on, wildfires are continuing to break out across many parts of the continent. 

Thousands of people were evacuated following the  Corfu and Rhodes  wildfires in July, and now more areas of Greece are being engulfed by flames due to another round of extreme heat. A fire is currently blazing in the region around Alexandroupolis, close to Greece’s north-eastern Turkish border. At least 18 people have died as a result of the fire.

July this year was the hottest month on record, and though Greece is prone to experiencing wildfires, they have become ever more likely and intense due to the climate crisis.

Here is everything we know about the current blaze near Alexandroupolis.

Where are the wildfires in Greece? 

The fire began in the major port of Alexandroupolis at the weekend. Eight villages have been evacuated, and 18 bodies were discovered in the Avanta area of the region on Tuesday (August 22), thought to be migrants who had entered from Turkey. This is in addition to another casualty.

The blaze  has been tackled by more than 200 firefighters, 16 water-dropping aircrafts, police and volunteers. It has already destroyed several homes, and sections of a major highway near Alexandroupolis, the main affected area, have been closed. 

This morning, the fire reached the grounds of the Alexandroupolis university hospital, and 115 patients were evacuated in a fleet of ambulances. 

The island of Evia and Boeotia in central Greece are also tackling wildfires, and people have fled several nearby villages.

Authorities announced Athens was at 'extreme' risk, before a fire broke out at a landfill site in Aspropygros, which is close to the capital. 

Can I still travel to Greece? 

Travelling to Greece is not officially advised against, but travellers are encouraged to check with their travel and accommodation provider to see if their holiday has been affected. 

What started the new fires in Greece? 

A dangerous combination of temperatures as high as 41C and continuous strong winds have caused this bout of wildfires. 

Can I get a refund if I choose not to travel? 

Travellers are encouraged to contact their travel and insurance providers directly to find out about refunds. Unless you are travelling to an area directly affected, a refund is unlikely. Greece recently announced that those who fled Rhodes because of the wildfires will be able to return for free next year . 

What’s the latest UK Foreign Office advice? 

The UK Foreign Office website advises that you should take care when visiting or travelling through woodland areas, not light barbeques, and ensure cigarettes are properly extinguished. It also suggests following 112 Greece on Twitter for up to date information. 

Where else in Europe has been affected by wildfires?

Multiple destinations in Europe have been affected by extreme temperatures and wildfires this summer. Greek islands including Corfu and Rhodes have been affected, as well as  Tenerife , Portugal , and  Sicily . The prolonged high temperatures are considered a direct result of climate change. Canada and Hawaii have also experienced extreme wildfires. 

Here’s our explainer on the European heatwave .

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• Liv Kelly Contributing Writer

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Wildfires in Greece: Is it safe to travel to Corfu, Zante and Rhodes right now?

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UK holiday companies have put packages to Rhodes back on sale from the weekend, despite the wildfires that have seen thousands of tourists evacuated from the island.

The UK’s two biggest tour operators, Jet2 and Tui, have cancelled all flights and holidays to Rhodes over the past few days. They are offering refunds because of the fires, which have been raging on the Greek island for six days.

Tui will resume package holidays to most of Rhodes on Saturday 29 July, while Jet2 restarts on Monday 31 July

The travel firm Thomas Cook has been sending holidaymakers to the island throughout the week, though it adds: “Customers travelling this Friday, Saturday and Sunday can choose to travel as planned or amend their holiday. If they wished to cancel, they will receive a full refund.”

Dozens of flights have brought thousands of British tourists home. It is believed that everyone who wanted to come back early from their trip has done so.

• Greece fires – live: Nine European nations battle blazes as Met Office warns UK could be next
• Where are the wildfires? The nine affected countries mapped
• When will heatwave in Europe end? New forecast shows relief in sight

Thousands of holidaymakers were forced to flee resorts on Saturday 22 July, with some British tourists describing “terrifying” scenes of turmoil as power cuts caused “chaos” on the island.

In previous days the wildfire was confined to the island’s mountainous centre, but aided by winds, very high temperatures and dry conditions, it spread on Saturday towards the coast on the island’s central-eastern side.

But the northern part of the island has been running largely as normal, albeit with extra pressure on the infrastructure due to large numbers of tourists fleeing for safety and seeking to find flights home.

Rhodes airport is on the northwestern shore of the Greek island, close to the capital, Rhodes Town. With no imminent danger in that area, some airlines have been operating a “business as usual” policy, with normal terms applying.

But most have provided provide some options to customers, with package holidaymakers benefiting from extra protection.

The Foreign Office advises travellers to contact their airline or travel operator. For 24/7 British consular assistance, UK citizens abroad can call +44 20 7008 5000.

The FCDO has also sent a Rapid Deployment Team to Rhodes to support British nationals, and the Greek Foreign Affairs ministry has set up a help desk at Rhodes airport.

I came home early. Will I get some or all of my money back?

People who were anxious about being on the island but whose holidays were not directly affected are unlikely to be offered any recompense for the lost holiday times.

Package holidaymakers whose trips are curtailed because their accommodation cannot be used are due a partial refund under the Package Travel Regulations.

