Greece🇬🇷
Greece, a Southeastern European country, is situated on the southern end of the Balkan Peninsula, sharing its north borders with Albania, North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Turkey. It is known for being one of the oldest civilizations, home to the first democracy, and the birthplace of Western philosophy, political science, Olympic games, and many scientific principles. Greece is blessed with stunning landscapes that range from beautiful coasts featuring the Ionian and Aegean seas to its iconic mountainous regions. It is filled with timeless ruins such as the Parthenon and the Acropolis, rich traditions, and world-class museums. Greece's rich culture, defined by its music, language, food and wine are also selling points. The vibrant islands such as Mykonos and Santorini, whitewashed homes and the famous blue-domed churches, the pink beaches of Crete, and hikes towards Meteora's monasteries are the main attractions.
⚠️Things you should avoid⚠️
- Avoid taking unlicensed taxis. Always insist on the meter being used.
- Do not visit the Mount Athos monastic community without a special permit.
- Avoid impromptu protests, they may turn violent.
- Do not make derogatory comments about Greece or its people.
- Avoid smoking indoors in public buildings which is technically illegal.
- Avoid carrying valuable belongings openly in crowded places.
- Avoid driving unless absolutely necessary. Greek drivers have a certain reputation and the accident rate is high.
- Don't depend solely on credit cards or ATMs, particularly in smaller towns where access may be limited.
- Avoid overly casual dress when visiting religious sites.
- Do not leave your belongings unattended at the beach.
Overall
7
Crime 🔫
7
Crime in Greece is fairly low compared to other European countries. The most reported crimes are petty thefts and burglaries rather than violent offenses. Certain neighborhoods in Athens like Omonoia, Exarchia, and Monastiraki, and the Old Port area in Thessaloniki are known for higher crime rates but remain safe if precautions are taken.
Terrorism 💣
8
The likelihood of terrorism in Greece is relatively low but not non-existent. Several domestic extremist groups have conducted bombings, albeit infrequent, against political targets, buildings, and symbols of the state. There have been no recent significant terror incidents.
War ⚔️
10
Greece is safe from war, there are no current conflicts or tensions that would involve Greece in warfare. Of course, historical disputes with neighbor Turkey sometimes escalate but never to the level of causing instability to the country.
Natural Disasters 🌊
6
Greece is prone to natural disasters, such as wildfires, earthquakes, and floods. In 2021, Greece suffered one of its most severe heatwaves, which resulted in devastating wildfires across regions like Attica, Evia, and Peloponnese causing widespread damages.
Medical Care 🏥
7
Greece has a functional health care system, with private and public hospitals. Although medical facilities are good, they may be under strain due to the current economic climate. Rural locations might have fewer services available.
Tap Water Quality 💧
6
The tap water quality in Greece varies. In main cities like Athens and Thessaloniki, the tap water is safe to drink. However, on many of the islands, tap water is not safe for consumption and bottled water is recommended.
Disease Burden 🤒
8
Greece doesn't have high risk of predominant diseases. Seasonal influenza and COVID-19 have been the recent considerable disease burdens.
Corruption 💸
3
Corruption remains a problem in Greece. The country deals with a degree of public sector corruption, and while situations have improved over the years, petty corruption still happens.
Safety for Women ♀️
8
For the most part, Greece is a safe destination for female travelers, although usual precautions should be taken, especially at night and in less crowded places. Acts of disrespect or harassment are rare but not unheard of.
Safety for Queer People 👬
6
While Greece contains broad acceptance and legal protections for LGBTQ+ people, attitudes can vary, particularly in rural areas. Athens's and Mykonos have thriving gay scenes. The country has a moderate stance towards queer safety.
Censorship 📺
7
Greece's press is ranked 'Partly Free'. Journalists operate with some restrictions and censorship. Defamation is a crime, and journalists are sometimes targeted with legal action for their reports. Government influence on media is an issue.
Public Transportation 🚌
6
Public transit in Greek cities is well developed with metro systems, buses and trams. However, issues such as cleanliness, occasional strikes and pick-pocketing tarnish its reputation. Traffic accidents are also quite high, making road safety something to consider.
Other useful information
🔒 How safe is it?
Although Greece has a relatively low crime rate, it's not entirely free of petty crimes like pickpocketing, especially in tourist-heavy areas and public transportation. Be vigilant and take usual travel precautions. Avoid driving if possible due to the relatively high accident rate.
🏰 Embassies in this Country
There are many foreign embassies located in Athens, Greece's capital, such as the US, UK, Canada, and Australia embassies.
💉 Recommended Vaccinations
Before traveling to Greece, vaccinations for Hepatitis A and B, Rabies, and routine immunizations such as MMR are suggested.
🐍 Dangerous Animals
Greece is home to venomous snakes like vipers, and scorpions sneaking in luggage or shoes is not unheard of. The presence of jellyfish in certain beaches during summer is also reported. Use caution while camping or hiking.
🛂 Visa Requirements
Requirements depend on the traveler's nationality. For EU citizens, a passport or ID card is sufficient. Non-EU residents often need a Schengen Visa.
💲 Currency
The currency of Greece is the Euro. Money can be exchanged at banks, post offices or currency exchange bureaux.
💳 Credit Card Acceptance
While credit cards are widely accepted in Greece, always carry some cash especially in rural areas and smaller establishments.
🧑🏭 Is it possible to work and travel in this country?
Greece offers many opportunities for work, particularly in sectors like tourism and teaching English. A work visa may be required for non-EU citizens.
💵 Cost of Travel and Living
Greece is more affordable compared to Western European countries. However, tourist hotspots like Mykonos can be significantly more expensive.