Maximum Alerts / Greece

GreeceLevel 1/4

Level published by the State Department on 22.10.2025 · read 16 October 2026 · source checked daily

Greece — official level as of 16 October 2026: Level 1/4 ("Exercise Normal Precautions"), from the U.S. Department of State. Maximum Insurance covers this country: hospital settled directly, unlimited repatriation, EUR 1.5M, certificate on payment.

Four official readings
United StatesState Departmentsource ↗Our reference level — the one shown across this site
Is the whole country advised against?Nono restriction on the whole country
Level 1/4 — “Exercise Normal Precautions”levels 1 and 2 are advice to be careful, not travel restrictions
FranceFrance Diplomatiesource ↗Added on top of the U.S. level, under its own rules: red or orange AREAS
Is the whole country advised against?Nono restriction on the whole country
our reading: no area of the country is classified red or orange
United KingdomFCDOsource ↗Added on top of the U.S. level, under its own rules: travel statuses
Is the whole country advised against?Nono restriction on the whole country
our reading: no travel advised against
source reviewed 11 August 2026
SwitzerlandFDFAsource ↗Advisory cited by the Maximum policy
Is the whole country advised against?Nono restriction on the whole country
our reading: the FDFA advises against no travel
The four readings on record agree: no restriction on the whole country.Our comparison reading: 27 September 2026

All 207 countries compared, advisory by advisory →

How we read these four advisories

Every country has its own scale, so we ask them all the same question: is the whole country advised against?

An advisory covering only areas of the country does not raise the answer: it stays “No”, and the area is shown in the relevant column.

The level shown on this page — and across this site — is the one published by the U.S. State Department, from 1 (normal precautions) to 4 (do not travel). France and the United Kingdom publish their own advisories, with their own rules: they add to that level, they do not replace it.

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Level 1/4 — Exercise Normal Precautions Checked on 16 October 2026 · U.S. State Department
Country briefing
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Where are you right now in Greece?

Doctors — Athens13
DrΚέντρο Υγείας Αθήνας0.6 km

58 Ακαδημίας Αθήνα

Google MapsDirections
DrΠολυιατρείο Αττικής0.7 km

34 Χαριλάου Τρικούπη Αθήνα

Google MapsDirections
DrΒασιλική Σκαλαφούρη2.4 km

37 Δυρραχίου Αθήνα
gynaecology
Mo,We,Th 14:00-19:30; Tu,Fr 12:00-17:30

DrΑΚΕΣΤΩΡ Α.Ε.2.6 km

44 Δελβίνου Αθήνα

Google MapsDirections
DrΓεωργία Ι. Χρόνη2.6 km

40 Δελβίνου Αθήνα

DrΑφροδίτη-Αμαρυλλίς Αϊβαλιώτη (Παθολόγος)2.6 km

near Αυλώνος
Mo-Fr 09:00-12:00,17:00-20:00

Google MapsDirections
DrΠρόληψις2.6 km

88Α Μιχαλακοπούλου Αθήνα

DrΤσολαρίδης Παύλος2.7 km

201 Λεωφόρος Αλεξάνδρας Αθήνα

DrΚέντρο Υγείας Βύρωνα3.6 km

near Κορυτσάς

Google MapsDirections
DrΚοινωνικό Ιατρείο Φαρμακείο Αλληλεγγύης Νέας Σμύρνης4.6 km

67 Αμισού Νέα Σμύρνη

DrΙατρείο5.0 km
Google MapsDirections
DrApex5.6 km

195 Αγίου Δημητρίου

DrPapastavrou Ear, Nose & Throat Services6.7 km

264 ΙΑΣΩ GENERAL, Μεσογείων & Πυθαγόρα Χολαργός
otolaryngology

Pharmacies — Athens40
+Γ. Κ. Μπακάκος0.1 km

3 Αγίου Κωνσταντίνου Αθήνα
Mo,We 08:00-14:00; Tu,Th-Fr 08:00-14:00,17:30-20:00

+Γιώργος Κ. Τσάκας0.3 km

24 Χαλκοκονδύλη Αθήνα

Google MapsDirections
+Θ. Καπετανέλλη0.4 km

near Κλεισόβης
Mo,We 08:00-14:00; Tu,Th-Fr 08:00-14:00,17:30-20:00

Google MapsDirections
+Καρολίνα Ποθουλάκη0.7 km

18 Μπουμπουλίνας Αθήνα

Google MapsDirections
+Pharmacie0.7 km

2 Στουρνάρη

+Pharmacie0.7 km

1 Σπύρου Τρικούπη Αθήνα

+Ζαβιτσάνος Θεοδόσιος Ξ.0.8 km

64 Χαριλάου Τρικούπη

+Κάμπουρας Κωνσταντίνος Ν.0.8 km

40 Ηπείρου

+Pharmacie0.9 km

14 Μαυροματαίων Αθήνα
Mo,We 08:00-14:00; Tu,Th-Fr 08:00-14:00,17:30-20:00

+Π. ΣΠΗΛΙΟΠΟΥΛΟΥ0.9 km

near Εμμανουήλ Μπενάκη

Google MapsDirections
+Μπουζινέκης Κτηνιατρικά Ομοιοπαθητικά1.1 km

48 Λεωφόρος Αλεξάνδρας Αθήνα
Mo,We 08:00-14:00; Tu,Th-Fr 08:00-14:00,17:30-20:00

Google MapsDirections
+Καρδάση καιτη1.2 km

Χαριλάου Τρικούπη

Google MapsDirections
+Βασιλική Χ. Καλύβα1.2 km

14 Σκουφά Αθήνα

Google MapsDirections
+Μαντίδου Μαρία1.3 km

near Χαριλάου Τρικούπη

Google MapsDirections
+Ευμορφία Δημητρίου1.3 km

near Σεβαλιέ

Google MapsDirections
+Pharmacie1.3 km

5 Σωτήρος Αθήνα

+Ελίνα Βουράκη Γκούμα1.3 km

near Σκουφά

Google MapsDirections
+Αθανασοπούλου Αγγελική1.4 km

70 Λεωφόρος Αλεξάνδρας;Αλεξάνδρας
Mo,We 08:00-14:00; Tu,Th-Fr 08:00-14:00,17:30-20:00

Google MapsDirections
+Θ. Δινέρης1.4 km

Αλκαμένους

Google MapsDirections
+Δανιήλ Τσεπέρης1.5 km

166 Χαριλάου Τρικούπη

Google MapsDirections
+Ντουζένης1.6 km

10 Διονυσίου Αρεοπαγίτου Αθήνα

Google MapsDirections
+Pharmacie1.7 km

192 Ιπποκράτους Αθήνα

+Π. Θεοφανόπουλος1.7 km

near Χαριλάου Τρικούπη
Mo,We 08:00-14:00; Tu,Th-Fr 08:00-14:00,17:30-20:00

Google MapsDirections
+Pharmacie1.8 km

11 Καβαλλότι

+Ζάννιας1.9 km

120 Αλεξάνδρας
Mo,We 08:00-14:00; Tu,Th-Fr 08:00-14:00,17:30-20:00

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+Διβριώτη Ευφροσύνη1.9 km

10-12 Πεστών

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+Θωμάς & Δάφνη Ευαγγελογιάννη2.1 km

near Αγίου Μελετίου

+Ελένη Αγγιστριώτη & Σία2.1 km

near Σηλυβρίας

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+Σαμαρά2.1 km

146Β Αλεξάνδρας
Mo,We 08:00-14:00; Tu,Th-Fr 08:00-14:00,17:30-20:00

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+Κωνσταντίνος Θεοχάρης2.1 km

near Πατριάρχου Ιερεμίου
Mo,We 08:00-14:00; Tu,Th-Fr 08:00-14:00,17:30-20:00

Google MapsDirections
+Διαμαντή Ελευθερία Γ.2.1 km

52 Δράμας Αθήνα
Mo 08:00-14:00; Tu 08:00-14:00,17:30-20:00; We 08:00-14:00; Th 08:00-14:00,17:30

+Αντωνάκου - Πανταζόπουλος2.2 km

near Δυρραχίου

Google MapsDirections
+Μαραγκός2.2 km

119 Αλεξάνδρας

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+Pharmacie2.2 km

Πλατεία Πλαστήρα

+Τσούφη Αθηνά2.2 km

29 Βασιλέως Γεωργίου Β΄
Mo-Sa 11:30-22:00

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+Pharmacie2.3 km

Ευτυχίδου

+Φαροπούλου Κασσανδρή2.3 km

near Μεγαλουπόλεως

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+Χουλιάρα2.3 km

18

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+Pharmacie2.3 km

4 Ιθώμης

+Pharmacie2.3 km

31-33 Μιχαλακοπούλου Αθήνα

Official — Athens8
Consulates and embassies 7
AΠρεσβεία του Μεξικού1.4 km

14 Πλατεία Φιλικής Εταιρίας Αθήνα

AΠρεσβεία της Αυστρίας1.5 km

4 Λεωφόρος Βασιλίσσης Σοφίας Αθήνα
Mo-Fr 08:00-16:00

AΠρεσβεία της Βραζιλίας1.5 km

23 Βασιλίσσης Σοφίας Αθήνα
Mo-Fr 09:00-15:00

AΠρεσβεία της Σουηδίας1.8 km

7 Βασιλέως Κωνσταντίνου Αθήνα

AΠρεσβεία της Ολλανδίας1.8 km

5-7 Leoforos Vassileos Konstantinou Athene
We,Fr 09:00-12:00; Mo,Tu,Th 09:00-12:00,14:00-15:00

Aπρεσβεία της Τσεχικής Δημοκρατίας4.9 km

6 Γεωργίου Σεφέρη Palaio Psychiko-Athens
Tu-Fr 08:30-17:00

AΠροξενείο Τζαμάικας7.6 km

86 Δωδεκανήσου Πετρούπολη

Town halls 1
AΔημαρχείο Ηρακλείου Αττικής7.7 km

2 Σ. Καραγιώργη Ηράκλειο

Police — Athens10
PΑστυνομικό Τμήμα Εξαρχείων1.0 km

near Τηλεμάχου

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PΑστυνομικό Τμήμα Αγίου Παντελεήμονα1.4 km

85 Μιχαήλ Βόδα Αθήνα

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PΑστυνομικό Τμήμα Συντάγματος1.8 km

near Μιμνέρμου

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PΑστυνομικό Τμήμα Κολωνού2.0 km

3 Λαοδάμαντος Αθήνα

PΑστυνομικό Τμήμα Αμπελοκήπων3.1 km

14 Σεβαστουπόλεως Αθήνα

PΑστυνομικό Τμήμα Βύρωνα4.0 km

25 Αγίου Δημητρίου Βύρωνας

Google MapsDirections
PΑστυνομικό Τμήμα Δάφνης - Υμηττού4.1 km

20 Λυσίππου

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PΑστυνομικό Τμήμα Νέας Σμύρνης4.6 km

99 Νικολάου Πλαστήρα Νέα Σμύρνη

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PΑΤ Ιλίου4.8 km

near Κωστή Παλαμά

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PΑστυνομικό Τμήμα Παλαιού Φαλήρου7.4 km

8 Αίαντος Παλαιό Φάληρο

Google MapsDirections
Transport — Athens11
Airports 1
TΑεροδρόμιο Μεγαρέων31.8 km
Google MapsDirections
Stations 8
TΠανεπιστήμιο0.6 km

near Ρήγα Φεραίου

Google MapsDirections
TΜεταξουργείο0.6 km

near Πλατεία Καραϊσκάκη

Google MapsDirections
TΘησείο1.0 km

near Αδριανού

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TΒικτώρια1.1 km

near Χέυδεν

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TΣταθμός Λαρίσης1.1 km

near Θεόδωρου Δηληγιάννη

Google MapsDirections
TΚεραμεικός1.6 km

near Γαργηττίων

Google MapsDirections
TΑκρόπολη1.7 km

near Αθανάσιου Διάκου

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TΑττική1.8 km

near Λιοσίων

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Bus 1
TΚΤΕΛ - Σταθμός Υπεραστικών Λεωφορείων (Λιοσίων)3.0 km

260 Λιοσίων Αθήνα

Taxis 1
TVictoria Taxi station1.0 km

near 3ης Σεπτεμβρίου

Google MapsDirections

The next 7 days around Athens Europe/AthensMET Norway ↗read 16.10.2026

Fri 16 Oct9–19°rain · 0.9 mm
Sat 17 Oct10–16°heavy rain · 16.4 mm
Sun 18 Oct10–18°mainly clear
Mon 19 Oct10–20°partly cloudy
Tue 20 Oct11–21°mainly clear · 0.3 mm
Wed 21 Oct13–20°partly cloudy
Thu 22 Oct14–20°overcast · 0.3 mm

Forecast: MET Norway (Norwegian Meteorological Institute, CC BY 4.0), grouped by day and formatted by Maximum.