Travellers with easyJet Holidays are told: “Customers who we have brought back to the UK earlier than their booked return date will receive a pro-rata refund for the days of the hotel stay that were missed.” If a £1,000 holiday that was expected to last two weeks ended halfway through, the refund will be £500 from easyJet Holidays.

But other operators may not be as generous.

If a two-week holiday that cost £1,000 per person ends a week early, the holiday company is entitled to subtract the value of the flights, which might be £400 – meaning only half of the remainder will be refunded, ie £300.

I am booked to travel imminently to Rhodes. Can I cancel for a refund?

If the travel firm or airline cancels your trip you can expect a full refund within two weeks. If the flight is going ahead, then your rights may depend on whether you are on a proper package holiday or have booked flights and accommodation separately.

Under the Package Travel Regulations, holidaymakers can cancel for a refund “if unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances occur at the place of destination or its immediate vicinity which significantly affect the performance of the package or the carriage of passengers to the destination”.

In the case of some parts of Rhodes, this looks like reasonable grounds to cancel.

These are the larger companies’ policies for imminent departures as of 10pm on Thursday 27 July.

• easyJet Holidays: Trips will resume on Sunday 30 July. Some flexibility may be offered for customers who wish to defer their trips., All holidays to the resorts of Gennadi, Kiotari and Lahania are cancelled up to and including 10 August 2023
• Jet2: all flights and holidays to Rhodes are cancelled up to and including Sunday 30 July, with full refunds offered. From Monday 31 July, normal terms and conditions apply for trips to northern Rhodes, where “hotels, villas, and resorts are operating as normal”. This includes the resrts of Faliraki, Ialyssos, Ixia, Kalithea, Kolymbia, Kremasti, Pastida, Rhodes Town and Theologos. The resorts of Lardos, Lindos, Kalathos and Pefkos are also operating “as normal” according to Jet2, which sent customer service and safety experts to all the hotels in these resorts “to conduct rigorous and detailed assessments”. Three resorts remain on Jet2’s “no-go” list up to and including 13 August: Gennadi, Kiotari and Lachania
• Ryanair: “Flights to/from Rhodes Airport are currently operating as normal and unaffected by the forest fires. Please check your Ryanair app where you will be notified of any changes to your Ryanair flight.”
• Thomas Cook: “All of our holidays to the island outside of the limited affected areas will resume from Monday 31 July in full. Customers travelling this Friday, Saturday and Sunday [28-30 July] can choose to travel as planned or amend their holiday. If they wished to cancel, they will receive a full refund.” Holidaymaker booked to travel to the affected area around Kiatori up to 7 August are offered full refunds.
• Tui: All outbound flights to Rhodes up to and including Friday 28 July are cancelled, but normal service resumes on Saturday 29 July. Anyone booked to Rhodes on Saturday 29 or Sunday 30 July can cancel for a full refund. After that, usual terms apply for holidays in the north of the island, For trips to the south of the island due to depart up to and including 11 August, full refunds are available. “Customers travelling to hotels in the south of the island between 12 and 21 August can amend fee free,” the company says.

Would you go to Rhodes?

Yes. The people of Rhodes have shown outstanding kindness and courage towards overseas tourists. In most parts of the island – and 90 per cent is unaffected – they want to get back to work delivering great experiences for visiting holidaymakers.

If I go to Rhodes, will my travel insurance be valid?

Yes, except in very narrow circumstances. When a calamity such as the awful wildfires in Rhodes occurs, it is standard practice for travel insurers to partially remove some cover – but only for trips booked after the situation becomes known and only for risks specifically associated with the event.

For example, you should be able happily to book any trip to Rhodes and expect cover as part of your annual policy – except for risks directly associated with the wildfires. Were you unwise enough to venture into the afflicted area and injure yourself, you would not be covered.

Otherwise, despite a rogue message from Admiral Insurance wrongly saying all cover for Greek holidays booked after 23 July would be suspended – since corrected – there should be no problem.

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Greece wildfires: should you cancel your holiday to Rhodes?

By Sarah James

Summer 2023 is turning into one of the hottest on record – in July, certain destinations across Europe broke records for the warmest days ever recorded from Spain to Italy – causing health concerns and disruption to locals and tourists alike.

Wildfires swept across Rhodes, the largest of Greece’s Dodecanese islands. The devastating fires happened at the peak of the island's summer holiday season; up to 10,000 British tourists were visiting Rhodes throughout July, and thousands more have holidays booked over the next couple of weeks and months.

What caused the fires in Rhodes?

The wildfires started on the week of Monday 17 July, but by Saturday 22 July had spread to the island's eastern coast, one of the most-travelled parts of Rhodes. The sudden pick-up of the fires resulted in some tourists leaving their holiday accommodation and staying in shelters while waiting to travel home. A lack of rain (much of the island has been dry for up to seven weeks leading up to the fires spreading) and hot temperatures contributed to the problem.

Is it safe to travel to Rhodes?

As of Tuesday 1 August, the Greek authorities lifted the state of emergency in Rhodes. The FCDO does not currently advise against travel to Rhodes – the official advice on the gov.uk website for those stranded in Rhodes is to “contact your airline or travel operator who can assist you with return travel to the UK.” To those who have holidays to Rhodes booked this summer, it advises, “If you are planning to travel to any areas affected by wildfires, please check with your travel operator or hotel prior to travel.” However, some tour operators and airlines have cancelled both flights and package holidays to Rhodes.

Which airlines have cancelled flights to Rhodes?

The following airlines are altering their flight schedule to avoid taking more tourists to Rhodes, and to bring back stranded British tourists.

• Jet2: all flights operating as normal.
• Tui : all flights operating as normal.
• Easyjet: all flights operating as normal.
• Ryanair: all flights operating as normal.
• British Airways: all flights operating as normal.

Are airlines charging tourists to change their holiday plans?

It really depends on who you booked with, so keep checking in with your tour operator for the latest information.

• Jet2: as all flights to Rhodes until Sunday 30 July have been cancelled, Jet2 offered customers either a refund or the opportunity to rebook at a later date.
• Tui : all customers booked on cancelled flights will receive a refund.
• Easyjet: customers booked to travel up to and including Thursday 10 August are being contacted by the company to discuss options for travel. Those not wishing to travel are able to change their flights.
• Ryanair: as all flights operate as normal, customers should not expect to be able to change their flights.
• British Airways: customers needing to return from Rhodes earlier than their booked inbound flight were able to change their flight for free, and those not wishing to travel could postpone their outbound flights without charge – contact British Airways to double check whether this still applies to your booking.

Can I get a refund if I cancel my holiday?

Again, that depends. If you've booked flights and hotels separately, you need to check your airline's latest policy regarding travel to the island. If FCDO does not advise against travel to Rhodes, the airline is able to still operate flights and is not required to refund customers who wish not to travel.

If you've booked a package holiday which includes flights and accommodation, the tour operator has a duty of care to travellers which means that trips to the island's affected areas might be cancelled, in which case refunds would be offered. Again, this will vary by operator – so check in with the company you booked with.

Will my travel insurance cover wildfires?

No, as the FCDO advice doesn't tell travellers not to visit Rhodes. Plus, even if the FDCO did advise against travel to Rhodes, the two types of UK healthcare available abroad (UK Global Health Insurance Card GHIC and UK European Health Insurance CARD (EHIC) do not cover expenses in the case of natural disasters.

Are any other Greek islands affected?

Around 19,000 people have been evacuated from Corfu, although the wildfires there have, at the time of publishing, been brought under control.

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Greece travel advice

Latest updates: The Need help? section was updated.

Last updated: March 25, 2024 15:14 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, greece - take normal security precautions.

Take normal security precautions in Greece.

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Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, purse snatching and luggage theft occurs. Tourists are frequently targeted.

Organized groups of thieves often use distraction techniques and are particularly active:

• at tourist sites and attractions
• in restaurants, patios and bars
• in hotel lobbies
• on public transportation, including metro and trains to and from Athens International Airport
• at airports, bus and railway stations including Larissa and Peloponnese stations in Athens

While you’re in Greece:

• ensure that your belongings, including your passport, are secure at all times
• don’t keep your passport and other types of ID at the same place and carry a photocopy rather than the original
• avoid showing signs of affluence
• avoid carrying large sums of cash or unnecessary valuables
• pay attention to your surroundings, particularly in crowded and tourist areas
• be wary of unsolicited offers or advice from strangers
• avoid isolated areas, parks and down-market bars and restaurants, especially after dark

Violent crime

Violent crime, such as attacks committed by far-right extremists against individuals belonging to ethnic, religious or political minorities are uncommon, but do occur.

Always be vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Victims of crime

If you are a victim of a crime, go to the nearest police station to report it. Keep a copy of your report, as you may need it to make a claim to your insurance provider.

If you are a victim of sexual assault:

• seek medical assistance, whether or not you appear to have been physically harmed
• contact the local police immediately and ensure they file a report
• inform consular officials at the nearest Canadian embassy or consulate

The Greek police has a dedicated unit to assist foreign tourists and offers services in English and other languages.

You can contact the tourism police 24/7 anywhere in Greece by dialling the 1571 or the regular police at 100.

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs.

When using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overseas fraud

There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Be particularly vigilant if attending:

• sporting events
• religious holidays
• other public celebrations

Terrorists have used such occasions to mount attacks.

Extremist groups and organizations have used improvised explosive devices, bombs and arson attacks in urban areas to target:

• the Greek State and its institutions
• foreign commercial and diplomatic interests
• ethnic, religious and migrants’ centers and organizations

While tourists are not specifically targeted, you could find yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Demonstrations and strikes

Demonstrations.

Demonstrations take place regularly, particularly in Athens and Thessaloniki. They are usually held on days of social or historical significance, such as:

• Workers' Day on May 1
• the commemoration of the Athens Polytechnic uprising of 1973 on November 17
• the commemoration of the riots of 2008 on December 6

In Athens, demonstrations and marches occur primarily in areas around:

• Syntagma Square, in front of the Greek Parliament
• Omonia Square
• the National Technical University complex on Patision Avenue
• Exarchia neighbourhood

In Thessaloniki, they occur primarily in areas around:

• Aristotelous Square
• Egnatia Street
• the Arch of Galerius
• the campus of the Aristotle University

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. Demonstrations and strikes can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Strikes and pressure tactics occur regularly, particularly in key sectors such as transport and public health services. These strikes can disrupt travel and public services.

• Consult local media to be aware of strikes that may affect your stay or travel plans
• In the event of a transport strike, plan extra time to get to your destination

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Women's safety

Foreigners have been sexually assaulted, most often on the islands.

Don’t accept rides from strangers or casual acquaintances.

Advice for women travellers

Water activities

Many beaches in Greece are supervised and enforce excellent safety procedures.

However, tidal changes and strong winds can cause hazardous currents and riptides.

Coral, urchin, jellyfish and other aquatic life found along reefs can poison, sting or cause infection if touched or stepped on.

• Always obey warning flags at beaches
• Ask local authorities about the presence of dangerous species and immediately seek medical assistance if you get hurt
• Wear reef shoes to protect yourself against stone and coral cuts or urchin stings
• Keep a safe distance from boats and restricted areas
• Avoid visiting beaches or coastal areas during periods of severe weather warnings
• Look out for signs warning of cliff erosion and falling rocks
• Don’t dive into unknown waters, as hidden rocks or shallow depths can cause serious injury or death
• Exercise caution and follow the advice of the local authorities

Recreational boating

If you are planning to go boating:

• know the capacity of your boat and don’t exceed it
• know and respect the navigation rules
• follow safe practices for all activities on the water
• keep a safe distance from areas reserved for certain activities such as snorkeling
• carry a VHF marine radio that will generate your position in case of emergency
• be prepared for emergencies

Water safety abroad

Outdoor activities, such as hiking, can be dangerous if unprepared. Trails are not always marked, and weather conditions can change rapidly, even in summer.

If you intend to go hiking or mountaineering:

• never do so alone, and do not part with your hiking companions
• obtain detailed information on your activity and on the environment in which you will be before setting out
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• avoid venturing off marked trails
• ensure that you’re adequately equipped and bring sufficient water
• stay informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
• be aware of the presence of dangerous species such as snakes
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary
• dial 112 from a cellphone for any emergency

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety can vary greatly throughout the country.

Severe traffic congestion and difficult terrain may lead to hazardous driving conditions.

Accidents causing fatalities are common. Drivers often drive at excessive speeds and are reckless.

Drivers and speeding motorbikes don’t always yield to pedestrians or bicycles. Exercise caution when walking, crossing streets or biking.

Accidents involving tourists renting motorbikes, scooters or mopeds are common, especially on the islands.

Small, unlicensed rental agencies do not always offer vehicles that comply with up-to-date safety standards.

• Read the rental contract carefully
• Inspect the equipment before renting it
• Never drink and drive
• Reduce your speed on rough and uneven terrain
• In the event of an accident, wait for police to arrive

You may not be able to file an insurance claim without a police report.

Public transportation

Public transportation is generally safe and reliable. The bus network is extensive, and train services connect certain major cities. Athens has a modern metro system. Strikes may sometimes affect transportation services.

Taxis are generally safe. Metered taxis are widely available.

There are fixed rates for transportation to and from Athens International Airport. Confirm the rate before departure.

Ferries between mainland Greece and its islands meet European safety standards.

Weather conditions and strong winds can lead to cancellations or significant delays. Rough sea conditions may cause motion sickness, particularly on high-speed ferries.

• Pay attention to pre-departure notices from your carrier
• Always reconfirm departure schedule before heading to the port

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Greek authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

• Schengen area

Greece is a Schengen area country. Canadian citizens do not need a visa for travel to countries within the Schengen area. However, visa-free travel only applies to stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Stays are cumulative and include visits to any Schengen area country.

If you plan to stay in the Schengen area for a longer period of time, you will need a visa. You must contact the high commission or embassy of the country or countries you are travelling to and obtain the appropriate visa(s) prior to travel.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the date you expect to leave the Schengen area.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period Business visa: not required for stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period Work visa: required Student visa: required

If you must stay in Greece longer than 90 days due to serious and unforeseen events, such as a medical emergency, you may be able to seek an extension of your stay as a visitor.

Present your request to the office of the Greek police on aliens’ issues at least 15 days before your 90-day, visa-free period expires.

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.   Limited malaria transmission may occur in this destination, but risk to travellers is very low.    Antimalarial medication is not recommended for most travellers. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times: 

• Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.
• Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows.
• Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.
• Wear permethrin-treated clothing. 

If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

In this destination, rabies  may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. 

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife. 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Health care is adequate, but varies throughout the country.

Facilities are generally good in cities such as Athens and Thessaloniki and in towns that have large hospitals, such as Heraklion, Ioannina and Patras.

If you’re travelling to smaller islands or to remote areas, you may need a medical evacuation to a central hospital, in the event of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and Greece are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Greece to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Greece authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect prison sentences and heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Identification

Local police may ask to see your identification at any time.

• Carry adequate identification at all times, such as your passport or residence permit
• Keep a photocopy of your passport in a safe place, in case it is lost or stolen

Photography

There are restrictions on photographing and filming:

• military installations and military personnel
• border areas
• harbours, airports and other transportation hubs
• churches, monasteries and monks

In and around these areas, you should always:

• verify if photography is allowed or if a special permit is required
• request permission if individuals are involved
• refrain from photographing or filming if in doubt
• comply with all requests from local authorities

Recreational and commercial flying of drones is regulated.

You must register your drone to use it across the European Union. If you don’t comply, you may be fined and your drone confiscated.

• Information to visitors concerning drones - Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA)
• Civil drones - European Union Aviation Safety Agency

Greece has strict laws regarding the possession and use of weapons and items that may be used as weapons, such as:

• knuckledusters
• pocketknife
• pepper spray

Do not buy or travel with these items.

Cultural heritage and antiquities

There are strict laws regarding:

• purchase and exportation of antiquities and objects of special significance to the country's cultural heritage
• excavation and on-site archaeological research
• access to underwater archaeological sites
• filming and photography of archaeological sites for commercial purposes
• protection of archaeological sites and monuments

To avoid any difficulties, make sure you:

• have the proper permit to conduct activities related to cultural heritage and archaeological sites
• obtain and carry the required legal paperwork to purchase or export antiquities

While visiting archaeological sites and monuments:

• don’t film or photograph unless it is clearly allowed
• stay on the dedicated paths and respect off-limits areas
• don’t touch statues and monuments
• don’t pick up rocks or any other artifacts found on site

Greek Cultural Heritage law - Hellenic Society for Law and Archaeology

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Greece.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Greece, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

National obligations

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Greece, or are eligible for Greek citizenship, you may be subject to compulsory military service and other aspects of Greek law.

Obtain a document certifying your status from the Embassy of Greece prior to travel.

• National service - Embassy of Greece in Ottawa
• Greek citizenship - Embassy of Greece in Ottawa

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Greece.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Greece, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Greek court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Greece to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If you plan on entering Greece by sea on your boat or a rented boat of a total length of over 7 metres, you must pay the Recreational and Daily Tour Cruise Ships fee (TEPAI). This must be done online prior to arrival.

Recreational and Daily Tour Cruise Ships fee - Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE) (in Greek)

As a tourist or temporary resident, you can drive with a valid Canadian driver’s licence.

You must have valid insurance coverage.

You must wear a helmet when driving or as a passenger of a motorcycle, a scooter or a moped. You may be fined if you fail to comply.

Carrying an individual in an irregular migration situation in your vehicle, even without your knowledge, is a criminal offence. Don’t pick up hitchhikers.

Driving in Greece - European Commission

The currency of Greece is the euro (EUR).

ATMs may not be easily available in remote areas or may be out of cash. Make sure to carry some money if you plan on visiting small islands and remote regions.

If you are carrying €10,000 or more, or the equivalent in other currencies, you must make a declaration to customs when you enter or leave the European Union. It includes sums in:

• banknotes and coins
• bearer negotiable instruments such as cheques, travellers’ cheques, promissory notes and money orders
• bonds, shares
• gold coins with a gold content of at least 90 %
• gold bars, nuggets or clumps with a gold content of at least 99.5 %
• any other convertible asset

This does not apply if you are travelling within the European Union or in transit to a non-EU country.

EU cash controls - European Commission

Seismic activity

Greece is located in an active seismic zone. Major earthquakes could occur and can cause significant damage.

Santorini and Nisyros islands have active volcanoes.

If you’re travelling near an active volcano or are practising volcano tourism:

• closely monitor volcanic activity levels through local media and official sources
• ensure that you’re well informed about conditions that may pose a hazard
• follow the advice of local authorities
• Earthquakes - What to Do?
• Latest earthquakes - National Observatory of Athens
• Volcanic eruptions - Ministry for climate crisis and civil protections

Seasonal storms and flooding

Seasonal storms and heavy rains can cause severe flooding and landslides particularly during the spring and winter months. Roads may become impassable and infrastructure damaged.

• Stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• Follow the advice of local authorities, including evacuation orders

Weather forecast and alerts - Hellenic National Meteorological Service

Meltemi wind

The Meltemi or Etesian is a strong wind that regularly sweeps the Aegean and the eastern Mediterranean seas from May to September. It can blow uninterruptedly for several days. This wind may bring high waves, strong currents and may disrupt transportation.

If you travel to Greece during this period:

• expect possible transportation delays or cancellations
• be very cautious if sailing or boating
• avoid swimming during rough sea conditions
• monitor the latest regional weather forecasts

Wildfires are common between July and September, particularly in:

• the Peloponnese
• Central Greece
• Eastern Macedonia and Thrace
• the northern areas of Athens.

The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.

