Greece

Petty crime is a serious issue in tourist areas, including Monastiraki and Syntagma Square in central Athens.

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

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

Tourists' belongings have been targeted at their short-term rental accommodation, with thefts of valuables and passports occurring while they are out.

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
• research your accommodation carefully and pay attention to your surroundings when checking in, particularly for self check-in accommodation.

Tourist scams

Tourist scams exist, 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, 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, there's an expectation that the victim 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:

• Sexual assault and harassment

Alcohol

The national legal age for buying and drinking alcohol is 18.

A standard drink can contain more alcohol than in Australia. This can apply to both the volume and strength of the alcohol. Be aware of how much you are consuming.

Consider the risks when drinking alcoholic beverages, particularly drinks made with spirits.

Drink spiking

Methanol poisoning

Cyber security 

Terrorism is a threat worldwide. Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere and at any time. Be alert to possible threats, especially in public places. 

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
• the police

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 a terrorist incident, leave the area if it’s safe to do so and follow the instructions of local authorities. 

More information:

• Terrorism

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 other major cities, including Thessaloniki around Aristotelous Square, Egnatia Street, the Arch of Galerius and the campus of Aristotle University. Protesters and police could clash. Sometimes petrol bombs and fireworks are thrown by protesters, and police deploy tear gas, water cannons and flash bangs. 

Protests also occur on days of national or commemorative significance, including:

• 28 February - the anniversary of the 2023 Tempe rail disaster
• 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 sporting 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
• follow the advice of local authorities

Protests and strikes can disrupt taxi and ferry services and public transport. There may also be road closures. Monitor the media for news on protests or strikes that may impact your travel plans. Plan extra time for movements and be ready to change your travel plans if necessary.

More information:

• Protests and civil unrest

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.

Water activities 

Lifeguards operate at many Greek beaches from June to September. Riptides can lead to dangerous conditions at times. Check the local weather conditions before heading to the beach.

Be aware of and follow warning flags and signs. Most drownings occur on beaches without a lifeguard or outside of lifeguard hours.

Coral, urchins and jellyfish live in the waters off Greece. Always take care when entering the water and seek medical assistance if needed.

Greece experiences natural disasters and severe weather.

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

Earthquakes and volcanoes

Greece is in an active seismic zone and sometimes experiences significant earthquakes and volcanic activity. Earthquakes have occurred near the major tourist islands of Santorini and Crete. Frequent and sustained seismic activity occurred near the Cycladic islands in early 2025.

If you're in or near an affected area, monitor the media and follow the advice of local authorities, including any evacuation orders and emergency notifications sent by 112 to your phone.

More information:

• Earthquakes and tsunamis
• Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection announcements
• Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System

Fires

Wildfires occur during the extended summer period, from June to September. Wildfires have burned near cities and tourist locations including the islands of Rhodes, Crete and Evia, prompting evacuations. Fires can start with little warning and travel quickly. Fatalities have occurred. Avoid affected areas and follow the advice of local authorities. 

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. 

More information:

• Floods and fires
• There's a bushfire

Flooding

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.  

Natural disasters

If a natural disaster or severe weather happens:

• monitor local media and other sources
• keep informed about possible safety risks
• follow the advice of local authorities

More information:

• Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System

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

More information: contact the Greek National Organization of Medicines:

• By telephone: 0030 213 2040 395 / 285 / 225 / 000
• By email: clearance@eof.gr / relation@eof.gr 

Heatwaves

Heatwaves are frequent over the summer months. They can cause heat exhaustion, heat stroke and death. 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.  

Avoid hiking during heatwaves. If you do head out on a hike, don't go alone. Be sure to check the weather, plan your route, pack water, sunscreen and your phone, and tell someone where you're going and when you plan to be back.

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

Greece is experiencing an increase in Measles cases.

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

More information:

• Department of Health and Aged Care Measles Immunisation Service

Insect-borne diseases

Cases of West Nile virus (WNV) are increasing. 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

More information:

• National Public Health Organisation in Greece 

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.

Ask your doctor about health risks and vaccines before you go.