Nearest river dischargeOpen-Meteo ↗updated 16.10.2026 · read 16.10.2026

10-16 2.0 · 10-17 2.7 · 10-18 2.3 · 10-19 1.8 · 10-20 1.6 · 10-21 1.6 · 10-22 1.5 m³/s

Simulated discharge: Open-Meteo.com (CC BY 4.0), data rounded and formatted by Maximum. Contains modified Copernicus Emergency Management Service information 2026. For information only: this is not a flood warning; only national or regional authorities issue those.

No geolocated event in this country at this reading.

No geolocated UCDP incident in this country.

No news located around Athens in this reading.

The country feed →

National numbers (Wikidata, 2026 reading). On site, call local emergency services first, then Maximum: the insurer sends its payment guarantee to the hospital.

Recommended vaccines and medicines8

Routine vaccinesCDC ↗

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include Chickenpox (Varicella) Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis (DTaP, Tdap, or Td) Flu (influenza) Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) Polio Shingles

COVID-19CDC ↗

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information.

Hepatitis ACDC ↗

Consider hepatitis A vaccination for most travelers. It is recommended for travelers who will be doing higher risk activities, such as visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas where a traveler might get infected through food or water. It is recommended for travelers who plan on eating street food.

Hepatitis BCDC ↗

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Greece. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Greece.

MeaslesCDC ↗

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

MonkeypoxCDC ↗

Monkeypox vaccination is recommended for any adult who anticipates any of the following activities during travel: Sexual or intimate contact with a new partner Sexual or intimate contact at a commercial sex venue, like a sex club or bathhouse Sexual or intimate contact in exchange for money, goods, drugs, or other trade Sexual or intimate contact in association with a large public event, such as a rave, party, or…

RabiesCDC ↗

Dogs infected with rabies are not commonly found in Greece. If rabies exposures occur while in Greece, rabies vaccines are typically available throughout most of the country.

Yellow FeverCDC ↗

CDC recommendations: Vaccine is not recommended. Country entry requirements: Vaccine is not required. Updated April 23, 2025

CDC Travelers' Health, re-read weekly — the recommendation depends on your age, vaccines and itinerary: confirm it with a doctor or a travel clinic 4 to 6 weeks before departure.CDC ↗read 10.10.2026

Diseases without a vaccine — how they spread

Avoid contaminated food and water
  • Leptospirosis — Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud Drinking water or eating foo
Avoid bugs
  • Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic fever — Tick bite  Touching the body fluids of a person or animal infected with CCHF
  • Leishmaniasis — Sand fly bite
  • Tick-borne Encephalitis — Tick bite
Airborne & droplet
  • Hantavirus — Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents Bite from an infected rodent Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus
  • Tuberculosis (TB) — Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Risks in figures

Tuberculosis — cases per 100,000
Greece4 2024
Switzerland5 2024
France8 2024

Low incidence, comparable to Europe.

Children vaccinated against measles (%)
Greece91 2024
Switzerland96 2024
France95 2024

Average coverage: two up-to-date MMR doses remain the rule.

World Bank — latest published valuedata.worldbank.org ↗read 10.10.2026

The official advice, in full

Source: France Diplomatie (health advice, in French).

In brief
  • Consult a doctor or international vaccination center for health assessments and recommendations, including vaccinations, and consider a dental check-up before departure.
  • Pack only essential medications in their original packaging with an international common name prescription, and verify their legality in the destination country.
  • Ensure all French vaccinations are up-to-date, particularly for diphtheria, tetanus, polio, and measles, as vaccination records may be requested upon arrival.
  • Protect yourself from mosquito-borne illnesses like West Nile Virus by wearing long clothing, using repellent, and securing your accommodation.
  • Take precautions against tick-borne Lyme disease in rural and forested areas from April to October by wearing protective clothing and checking your skin.
  • Carry sufficient prescription medication in original containers with a doctor's letter, and be aware that controlled substances require special permits.

Faithful summary of the official texts below, which prevail.

WHO: no outbreak reported for this country in the last 24 months (Disease Outbreak News).who.int ↗read 15.10.2026

FDFA (Switzerland) — medical care, in French

Medical care

Les soins médicaux sont assurés à Athènes et dans les grandes villes. Dans certaines régions, notamment sur les îles (y compris celles très fréquentées par les touristes), il manque toutefois des moyens de transport et du personnel médical. Pour tout traitement médical, la carte européenne d’assurance maladie (CEAM) doit être présentée. Toutefois, les visites chez des médecins doivent souvent être payées sur place. Lors de séjours de longue durée dans un hôpital public, il est recommandé que les proches participent aux soins de la personne suivie médicalement ou qu'on engage à ses propres frais du personnel soignant (les hôpitaux disposent en général d’une liste). Quant aux hôpitaux privés, ils disposent de services de soins complets. Institution commune LAMal Si vous prenez régulièrement des médicaments , emportez-en une quantité suffisante avec vous. N’oubliez toutefois pas que l’importation de médicaments contenant des stupéfiants (p. ex. méthadone) ou l’importation de substances utilisées pour traiter des troubles psychiques est soumise à des prescriptions spéciales dans de nombreux pays. Le cas échéant, renseignez-vous à ce sujet, avant le départ, auprès de la représentation étrangère compétente (ambassade ou consulat) et consultez la rubrique Liens voyages , où vous trouverez, entre autres, de plus amples informations sur ce thème ainsi que sur la médecine du voyage en général. Les informations concernant la propagation de maladies et les éventuelles mesures de protection à prendre sont fournies par le personnel médical et les centres de vaccination. Liens voyages

France Diplomatiesource ↗updated 15.09.2026 · read 15.10.2026

Recommandations pour la santé

Consulter si besoin son médecin traitant ou un centre de vaccinations internationales (médecine des voyages) pour faire une évaluation de son état de santé et bénéficier de recommandations sanitaires, notamment sur les vaccinations. Consulter éventuellement son dentiste avant le départ.

Constituer sa pharmacie personnelle en conséquence et n’emporter dans ses bagages que les médicaments strictement nécessaires ; ne jamais consommer de médicaments achetés dans la rue (risque de contrefaçons). Les médicaments doivent être dans leur emballage d’origine avec les étiquettes originales, accompagnés d’une ordonnance portant le nom des médicaments en dénomination commune internationale (DCI). Il est indispensable de vérifier que les médicaments concernés sont autorisés dans le pays visité : pour plus d’informations, consulter la fiche Informations pratiques .

Vaccinations

Les vaccins recommandés en France sont également indispensables lors d’un séjour à l’étranger : les maladies qu’ils préviennent circulent partout dans le monde, parfois même plus fréquemment qu’en France. Avant tout départ, le voyageur (adulte et enfant) doit donc d’abord s’assurer d’être à jour du calendrier vaccinal français, en particulier des vaccins contre la diphtérie, le tétanos, la poliomyélite, la coqueluche mais aussi contre la rougeole. Le carnet de vaccination peut être demandé à l’arrivée de certains pays.

Maladies transmises par les moustiques

Fièvre du Nil occidental (West Nile Virus)

La fièvre du Nil occidental ( West Nile Virus ) est une maladie des oiseaux transmise à l’humain par l’intermédiaire de piqûres de moustiques infectés.

La maladie est souvent asymptomatique ou bénigne (fièvre, maux de tête, douleurs musculaires, frissons, éruption cutanée) mais dans de rares cas, des complications de type neurologique peuvent survenir (méningite, encéphalite) et entrainer des séquelles voire le décès.

Il n’existe pas de vaccin contre cette maladie pour les humains, la prévention repose uniquement sur la protection contre les piqûres de moustiques.

Pour plus d’informations, consulter le site de l'Institut Pasteur et le site du ministère de la Santé .

Les autorités locales recensent une augmentation du nombre de personnes infectées au cours de l’été 2026, notamment en Attique et dans le nord du pays et ont mis en place des opérations de pulvérisation d’insecticides dans les zones concernées.

Autres maladies

Maladie de Lyme

La maladie ou borreliose de Lyme est une infection due à une Borrelia, bactérie transmise par piqure de tique. Toutes les tiques ne sont pas porteuses et d’autres espèces de bactéries peuvent aussi être transmises. L’habitat naturel des tiques comprend les herbes hautes des prairies, les régions boisées et humides, mais aussi les jardins. L’infection est souvent asymptomatique mais elle peut parfois provoquer une maladie invalidante comprenant une atteinte cutanée, puis articulaire et neurologique. Le traitement repose sur des antibiotiques adaptés qui sont d’autant plus efficaces qu’ils sont débutés précocement. La prévention repose sur la protection contre les piqûres de tiques et sur l’examen rigoureux de la peau du corps et du cuir chevelu après toute promenade en milieu rural et particulièrement en forêt. Il est recommandé de consulter un médecin en cas d’apparition d’une éruption cutanée au pourtour d’une piqure de tique.

Pour plus d’informations, consulter les sites du ministère de la Santé : protection contre les tiques , maladie de Lyme et de l'Institut Pasteur .

Un risque existe dans certaines régions rurales et forestières, notamment d’avril à octobre.

Leishmaniose

La leishmaniose est une maladie parasitaire transmise par la piqûre d’insectes infectés appelés phlébotomes et qui sont surtout actifs la nuit. La transmission entre êtres humains est exceptionnelle. La maladie se présente sous trois formes principales : cutanée (lésions de la peau), muco-cutanée (détruit les muqueuses du nez et de la bouche) et viscérale (atteinte grave des organes internes, souvent mortelle sans traitement).

Il n’existe aucun vaccin ni traitement préventif. La prévention repose sur la protection contre les piqûres, notamment par l’utilisation de…

Mesures générales de prévention des piqûres de moustiques
  • Porter des vêtements longs et couvrants ;
  • Appliquer des produits répulsifs cutanés sur les zones découvertes du corps ;
  • Protéger son logement (moustiquaires imprégnées d’insecticide, diffuseurs électriques, serpentins à l’extérieur, climatisation, etc.) ;
  • Détruire les sites potentiels de reproduction des moustiques (récipients d’eau stagnante comme les soucoupes sous les pots de fleurs, les gouttières, les pneus, etc.).

Pour plus d’informations, consulter le site du ministère en charge de la Santé et le site de l'Assurance Maladie .

Mesures d’hygiène alimentaire

L’eau du robinet est généralement potable, sauf dans les régions reculées et certaines îles. En cas de doute, il convient de s’adresser aux autorités locales.

Health — Foreign OfficeForeign Office ↗updated 11.08.2026 · read 15.10.2026

Health — Foreign Office

Before you travel check that:

  • your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
  • you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Dial 112 or 166 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance or medical assistance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

  • check the latest vaccine recommendations for Greece
  • see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

See what health risks you’ll face in Greece .

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Greece. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro .

Medication

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines .

Changes to your routine when travelling, such as later nights, coping with heat and changes to your diet can have an impact on your medication. See the Summer Proof Your Health campaign for more information.

Pharmacies across Greece stock a good supply of medicines, but there are strict rules around dispensing certain medicines, including antibiotics. Bring prescription medicines with you and carry a letter from your doctor stating the quantity required during your stay. Keep the medication in the original container with the prescription label. The name on the prescription must match the name on your passport.

Prescriptions for uninsured individuals are only dispensed from:

  • pharmacies at hospitals
  • pharmacies registered with the National Organisations for the Provision of Health Services (EOPYY)

If you need to take controlled medicines in Greece, contact the Organisation Against Drugs (OKANA) .

For more information, contact the Greek National Organisation of Medicines.

Telephone: 0030 213 2040 395 or 0030 213 2040 285 between 1pm and 2pm on weekdays.

Email: clearance@eof.gr

Healthcare in Greece

Treatment and facilities are generally good on the mainland, but may be limited on the islands. The standards of nursing and aftercare, particularly in the state sector, is not to the usual standard of the UK. The public ambulance service is basic. There are serious shortages of ambulances on some islands.

If you are uninsured, you may not be able to get medical treatment or diagnostic tests from private doctors in Greece, only from public hospitals and primary healthcare centres.

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Greece where some staff will speak English. On some Greek islands, local staff in bars or airports may direct you to private first aid or medical centres rather than to the public hospital.

There is also information if you’re hospitalised in Greece .

Health insurance cards

To get medically necessary state healthcare in Greece, you need a Global Health Insurance Card ( GHIC ) or a European Health Insurance Card ( EHIC ).

The NHS’s getting healthcare abroad webpage has details about:

  • how to apply for a…

TravelHealthPro ↗

Places read from OpenStreetMap, within a circle of about 12 km: phone, email, address, website and hours when the source publishes them. No customer reviews, that source has none. Straight-line distances.

The comparator

What is your current insurance?

The verdict
No area exclusion at this level — but three written limits: deductible and prior approval, 90-day cap, advance under conditions.
Exact wording (official French text): « Des Voyages vers des pays où Votre gouvernement a conseillé de ne pas voyager » — general exclusion n° 11, applying to ALL travel covers.
Line by line
Cover
With your Amex Platinum
Territorial exclusion at this level
No territorial exclusion at this level — the clause targets countries your government advised against travelling to
Covered — the core of the Maximum contract
Medical expenses cap abroad
€2M — but 10% deductible (€150–500), insurer's prior approval, trip paid with the Card
EUR 1.5M emergency medical expenses
Hospital deposit before admission
Advance possible — prior approval required before care
Direct payment guarantee: the insurer settles the hospital
Trip duration covered
Maximum 90 consecutive days per trip
12 months, unlimited trips
Visa certificate (incl. Schengen)
Not provided
Official named certificate, issued on payment

Notices vary by bank and vintage — yours prevails. On the right: the Maximum contract (public documents).

Where to go, where not to

No region is advised against by the official readings checked (Global Affairs Canada, Foreign Office and France Diplomatie): the national advice applies everywhere.

In brief
  • National level “Exercise normal security precautions”; no region named (advisory of 09.10.2026). Global Affairs Canada
  • Advises against neither the country nor any area (reviewed 11.08.2026). Foreign Office
  • The security page lists no red or orange area (page of 05.03.2026). France Diplomatie
  • Level 1 of 4: exercise normal precautions (advisory of 22.10.2025). State Department

The levels each government publishes, unsummarised: their texts, linked below, prevail.

Athens (Attica) is in no region these official readings advise against.The red dot on the map. Change the city at the top of the page to read the map from another point.
West Macedonia — Country-wide vigilanceEpirus — Country-wide vigilanceCentre Macedonia — Country-wide vigilanceEast Macedonia and Thrace — Country-wide vigilanceMount Athos — Country-wide vigilanceThessalia — Country-wide vigilanceCentral Greece — Country-wide vigilanceAttica — Country-wide vigilancePeloponnese — Country-wide vigilanceWest Greece — Country-wide vigilanceCrete — Country-wide vigilanceSouth Aegean — Country-wide vigilanceNorth Aegean — Country-wide vigilanceIonian Islands — Country-wide vigilanceAthens
Country-wide vigilanceAthensNone of the readings checked (Global Affairs Canada, Foreign Office and France Diplomatie) names a region: the whole country keeps the “country-wide vigilance” colour. Boundaries: Natural Earth.
Country-wide vigilance
the whole country, including Athens
So:

no region is advised against by these readings; the trip follows the national advice. A new regional advisory would call for a new, written decision.

US22.10.2025
Level 1 of 4Exercise normal precautions
FR05.03.2026
No red or orange areaThe security page lists no red or orange area.Your region (Attica): not covered
GB11.08.2026
No area coveredYour region (Attica): not covered
CA09.10.2026
Exercise normal security precautionsYour region (Attica): not covered
Maximum excludes no area of the country.The VIP Pack covers care and repatriation there. Still enforceable: sanctions and embargoes, and a country already at war at departure. Extraction and security belong to the VIP Pack Extreme, upon eligibility. See My cover

Global Affairs Canada — Open Government Licence – Canada (09.10.2026) · Foreign Office — Open Government Licence v3.0 · France Diplomatie (05.03.2026) · Natural Earth

No located event in this reading.

What is flagged right nowForeign Office ↗updated 11.08.2026 · read 15.10.2026

Wildfires in Greece There is a high risk of wildfires during the summer season from April to October. For advice, visit the wildfires section on the Safety and security page .

Last change: Updated information on European Entry-Exit System (EES) (‘Entry requirements’ page).

Greece - Level 1: Exercise Normal PrecautionsState Department ↗updated 22.10.2025 · read 16.10.2026

Updated 22.10.2025

Exercise normal precaution in Greece .

Greece is a generally safe destination for travelers. Petty crime is common, especially in popular tourist locations. Stay aware of your surroundings. Large-scale demonstrations related to the local political situation may occur with little notice. Demonstrations may disrupt transportation and other essential services.

Nearest river dischargeOpen-Meteo ↗updated 16.10.2026 · read 16.10.2026

10-16 2.0 · 10-17 2.7 · 10-18 2.3 · 10-19 1.8 · 10-20 1.6 · 10-21 1.6 · 10-22 1.5 m³/s

Simulated discharge: Open-Meteo.com (CC BY 4.0), data rounded and formatted by Maximum. Contains modified Copernicus Emergency Management Service information 2026. For information only: this is not a flood warning; only national or regional authorities issue those.

Where, exactly?

What the national level does not tell you

The level is national. Risk areas are in the state advisories below.

  • U.S. State Department — the full advisory details the regions concerned and the reasons (crime, terrorism, kidnapping, civil unrest) (read the advisory)
  • Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (United Kingdom) — the United Kingdom advises against no travel to this country · reviewed 11 August 2026
    Last announced change : « Updated information on European Entry-Exit System (EES) (‘Entry requirements’ page). » (read the advisory)
  • France Diplomatie — France classifies no area of this country as red or orange (see the Security page)

No major event in progress is located in this country at this morning's check.

Safety in figures
Intentional homicides per 100,000 people
Greece0.8 2023
Switzerland0.6 2023
France1.3 2023
Road traffic deaths per 100,000 people
Greece8.3 2019
Switzerland2.2 2019
France5.1 2019

Reading: The homicide rate is in the same range as Switzerland or France. On the road, 4 times more deaths than in Switzerland: road crashes are the leading cause of death of healthy travellers (CDC) — seat belt, no night driving, a driver or a taxi from a rank.

World Bank (UNODC for homicides, WHO for roads) — latest published valuedata.worldbank.org ↗read 10.10.2026

What we locate on the map are events in progress that have real coordinates: USGS earthquakes, GDACS disasters, NOAA storms and open NASA EONET events. Hover a dot for details, click to open it in this briefing.

I travel on a passportEach government writes for its own nationals. The advisory that counts for you — and for your policy's clauses — is your country's.

French passport — France Diplomatie

In brief
  • The entire country is under normal vigilance, but pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins are frequent, especially in Athens and on transport to/from airports.
  • Travellers should not carry large sums of money or valuables, and should keep travel documents secure, carrying photocopies instead.
  • Greece has a high seismic risk, with frequent earthquakes; travellers should heed tsunami alerts and follow local authorities' instructions during seismic events.
  • A daily fire risk map is updated by Greek authorities and shared on their social media; travellers should consult this daily.
  • Demonstrations occur regularly in Athens and Thessaloniki, particularly in central areas; travellers should avoid gathering places.
  • Travellers engaging in outdoor activities should check weather conditions, ensure physical fitness, and be aware of risks like heatwaves and stray dogs.

Faithful summary of the official texts below, which prevail.

The security page lists no red or orange area.France Diplomatie ↗updated 15.09.2026 · read 15.10.2026

Grèce

- Présentation de la Grèce

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Zones de vigilance

Dernière actualisation le 05/03/2026, information toujours valable à la date du jour

L’ensemble du pays est placé en zone de vigilance normale.

Risque de vol à la tire ou d'effraction des véhicules

Les vols à la tire et les effractions de véhicules sont fréquents, notamment durant la période estivale et dans les lieux touristiques :

  • à Athènes, particulièrement dans les quartiers à proximité de l’Acropole, à Monastiraki, Filopappou et Omonia,
  • dans les transports, en particulier sur les trajets vers/depuis l’aéroport (métro à Athènes, bus à Thessalonique).

Il est vivement conseillé de suivre les recommandations suivantes : • Ne pas transporter de sommes importantes d’argent et laisser tout objet de valeur dans un lieu sécurisé (ex : coffre d’hôtel) ; • Laisser ses documents de voyage et d’identité en lieu sûr et se munir de photocopies lors de ses déplacements ; • Ne pas transporter tous ses papiers et son argent dans un seul sac et sortir avec le minimum nécessaire ; • Veiller à ses effets personnels dans les lieux publics et dans les transports en commun (en particulier depuis/vers les aéroports) ; • Se munir du numéro d’urgence permettant de faire opposition à une carte bancaire volée ou perdue ; • Privilégier le stationnement de son véhicule (notamment locations touristiques) dans des parkings sécurisés. Ne pas laisser des objets de valeur ou ses papiers dans le véhicule.

