Greece, a jewel of the Mediterranean, attracts millions of tourists each year with its rich history, stunning islands, and vibrant culture. However, like any popular travel destination, it’s essential to be aware of potential safety and security risks. This Greece Travel Advisory provides comprehensive information to help you plan a safe and enjoyable trip in 2024.
Safety and Security in Greece
Overall Risk Level: Take Normal Security Precautions
Greece is generally a safe country to visit, and for most travelers, normal security precautions are sufficient. However, it’s important to stay informed and vigilant about potential risks, just as you would in any urban or tourist destination worldwide.
Crime: Be Aware of Petty Theft
Petty crime, particularly targeting tourists, is the most common safety concern in Greece. Pickpocketing, purse snatching, and luggage theft are prevalent, especially in crowded tourist areas and on public transport.
Common Scenarios for Petty Crime:
- Tourist Hotspots: Popular archaeological sites, museums, and attractions in Athens, Thessaloniki, and the islands are prime locations for thieves.
- Restaurants and Bars: Outdoor seating areas, patios, and busy bars, especially in tourist zones, can be targeted. Thieves may operate while you are distracted or enjoying your meal or drinks.
- Hotel Lobbies: Be cautious in hotel lobbies, particularly during check-in and check-out times when luggage is visible.
- Public Transportation: The Athens Metro, buses, trains to and from Athens International Airport, and intercity transport hubs like Larissa and Peloponnese train stations are known areas for pickpockets.
- Airports and Stations: Airports, bus terminals, and railway stations, especially in Athens and other major cities, are high-risk areas for luggage theft and pickpocketing.
- Beaches: Even on relaxing beaches, unattended belongings can be vulnerable to theft.
Precautions to Minimize Risk of Petty Crime:
- Secure Your Belongings: Always keep your valuables secure and within sight. Use zippered bags, money belts, or hotel safes to store passports, cash, and electronics.
- Passport Security: Don’t carry your original passport unless absolutely necessary. A photocopy is usually sufficient for daily use. Store your passport in a secure location in your accommodation.
- Avoid Displays of Wealth: Dress modestly and avoid flashing expensive jewelry, watches, or electronics that could make you a target.
- Limit Cash and Valuables: Carry only the necessary amount of cash for the day and leave unnecessary valuables in a secure location.
- Situational Awareness: Pay close attention to your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas and on public transportation. Be aware of people around you and any suspicious behavior.
- Beware of Strangers: Be wary of unsolicited offers of help or advice from strangers, as distraction techniques are often used by thieves.
- Avoid Isolated Areas: Steer clear of poorly lit or isolated areas, parks, and down-market bars and restaurants, particularly after dark. Stick to well-lit and populated streets.
Violent Crime: Generally Low but Vigilance Advised
Violent crime in Greece is relatively uncommon compared to petty crime. However, isolated incidents of attacks, sometimes linked to far-right extremism and targeting minority groups, have occurred.
Recommendations:
- Stay Vigilant: Maintain general vigilance and awareness of your surroundings, especially in urban areas.
- Report Incidents: If you experience or witness any violent crime, report it to the local police immediately.
Spiked Food and Drinks: Never Leave Drinks Unattended
There is a risk of spiked food and drinks, particularly in tourist areas and nightlife venues.
Safety Measures:
- Never Leave Food or Drinks Unattended: Always keep your food and drinks in your sight and never leave them unattended, even for a moment.
- Be Cautious with Offers from Strangers: Be extremely cautious about accepting snacks, beverages, gum, or cigarettes from new acquaintances, as they could be laced with drugs.
- Recognize the Risk: Be aware that spiked drinks can lead to disorientation, incapacitation, and increased vulnerability to robbery and sexual assault.
If You Become a Victim of Crime:
- Report to Police: Go to the nearest police station to report any crime, including theft or assault. Obtain a copy of the police report for insurance claims.
- Seek Medical Assistance (Sexual Assault): If you are a victim of sexual assault, seek immediate medical attention, regardless of visible physical harm.
- Contact Tourist Police: Greece has a dedicated Tourist Police unit that can assist foreign tourists. You can reach them 24/7 by dialing 1571 from anywhere in Greece. For general police assistance, dial 100.
- Inform Your Consulate: Contact your country’s embassy or consulate for support and guidance.
Fraud: Credit Card and ATM Scams
Credit card and ATM fraud is a concern in Greece, as in many countries.
Protecting Yourself from Fraud:
- Card Handling: Keep your credit and debit cards in sight whenever they are being handled by vendors or service staff.
- ATM Security: Use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside reputable banks or businesses. Avoid standalone ATMs in poorly lit or isolated locations.
- Card Reader Inspection: Be wary of ATMs with unusual or irregular features attached to the card reader, which could be skimming devices.
- PIN Protection: Always cover the keypad with your hand when entering your PIN at ATMs or point-of-sale terminals.
- Monitor Accounts: Regularly check your bank and credit card statements for any unauthorized transactions.
Terrorism: Potential Threat in Europe
There is a general threat of terrorism in Europe, including Greece. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time and target various locations.
Potential Targets:
- Government buildings and institutions
- Places of worship
- Transportation hubs (airports, train stations, metro)
- Public areas frequented by tourists (attractions, restaurants, bars, shopping centers, hotels)
- Sporting events and large gatherings
- Religious holidays and celebrations
Recommendations:
- Be Vigilant: Maintain a high level of vigilance in public places and tourist areas.
- Awareness of Surroundings: Pay attention to your surroundings and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.
- Avoid Crowds: Be especially cautious in crowded areas and at events that could be potential targets.
Extremism: Isolated Incidents
Extremist groups in Greece have been known to carry out attacks using improvised explosive devices and arson, targeting state institutions, foreign interests, media outlets, and centers associated with minority groups. While tourists are not the primary targets, there is a risk of being caught in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Safety Advice:
- Stay Informed: Monitor local news and be aware of current events and potential security concerns.
- Exercise Caution: Exercise general caution and awareness in urban areas.
Demonstrations and Strikes: Potential for Disruption
Demonstrations and strikes are regular occurrences in Greece, particularly in Athens and Thessaloniki.
Demonstrations:
- Common Locations: Demonstrations often take place around Syntagma Square, Omonia Square, university areas, and Exarchia in Athens, and Aristotelous Square and university areas in Thessaloniki.
- Triggers: Demonstrations are frequently linked to social or historical dates, such as Labor Day (May 1st), anniversaries of student uprisings (November 17th), and past riot commemorations (December 6th).
- Potential for Violence: Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent unexpectedly and may cause disruptions to traffic and public transportation.
Strikes:
- Key Sectors Affected: Strikes commonly affect transport (ferries, public transit), public health services, and other essential sectors.
- Travel Disruption: Strikes can lead to significant disruptions to travel plans and public services.
Recommendations:
- Avoid Demonstration Areas: Stay away from areas where demonstrations or large gatherings are taking place.
- Follow Local Authority Instructions: Comply with instructions and guidance from local authorities and police.
- Monitor Local Media: Keep an eye on local news and media for information about planned demonstrations or strikes.
- Plan for Disruptions: If strikes are announced, especially in transportation, make alternative travel arrangements and allow extra time to reach your destination.
Women’s Safety: Increased Risk of Sexual Assault on Islands
While Greece is generally safe for women travelers, there have been reports of sexual assaults, particularly on the islands, affecting foreign tourists.
Safety Advice for Women Travelers:
- Be Cautious of Strangers: Exercise caution when interacting with strangers and avoid accepting rides from people you don’t know or casual acquaintances.
- Trust Your Instincts: If a situation feels unsafe, remove yourself from it immediately.
- Inform Someone of Your Plans: Let someone know your travel plans and itinerary, especially if traveling alone.
Water Activities: Heed Safety Warnings
Greece offers numerous water activities, but it’s crucial to be aware of potential hazards.
Swimming Safety:
- Supervised Beaches: Choose beaches that are supervised and have established safety procedures.
- Hazardous Conditions: Be aware that strong winds and tidal changes can create dangerous currents and riptides.
- Marine Life: Coral reefs and marine life may pose risks (urchins, jellyfish).