In case of a major fire:

• stay away from affected areas, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• follow the advice of local emergency services personnel, including evacuation orders
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

Latest information on fires - General Secretariat for Civil Protection

Local services

• 112 for emergency assistance
• 1571 for tourist police
• 100 for police

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Greece, in Athens, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

Effective Greece Travel

Travel to Greece with the best possible information

Is It Safe to Travel To Greece? Checking In On 7 Things

Your Guide To Greece

November 24, 2019

Greece is one of the most popular European countries and offers the best of Western civilization and culture. But is it safe to travel to Greece right now?

It has also influenced the different elements of the European world like no other country, including the culture, philosophy, history, language and more.

In addition, it also boasts a significant share of the world’s historic artifacts and other elements of historic significance. But there’s a lot more to this country with a great versatility of pretty much everything tourists and visitors love to see, including the amazing turquoise coastline, which ranks among some of the best ones in entire Europe.

Some of the other reasons tourists are always excited about visiting Greece include its bright, clear waters, sandy beaches, and as many as 6,000 islands. Below, we outline answers to the question “is it safe to travel to Greece?”

But is it safe to travel to Greece?

It goes without saying Greece is a traveler’s paradise, with such locations as Santorini , Mykonos , Naxos and Crete . But, is it plagued with safety issues like some of the other countries that otherwise tourists love to visit? Well, not really, but there are certainly a few things you should keep in mind to avoid getting into any kind of trouble.

Let’s discuss them in detail below.

Transportation Risk in Greece

The transportation in Greece is generally convenient and safe for tourists, and the same goes for using the taxi services as well.

Risk level: Very low.

Pickpockets Risk in Greece

Like any other popular tourist destination, many popular tourist attractions aren’t safe from pickpockets in Greece as well.

However, you’re far less likely to be a victim to any kind of pickpocketing in Greece than some other popular tourist place like Paris. There are many cases of pickpocketing at popular tourist attractions – especially including some of the big cities like Athens – but following a few simple precautionary measures should be good enough to help you keep safe from pickpockets.

Risk level: Moderate.

Risk of Natural Disasters in Greece

Not the type of risk tourists usually take into consideration, but they actually should. However, Greece doesn’t face any real threat of natural disasters, except of course the risk of drowning at sea which is always present in this country given the incredible number of islands and being surrounded by water from most sides.

Risk level: Low to moderate.

Mugging Risk in Greece

Greece is one of the safer countries as far as things like mugging and kidnapping are concerned, but it certainly doesn’t hurt to be more careful and avoid the dangerous areas.

You can easily find out which areas you shouldn’t be visiting as a tourist by just asking around or seeking the help of some local tourist organization.

Risk level: Low.

Terrorism Risk in Greece

After the November 2015 Paris attacks, no country in Europe, least of one that’s a major tourist attraction, can be considered completely safe from the risk of terrorism.

That said, however, Greece hasn’t witnessed a terrorist attack in its recent history, so that’s something for your peace of mind.

Risk of Getting Scammed in Greece

Just like any popular tourist country in the world, Greece isn’t free of scams. In fact, scamming is fairly common during the summer months when the country sees a large number of tourists visiting it.

You need to be careful when dealing with vendors as they might try to overcharge you or sell you fake or cheap products for the price of branded or high-quality ones.

Some of the other things to keep in mind is to always check the change you receive from vendors and conclude all negotiations before the purchase to avoid giving the vendor a chance to scam you later.

Women Travelers Risk in Greece

Greece is believed to be a very safe country for women, and that includes women travelers as well. However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take basic precautions like not roaming around in the dark or in empty streets, ending up alone with a stranger and so on.

Is it safe to travel to Greece? Overall Risk: Low

After considering everything we discussed above, it’s pretty easy to conclude that Greece is indeed a very safe country to travel to, but the basic precautions shouldn’t be ignored to avoid any potential threats to your safety. But if you want more information on whether is it safe to travel to Greece, below is an overview of general safety in the beautiful country.

Safety in Greece: An Overview

Greece ranks 39 th on the list of the safest countries in the world. Most tourists do not face any major issues, including the risks we talked about above. But, it must not be forgotten that Greece is currently in an economic crisis and also a very popular tourist country. This, in turn, has increased the discussed risks over time.

Pickpocketing and bag snatching are some of the most common risks tourists face. So it’s advisable to not carry all your money when traveling and leave the money you won’t need at your hotel.

If you stay careful and vigilant about your safety, you would be much less likely to fall prey to these risks.

Let us now discuss some more information that you will find useful as a tourist to Greece.

Most people won’t require any visa if they will be in Greece for a period of less than 90 days. Furthermore, there are no such restrictions for EU residents. They are free to stay in the country for as long as they want to.

However, something you should note here is that your passport must be valid for at least six months from the time of your return from the country you’re visiting.

If you’re in confusion, you can just visit DoYouNeedVisa and find out what requirements you need to meet based on your nationality.

The official currency of Greece is the Euro. There are usually no issues exchanging or withdrawing your money in Greece. This is because banks, ATMs and exchange offices are spread all over the country.