  • Contracter une assurance voyage , assortie d’une garantie de rapatriement, et conserver sur soi le numéro de téléphone de sa compagnie d’assurance.
Risques naturels

Séismes, tsunamis et risques volcaniques

Le risque sismique est élevé en Grèce. Les tremblements de terre sont fréquents dans tout le pays.

Le risque volcanique est limité aux volcans actifs de Santorin et Nisyros et leurs alentours immédiats.

Des informations actualisées sur les événements sismiques sont disponibles sur le site du Centre de sismologie euro-méditerranéen (CSEM) ainsi que ses applications mobiles ( iOS et Android ), et réseaux sociaux ( @LastQuake et @EMSC ) presque en temps réel. Le site de l’Observatoire national d’Athènes répertoire également les derniers tremblements de terre.

En cas de séisme d’ampleur, il est recommandé de porter attention aux éventuelles alertes tsunami qui seraient diffusées par les autorités grecques dans les régions côtières.

En cas de séisme, tsunami ou menace d’éruption volcanique, il convient de se conformer aux instructions des autorités locales, notamment : site de la protection civil grecque et ses réseaux sociaux ( Facebook et X ) ; instructions transmises par SMS via le système d’alerte géolocalisé GR-Alert (garder active la fonction de géolocalisation du portable).

Enfin, il est conseillé aux voyageurs de rassurer leurs proches dès qu’ils en ont la possibilité.

Liens utiles :

  • Fiche réflexe « Séismes » et « Volcans » (protection civile)
  • Dépliant séisme du Consulat général de France à Athènes .

Incendies

Les autorités grecques actualisent chaque jour une carte sur le risque incendie sur l’ensemble du territoire. Celle-ci est disponible sur le site de la protection civile grecque et est également partagée quotidiennement sur leurs réseaux sociaux ( Facebook et X ) . Il est vivement recommandé de la consulter sur une base quotidienne.

Les autorités grecques actualisent chaque jour une carte sur le…

Manifestations

Des manifestations ont régulièrement lieu, notamment à Athènes et à Thessalonique. Elles se tiennent le plus souvent : • pour Athènes, en centre-ville : place Syntagma devant le Parlement, place Omonia et ses environs, École polytechnique, quartier d’Exarchia ; • pour Thessalonique : place Aristotelous, avenue Egnatia (quartier universitaire).

Il convient de se tenir éloigné des lieux de rassemblement, qui peuvent parfois donner lieu à des incidents.

Terrorisme

Il existe une menace terroriste en Grèce, qui se caractérise notamment par des actions ponctuelles de groupes politiques radicaux visant principalement des cibles institutionnelles.

Activités sportives à risque

La Grèce offre de nombreuses opportunités de pratique de sports ou activités de plein air : randonnées, treks, escalade, quad, plongée sous-marine, nautisme, canyoning, kayak, etc. Avant d’entreprendre ce type d’activités, il est impératif de s’assurer de sa condition physique en consultant son médecin avant son départ. Il convient également de se renseigner en amont sur les conditions sur place afin de garantir sa sécurité.

Durant la saison estivale, les températures dépassent régulièrement le seuil à risque de 40°C , y compris dans certaines zones de montagne. Lors de ces épisodes de forte chaleur, le report de certaines activités sportives, particulièrement dans des zones isolées, est conseillé.

Lien utile :

  • Prévisions et alertes météorologiques – Service météorologique national hellénique  (en anglais)
Activités en montagne (randonnée, escalade)

La montagne occupe plus des deux tiers du territoire grec. Les reliefs escarpés ainsi que les conditions météorologiques multiplient les risques de chute, mais aussi de crues ou d’avalanches, et appellent à la plus grande vigilance.

Il est impératif de se renseigner sur les conditions météorologiques avant tout départ, de s’équiper de manière adéquate, de signaler ses déplacements et de respecter les consignes de prudence et de sécurité.

Dans la campagne et dans les zones de montagne, il est fréquent de rencontrer des chiens errants qui peuvent se montrer agressifs, en particulier s’ils sont en meute. Il est recommandé de rester attentif et de se tenir à distance des animaux errants.

Liens utiles :

  • Site de l’association hellénique d’alpinisme et d’escalade (en grec uniquement)
Baignades et activités nautiques

Sur l’ensemble des côtes grecques, il est recommandé de privilégier les plages surveillées et de respecter les consignes des gardes côtes ou des surveillants de baignade. Il convient d’être vigilant aux conditions de mers, des cas de noyades ou d’hydrocution étant régulièrement à déplorer. Certaines plages connaissent des courants marins dangereux qui ne sont pas toujours signalés.

Les accidents lors de la pratique de sports nautiques sont également fréquents. Des informations sur les mesures de sécurité à respecter en cas de pratique d’une activité nautique, sur les entreprises de location de matériel habilitées et sur l’accessibilité des plages, sont disponibles sur le site de l’application mobile Safe Water Sports (en anglais) .

Full text of the Security pagediplomatie.gouv.fr ↗updated 15.09.2026 · read 15.10.2026

Swiss passport — FDFA (Switzerland), in French

In brief
  • While Greece is generally safe, social tensions can lead to demonstrations and strikes, potentially causing disruptions to tourist travel.
  • Political attacks by local extremist groups occur, primarily targeting public institutions and banks, with isolated injuries reported.
  • Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, is common, especially in Athens' public transport and crowded areas.
  • Drivers should exercise extreme caution due to dangerous driving habits and potentially insufficient road signage, particularly on winding mountain routes.
  • Greece is located in an earthquake-prone zone, and coastal areas face a risk of tsunamis from seismic or volcanic activity.
  • Forest fires are a significant risk, and heavy rainfall can cause floods and landslides, potentially disrupting infrastructure and traffic.

Faithful summary of the official texts below, which prevail.

FDFA update note — Ces conseils pour les voyages ont été contrôlés et confirmés. (published 03.07.2026)

General assessment

Les voyages en Grèce sont en principe considérés comme sûrs. Les tensions sociales peuvent donner lieu à des manifestations et à des grèves. Des affrontements violents entre les manifestants et les forces de sécurité ne sont pas à exclure. Les manifestations ont principalement lieu dans les grandes villes, mais aussi parfois dans ou à proximité des camps de réfugiés. Les grèves sont généralement annoncées quelques jours à l'avance. En cas de grèves ou de manifestations, il faut s'attendre à des perturbations et des retards dans le trafic touristique. Des attentats à motivation politique commis par des groupes extrémistes locaux se produisent. Ils sont généralement dirigés contre des institutions publiques et des banques et causent des dommages matériels. On recense quelques cas isolés de blessés. Dans ce pays comme ailleurs, le risque d’attentats terroristes ne peut être exclu. La rubrique terrorisme et enlèvements attire l'attention sur les risques liés au terrorisme. Terrorisme et enlèvements Avant et pendant le voyage, informez-vous dans les médias sur la situation actuelle et restez en relation avec votre tour-opérateur. Conformez-vous aux directives des autorités locales. Évitez les manifestations de tout genre.

Crime

La petite délinquance est répandue. Les vols à la tire et à l'arraché sont fréquents, notamment à Athènes, entre autres dans le métro qui relie l'aéroport au centre-ville. Des cambriolages dans des appartements de vacances et des voitures de location sont régulièrement signalés à Athènes. Outre les mesures de précaution habituelles contre la petite délinquance, veuillez noter les points suivants:

  • soyez particulièrement vigilant dans les transports publics et les lieux très fréquentés (gares, marchés, etc.).
  • déposez vos objets de valeur et vos documents dans le coffre-fort de l'hôtel. Ayez toutefois toujours sur vous une photocopie de votre passeport ou de votre carte d'identité afin de pouvoir vous identifier en cas de contrôle.
  • ne laissez pas de bagages, etc. en vue dans les véhicules en stationnement.
Natural hazards

La Grèce se situe dans une zone de risque sismique . Instructions de Protection (Secrétariat Général pour la Protection Civile) Veuillez consulter les instructions de l’Organisation grecque de la planification et de la protection parasismique (OASP) adressées aux touristes. OASP Dans le bassin méditerranéen, il n’est pas exclu qu’un séisme ou une éruption volcanique provoque un tsunami qui atteigne toutes les zones côtières de la Méditerranée. Il existe un important risque d’incendie de forêt à de nombreux endroits. Instructions de protection en cas d'incendie de forêt De fortes pluies peuvent provoquer des inondations ainsi que des glissements de terrain et endommager les infrastructures. La circulation peut s’en trouver temporairement perturbée. Suivez les mises en garde et les instructions des autorités locales, p. ex. zones interdites, ordres d’évacuation. Ministry for Climate Crisis and Civil Protection Greek Meteorological Service En cas d’une catastrophe naturelle, la centrale d'alarme grecque envoie des messages aux téléphones portables enregistrés ou localisés dans la zone touchée. Vous pouvez vous inscrire sur le site web correspondant. Centrale d'alarme grecque 112 Si une catastrophe naturelle devait se produire pendant votre séjour, prenez immédiatement contact avec vos proches et suivez les instructions des autorités. En cas d’interruption des communications avec l’étranger, vous pouvez vous mettre en liaison avec l’Ambassade de Suisse à Athènes.

FDFA travel advice, in French, valid on 15.10.2026eda.admin.ch ↗updated 03.07.2026 · read 15.10.2026

British passport — Foreign Office (UK)

In brief
  • Wildfires pose a high risk in Greece from April to October; visit the Safety and security page for advice.
  • Terrorists are likely to attempt attacks in Greece, potentially indiscriminately in places frequented by foreign nationals.
  • Protests may occur, especially in central Athens, and demonstrations are common on 1 May, 17 November, and 6 December.
  • Thefts of passports and wallets are common on the metro and in crowded tourist areas, particularly in central Athens.
  • To reduce the risk of sexual assault, keep track of your accommodation's location and do not leave friends to walk alone at night.
  • While most visitors have no issues, some racially-motivated attacks have occurred, particularly in inner-city areas.

Faithful summary of the official texts below, which prevail.

Warnings — Foreign OfficeForeign Office ↗updated 11.08.2026 · read 15.10.2026

Wildfires in Greece

There is a high risk of wildfires during the summer season from April to October. For advice, visit the wildfires section on the Safety and security page .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:

  • see general advice for women travellers
  • read our guide on disability and travel abroad
  • see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
  • read about safety for solo and independent travel
  • see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad
Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

Safety — Foreign OfficeForeign Office ↗updated 11.08.2026 · read 15.10.2026

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in Greece

Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Greece.

Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals.

There have been several attacks involving explosives and automatic weapons against Greek institutions, shopping malls, banks, media offices, diplomatic premises and the police.

Recent attacks include:

  • on 1 July 2026, three improvised incendiary device attacks against the residential properties of Greek political figures killed one person, with four others being injured
Political protests

Greek authorities have increased security at some prominent locations, including tourist sites, due to events in Israel and Palestine.

There is currently a heightened risk of such protests, particularly in central Athens.

Stay aware of your surroundings, stay away from protests and follow the advice of local authorities.

Strikes and demonstrations

There are regular strikes, sometimes called at short notice, that can cause disruption to buses, trains, ferries and air travel, as well as road networks and borders.