- Warning Flags: Always obey warning flags displayed at beaches, indicating water conditions.
- Local Advice: Ask local authorities or lifeguards about potential hazards, dangerous species, or unsafe swimming areas.
- Reef Shoes: Wear reef shoes to protect your feet from cuts and stings.
- Safe Distance from Boats: Keep a safe distance from boats and restricted areas in the water.
- Weather Awareness: Avoid beaches and coastal areas during severe weather warnings.
- Cliff Erosion: Watch out for signs warning of cliff erosion and falling rocks near coastal cliffs.
- Unknown Waters: Never dive into unknown waters as hidden rocks or shallow depths can cause serious injury.
Recreational Boating:
- Boat Capacity: Know the capacity of your boat and do not exceed it.
- Navigation Rules: Understand and respect boating navigation rules and local regulations.
- Safe Practices: Follow all safe boating practices for activities on the water.
- Snorkeling Areas: Keep a safe distance from designated snorkeling or diving areas.
- Marine Radio: Carry a VHF marine radio for emergency communication and location transmission.
- Emergency Preparedness: Be prepared for potential emergencies at sea.
Hiking Safety: Prepare and Stay on Marked Trails
Hiking in Greece’s mountainous regions can be rewarding but requires preparation and caution.
Hiking Precautions:
- Never Hike Alone: Hike with a companion or group and stay together.
- Information and Planning: Obtain detailed information about your chosen hiking route, trail conditions, and environmental factors before setting out.
- Travel Insurance: Ensure your travel insurance covers helicopter rescue and medical evacuation, especially for remote hiking areas.
- Physical Condition: Be sure your physical fitness level is adequate for the planned hike.
- Stay on Marked Trails: Avoid venturing off marked trails, as it’s easy to get lost or encounter dangerous terrain.
- Adequate Supplies: Carry sufficient water, food, appropriate clothing, and navigation tools.
- Weather Monitoring: Stay informed about weather conditions, as mountain weather can change rapidly, even in summer.
- Wildlife Awareness: Be aware of the potential presence of dangerous wildlife, such as snakes.
- Inform Someone of Itinerary: Tell a family member or friend about your hiking plans, route, and expected return time.
- Emergency Number: In case of emergency, dial 112 from a mobile phone.
Road Safety: Hazardous Driving Conditions
Road conditions and driving safety in Greece can be challenging and vary significantly across the country.
Driving Hazards:
- Traffic Congestion: Major cities experience heavy traffic congestion.
- Difficult Terrain: Mountainous regions have winding roads and steep inclines.
- Reckless Driving: Drivers may speed and drive recklessly.
- Pedestrian and Cyclist Safety: Drivers and motorcyclists may not always yield to pedestrians or cyclists.
Recommendations:
- Exercise Caution: Drive defensively and exercise extreme caution when driving, walking, or cycling.
- Motorcycle Safety: Accidents involving tourists on rented motorbikes and scooters are common, especially on islands.
- Rental Agency Reputation: Rent motorbikes and scooters from reputable agencies that maintain their vehicles to safety standards.
- Inspect Rental Equipment: Carefully inspect rental equipment before use and read the rental contract thoroughly.
- Avoid Drinking and Driving: Never drive under the influence of alcohol.
- Reduce Speed on Rough Terrain: Reduce speed on uneven or unpaved roads.
- Police Report for Accidents: In case of an accident, wait for the police to arrive and obtain a police report for insurance claims.
Public Transportation: Generally Safe and Reliable
Public transportation in Greece is generally safe and reliable.
Options:
- Buses: Extensive bus network covering most of the country.
- Trains: Train services connect major cities.
- Athens Metro: Modern metro system in Athens.
- Strikes: Be aware that strikes may occasionally disrupt public transportation services.
Taxis:
- Generally Safe: Taxis are generally safe and metered taxis are widely available.
- Airport Fixed Rates: Fixed rates apply for taxi transportation to and from Athens International Airport. Confirm the fare before starting your journey.
Ferries:
- Safety Standards: Ferries between mainland Greece and the islands generally meet European safety standards.
- Weather Delays: Weather conditions, especially strong winds, can cause ferry cancellations or delays.