More information

• Infectious diseases

There’s no agreement between Australia and Greece for free healthcare. Tourists must pay for all medical care, even if they need to stay in hospital or be evacuated. This can be very expensive. Make sure your travel insurance covers you. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

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 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 fee for medical treatment at a hospital or medical centre. Friends and relatives are usually required to give or pay for around-the-clock care, including for tasks like helping you eat, wash and use the toilet.

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.

When you travel to another country, you must follow their laws. Even if they seem strict compared to Australia's. Before you go, learn about the local laws in that country.

The Australian Government is limited in how and when we can help if you're arrested overseas. We can't get you out of trouble or out of jail. Understand our limits. Read the Consular Services Charter.. 

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

Drugs

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

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs

Surrogacy

Commercial surrogacy is illegal in Greece.

More information:

• Going overseas for international surrogacy
• Surrogacy in Greece

Other laws

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 15
• 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

Drones

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. 

More information:

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

Dual nationality is legally recognised.

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 nationality.

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 nationality
• may be eligible for Greek nationality

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 relationships are legal but isn't widely accepted.

More information:

• Advice for LGBTQIA+ people

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.

More information:

• Visit Greece
• Embassy of Greece

The European Union's (EU) Entry/Exit System (EES) for registering all non-EU nationals, including Australians, travelling in or out of the Schengen area, has started.

European countries using the EES will gradually introduce the system at their external borders. Data collection will be introduced at border crossing points with full implementation by 10 April 2026.

After it is fully implemented, EES registration will replace the current system of manually stamping passports. ​

The registration process should only take a few minutes but there may be longer border queues.

When travelling into and out of the Schengen area, for short stays, you may need to 

• have your fingerprints and photo taken
• answer Schengen Border Code questions

This creates a digital record that registers your biometric details.

If you revisit the Schengen area within 3 years of creating your digital record, you'll only need to provide either your fingerprint or photograph at the border on entry and exit.

If you frequently travel to Schengen areas for work and/or leisure purposes, you must ensure that your total stay in the Schengen area is no more than 90 days in every 180 days. Be aware of immigration penalties and enforcement for exceeding the limit in any individual country you plan to travel to or through.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Before you travel, contact the nearest embassy or consulate for details on entry requirements .

More information:

• Visas and entry requirements in Europe and the Schengen Area

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.

Validity

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

Lost or stolen passport

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier 

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 nationality, you can only take up to 10,000 euros when leaving Greece.

Driving permit

Australian driver's licences are officially recognised as valid for use (digital driver’s licences may not be accepted). If you plan on driving, 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.
During peak season, severe traffic congestion occurs in the main cities and on the islands. 

Check your insurance covers car hire and using 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.

More information:

• Driving or riding
• Driving in Greece - European Commission
• Travel insurance

Quad bikes and motorcycles

Quad bike and motorcycle accidents regularly cause serious injuries and death to Australian visitors to Greece. 

Make sure you get full instructions and training before your activity.

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

Make sure the bike is in good condition. If you experience any issues with the bike's operation, return it to the rental company as soon as possible.

Riding quad bikes and motorcycles while intoxicated is illegal.

You need specific travel insurance for quad biking. It is defined as an extreme sport and is excluded from many policies. Always read the details of your insurance cover. Insurance sold by hire companies usually only covers third parties. It may not cover you for any injuries you sustain in an accident. 

It's likely the rental company will charge you for any damage to the bike, and you may face arrest if you don't pay.

Taxis

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.

Pedestrians

Drivers and motorcyclists often ignore traffic signals and drive through red lights. They rarely give way to pedestrians, including at pedestrian crossings.

Be very careful when crossing the road, including at traffic light controlled intersections and pedestrian crossings.

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

Footpaths are very narrow and often blocked. They are often made of tiles or marble and become very slippery when wet.

Sea travel

Ferries and large catamarans carry most visitors to the Greek islands. However, some services don't 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.  

Ferry services can be delayed or cancelled in bad weather, mainly due to strong winds. Check the forecast and reconfirm your departure with your travel provider if it looks like the weather may be a risk.

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.

More information:

• Going on a cruise
• Travelling by boat

Air travel

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

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

More information:

• Air travel

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

Fire and rescue services

Call 112.

Medical emergencies

Call 112.

Police

Call 112.

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.

The Australian Government aims to provide high quality consular assistance. There are limits to what we can do. Read the Consular Services Charter to understand how we can assist 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