Demonstrations often take place around major squares in central Athens, in particular Syntagma Square. Political demonstrations may take place on certain dates:

  • 1 May (Labour Day)
  • 17 November (anniversary of when student protests against a military dictatorship were put down violently – ‘Polytechnio’)
  • 6 December (anniversary of the shooting of 15-year-old student Alexandros Grigoropoulos)

Some demonstrations in the past have turned violent. Avoid demonstrations wherever possible and move away to the last known safe place. Security forces often use tear gas to break up demonstrations, which can harm your breathing and vision.

Protecting your belongings

Thefts of passports, wallets and handbags are common on the metro and in crowded tourist places, particularly in central Athens. Do not carry all your valuables in one place and keep a copy of your passport photo page somewhere safe.

When driving on holiday, keep your valuables out of sight and lock your vehicle at all times. Always park in a well-lit area or secure car park. Be alert to car crime.

Sexual assault

To reduce your personal risk, especially late at night and around clubs and bars:

  • save the location of your accommodation on your maps app, so it’s easier to find at the end of the night
  • set up a WhatsApp group to keep in touch with others in your group
  • keep an eye on each other’s drinks to make sure they do not get spiked
  • do not let a friend walk back to their hotel alone
  • do not give a drunk person more alcohol

- see TravelAware ‘Stick with your mates’  for tips and advice

Use pre-arranged transport or, where they are available taxi-hailing apps such as Uber or Free Now which supply licensed cabs.

Report anything that does not feel right to local authorities or hotel or club management.

Racially-motivated attacks

The majority of visitors experience no difficulties related to their race, but there have been some racially-motivated attacks, particularly in inner-city areas.

American passport — U.S. Department of State

In brief
  • Exercise normal precautions when traveling to Greece.
  • Be aware of your surroundings due to common petty crime in tourist areas.
  • Be prepared for potential disruptions from political demonstrations affecting transportation and services.

Faithful summary of the official texts below, which prevail.

Greece - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions 2025-10-22travel.state.gov ↗updated 22.10.2025 · read 16.10.2026

Advisory summary

Exercise normal precaution in Greece .

Greece is a generally safe destination for travelers. Petty crime is common, especially in popular tourist locations. Stay aware of your surroundings. Large-scale demonstrations related to the local political situation may occur with little notice. Demonstrations may disrupt transportation and other essential services.

Global Affairs Canada — additional reading

Exercise normal security precautions

Open Government Licence – Canada · October 9, 2026 09:57 EDTtravel.gc.ca ↗updated 09.10.2026 · read 15.10.2026

In brief
  • You must carry your passport at all times as local police may request identification, and copies may not be accepted.
  • Possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs carries severe penalties, including long prison sentences and heavy fines.
  • It is illegal to photograph military installations, personnel, border areas, harbours, airports, churches, or monks; always verify if photography is allowed.
  • You must register your drone to fly it in the European Union, or face fines and confiscation.
  • Do not buy or travel with weapons such as knuckledusters, pocketknives, or pepper spray, as Greece has strict laws regarding their possession.
  • If you are a Canadian citizen also holding Greek citizenship, you may be subject to compulsory military service and must obtain a certifying document prior to travel.

Faithful summary of the official texts below, which prevail.

Global Affairs Canada — written for Canadian travellers, valid for all

Local laws

You must abide by local laws. Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.

Drugs

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect prison sentences and heavy fines. Drugs, alcohol and travel

Identification

Local police may ask to see your identification at any time.

  • Carry adequate identification at all times, such as your passport or residence permit
  • Keep a photocopy of your passport in a safe place, in case it is lost or stolen
Photography

There are restrictions on photographing and filming:

  • military installations and military personnel
  • border areas
  • harbours, airports and other transportation hubs
  • churches, monasteries and monks
  • schools

In and around these areas, you should always:

  • verify if photography is allowed or if a special permit is required
  • request permission if individuals are involved
  • refrain from photographing or filming if in doubt
  • comply with all requests from local authorities
Drones

Recreational and commercial flying of drones is regulated. You must register your drone to use it across the European Union. If you don’t comply, you may be fined and your drone confiscated.

Weapons

Greece has strict laws regarding the possession and use of weapons and items that may be used as weapons, such as:

  • knuckledusters
  • pocketknife
  • pepper spray

Do not buy or travel with these items.

Cultural heritage and antiquities

There are strict laws regarding:

  • purchase and exportation of antiquities and objects of special significance to the country's cultural heritage
  • excavation and on-site archaeological research
  • access to underwater archaeological sites
  • filming and photography of archaeological sites for commercial purposes
  • protection of archaeological sites and monuments

To avoid any difficulties, make sure you:

  • have the proper permit to conduct activities related to cultural heritage and archaeological sites
  • obtain and carry the required legal paperwork to purchase or export antiquities

While visiting archaeological sites and monuments:

  • don’t film or photograph unless it is clearly allowed
  • stay on the dedicated paths and respect off-limits areas
  • don’t touch statues and monuments
  • don’t pick up rocks or any other artifacts found on site

Greek Cultural Heritage law - Hellenic Society for Law and Archaeology

National obligations

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Greece, or are eligible for Greek citizenship, you may be subject to compulsory military service and other aspects of Greek law. Obtain a document certifying your status from the Embassy of Greece prior to travel.

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Greece. If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Greece, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Greek court. If you are in this situation:

  • act as quickly as you can
  • contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
  • consult a lawyer in Canada and in Greece to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
  • report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies. Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

Boating

If you plan on entering Greece by sea on your boat or a rented boat of a total length of over 7 metres, you must pay the Recreational and Daily Tour Cruise Ships fee (TEPAI). This must be done online prior to arrival. Recreational and Daily Tour Cruise Ships fee - Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE) (in Greek)

Driving

As a tourist or temporary resident, you can drive with a valid Canadian driver’s licence. You must have valid insurance coverage. You must wear a helmet when driving or as a passenger of a motorcycle, a scooter or a moped. You may be fined if you fail to comply. Carrying an individual in an irregular migration situation in your vehicle, even without your knowledge, is a criminal offence. Don’t pick up hitchhikers. Road rules and safety – European Commission

Money

The currency of Greece is the euro (EUR). ATMs may not be easily available in remote areas or may be out of cash. Make sure to carry some money if you plan on visiting small islands and remote regions. If you are carrying €10,000 or more, or the equivalent in other currencies or monetary instruments, you must make a declaration to customs when you enter or leave the European Union. This does not apply if you are travelling within the European Union or in transit to a non-EU country. EU Cash Controls – European Commission

Open Government Licence – Canada · October 9, 2026 09:57 EDTtravel.gc.ca ↗updated 09.10.2026 · read 15.10.2026

Foreign Office — laws and cultural differences

Personal ID

Always carry your passport, to show to the police if they request identification. Police may not accept a copy.

Public offences

The Greek police will arrest you for any behaviour they find rowdy or indecent, especially where excessive drinking is involved. Some fancy dress costumes may be regarded as offensive and therefore against decency laws. The courts are likely to impose a heavy fine or a prison sentence if they judge the behaviour to be illegal. Your travel insurance may not cover you if you miss flights because of an alcohol-related arrest.

Alcohol laws and underage drinking

It is illegal to sell or provide alcohol to anyone under 18, any businesses found doing so can face large fines and possible closure. Bars and nightclubs are not allowed to admit or serve anyone under 18, even if accompanied by an adult. Expect age verification checks at points of sale. If a minor is harmed through excessive drinking, or underage intoxication is brought to the attention of local authorities, parents or other accompanying adults as well as those who supplied the alcohol could face legal consequences under general child protection laws.

Illegal drugs

Illegal drugs, including cannabis, carry severe penalties. You should expect a long jail sentence and heavy fines for possessing, using or smuggling illegal drugs, including when transiting through airports. Airports in Greece have excellent technology and security for detecting illegal items. This is also used to scan the baggage of transiting passengers.

Buying goods or services

By law restaurants must provide an itemised bill. Make sure you get a receipt for any goods or services you buy.

Carrying weapons

Offensive items like pepper spray or knuckledusters are listed as weapons in Greece. A knife with a blade measuring 10cm or more counts as a weapon, and you need a special licence for any knife that is not made for domestic, professional, artistic or hunting use.

LGBT+ travellers

Same-sex sexual activity is legal in Greece, and civil unions between same-sex couples have been legal since 2015. The age of consent in Greece is 15, this applies to partners of both the same sex and opposite sex. Transgender people are able to change their legal gender. Anti-discrimination and hate speech laws apply to gender identity. Public attitudes towards same-sex couples vary throughout the country. Couples showing affection in public may be frowned on, especially in rural areas. Attitudes are generally more welcoming in Athens and on many Greek islands. Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Military service

Men aged 19 and above, born to a Greek national, may have military service obligations, regardless of any other nationality they hold. The authorities can stop you leaving Greece until you complete military service.

Using cameras or approaching sensitive locations

It is illegal to approach or take photos or videos of military installations, vehicles or buildings. The authorities will arrest and have prosecuted those doing so. Border areas are also militarily sensitive. If you visit such areas, do not take photos or videos.

Open Government Licence v3.0gov.uk ↗updated 11.08.2026 · read 15.10.2026

FDFA (Switzerland) — laws and customs, in French

Specific legal provisions

La loi définit divers taux d'alcoolémie maximaux punissables pour les personnes au volant. Your Europe: Code de la route et sécuritaire routière Il est interdit de photographier des installations militaires, le personnel militaire et les personnes en uniforme de police. Les infractions à la loi sur les stupéfiants, y compris la détention de petites quantités de drogue quelle qu'elle soit, sont passibles de lourdes peines de prison. Le transport de réfugiés par véhicule constitue une infraction relevant de la traite d’êtres humains et est passible d'une peine d’emprisonnement de plusieurs années. Ne prenez par conséquent aucune personne inconnue, même pour les trajets effectués à l’intérieur du pays.

FDFA travel advice, in Frencheda.admin.ch ↗updated 03.07.2026 · read 15.10.2026

Air: Moderate 45/100PM2.5 13.0 µg/m³ · PM10 17.8 µg/m³
UV moderate today max 4.1Right now 0.0 · WHO scale 0–11+

What it changes for you: Air acceptable at this hour: nothing special to plan.

Reading 07:00 (Europe/Athens)Open-Meteo ↗updated 16.10.2026 · read 16.10.2026

Air quality and UV: Open-Meteo.com (CC BY 4.0), data rounded and formatted by Maximum. Contains modified Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information 2026. Neither the European Commission nor ECMWF is responsible for any use that may be made of the Copernicus information or data it contains.

Physicians per 1,000 people
Greece6.6 2022
Switzerland4.5 2022
France3.3 2022
Hospital beds per 1,000 people
Greece4.3 2022
Switzerland4.4 2023
France5.7 2022
Health spending per person (USD)
Greece1,963 2023
Switzerland11,784 2023
France5,327 2024
Life expectancy (years)
Greece81.8 2024
Switzerland84.4 2024
France83.0 2024

Reading: Medical density above Switzerland: the question is not capacity, it is the bill. Health spending of 1,963 USD per person (Switzerland: 11,784) goes with private hospitals that bill foreigners in hard currency and ask for a guarantee before admission: the direct payment guarantee is what avoids the deposit.

World Bank — latest published value, year per indicatordata.worldbank.org ↗read 10.10.2026

I travel on a passportVisa, passport validity, entry form: the rules depend on your passport. Each government describes them for its own nationals.

