Safety and Security Tips and Requirements for US Citizens Traveling to Greece

What is the current safety situation in Greece, and are there any travel advisories or warnings?

The current safety situation in Greece is generally considered safe, though there are some areas of the country that are more prone to crime. The US Department of State has issued a Level 2 warning for Greece, advising travelers to exercise increased caution due to crime. US citizens should also be aware of potential terrorist activity. Visitors should practice good personal security and take precautions when traveling in unfamiliar areas.

Are there specific areas in Greece that I should avoid due to safety concerns?

Greece is generally a safe destination for travelers, but there may be some areas to avoid due to safety concerns. Generally, it is best to avoid any areas known for criminal activity or where protests are taking place. It is also advisable to remain vigilant in tourist areas such as Athens and other large cities as pickpockets are common. Areas with large refugee populations such as the islands of Lesvos, Chios, Samos, or Kos should be avoided due to high levels of civil unrest. It is also important to be aware of any travel advisories issued by your country’s government.

What are the emergency contact numbers for local authorities and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate in Greece?

Local Authorities:

Fire: 199
Police: 100
Medical Emergencies: 166


U.S. Embassy in Athens:
Tel: +30 210 721-2951
Fax: +30 210 645-3579
Email: [email protected]

Are there any health risks or vaccinations I should be aware of before traveling to Greece?

Yes, travelers should be aware of the following health risks and vaccinations before traveling to Greece:

-Hepatitis A: Vaccination is recommended for all travelers.
-Hepatitis B: Vaccination is recommended for travelers to Greece who may have close contact with the local population.
-Rabies: Vaccination is recommended for those who will be spending time in rural areas and may come into contact with wild animals.
-Tick-borne Encephalitis: Vaccination is recommended for those spending time outdoors in rural areas.
-Influenza: An annual influenza vaccination is recommended for all travelers.
-Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR): Vaccination is recommended for all travelers born after 1956 who have not been previously vaccinated.
-Polio: Vaccination is recommended for all travelers born after 1956 who have never been vaccinated against polio.
-Meningococcal Disease: Vaccination is recommended for all travelers.
-Yellow Fever: Vaccination is not required, but may be recommended for travelers coming from areas where yellow fever is present.

What measures can I take to ensure the safety of my belongings and valuables in Greece?

1. Invest in a secure hotel or Airbnb room with added safety features like deadbolts and window locks.
2. Keep important documents and valuables in a safe deposit box at your hotel or in a secure storage area, such as a locked suitcase or locked closet.
3. Take extra precautions when leaving your hotel room, such as putting the chain on the door if provided, and closing the curtains/blinds to prevent people from looking inside.
4. Be mindful of your personal belongings when out in public places, such as crowded markets or tourist attractions, and keep them close to you at all times.
5. Use a money belt or other secure pocket to store your cash, credit cards, and passport.
6. Leave expensive jewelry at home and opt for less expensive accessories that won’t draw attention.
7. Always make sure your credit card information and passwords are kept secure and don’t share them with anyone else.
8. Avoid carrying a large amount of cash on you when out in public and consider using a prepaid debit card instead of cash when possible.
9. Use common sense when it comes to personal safety and be aware of your surroundings.

Are there any specific safety tips for using public transportation in Greece?

1. Be aware of your surroundings at all times and trust your instincts.

2. If possible, try to use designated stops instead of flagging down a bus or train.

3. Stay alert and aware of other passengers, and be aware of pickpockets.

4. Refrain from talking to strangers, especially in isolated areas, and do not display valuable items in public.

5. Research the route you are taking before you travel to make sure you know where you are going and how to get there.

6. Avoid traveling late at night and try to keep your belongings close at all times.

7. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes that are easy to maneuver in, especially if you plan on standing for long periods of time.

8. Be mindful of any local customs and cultural norms while aboard public transportation.

What is the local emergency medical care system like in Greece, and how can I access it if needed?