- Rough Seas: Rough sea conditions can cause motion sickness, particularly on high-speed ferries.
- Departure Confirmation: Reconfirm ferry departure schedules with your carrier before heading to the port.
Air Travel: International Safety Standards
Greece’s international airports adhere to international safety standards. For domestic airlines within Greece, it’s advisable to consult further resources for safety assessments.
Entry and Exit Requirements for Greece
Entry and exit requirements are determined by Greek authorities and can change. Always verify the latest information.
Schengen Area: Visa-Free Travel for Short Stays
Greece is part of the Schengen Area. Canadian citizens, along with citizens of many other countries, can enter Greece and other Schengen countries for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa for tourism or business purposes.
Important Considerations:
- 90-Day Limit: The 90-day limit is cumulative across the entire Schengen Area.
- Visa for Longer Stays: If you plan to stay longer than 90 days, or for purposes other than tourism or business, you will need to obtain the appropriate visa from the Greek embassy or consulate before traveling.
Passport Validity
- Passport Requirements: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 3 months beyond your intended departure date from the Schengen Area.
- Transportation Company Rules: Check with your airline or transportation company, as they may have stricter passport validity rules.
Visas: Not Required for Short Tourist or Business Trips
- Tourist Visa: Not required for stays up to 90 days for tourism.
- Business Visa: Not required for stays up to 90 days for business.
- Work and Student Visas: Required for work or study purposes; obtain these visas before traveling.
Overstays: Seek Extension in Emergencies
If you need to extend your stay beyond 90 days due to unforeseen circumstances like medical emergencies, you may apply for an extension as a visitor. Contact the local Greek police aliens’ issues office at least 15 days before your 90-day period expires.
Yellow Fever: No Entry Requirements
There are no yellow fever vaccination entry requirements for Greece.
Children and Travel
Ensure you have the necessary documentation for traveling with children, including consent letters if traveling without both parents.
Health in Greece: Staying Healthy During Your Trip
Travel Health Notices: Consult Healthcare Professionals
It is always advisable to consult a healthcare provider or travel health clinic at least 6 weeks before your trip for personalized health advice and recommendations.
Routine Vaccinations: Ensure Up-to-Date
Make sure your routine vaccinations are current, including measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella, meningococcal disease, and seasonal flu.
Pre-Travel Vaccines and Medications: Consider Recommendations
Consult your healthcare provider about recommended vaccines and medications for Greece based on your travel plans and health status.
Specific Health Considerations:
- Yellow Fever: No risk in Greece, vaccination not required or recommended.
- Measles: Ensure you are protected against measles before traveling internationally.
- Hepatitis B: Vaccination recommended for all travelers as Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination.
- COVID-19: Stay updated on COVID-19 recommendations and vaccination guidelines. Vaccination is highly effective in preventing severe illness.
- Influenza: Get a flu shot at least 2 weeks before traveling, as the flu occurs worldwide.
- Malaria: Very low risk in Greece, antimalarial medication generally not recommended for travelers. Protect yourself from mosquito bites.
- Rabies: Rabies may be present in wildlife. Seek medical attention if bitten or scratched by an animal and consider rabies vaccination if you will be working with wildlife.
Safe Food and Water Precautions
- Food Safety: Eat safely prepared food. “Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it.”
- Water Safety: Avoid drinking tap water; opt for bottled water. Be cautious with ice cubes.
- Swimming Water: Avoid swallowing water when swimming in pools, hot tubs, or natural bodies of water.
Tick and Insect Bite Prevention
Protect yourself from insect bites, which can transmit diseases.
Preventive Measures:
- Use approved insect repellent on exposed skin.
- Wear light-colored, loose, tightly woven clothing.
- Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in non-enclosed accommodations.
- Check for ticks after outdoor activities.
Animal Precautions
Avoid contact with stray animals, livestock, and wildlife to reduce the risk of animal-borne diseases like rabies and bird flu.
Person-to-Person Infections
Practice good hygiene to prevent respiratory and other infections.
Hygiene Practices:
- Stay home and limit contact if sick.
- Wear a mask in crowded indoor settings.
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water or use hand sanitizer.