French passport — France Diplomatie

In brief
  • French nationals do not require a visa for stays in Greece of less than three months, provided they present a valid national identity card or passport.
  • French identity cards issued to adults between January 1, 2004, and December 31, 2013, are valid for five years beyond their expiry date.
  • Greek authorities officially accept the extended validity of these French identity cards, though the cards themselves do not reflect this extension.
  • Drivers embarking on ferries from Patras and Igoumenitsa to Italy should be vigilant for clandestine passengers, as transporting them, even unknowingly, is a serious offense in Greece.
  • Transporting migrants within Greece is severely punished with prison sentences, and police checks are frequent in the border zone with Turkey.

Faithful summary of the official texts below, which prevail.

Grèce

- Présentation de la Grèce

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Visa

La Grèce étant membre de l’Union européenne, les ressortissants français, quel que soit l’objet de leur visite, ne sont pas soumis à une obligation de visa pour les séjours de moins de 3 mois.

Ils sont admis sur le territoire grec sur présentation d’une carte nationale d’identité ou d’un passeport en cours de validité.

Pour de plus amples informations, prendre l’attache de la représentation diplomatique ou consulaire grecque la plus proche de votre lieu de résidence.

En cas d’établissement de sa résidence en Grèce, une attestation d’inscription en tant qu’étranger en Grèce doit être demandée. Pour plus d’information, voir : La France en Grèce .

Extension de la validité des CNI

Les cartes nationales d’identité françaises (CNI) délivrées à des majeurs entre le 1er janvier 2004 et le 31 décembre 2013 sont encore valables 5 ans après la date de fin de validité indiquée au verso, mais aucune modification matérielle de la carte plastifiée n’atteste de cette prorogation. Les autorités grecques ont accepté officiellement cette prorogation. Lien utile : notice multilingue (PDF - 89,3 Ko) expliquant ces règles.

Réglementation douanière

Pour toute information sur les questions douanières (achats personnels, transport de médicaments, obligations déclaratives, informations sur le transport d’animaux ou de végétaux, etc.), il est recommandé de consulter le site des douanes françaises ainsi que les fiches techniques destinées aux voyageurs ou celui des douanes grecques (en anglais) .

Mise en garde aux automobilistes embarquant à Patras et Igoumenitsa

Il arrive que les voyageurs soient contrôlés aux ports de Patras et d’Igoumenitsa, à l’occasion de leur embarquement sur des ferries pour l’Italie. Ces mesures visent à lutter contre l’immigration clandestine. La prise en charge d’un passager clandestin par un automobiliste, même à son insu, constitue un délit en Grèce et les conducteurs interpellés s’exposent à des sanctions pénales sévères. Il est recommandé aux voyageurs de se montrer vigilants et d’inspecter leur véhicule avant l’embarquement au départ de ces ports.

Le transport de migrant à l’intérieur du territoire de la Grèce est lourdement pénalisé (plusieurs années d’emprisonnement). Dans la zone frontalière avec la Turquie au Nord, les contrôles de police sont fréquents.

Entry and stay pagediplomatie.gouv.fr ↗updated 15.09.2026 · read 15.10.2026

Swiss passport — FDFA (Switzerland)

The FDFA does not publish entry requirements: they are set out by the destination's embassy or consulate in Switzerland — check them before booking, passport in hand. As a guide, the French and British requirements below describe the same rules as seen by two other governments.eda.admin.ch ↗updated 03.07.2026 · read 15.10.2026

British passport — Foreign Office (UK)

In brief
  • British citizens must ensure their passport was issued less than 10 years ago and expires at least 3 months after their planned departure from the Schengen area.
  • British citizens travelling to Greece for tourism or short visits can stay visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
  • Visitors may need to show a return ticket and proof of sufficient funds for their stay in Greece.
  • The new EU Entry/Exit System (EES) may require British citizens to register biometric details like fingerprints and a photo upon entry to the Schengen area.
  • British citizens returning to the UK must carry a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement, especially if they hold dual nationality.

Faithful summary of the official texts below, which prevail.

Entry requirements — rules for a British passportForeign Office ↗updated 11.08.2026 · read 15.10.2026

Entry requirements — rules for a British passport

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Greece’s current rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Greece set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Greek Embassy in the UK .

Passport validity requirements

Greece follows Schengen area rules . Your passport must:

  • have a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date you arrive – if you renewed your passport before 1 October 2018, it might have a date of issue that is more than 10 years ago, making it invalid for entry to the Schengen area
  • have an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave the Schengen area (the expiry date does not need to be within 10 years of the date of issue)

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Dual nationals

When returning to the UK, British citizens must carry a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement . See Dual citizenship .

Visa requirements

You can travel without a visa to the Schengen area , which includes Greece, for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. This applies if you travel:

  • as a tourist
  • to visit family or friends
  • to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events
  • for short-term studies or training

The requirements for working in Greece are different. If you are a touring creative, see details about the Uniform (Schengen) visa .

If you’re travelling to other Schengen countries as well, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day visa-free limit. Visits to Schengen countries within the previous 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days. If you overstay the 90-day visa-free limit, you may be banned from entering Schengen countries for up to 3 years.

You may also need to:

  • show a return or onward ticket
  • prove that you have enough money for your stay
Staying longer than 90 days in a 180-day period

For a longer stay, you must apply to the Greek authorities for a national visa .

If you’re in Greece with a residence permit or long-stay visa, this does not count towards your 90-day visa-free limit.

Read about entry processes if you live in Greece .

New Schengen entry requirements

The European Union’s (EU) new Entry/Exit System (EES) is now being implemented across the Schengen area.

This means that when you travel into the Schengen area for short stays, you may need to register your biometric details, such as fingerprints and a photo. There is no cost for EES registration.

On your first visit into a Schengen country, you may be asked to register your details at a special booth before proceeding to the immigration desk. Follow directions from your travel operator or the staff at your port of entry. You may also need to provide either your fingerprint or photo when you leave the Schengen area. Children aged 11 or younger will not have their…

American passport — U.S. Department of State

The State Department publishes the requirements ("Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements") on its country page, which our servers cannot read. Read it before you go; as a guide, the French and British requirements below describe the same rules as seen by two other governments.travel.state.gov ↗updated 22.10.2025 · read 16.10.2026

Living on site

For each risk, the official texts themselves: what is happening, then, where they say so, what to do.

CrimeMODERATE

What the texts say · Thefts of passports, wallets and handbags are common on the metro and in crowded tourist places, particularly in central Athens. Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Greece.

What they advise:
  • Do not carry all your valuables in one place and keep a copy of your passport photo page somewhere safe.
  • Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.
  • If you are a victim of a crime, go to the nearest police station to report it.
Foreign Office · Global Affairs Canada
Nature and climateMODERATE

What the texts say · There is a risk of earthquakes and earth tremors in Greece. Adverse weather conditions, including floods, can happen quickly.

What they advise:
  • For further guidance on how to prepare for earthquakes, please visit the Greek Ministry of Civil Protection (in English) and to see, for anywhere in Greece, where your nearest assembly points are located in case of emergency you can visit mysafetyplan.gov.gr (map with text in Greek).
  • Register for Emergency alerts and follow ‘112 Greece’ on X for official updates.
  • Follow advice given by the local authorities.
Foreign Office
Laws and customsTO KNOW

What the texts say · Illegal drugs, including cannabis, carry severe penalties. It is illegal to approach or take photos or videos of military installations, vehicles or buildings.

What they advise:
  • You should expect a long jail sentence and heavy fines for possessing, using or smuggling illegal drugs, including when transiting through airports.
  • Carry adequate identification at all times, such as your passport or residence permit.
Foreign Office · Global Affairs Canada
Cyber and dataMODERATE

What the texts say · Credit card and ATM fraud occurs.

What they advise: When using debit or credit cards: pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others - use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business - avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature - cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN - check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements.
Global Affairs Canada
Crowds and calendarMODERATE

What the texts say · There are regular strikes, sometimes called at short notice, that can cause disruption to buses, trains, ferries and air travel, as well as road networks and borders. Some demonstrations in the past have turned violent.

What they advise: Avoid demonstrations wherever possible and move away to the last known safe place.
Foreign Office

Sentences copied word for word from the official texts cited, chosen for the destination; the level is our reading. The full texts, at each source:Foreign Office ↗updated 11.08.2026 · read 15.10.2026 (updated 11.08.2026 · read 29.09.2026)Global Affairs Canada ↗updated 09.10.2026 · read 15.10.2026 (updated 09.10.2026 · read 29.09.2026)

Safety in figures
Intentional homicides per 100,000 people
Greece0.8 2023
Switzerland0.6 2023
France1.3 2023
Road traffic deaths per 100,000 people
Greece8.3 2019
Switzerland2.2 2019
France5.1 2019

Reading: The homicide rate is in the same range as Switzerland or France. On the road, 4 times more deaths than in Switzerland: road crashes are the leading cause of death of healthy travellers (CDC) — seat belt, no night driving, a driver or a taxi from a rank.

World Bank (UNODC for homicides, WHO for roads) — latest published valuedata.worldbank.org ↗read 10.10.2026

—:—Local time · Europe/Athens ·
112Local emergency numbers · Single number 112 · Police 100 · Ambulance 166 · Fire 199
Schuko, Europlug230 V
Drivingon the right
1 EUR = 1.00 EUR1 CHF = 0.93 EUR · 2026-10-15

Time zone: IANA and timezone-boundary-builder (ODbL) · RESTCountries · EmergencyNumberAPI · Wikidata · European Central Bank

Places: © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL), Photon search by komoot.

FDFA (Switzerland) — transport and specific advice, in French

Transport and infrastructure

Bien que les routes soient généralement en bon état, la conduite dangereuse constitue un risque d’accident considérable. Une extrême prudence est surtout recommandée sur les routes de montagne sinueuses. La signalisation peut être insuffisante. Les autoroutes sont à péage. Hellenic Police: Road Safety Transports publics: Le réseau des bus est très développé. Les lignes ferroviaires ne relient qu'Athènes à Thessalonique et Athènes à Corinthe. Des ferrys circulent régulièrement entre les îles. Visit Greece: Transportation

FDFA travel advice, in Frencheda.admin.ch ↗updated 03.07.2026 · read 15.10.2026

Public holidaysNager.Date ↗read 25.09.2026

  • Wed 28 Oct — Ochi Day
  • Fri 25 Dec — Christmas Day
  • Sat 26 Dec — St. Stephen's Day
ESSENTIAL

Maximum policyholder: before paying anything, call the 24/7 number. If you are admitted for more than 24 h, Maximum sends its direct payment guarantee to the hospital (art. 2.12).

+41 22 ••• •• •• — Full number in your client area

The hospitals to know — Athens

The hospital list has not been read from OpenStreetMap for this page yet: the medical-network map loads it when opened. Maximum's assistance directs you to the right facility, 24/7. The medical-network map ↗

40pharmacies13doctorsFull map and list ↗

Before you go

  • Routine vaccinesup to date
  • Hepatitis Brecommended
  • Hepatitis Adepending on the trip
  • Mpoxdepending on the trip
  • Yellow fevernot recommended

CDC Travelers' Health recommendations, most important first. They depend on your age, vaccines and itinerary: confirm them with a doctor or a travel clinic 4 to 6 weeks before departure. Details, disease by disease ↗cdc.gov ↗read 10.10.2026

On site

MedicationIn their box, with the prescription — in English if possible.