The emergency medical care system in Greece is provided by the National Centre for Emergency Care (EKAV). EKAV operates a nationwide network of emergency medical services, including an ambulance service, an emergency medical and surgical service, and a hospital-based service. Greece also has a well-developed system of private clinics and hospitals providing emergency medical care.

In case of an emergency, a call should be made to the local ambulance service number (166 or 112). The call-taker will assess the situation and send the appropriate level of assistance. Citizens of countries within the European Union may access emergency care in Greece free of charge.

What precautions should I take to prevent common travel-related illnesses in Greece?

1. Get vaccinated before you travel: Make sure to get all the recommended vaccinations for the areas you plan to visit.

2. Practice safe food and water hygiene: Avoid drinking tap water, as it may contain bacteria or viruses, and avoid buffets and street food. Also, make sure to thoroughly wash all fruits and vegetables before eating them.

3. Be aware of insects: Some regions of Greece may have mosquitoes that may carry dangerous viruses. Use insect repellent to protect yourself, and take other measures such as wearing long sleeves and pants at dawn or dusk when mosquitoes are most active.

4. Use sunscreen: Wear a high-factor sunscreen with both UVA and UVB protection, and reapply if necessary, especially if you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors.

5. Stay up-to-date on travel health advisories: Monitor news broadcasts about health warnings or outbreaks in the area of Greece you plan to visit.

Are there any cultural practices or customs that can enhance my safety and security in Greece?

1. Respect the local norms and laws. Certain behaviors, such as public displays of affection, can be seen as offensive in some parts of Greece and you may be subject to verbal or physical harassment.

2. Follow appropriate dress codes. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and avoid wearing any offensive or suggestive clothing such as tank tops or shorts.

3. Pay attention to your belongings in crowded areas and keep your wallets in your front pockets so they are harder to pickpocket.

4. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash, instead use credit cards or debit cards to make purchases.

5. Beware of scams and pickpockets in tourist areas. Be smart about who you trust and never give out personal information to strangers.

6. Avoid taking taxis from the street. Always use a licensed taxi which can be found at taxi stands and airports.

What is the best way to stay informed about local news and developments in Greece?

The best way to stay informed about local news and developments in Greece is to follow Greek news outlets or social media accounts, such as the Athens News Agency, Kathimerini, and To Vima. Additionally, Greek newspapers, radio stations, and television channels such as ERT World and SKAI can provide reliable news and updates. Finally, it is important to stay aware of Greek government announcements on its websites and social media accounts.

Are there any specific safety measures for outdoor activities or excursions in Greece?

Yes, there are specific safety measures for outdoor activities and excursions in Greece. It is important to be aware of the local weather and climate conditions as well as the terrain of the area you are visiting. Make sure to wear appropriate clothing and bring ample supplies of food, water, and basic medical supplies. Additionally, be aware of any wildlife that may be present in the area, and it is also advised to stay on established trails or roads. It is also a good idea to let someone know where you will be going and when you plan to return, as well as have a mobile phone with you in case of an emergency.

How can I ensure the safety of my personal information and data while in Greece?

1. Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) when connecting to the internet. A VPN is a secure connection that encrypts data sent and received over a public network such as the internet, making it difficult for hackers and other third parties to access your information.

2. Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks. These networks are often unsecured and allow for easy access to personal information by hackers.

3. Use strong passwords for your online accounts and change them regularly.

4. Use two-factor authentication when available, which requires an additional layer of security such as a one time password sent via text or email before allowing access to an account.

5. Regularly back up important data onto an external hard drive or cloud storage service.

6. Only use trusted websites that have HTTPS enabled, which is a secure protocol that encrypts data sent and received between the website and the user’s device.

7. Make sure your software and device are always up to date with the latest security patches.

What is the local law enforcement’s reputation, and how can I seek assistance if needed in Greece?

The local law enforcement in Greece is generally respected and is considered to be professional and effective. The Greek police, or Hellenic Police Force, is the main law enforcement agency in Greece and is responsible for maintaining public order and safety. It has a good reputation for providing assistance when needed.

If you need assistance in Greece, you can contact the Hellenic Police Force directly by phone or in-person at your local police station. If you are a foreign national, you may also contact your home country’s embassy or consulate in Greece for assistance.

Are there any safety considerations for LGBTQ+ travelers in Greece?

Yes, there are safety considerations for LGBTQ+ travelers in Greece. LGBTQ+ travelers should exercise caution in public and be aware of their surroundings. As Greece is largely a socially conservative country, same-sex relationships and displays of affection between people of the same gender are generally not accepted in public. It is also important to note that although homosexuality is legal, there have been reports of discrimination and harassment of LGBTQ+ individuals. Additionally, travelers should familiarize themselves with the local laws to avoid any potential issues or misunderstandings.

What steps can I take to reduce the risk of encountering scams or fraudulent activities in Greece?

1. Research any organizations you are planning to work with before signing any agreements or transferring any payments.

2. Be wary of any offers that seem too good to be true, and do not send money or provide any personal information until you have independently verified the offer.

3. Be cautious when interacting with unknown people, especially if the conversation is initiated online or over the phone.

4. Avoid giving out your credit card or bank account information over the phone or online unless it is to a reputable and secure company you trust.

5. Use reputable payment services such as PayPal, Venmo, or bank transfer when conducting financial transactions.

6. Never transfer money to an individual who you don’t know and trust.

7. If you are considering investing money in a business, make sure that the business is registered with the Greek government and that all legal requirements have been met.

8. Do not respond to emails or letters from people claiming to be representatives of lottery or sweepstakes companies, as these are often scams targeting vulnerable people.

What are the local customs regarding interactions with strangers or making new acquaintances in Greece?

When interacting with strangers or making new acquaintances in Greece, it is important to adhere to local customs and etiquette. It is best to greet people with a warm handshake, direct eye contact and a friendly smile. Casual conversation is usually the norm, and it is also polite to inquire about one’s family. Gift-giving is also a common social custom when meeting someone new. It is also important to be aware of the sensitive political topics that are best avoided, such as Turkey or Macedonia. Finally, it is important to remember that Greeks are known for their hospitality, and when in doubt, it is always polite to err on the side of caution and politeness.

What transportation options are considered safer for travel within Greece?

The safest transportation options for travel within Greece are by private or shared transfer, private car hire, or public transportation including buses, trains, and ferries. For longer distances, consider taking a domestic flight. Avoid travelling by taxi since it can be dangerous.

Are there any cultural or religious events that may impact safety conditions in Greece?

Yes, there are several religious and cultural events that can affect safety conditions in Greece. The Orthodox Christian Easter celebrations, the Greek Independence Day Parade, the Epiphany celebration, and the Ramadan Iftar celebration are examples of some of the major events that may potentially have an impact on safety conditions in Greece. Additionally, various festivals and other celebrations related to history, food, wine, music, art, and culture can also impact safety conditions in Greece.

What are the local norms regarding the consumption of food and water to ensure a safe experience in Greece?

1. It is important to stay hydrated in Greece, especially during the hot summer months. Drink plenty of bottled water to stay hydrated.

2. Tap water in Greece is safe to drink, but it can have a different taste than what you’re used to at home, so bottled water is often the preferred option.

3. Greek cuisine is well known for its fresh ingredients and delicious flavors, so be sure to sample the variety of local dishes.

4. Greek restaurants may have different cultural norms around dining etiquette and tipping, so it’s important to familiarize yourself with local customs before eating out.

5. Street food is popular in Greece, but it’s important to be aware of the safety and hygiene standards of the food vendors you’d like to purchase from.

6. Make sure to wash your hands thoroughly before eating, and be mindful of what foods may cause allergic reactions or food poisoning if they’re not prepared properly.

How can I register with the U.S. embassy or consulate in Greece for updates and assistance during my stay?

The U.S. Embassy in Athens recommends that all U.S. citizens traveling to Greece enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). STEP is a free service that allows U.S. citizens and nationals traveling and living abroad to receive important information from the Embassy about safety conditions in their destination country and to receive assistance with their travel plans in case of an emergency. To enroll, please visit the website https://step.state.gov/.