last edited Dec 11, 2019
Health and Safety in Greece
Location Map of Greece
Greece
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Official Recommendations
In France, both for individuals and professionals, the "travel advice" from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding precautions for each country has legal value. A similar online travel advice system exists in several countries:
Health
No vaccinations are mandatory to enter the country, though it is still advisable to be up to date with your "basic vaccinations."
Illnesses and Hygiene
Nothing particular to report.
Local Healthcare Facilities
Local facilities are relatively good, though on the islands they can sometimes be very limited, potentially requiring a return to Athens for serious cases. For healthcare, nationals of countries in the European Economic Area must present their European Health Insurance Card (formerly form E-111), which guarantees the same rights to everyone—otherwise, medical expenses must be paid in full. Other visitors will need to rely on their insurance or pay for all care themselves.
Safety
Crime and Delinquency
Greece is a relatively safe destination, though like anywhere else—and especially in tourist areas and the capital—there is some petty crime, including pickpocketing (notably in the Athens metro) and theft from vehicles. However, with basic precautions and a bit of common sense, there is no real risk.
Scams and "Tourist" Harassment
There are no major issues either, though it’s wise to be vigilant about taxi fares in a city like Athens. Similarly, some car or scooter rental agencies can sometimes be a bit "dodgy"...
Socio-Political Risks
The country occasionally experiences protests that can escalate, as well as sporadic actions by far-left groups targeting institutional sites.
Climate, Nature, and Animals
Foreign Consulates in Greece
If you encounter problems while traveling abroad, your country’s consular services can assist you. It’s also worth noting that if you are a European Union national and your country is not represented, you can contact any other EU member state’s representation.
France
- Consulate General: 6 Akadimias Street, 10671 Athens. Tel.: +30 2 103 391 200.
- Consulate General in Thessaloniki: 27 Evzonon Street, 54640 Thessaloniki. Tel.: +30 2 310 244 030
France also has 14 honorary consulates on the islands and the mainland. Locations: Cephalonia, Chios, Corfu, Crete (Chania and Heraklion), Kalamata, Mykonos, Lesbos, Nafplio, Patras, Rhodes, Samos, Santorini, and Syros.
Other Countries
- Belgium:
- Canada:
- Switzerland: