Greece, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, is a popular destination for travelers worldwide. However, it’s crucial for U.S. citizens planning a trip to Greece to be aware of potential safety and security concerns. This guide provides essential information to help you have a safe and enjoyable trip.
Terrorism: Credible information suggests that terrorist groups continue to plan possible attacks in Europe. All European countries, including Greece, remain potentially vulnerable. Extremists may target tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and government facilities. Hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, high-profile events, educational institutions, and airports also remain priority locations for possible attacks. U.S. citizens should exercise additional vigilance in these and similar locations.
Strikes and Demonstrations: Domestic strikes, demonstrations, and work stoppages are common in Greece and can sometimes become violent. Transportation sector strikes can interrupt traffic, public transportation, taxis, seaports, and airports. It’s crucial to confirm domestic and international flights before heading to the airport. Avoid areas affected by demonstrations, especially the annual November 17 demonstrations, including the U.S. Embassy. Anarchists and criminals have been known to use university campuses as refuges, and demonstrators frequently congregate in the Polytechnic University area, Exarchia, Omonia, and Syntagma Squares in Athens; and at Aristotle Square, Aristotle University, and the Kamara area in Thessaloniki. Violent anarchist groups sometimes join public demonstrations and clash with police and vandalize property.
Crime: Crimes against tourists, such as pick-pocketing and purse-snatching, occur at popular tourist sites and on public transportation, especially the metro. A common tactic involves creating a commotion to distract travelers while another person steals belongings. Thieves also break into rental cars to steal passports, valuables, and luggage. The Embassy has received reports of alcohol-induced attacks targeting individual tourists at some holiday resorts and bars.
Take the following precautions to protect yourself from crime:
- Be cautious and aware of your surroundings.
- Do not leave bags unattended, especially on the metro and the Athens Airport train or in your vehicle.
- Avoid standing near bus or train doors. Thieves often strike as the doors open and then disappear into the crowd.
- Use alcohol in moderation and remain in control.
- Never leave drinks unattended in bars or clubs.
- Be discreet when discussing plans and organizing belongings upon arrival.
- Protect yourself and your money by using well-lit, public ATMs.
- Be aware of internet scams with online thieves posing as loved ones or romantic interests.
Victims of Crime: If you become a victim of a crime, report it to the local police and contact the U.S. Embassy at (+30) 210-720-2414 or the Emergency after-hours telephone (+30) 210-729-4444 if you require assistance. Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. The U.S. Embassy can help you find appropriate medical care, assist you in reporting a crime to the police, contact relatives or friends with your written consent, explain the local criminal justice process, provide a list of local attorneys, provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States, provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in certain cases of destitution, help you find accommodation and arrange flights home in certain cases of destitution, and replace a stolen or lost passport.
Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance.
Natural Disasters: Tremors and earthquakes occur regularly in Greece. Forest fires are common, especially during the dry summer months, and occasionally cause road closures. In the event of a natural disaster, follow the instructions of local authorities. Contact the General Secretariat for Civil Protection at 210-335-9900 for more information. Operators speak English.
Tourism Safety: The tourism industry in Greece is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities may not be common. Hazardous areas/activities may not always be identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified. Appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities, such as Athens or Thessaloniki. First responders may be unable to access areas outside of major cities and provide urgent medical treatment. It’s recommended that U.S. citizens purchase medical evacuation insurance.
Staying Informed: Stay informed about current events and potential safety concerns in Greece by monitoring local news, hotel security, the U.S. Embassy website, and the Consular Section’s Facebook page. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts sent by the Embassy.
By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, U.S. citizens can enjoy a safe and memorable trip to Greece.