The health system — Medical density above Switzerland: the question is not capacity, it is the bill. Health spending of 1,963 USD per person (Switzerland: 11,784) goes with private hospitals that bill foreigners in hard currency and ask for a guarantee before admission: the direct payment guarantee is what avoids the deposit.

Back home — a fever in the following weeks should be told to a doctor, naming the country.

The next 7 days Europe/AthensMET Norway ↗read 16.10.2026

Fri 16 Oct9–19°rain · 0.9 mm
Sat 17 Oct10–16°heavy rain · 16.4 mm
Sun 18 Oct10–18°mainly clear
Mon 19 Oct10–20°partly cloudy
Tue 20 Oct11–21°mainly clear · 0.3 mm
Wed 21 Oct13–20°partly cloudy
Thu 22 Oct14–20°overcast · 0.3 mm

Forecast: MET Norway (Norwegian Meteorological Institute, CC BY 4.0), grouped by day and formatted by Maximum.

I travel on a passportYour embassy, and the service to register with, depend on your passport.

Your country, 24/7, from abroad

FR
Crisis and Support Centre — French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs+33 1 53 59 11 0024/7 emergency line, standard rate. First contact abroad: the French embassy or consulate.www.diplomatie.gouv.fr ↗updated 15.09.2026 · read 15.10.2026
CH
FDFA Helpline+41 58 465 33 33+41 800 24 7 36524/7, 365 days a year — helpline@eda.admin.ch. Beware of scam calls spoofing these numbers.www.eda.admin.ch ↗updated 03.07.2026 · read 15.10.2026
GB
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office+44 20 7008 500024 hours, for British nationals.www.gov.uk ↗updated 11.08.2026 · read 15.10.2026
US
Overseas Citizens Services — U.S. Department of State+1 202 501 4444+1 888 407 4747From abroad; the second number from the U.S. and Canada.travel.state.gov ↗updated 22.10.2025 · read 16.10.2026

French passport — French embassy and consulates

FR
Ambassade de Franceembassy · 177.0 km

5 Πατρέως, Πάτρα

phone not published

FR
Consulat de France1.2 km

6 Ακαδημίας, 10671, Αθήνα

phone not published

FR
Agence consulaire France à Santorin229.5 km

phone not published

OpenStreetMap

Swiss passport — Swiss embassy and consulates

CH
Résidence de l'Ambassade de Suisseembassy · 5.9 km

phone not published

Useful addresses — FDFA, in French

Numéro d'urgence général: 112 Service d'ambulance: 166 Pompiers: 199 Police: 100 Police des touristes: 1571 Ligne d’assistance pour les violences basées sur le genre (24/7): 15900, Email: sos15900@isotita.gr Dispositions douanières: Greek Customs Représentations suisses à l’étranger: En cas de situation d’urgence à l’étranger, vous pouvez vous adresser à la représentation suisse la plus proche ou à la Helpline DFAE. Ambassade de Suisse en Grèce Helpline DFAE Représentations étrangères en Suisse : Pour obtenir des informations sur les prescriptions d’entrée (documents d’identité admis, visa, etc.), veuillez vous adresser aux ambassades et consulats étrangers compétents. Ceux-ci peuvent également vous renseigner sur les dispositions douanières pour l’importation et l’exportation d’animaux et de marchandises : appareils électroniques, souvenirs, médicaments, etc. Représentations étrangères en Suisse

OpenStreetMap · DFAE

British passport — British embassy and consulates

OpenStreetMap

American passport — U.S. embassy and consulates

US
Ambassade des États-Unis d'Amériqueembassy · nearest · 2.4 km

91 Βασιλίσσης Σοφίας

phone not published

OpenStreetMap

Police

  • Αστυνομικό Τμήμα Εξαρχείων · 1.0 km
  • Αστυνομικό Τμήμα Αγίου Παντελεήμονα · 1.4 km
    85 Μιχαήλ Βόδα Αθήνα
  • Αστυνομικό Τμήμα Συντάγματος · 1.8 km
  • Αστυνομικό Τμήμα Κολωνού · 2.0 km
    3 Λαοδάμαντος Αθήνα
    +30 21 0515 6410

Town hall

  • Δημαρχείο Ηρακλείου Αττικής · 7.7 km
    2 Σ. Καραγιώργη Ηράκλειο

OpenStreetMap

Getting help — Foreign OfficeForeign Office ↗updated 11.08.2026 · read 15.10.2026

Getting help — Foreign Office

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Greece

Telephone: 112 (ambulance, fire, police)

Calling 999 from a UK mobile in Greece will automatically transfer you to the Greek emergency services.

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Help abroad

See how to get help from the UK government abroad including in an emergency.

Help in the UK

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

Find out about call charges

Ten phrases in Greek

For emergencies. If pronunciation fails, show the screen — or the printed page.

Help!Βοήθεια!Voítheia!
Call an ambulance!Καλέστε ασθενοφόρο!Kaléste asthenofóro!
I need a doctor.Χρειάζομαι γιατρό.Chreiázomai giatró.
Where is the nearest hospital?Πού είναι το πλησιέστερο νοσοκομείο;Poú eínai to plisiéstero nosokomeío?
Call the police!Καλέστε την αστυνομία!Kaléste tin astynomía!
I am allergic to penicillin.Είμαι αλλεργικός (αλλεργική) στην πενικιλίνη.Eímai allergikós (allergikí) stin penikilíni.
I have international medical insurance.Έχω διεθνή ιατρική ασφάλιση.Écho diethní iatrikí asfálisi.
I want to contact my embassy.Θέλω να επικοινωνήσω με την πρεσβεία μου.Thélo na epikoinoníso me tin presveía mou.
Please take me to this address.Πηγαίνετέ με σε αυτή τη διεύθυνση, παρακαλώ.Pigaíneté me se aftí ti diéfthynsi, parakaló.
Do you speak English?Μιλάτε αγγλικά;Miláte angliká?

Translations by Maximum Insurance, original script and transliteration.

  • Keep the entry stamp, hospital invoices and the medical report. Without them a claim cannot be rebuilt.
  • File it from the claim form, once back, with those papers.

Actions to take before each professional trip abroad.

1Once — the framework
2For each departure
3During the mission, and after

What is happening in Greece right now

Live alerts and level changes, each with its official source. Continuously updated.

What governments have just written

LatestFortes précipitations – Prudence et recommandations

A l’automne, des épisodes de fortes précipitations peuvent entraîner localement des inondations et des glissements de terrain. Les autorités grecques publient régulièrement des informations sur le site de la protection civile grecque (multilingue) et sur leurs réseaux sociaux (Facebook et X). Il est vivement recommandé de les consulter lors des épisodes de mauvais temps. Les ressortissants français sont appelés à faire preuve de prudence et de vigilance dans les zones…

France Diplomatie (in French) · posted 19 June 2026 · updated 2 October 2026diplomatie.gouv.fr ↗updated 15.09.2026 · read 15.10.2026
UpdateGlobal Affairs Canada

Editorial change

October 9, 2026 09:57 EDTtravel.gc.ca ↗updated 09.10.2026 · read 15.10.2026

No level change recorded for this country since the log opened. The live alerts above are updated continuously.

⚡ The world feed — every country →

Frequently asked questions — travel insurance Greece

24/7 support number — +41 22 ••• •• ••An adviser goes through each question with you until you have an actionable answer: cover, hospital, entry rules, claims. Full number in your client area. You can also ask Maximum directly, just below these questions.
What is the official risk level in Greece today?

Level 1/4 — Exercise Normal Precautions, U.S. Department of State, retrieved on 16 October 2026.

  • Is the whole country advised against? United States: no · France: no · United Kingdom: no · Switzerland: no (reading of 27 September 2026).
  • Contractually, only an FDFA, FOPH or WHO advisory against the trip opens Module A (art. 18.1) — that is not the case today.
  • Travel with international medical cover and the 24/7 number (+41 22 ••• •• ••) saved: here the risk is not the advisory, it is the hospital bill.
  • We check these sources every morning and e-mail you the day one changes (Alerts button).

Sourcestravel.state.gov · updated 22.10 · read 16.10France Diplomatie · updated 15.09 · read 15.10DFAE · updated 03.07 · read 15.10207-country comparison

Is the whole of Greece advised against, or only some areas?

An area advised against does not rule out the country.

  • Official answers: United States: no · France: no · United Kingdom: no · Switzerland: no.
  • Keep your country of residence's advisory on booking day and on departure day: that is what your policy's clauses cite.

SourcesFrance Diplomatie · updated 15.09 · read 15.10Foreign Office · updated 11.08 · read 15.10State Department · updated 22.10 · read 16.10

What are the entry requirements for Greece with my passport?

The rules depend on the passport, not on the destination alone.

  • French passport (France Diplomatie): French nationals do not require a visa for stays in Greece of less than three months, provided they present a valid national identity card or passport. French identity cards issued to adults between January 1, 2004, and December 31, 2013, are valid for five years beyond their expiry date. Greek authorities officially accept the extended validity of these French identity cards, though the cards themselves do not reflect this extension.
  • British passport (Foreign Office): British citizens must ensure their passport was issued less than 10 years ago and expires at least 3 months after their planned departure from the Schengen area. British citizens travelling to Greece for tourism or short visits can stay visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Visitors may need to show a return ticket and proof of sufficient funds for their stay in Greece.
  • American passport: the requirements are on the State Department country page (travel.state.gov).
  • Swiss passport: the FDFA refers you to the destination's embassy in Switzerland.
  • Pick your passport at the top of Before you go › Entry: the official text that concerns you comes first, with its “In brief” summary.

SourcesFrance Diplomatie · updated 15.09 · read 15.10Foreign Office · updated 11.08 · read 15.10State Department · updated 22.10 · read 16.10

Do I need an insurance certificate for a Greece visa?

For a Schengen visa, yes: at least €30,000 of travel medical insurance (Regulation (EC) No 810/2009, art. 15).

  • Many other countries ask for it on entry or for a visa, case by case: check Before you go › Entry, with your passport.
  • Subscribe: the named certificate arrives by e-mail on payment, with your name, dates and limits (EUR 1.5M medical expenses, unlimited evacuation and repatriation) — the ones consulates check.
  • Attach it to the visa file; if in doubt about the format, write to us.

SourcesRegulation (EC) 810/2009, art. 15General conditions, policy 20 00 479

What does Maximum Insurance do in Greece, concretely?

VIP Pack — €990 for twelve months, unlimited trips.

  • EUR 1.5M emergency medical expenses, unlimited medical evacuation and repatriation, search and rescue EUR 50,000, cancellation or change EUR 5,000.
  • One 24/7 number, +41 22 ••• •• ••: Maximum sends its direct payment guarantee to the hospital (art. 2.12).
  • Network of 45,000 providers (art. 6.9); evacuation is decided, organised and paid by Maximum's medical team if the local facility is not enough (art. 6.2.2).
  • Named certificate by e-mail on payment, no medical questionnaire.

SourcesGeneral conditions, policy 20 00 479OpenStreetMap · read 14.10

What should I do if hospitalised in Greece?

Six steps, in this order.