- Cover coughs and sneezes.
To reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), practice safe sex.
Medical Services and Facilities: Adequate but Variable
Healthcare in Greece is generally adequate but varies in quality across the country.
- Urban Centers: Good facilities in cities like Athens and Thessaloniki.
- Islands and Remote Areas: Medical evacuation to a major hospital may be necessary for serious conditions on smaller islands or in remote areas.
- Travel Insurance: Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical evacuation and hospital stays.
Laws and Culture in Greece: Respecting Local Norms
Local Laws: Abide by Greek Law
You are subject to Greek laws while in Greece.
Drug Laws: Severe Penalties
Penalties for drug offenses are severe, including prison sentences and heavy fines.
Identification: Carry ID
Carry identification at all times, such as your passport or a copy of your passport and residence permit if applicable.
Photography Restrictions
Be aware of photography restrictions around military installations, border areas, transportation hubs, religious sites, and schools. Seek permission before photographing people.
Drone Regulations
Drone flying is regulated. Register your drone and comply with EU drone regulations to avoid fines or confiscation.
Weapons Laws: Strict Regulations
Greece has strict laws regarding weapons, including items like knuckledusters, pocketknives, and pepper spray. Avoid carrying such items.
Cultural Heritage and Antiquities: Protect Greece’s History
Strict laws protect cultural heritage and antiquities.
- Permits: Obtain permits for activities related to archaeological sites or exporting antiquities.
- Site Etiquette: Respect archaeological sites, stay on paths, and do not touch or remove artifacts.
Dual Citizenship: Potential Implications
If you are a dual Canadian-Greek citizen, Canadian consular assistance may be limited, and you may be subject to Greek national obligations, such as military service.
International Child Abduction: Hague Convention
Greece is a signatory to the Hague Convention on International Child Abduction.
Boating Regulations: TEPAI Fee
If entering Greece by sea on a boat over 7 meters, you must pay the TEPAI fee online before arrival.
Driving Regulations: Valid License and Insurance
You can drive with a valid Canadian driver’s license. Ensure you have valid car insurance. Helmets are mandatory for motorcycle riders. It is illegal to transport undocumented migrants.
Money: Euro Currency
The currency in Greece is the Euro (EUR). ATMs may be less accessible in remote areas, so carry sufficient cash when traveling to smaller islands or remote regions. Declare cash amounts of €10,000 or more when entering or leaving the EU.
Natural Disasters and Climate in Greece: Be Prepared
Seismic Activity: Earthquakes are Possible
Greece is in an active seismic zone and earthquakes can occur.
Earthquake Safety:
- Stay Informed: Monitor local media for updates and information during seismic events.
- Follow Authority Instructions: Follow instructions from local authorities, including evacuation orders.
Volcanoes: Active Volcanoes in Santorini and Nisyros
Santorini and Nisyros have active volcanoes. Monitor volcanic activity if visiting these areas and follow safety advice.
Seasonal Storms and Flooding: Spring and Winter Risks
Heavy rains can cause flooding and landslides, especially during spring and winter. Stay informed about weather forecasts and follow local authority advice.
Meltemi Wind: Strong Summer Winds
The Meltemi wind is a strong wind that affects the Aegean Sea from May to September, potentially disrupting transportation and creating hazardous sea conditions. Be cautious during this period, especially when sailing or swimming.
Wildfires: High Risk in Summer
Wildfires are common from July to September, particularly in the Peloponnese, Central Greece, and near Athens.
Wildfire Safety:
- Avoid Affected Areas: Stay away from wildfire zones.
- Follow Emergency Services Advice: Comply with instructions from emergency personnel, including evacuation orders.
- Monitor Local Media: Stay updated on fire situations through local news.
- Air Quality: Be aware that air quality can deteriorate due to smoke from wildfires, especially if you have respiratory conditions.
Conclusion: Enjoy Greece Safely
Greece is a welcoming and beautiful country with much to offer travelers. By staying informed about potential risks, taking necessary precautions, and respecting local laws and customs, you can ensure a safe, memorable, and enjoyable trip to Greece in 2024. Always prioritize your safety and well-being while exploring this fascinating destination.
