Planning a trip to Greece is an exciting prospect for many. From the ancient ruins of Athens to the beautiful beaches of the islands, Greece offers a wealth of experiences for every traveler. Ensuring a safe and trouble-free journey involves more than just packing your bags; it begins with understanding the essential requirements for entry, including your Greek Travel Visa, and being aware of potential safety concerns. This guide provides important information to help you navigate your trip to Greece with confidence.
Understanding Potential Security Risks
While Greece is generally a safe country for tourists, it’s important to be informed about potential risks to ensure your personal safety and security. Like many European nations, Greece remains vigilant against the threat of terrorism.
Terrorism Awareness
It is a known fact that terrorist groups continue to strategize and potentially execute attacks in Europe. Travelers should be aware that locations popular with tourists, transportation hubs like airports and train stations, shopping areas, and government buildings are considered potential targets. Hotels, restaurants, religious sites, parks, large public events, schools, and other easily accessible locations also remain at risk. Maintaining a high level of awareness and vigilance in these and similar public places is crucial for your safety while traveling in Greece.
Strikes and Demonstrations: Being Prepared
Greece has a history of strikes, demonstrations, and work stoppages that can sometimes become disruptive and even violent. It is important to stay informed about current events and potential disruptions.
Staying Informed and Avoiding Disruptions
Domestic strikes and demonstrations can affect various sectors, including transportation, leading to interruptions in traffic, public transport, taxi services, and even airport and seaport operations. Before traveling to the airport or port, always confirm the status of your domestic and international flights or ferry services.
To stay informed, monitor local news outlets, consult with your hotel security, and regularly check the U.S. Embassy website and the Consular Section’s Facebook page for updates. Enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is also highly recommended as it allows the U.S. Embassy to send you important safety alerts.
Certain dates and locations are particularly prone to demonstrations. The annual November 17 demonstrations, for example, should be avoided, especially areas around the U.S. Embassy. University campuses have also been known to be used as gathering points for protests. Areas to be particularly aware of include Polytechnic University, Exarchia, Omonia, and Syntagma Squares in Athens, and Aristotle Square, Aristotle University, and the Kamara area in Thessaloniki. It’s important to know that violent groups may participate in public demonstrations, potentially leading to clashes with police and property damage.
Crime and Personal Safety
Petty crime, particularly targeting tourists, is a concern in Greece, especially in crowded tourist areas and on public transportation.
Protecting Yourself from Crime
Crimes like pick-pocketing and purse-snatching are common, especially at popular tourist attractions and on public transport like the metro. Thieves often use distraction techniques, such as creating a commotion or pushing, to steal belongings. Rental cars can also be targets for thieves looking to steal passports, valuables, and luggage. There have also been reports of alcohol-related assaults on tourists in some resort areas and bars.
To minimize your risk:
- Always be aware of your surroundings and exercise caution.
- Never leave bags unattended, especially on public transport (metro, airport train) or in vehicles.
- Avoid standing close to bus or train doors, as thieves often operate as doors open to quickly escape into crowds.
- Consume alcohol in moderation and stay in control.
- Never leave drinks unattended in bars or clubs.
- Be discreet when discussing travel plans or handling valuables in public.
- Use ATMs in well-lit, public locations to protect yourself from theft.
- Be cautious of online scams, especially those involving individuals posing as loved ones or romantic interests online.
If You Become a Victim of Crime
If you experience a crime, report it to the local police immediately. For U.S. citizens requiring assistance, contact the U.S. Embassy at (+30) 210-720-2414 or the emergency after-hours number (+30) 210-729-4444. Remember, local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.
The U.S. Embassy can provide various forms of assistance, including:
- Helping you find medical care.
- Assisting with reporting the crime to the police.
- Contacting family or friends with your consent.
- Providing information about the Greek criminal justice system.
- Offering a list of local attorneys.
- Providing information on victim compensation programs in the U.S.
- In cases of destitution, offering emergency loans for repatriation or limited medical support.
- Assisting with finding accommodation and arranging flights home in certain cases of destitution.
- Replacing a stolen or lost passport.
Domestic Violence
U.S. citizens who are victims of domestic violence can also contact the Embassy for help.
Natural Disasters and Safety
Greece is prone to natural disasters, including tremors, earthquakes, and forest fires, particularly during the summer.
Natural Disaster Preparedness
Tremors and earthquakes are a regular occurrence in Greece. Forest fires are common in the dry summer months and can lead to road closures. In the event of a natural disaster, it is critical to follow the instructions of local authorities. For information during emergencies, you can contact the General Secretariat for Civil Protection at 210-335-9900 (English speakers are available). Monitor the U.S. Embassy Athens website and Consular Facebook page for updates during emergencies.
Tourism and Safety Standards
The tourism industry in Greece, while vibrant, can be unevenly regulated. Safety inspections for equipment and facilities may not be consistently performed.
Exercise Caution in Tourist Activities
Hazardous areas or activities may not always be clearly marked with signs, and staff may not have proper training or certifications. In case of injury, advanced medical treatment is typically only available in or near major cities like Athens or Thessaloniki. Emergency responders may have limited access to areas outside major cities and may not be able to provide immediate advanced medical care. Purchasing medical evacuation insurance is strongly recommended for travelers to Greece. Consult resources for information on insurance providers that offer overseas coverage.
By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, you can significantly enhance your safety and enjoy a memorable trip to Greece. Remember to check visa requirements, including your greek travel visa needs, well in advance of your travel dates to ensure a smooth and secure journey.
