Greece

Greece

Use Normal Level of Caution

Greece, officially known as the Hellenic Republic, is located in southern Europe, bordering Albania, Turkey, Bulgaria, and Macedonia. Greece includes approximately 1400 islands, of which 227 are inhabited. The Aegean Sea lies to the east, the Ionian Sea to the west, and the Mediterranean Sea to the south. The population of Greece is about 10.7 million people.

The government of Greece is a parliamentary republic with a president as chief of state and a prime minister as head of government.

Greece is known for its ancient history which begins with the Bronze Age and the ancient cultures of the Mycenaeans and Minoans. Alexander the Great spread the Greek language and civilization all over the world. Athens was the cultural centre of the ancient culture known for art, literature, philosophical and political thought, and science.

Today Greece is a modern, developed country with a high standard of living. This country is a popular vacation spot with beautiful islands and beaches.

Currency EUR: Euro
Language Greek
Capital Athens
Recent Alerts 7
Latest Alert July 19, 2021 - COVID-19 Precautionary Measures in Greece (19 July Update)

Diseases To Be Aware Of

The diseases listed below are those which occur most often in Greece. Other, less frequently encountered diseases might be displayed within the Travel Alerts section if they have occurred recently.

Hepatitis B

There is a low risk for acquiring hepatitis B in Greece.

West Nile Fever

Outbreaks of West Nile virus have occurred in Northern Greece.

Malaria

Sporadic cases of malaria have been reported from Attica, Karditsa, Laconia, Viotia and Xanthi regions. No malaria reported in Athens.

Hepatitis A

There is a low risk for hepatitis A in Greece.

Rabies

Rabies in wild animals has been reported in the regions of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace, Epirus, Thessalia, Western and Central Macedonia in Greece. The rest of Greece is not considered to be a risk for rabies in animals.

Tick-Borne Encephalitis

There is a low risk in some areas of the country below 1,400 meters. The transmission season varies, and ticks are most active during early spring to late autumn (March to November).

Vaccinations to Consider

The following is a list of recommended vaccinations for travelling to Greece.

Hepatitis A Vaccine

There is a low risk of infection with hepatitis A for this country, however, the vaccination is recommended.

Hepatitis B Vaccine

The vaccination for hepatitis B is recommended.

Rabies Vaccine

The vaccination is recommended for travellers whose travel or work might bring them into contact with wild animals in the regions of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace, Epirus, Thessalia, Western and Central Macedonia in Greece. The rest of Greece is not considered to be a risk for rabies in animals.

Tick-Borne Encephalitis Vaccine

The vaccination for tick-borne encephalitis is not usually recommended for this country.

Medications to Consider

The following is a list of recommended medications for travelling to Greece.

Anti-malarial Drugs

The risk for malaria is very limited and confined only to the Lakonia district. No anti-malaria medication is recommended.

Safety and Security in Greece

Emergency Numbers

112

Personal Safety

Ensure all travel documents and valuables are kept safe as petty crimes, such as pick-pocketing, can occur in crowded urban areas and on public transportation. Avoid showing signs of affluence, such as expensive clothing or jewellery. Avoid parks and secluded areas after dark.

Women should remain vigilant and never accept rides or drinks from strangers or casual acquaintances as sexual assaults have occurred, particularly on the islands.

The incidence of road accidents is high in Greece. Road travel may be dangerous due to poor road conditions, challenging terrain, traffic congestion and reckless driving. Exercise extreme caution in rural areas where roads may be unpaved and unlit at night.

Do not take photos of military infrastructure or personnel.

Note that Greece is located in an active seismic zone and that forest fires are common between June and September.

Same-sex relations are legal in Greece and although public opinion towards LGBTI people is changing, LGBTI travellers may face some intolerance towards public displays of affection.

Areas To Avoid

Avoid border areas that are militarily sensitive, particularly the north-northwest zone.

Extreme Violence

Anarchists and militant groups have been involved in bomb and arson attacks in urban areas, including in Athens and Thessaloniki. As a result, Greece has heightened its security presence in public places.

Political Unrest

Due to recent economic turmoil and the imposition of further austerity measures, demonstrations have been occurring more frequently throughout Greece, particularly in Athens.

These strikes and demonstrations may affect transportation or public services and may become violent with little warning. Travellers should avoid demonstrations and other public gatherings, monitor local news reports, and follow the advice of local authorities.

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