However, there are certain restrictions as far as withdrawing money is concerned. However, this shouldn’t be a problem for most tourists. It’s important to note that Greece is among the cheapest European countries famous for their tourist attractions.

You may be able to experience the best of Greece on just about 70€ per day.

Here’s a quick overview on the weather in Greece:

• Summer : Warm and sunny
• Autumn and spring : Mild
• Winter : Cold

You would probably have the best experience if you visit the country in the summer months. These months start in May and end in September. However, these are also the months where most tourist places would be crowded.

Travel Insurance

A guide on travel safety can’t be complete without recommending travel insurance. Travel insurance covers both medical expenses and the loss that may be caused due to theft.

Wrapping Things Up

So the question remains, is it safe to travel to Greece? Overall, we say yes, based on our own experiences and extensive research done on the topic in recent months and years.

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Greece Announces New Plan to Protect Some of Its Pristine Beaches

The government has pledged to crack down on rapid development, and on seaside businesses seeking to take advantage of a tourist boom. But some residents and conservationists are unimpressed.

By Niki Kitsantonis

Reporting from Athens

The Greek government on Friday published a list of 198 “untrodden beaches” that it said are now off limits to bars, restaurants and large public gatherings in its latest attempt to contain development and address the backlash to the throngs of tourists that descend on the country’s coastlines each year.

The move comes amid growing frustration among residents of Greek islands and parts of the coastal mainland that are popular with foreign visitors. Protests ballooned into a nationwide “beach towel movement” last summer as disgruntled locals complained that they were being pushed off their own beaches by businesses seeking to take advantage of a tourist boom that brought more than 32 million foreign visitors to Greece last year .

On the country’s Cycladic islands, local residents joined forces with the authorities to push back against a wave of construction .

Greece’s conservative government has pledged to crack down on the development, and on seaside businesses that violate regulations. In February it passed a law aimed at regulating the use of the country’s coastline, imposing penalties of up to 60,000 euros for businesses occupying more than 50 percent of Greek beaches with umbrellas and sun beds.

Critics said the law did not go far enough to curb the problem, with some claiming that the government was perpetuating the issue by not tackling illegal land use more comprehensively.

The list of “untrodden beaches,” unveiled in a joint agreement between Greece’s finance and environment ministers, is part of a broader effort to restore balance, the government said. “The main goal is to combine environmental protection with sustainable development,” Kostis Hatzidakis, the economy and finance minister, said on Friday.

“The environment is a valuable component of the Greek tourist product,” he said.

Under the new initiative, the government was putting public assets “under a strict framework of rules, penalties and obligations,” Mr. Hatzidakis said. Inspections and transparency would be increased, as would “the enforcement of the law,” he added.

The beaches on the list are in areas included in the European Union’s Natura program, a network of vulnerable habitats across Europe that are protected under European law. Among the beaches listed on Friday are spots on popular islands such as Milos, Naxos, Lesbos, Samothrace and in the southern Peloponnese peninsula.

The islands were selected based on the advice of the country’s Natural Environment and Climate Change Agency and are all “areas of high ecological importance,” Theodoros Skylakakis, the environment and energy minister, said on Friday.

Under the new initiative, no section of those beaches can be auctioned off for commercial use, and the presence of sun-loungers and umbrellas will be prohibited, as will the organization of public events involving more than 10 people.

Another initiative being introduced by the government is a new app called “MyCoast,” on which people can report violations.

Some environmentalists in Greece were not impressed by Friday’s announcement. Eleni Andrianopoulou, a resident of Naxos and a member of a local “Save the beaches” group, said the government’s original plan had been for more than 1,000 beaches nationwide to be covered, adding that Natura areas require “real protection.”

“From the beginning we had stressed that this reform for untrodden beaches was a fraud.”

Demetre Karavellas, director of the World Wildlife Fund Greece, said the authorities were jumping the gun with their list of pristine beaches, noting that there are more than 100 marine and coastal areas in Greece that are recognized by the Natura program but have yet to be effectively managed or conserved.

“The government should start by complying with its basic legal obligations before creating new vague categories of protection,” he said.

Niki Kitsantonis is a freelance correspondent for The Times based in Athens. She has been writing about Greece for 20 years, including more than a decade of coverage for The Times. More about Niki Kitsantonis

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Greece fires 2023: is it safe to travel & should I cancel my holiday?

The fires in greece have now largely died down but a storm is currently causing widespread flooding. if you’re going on holiday, here’s what you need to know, including foreign office travel advice.

T he fires that have been sweeping through Greece have finally died down with the arrival of cooler weather and storms. The Hellenic nation has been heavily affected by wildfires since July this year, with capital Athens and holiday islands such as Rhodes experiencing blazes. After the first wave of fires — exacerbated by blistering temperatures, drought and high winds — was brought under control, a second wave took hold near the end of August. If you’re planning a trip to Greece, here’s what you need to know — including Foreign Office travel advice.

Main photo: a wildfire near the village of Avantas near Alexandroupoli, Greece (Getty Images)

Where are the fires in Greece?

