Staying Safe in Greece
Local Laws
It's a good idea to keep a copy of your passport with you when you're exploring Greece. Just a heads-up, you can't take pictures of military sites or any military personnel – it's against the law. Also, smoking inside is a no-go.
While same-sex relationships are perfectly legal, it's best to keep public displays of affection low-key, especially if you're venturing into the countryside. You also can't bring mace or pepper spray into the country.
When you're visiting historical or archaeological sites, please don't take anything, not even small items. If you do buy any antiquities, make sure to keep the receipts.
Greece has very strict rules about drugs, and the consequences for having them or dealing them are serious. It's also illegal to drive if you've been drinking or using drugs, and you can't use your mobile phone while you're driving either. All motorcycle riders need to wear a helmet.
You'll find that locals really appreciate it if you try to speak a few basic Greek phrases. When you meet people, a handshake is pretty standard, and close friends might greet each other with a kiss on both cheeks. Try to avoid gestures that could be considered offensive, like the 'Moutza' (which is basically showing an open palm towards someone).
If you're planning to visit religious sites, it's respectful to dress modestly, making sure your legs and shoulders are covered. Binge drinking isn't really the norm here; people tend to enjoy alcohol with meals and in moderation.
While it's not required, leaving a tip of about 10% in restaurants, taverns, and cafes is a nice gesture that's usually welcomed. It's also wise to have some cash on hand, particularly if you're traveling outside the main tourist spots.
LGBTQ+ Travellers
Greece has made significant advancements in LGBTQ+ rights, notably legalizing same-sex marriage and full adoption rights for same-sex couples in February 2024, making it the first Orthodox Christian-majority country to do so. The country provides strong legal protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, with anti-discrimination laws extending to various spheres, including employment, housing, education, and healthcare.
While major cities like Athens and popular islands such as Mykonos and Santorini are generally welcoming with vibrant LGBTQ+ scenes, visitors should be aware that social attitudes in rural areas can be more conservative, and public displays of affection may be less accepted. Despite legal progress, some social discrimination persists, and caution is advised, as evidenced by recent travel warnings due to isolated incidents.
Scams
When visiting Greece, it's good to be aware that a few common scams can pop up. You might meet some locals who are a bit too friendly, perhaps offering tours or suggestions out of the blue. While many are genuinely helpful, some might steer you towards places where prices are much higher than they should be.
When it comes to taxis, keep an eye out for drivers who might try to overcharge you or say their meter isn't working. It's always best to insist they use the meter, or consider using ride-sharing apps instead.
Near popular sights and ferry terminals, you might come across people selling fake tickets or ones that are supposedly discounted but aren't legitimate. Your best bet is to always buy your tickets directly from the official ticket booths.
In restaurants, it's wise to double-check your bill. Sometimes, you might find surprisingly high charges or items you didn't actually order. Looking at the menu beforehand for clear pricing can help prevent this.
You should also be mindful of scams like the "pigeon drop" or "messy accident." This is where someone might deliberately spill something on you, and while you're distracted by cleaning up, they or an accomplice might try to pickpocket you.
Lastly, be cautious if someone approaches you claiming to be police and asking to see your ID and money. Also, be wary of anyone offering you "free" items, as they often expect payment afterward.
Crime
When you're visiting Greece, you'll find it's a pretty safe place for travelers, with not much violent crime to worry about. The main things you might encounter are petty theft and pickpocketing. These tend to happen in places where there are a lot of people, like popular tourist attractions and on public transport, especially the metro.
Often, these thieves work together, using distractions to get to your things. It's also worth noting that rental cars can be targets for break-ins if you leave valuables inside.
To stay safe, it's a good idea to keep your belongings close and secure, particularly when you're in crowded spots. Never leave your bags unattended in public or in your car. Always be mindful of what's going on around you, wear smaller bags in front of you, and think about using a money belt for your most important items. Just be careful when you're using ATMs and try not to show off any expensive possessions.