  • 1. Call +41 22 ••• •• •• before paying anything, or have the front desk call: it is the condition for full cover (otherwise: reduced or refused benefits).
  • 2. Ask for a hospital in the Maximum network (art. 6.9).
  • 3. See a doctor the same day and leave with the certificate: without an on-the-spot finding, nothing is covered (art. 33).
  • 4. Admitted for more than 24 h? The front desk calls Maximum: direct payment guarantee, no deposit (art. 2.12).
  • 5. Book no ambulance or flight yourself (art. 6.2.2).
  • 6. Once home, file within 30 days (art. 35.7).
  • Local emergency services: single number 112 · police 100 · ambulance 166 · fire 199.

SourcesSpecial conditions 01.26General conditions, policy 20 00 479

Which emergency numbers in Greece?

Local emergency services: single number 112 · police 100 · ambulance 166 · fire 199

  • Maximum, 24/7, before any payment: +41 22 ••• •• ••.
  • France — Ambassade de France (1.2 km) · +30 2 103 391 000
  • Switzerland — Ambassade de Suisse (2.0 km) · +30 210 723 03 64
  • United Kingdom — Ambassade du Royaume-Uni (1.7 km)
  • United States — Ambassade des États-Unis d'Amérique (2.4 km)
  • Save these numbers before leaving; in immediate danger, call local emergency services first, then Maximum.

SourcesEmergencyNumberAPI · Wikidata · read 08.10OpenStreetMap · read 14.10

Is an Amex, Visa or Mastercard enough in Greece?

At today's level 1/4, card by card:

  • Amex Platinum — No area exclusion at this level — but three written limits: deductible and prior approval, 90-day cap, advance under conditions.
  • Visa — No express area exclusion — but a €156,000 cap, 90 days, and the war/instability exclusion in the background.
  • Mastercard — No exclusion in play at this level — but a €155,000 cap and 90 covered days.
  • Three lines to read in your notice: the duration (often 90 days per trip), the settlement (reimbursement afterwards or direct payment of the hospital) and the area exclusion at level 4/4.

SourcesAmex Platinum France T&Cs, 01.2025 — general exclusion n° 11BNP Paribas Visa Infinite notice (policy PT7), 04.2025 — comFortuneo World Elite Mastercard notice, 01.2026 — art. 5.5 '

Are a health plan or a travel policy enough in Greece?

A health plan reimburses at home; here, the hospital asks for a payment guarantee before admission.

  • Health plan — A health plan treats you at home. Here the hospital asks for a guarantee before admission — not a later reimbursement.
  • Travel policy — No area exclusion at this level — compare cap, deductible and covered duration.
  • A travel policy often has a territorial clause at level 4/4 and a 90-day limit per trip.
  • Have your IPID number or the PDF of the terms and ask an expert to call you back: the answer is in the document, not in the brochure.

SourcesGeneral conditions, policy 20 00 479

How do I use the medical network on this page?

The page reads hospitals, pharmacies and doctors from OpenStreetMap, around the point you choose.

  • Type your city, hotel or beach: the map re-centres, 24/7 emergency rooms come first.
  • Each row gives the phone when the source publishes it, the nearest street, directions and the Google Maps listing.
  • The PDF briefing repeats the same places, numbered on a printable map.
  • No customer reviews: OpenStreetMap has none, and we invent none.

SourcesOpenStreetMap (ODbL) · read 14.10

Which vaccines and health precautions for Greece?

The sourced detail is under Medical network › Health: vaccines, diseases present, altitude, outbreaks.

  • CDC (Travelers' Health), depending on the trip: Routine vaccines, COVID-19, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Measles, Monkeypox, Rabies.
  • See a doctor or a travel clinic 8 weeks before departure (Foreign Office).
  • Carry your medicines in their packaging, with a prescription using international non-proprietary names (France Diplomatie).

SourcesCDC Travelers' Health · read 10.10France Diplomatie · updated 15.09 · read 15.10OMS · read 15.10Foreign Office · updated 11.08 · read 15.10

Can I be treated in Greece, or will I be evacuated?

6.6 physicians per 1,000 people (2022) versus 4.5 in Switzerland.

  • 4.3 hospital beds per 1,000 people versus 4.4 in Switzerland (World Bank).
  • Medical density above Switzerland: the question is not capacity, it is the bill. Health spending of 1,963 USD per person (Switzerland: 11,784) goes with private hospitals that bill foreigners in hard currency and ask for a guarantee before admission: the direct payment guarantee is what avoids the deposit.
  • When the local facility is not enough, Maximum's medical team decides the evacuation to a suitable centre, and pays for it (art. 6.2.2).

SourcesWorld Bank · read 10.10General conditions, policy 20 00 479

Greece: safety, in figures?

0.8 homicides per 100,000 people (2023) versus 0.6 in Switzerland and 1.3 in France.

  • 8.3 road deaths per 100,000 people versus 2.2 in Switzerland (World Bank, WHO).
  • The homicide rate is in the same range as Switzerland or France. On the road, 4 times more deaths than in Switzerland: road crashes are the leading cause of death of healthy travellers (CDC) — seat belt, no night driving, a driver or a taxi from a rank.

SourcesWorld Bank (UNODC, WHO) · read 10.10UCDP

Where is my embassy in Greece, and why register?

The nearest representations, by passport (OpenStreetMap):

  • France — Ambassade de France (1.2 km) · +30 2 103 391 000
  • Switzerland — Ambassade de Suisse (2.0 km) · +30 210 723 03 64
  • United Kingdom — Ambassade du Royaume-Uni (1.7 km)
  • United States — Ambassade des États-Unis d'Amérique (2.4 km)
  • Register before leaving: France: Ariane · Switzerland: Travel Admin · United Kingdom: Foreign Office alerts · United States: STEP.
  • Two minutes, and in a crisis your country's authorities can reach you and count you in an evacuation.
  • Pick your passport at the top of Contacts: your embassy comes first.

SourcesOpenStreetMap · read 14.10DFAE · updated 03.07 · read 15.10

Which regions of Greece should I avoid, precisely?

No region is advised against by the official readings checked (Global Affairs Canada, Foreign Office and France Diplomatie): the national advice applies everywhere.

  • Your point (Attica): country-wide vigilance.
  • Maximum does not exclude these areas: the VIP Pack covers care and repatriation there (sanctions, embargoes and a country already at war at departure remain enforceable).

SourcesGlobal Affairs Canada · updated 09.10 · read 15.10Foreign Office · updated 11.08 · read 15.10France Diplomatie · updated 15.09 · read 15.10

Which laws and customs should I know in Greece?

Local laws apply to every traveller; here is what the official texts say.

  • You must carry your passport at all times as local police may request identification, and copies may not be accepted.
  • Possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs carries severe penalties, including long prison sentences and heavy fines.
  • It is illegal to photograph military installations, personnel, border areas, harbours, airports, churches, or monks; always verify if photography is allowed.
  • You must register your drone to fly it in the European Union, or face fines and confiscation.
  • Do not buy or travel with weapons such as knuckledusters, pocketknives, or pepper spray, as Greece has strict laws regarding their possession.

SourcesGlobal Affairs Canada · updated 09.10 · read 15.10Foreign Office · updated 11.08 · read 15.10

Who can I call at any hour from Greece?

Every foreign ministry runs a 24/7 emergency line for its nationals.

  • France — Crisis and Support Centre — French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs: +33 1 53 59 11 00. 24/7 emergency line, standard rate. First contact abroad: the French embassy or consulate.
  • Switzerland — FDFA Helpline: +41 58 465 33 33 · +41 800 24 7 365. 24/7, 365 days a year — helpline@eda.admin.ch. Beware of scam calls spoofing these numbers.
  • United Kingdom — Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office: +44 20 7008 5000. 24 hours, for British nationals.
  • United States — Overseas Citizens Services — U.S. Department of State: +1 202 501 4444 · +1 888 407 4747. From abroad; the second number from the U.S. and Canada.
  • On site, Ambassade de France: +30 2 103 391 000.

Sourcesdiplomatie.gouv.fr · updated 15.09 · read 15.10eda.admin.ch · updated 03.07 · read 15.10

A few useful phrases in Greek for Greece?

Emergency phrases, to show if pronunciation fails:

  • Help! → Βοήθεια! (Voítheia!)
  • Call an ambulance! → Καλέστε ασθενοφόρο! (Kaléste asthenofóro!)
  • I need a doctor. → Χρειάζομαι γιατρό. (Chreiázomai giatró.)
  • Where is the nearest hospital? → Πού είναι το πλησιέστερο νοσοκομείο; (Poú eínai to plisiéstero nosokomeío?)
  • Call the police! → Καλέστε την αστυνομία! (Kaléste tin astynomía!)

SourcesMaximum Insurance

What should I keep after leaving Greece, and how do I file a claim?

Keep the entry stamp, the invoices, the prescriptions and the medical report.

  • File within 30 days (art. 35.7) from your client area, with the documents; the official forms are pre-filled.
  • Costs advanced on site are reimbursed against receipts.
  • Fever, persistent diarrhoea or a rash in the following weeks? See a doctor and say where you have been.

SourcesGeneral conditions, policy 20 00 479

What does the Pack VIP Extreme add?

Cancellation or change up to EUR 20,000, special risk EUR 5,000 per person, crisis management and security, optional Kidnap & Ransom.

  • Special risk (Module A): political event, attack, epidemic, natural disaster — opens when the FDFA, the FOPH or WHO advise against the trip (art. 18.1).
  • Epidemic: assistance must be requested within 7 days of the WHO or FDFA qualification (art. 36.2).
  • Crisis management and security: trip registration, monitoring, extraction, evacuation in case of riot, war, terrorism or disaster; Kidnap & Ransom subject to eligibility (art. 18.4).
  • €2,290 a year, unlimited trips.

SourcesGeneral conditions, policy 20 00 479

A question not answered here? Ask Maximum below, or call the support number: every question gets a clear, actionable answer.

A question? Maximum answers.Answers built from the Greece file and your policy.

In a life-threatening emergency, call local emergency services first, then Maximum: +41 22 ••• •• •• — 24/7 support number, an adviser stays with you to the end.

What Maximum knows

The 207 country pages — hospitals, pharmacies, police, embassies, emergency numbers, official advice from four governments, health, safety in figures, events in progress — read around the city you name. Your policy — benefits, the six steps, claims, articles. The site — prices, certificate, subscription. Nothing else: what it does not know, it says so and hands you to an adviser.

Same advisory level: Norway · New Zealand · Uzbekistan · Palau · Paraguay · Poland

Cross-check with official sources
U.S. State Department → UK FCDO → France Diplomatie → DFAE (Suisse) →

The displayed level comes from the State Department, checked every morning. Before departure, always cross-check your country of residence's advisory: that is what your policy cites.

The level shown is the official U.S. Department of State level, checked daily. Maximum Insurance is an insurance distributor — general information, not personal advice.

Travel covered to Greece
Get the Pack VIP — €990/yr Cover a team
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The destination is already Athens. A few choices, then the reading of your cover, here.

Go further
Insured in an advised-against country →What a repatriation really costs →Who pays the hospital abroad →Where the United States, France and the United Kingdom disagree →What insurance do you need for an assignment abroad? →Insuring a team that travels: you cover a headcount, not names →

All 13 files, together → · All 207 countries →