The fires in Greece have finally died down with the arrival of Storm Daniel , which has been affecting the central and western part of the country, including the island of Skiathos. There are currently no fire warnings in place.

The most recent blazes were in Alexandroupoli, the forest of Dadia, Rodopi, Boeotia and Parnitha, which started in August. Most of these are not tourist areas, but local residents have been forced to evacuate in some cases.

In July, several areas in Greece, including forests near the capital Athens and the holiday island of Rhodes were heavily affected by blazes.

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Is it safe to travel to Greece?

Although wildfires are not a concern for the foreseeable future, there are heavy rains in Greece that are triggering deadly floods. In some cases, cars have been washed away. On Skiathos, flights have been cancelled and holidaymakers have been told to stay indoors.

If you’re due to travel to an area that might be affected, you should contact your travel operator or accommodation provider before you travel to check that it is not currently impacted and make sure that you have appropriate insurance.

• Greece floods 2023: is it safe to travel to Skiathos and is my flight cancelled?

Which islands aren’t affected by the wildfires?

There are over 200 inhabited islands in Greece. Most of these were not affected by the wildfires at all this year and holidays are taking place as normal. These include: the Cycladic Islands (Amorgos, Anafi, Andros, Antiparos, Delos, Ios, Kea, Kimolos, Kythnos, Milos, Mykonos , Naxos , Paros, Folegandros, Santorini , Serifos, Sifnos, Sikinos, Syros and Tinos), the Sporades (Alonissos, Skiathos , Skopelos and Skyros), and the northern resorts of Thessaloniki.

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Is it safe to travel to Rhodes now?

Rhodes was badly affected by fires in July but the state of emergency has been lifted. Some hotels are affected in resorts in the southeast, including Gennadi, Kiotari, Lardos, Lindos, Pefki and Plimiri. Sources on the ground say that while the majority of properties have suffered at most superficial damage, they cannot reopen until utilities are restored. Resorts in the north are, however, operating as normal.

What started the fires in Greece?

Several weeks of blistering heat and strong winds turned Greece into a tinderbox, which meant that the fires spread easily. The causes of the fires are still under investigation but arson has been suggested as a possibility in several cases.

Can I get a refund if I choose not to go?

That depends on the reason for the cancellation. Because the UK Foreign Office (FCDO) has chosen not to advise against non-essential travel to the parts of Greece affected by the wildfires, any request to cancel a holiday to the resorts unaffected by the conflagration would technically be considered to be so-called “disinclination to travel” and ineligible for refund under normal booking conditions.

That said, several tour operators, without wishing to be named, have said they would be inclined to look favourably, on a case-by-case basis, on those anxious about travelling. You probably won’t get your money back, but you may be able to change the dates, the destination or both.

If, however, you are booked to travel to any of the resorts affected by fire, you are covered under the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018, section 18 of which states: “In the event of unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances occurring at the place of destination or its immediate vicinity and which significantly affect the performance of the package, or the carriage of passengers to the destination, the traveller may terminate the package travel contract before the start of the package without paying any termination fee.”

• Can I get a refund if my flight or holiday is cancelled?

What is the Foreign Office travel advice?

The FCDO updated its advice for Greece on August 23 and that advice still stands. It advises those currently in the affected areas to follow 112 Greece on X, formerly known as Twitter, for official updates. More generally, you should follow the guidance from the emergency services and call 112 if you are in immediate danger.

Am I covered by my travel insurance?

Check your policy first — coverage can vary significantly, even with the same provider. Many policies have clauses around extreme weather, which means you should be able to recoup at least some of your costs if you need to cancel.

If your holiday is a package comprising a flight, accommodation and car hire, or any combination thereof, bought from the same supplier — such as Tui, Jet2 or Thomas Cook — and comes with an Atol certificate, you’re covered for cancellation, curtailment or repatriation under the package travel regulations , although you still need travel insurance for accident and health cover. If you’ve put your own holiday together — a DIY booking — you do not have protection under the regulations and will be therefore more dependent on insurance.

In that case, says Anna-Marie Duthie, travel insurance expert at Defaqto: “If government advice changes, advising against travel to the area after you have booked your trip, then you can be covered for cancellation or curtailment. You can also be covered for additional travel and accommodation costs should your trip be disrupted due to a catastrophic event if your insurer offers this cover, or you have paid for the option to include it. In many cases this will cover you being unable to use your booked accommodation due to ‘fire’. However, each insurer will define these events differently so it’s key to check your terms and conditions to understand what cover you have.”

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Where else in Europe has been affected by wildfires?

Wildfires hit Tenerife mid-August, in the north of the island, and were stabilised by the end of the month. Earlier this summer, smaller fires broke out in the nearby Canary Islands of Gran Canaria and La Palma. There have also been large wildfires in Portugal and Greece that are now under control.

Northern Europe remains unaffected by wildfires, with the likes of Sweden and Denmark good options for last-minute summer sun. Here are some of the destinations that remain safe, and hot, to visit this summer.

Additional reporting by Qin Xie and Lucy Perrin

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