If you’re planning a trip to Greece, it’s important to prepare for the health and safety aspects of your adventure. While Greece is a safe and well-developed country, some basic precautions can help you avoid potential issues. In this guide, I’ll cover health tips, recommended vaccinations, safety in urban and rural areas, and essential emergency contacts. Let’s make sure your trip is both safe and enjoyable!
Essential Health Tips for Travelers in Greece
Drinking tap water is generally safe in Athens and most urban areas. However, on some islands, it’s safer to stick to bottled water. Pay attention to any local advice when in doubt.
Greek summers can get extremely hot. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoiding alcohol during peak sun hours. Make sure to wear sunscreen, especially between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Greece has excellent health services, so if you do fall sick, getting medical assistance is straightforward. Pharmacies are plentiful, and many pharmacists speak English. They can provide basic medications over the counter for common traveler ailments.
Food and Hygiene
Greek food is amazing, and food safety standards are high. Still, it’s always smart to follow basic hygiene practices like washing your hands before meals. Make sure that the seafood you eat is fresh and well-cooked, especially during the hot summer months.
When trying street or market food, ensure it looks freshly prepared. Greece’s food is generally safe, but why risk an upset stomach?
Allergies and Dietary Needs
If you have food allergies, carry a card that lists them in Greek. Many Greeks speak English, but it’s always helpful to have your needs written in the local language.
Vegetarian or vegan? It’s easy to maintain those diets in Greece. Many traditional dishes are plant-based, and restaurants generally understand these dietary needs.
Recommended Vaccinations for Traveling to Greece
Check with your doctor about vaccinations at least a month before your trip. Greece doesn’t require many specific vaccines beyond the standard ones you likely already have, but it’s good to be prepared.
The following vaccines are commonly recommended:
- Hepatitis A: You can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water, although the risk is low.
- Hepatitis B: This is generally recommended if you’re planning long-term stays or expect medical procedures while you’re abroad.
- Rabies: Consider this if you’re going to be in remote areas or around animals. While uncommon, rabies exists in parts of Greece.
Make sure your routine vaccines (like measles, mumps, rubella, and diphtheria) are up to date.
Emergency Contact Numbers in Greece
Greece has a solid emergency response system. Keep these numbers handy, just in case:
- Ambulance: Dial 166
- Police: Dial 100
- Fire Services: Dial 199
- European Emergency Number (for any emergency): Dial 112
If you have trouble communicating, don’t worry: many Greek emergency responders speak English.
Safety Precautions in Urban Areas
Greece is generally a very safe country to visit, but just like in any destination, it’s smart to take some precautions.
Pickpocketing
This is more common in tourist-heavy areas like Athens. Be mindful of your personal belongings, especially in crowded places like the metro or markets. Keep your valuables in a secure bag, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
Road Safety
Traffic in the larger cities can be hectic. If you’re renting a car or motorbike, familiarize yourself with local traffic laws, and drive cautiously. Greek drivers can be aggressive, and pedestrian crossings aren’t always well respected. Always look both ways before crossing streets, even on pedestrian crossings.
Night Safety
Most areas of Greece are safe to walk in at night, particularly in tourist regions. However, avoid poorly lit areas and stick to well-populated streets when possible, especially if traveling alone.
Safety in Rural and Island Areas
Greece is home to many beautiful villages and islands. While much quieter than the cities, it’s still wise to follow these safety tips.
Hiking and Outdoor Activities
Greece has incredible hiking trails. If you plan on venturing into the mountains or countryside, carry plenty of water, wear suitable footwear, and avoid hiking alone. It’s also worth noting that some trails are not well-marked, so bringing a map or GPS device can be helpful.
Wildlife and Insect Bites
In rural areas, you might come across stray dogs or cats. They generally won’t bother you, but avoid feeding or interacting with them. In more rural and forested areas, mosquitoes and ticks can be an issue. It’s a good idea to use insect repellent, especially in the evenings during the warm months.
Sun Protection and Heat-Related Illnesses
Greek summers can get very hot, and heat-related illnesses are common among travelers.
To avoid heat exhaustion, wear a wide-brimmed hat and light clothing during the day. Use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and reapply it every two hours. If you start to feel dizzy or nauseous, find a shaded spot to cool down and drink water.
Beach Safety
The beaches in Greece are stunning, but remember to use common sense. Some beaches have strong undercurrents, so always check for any safety signs or flags. Many of the popular islands have lifeguards, but remote beaches might not, so swim carefully.
Travel Insurance for a Trip to Greece
Travel insurance is a smart investment. It can cover you in case of medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or if your valuables are lost or stolen. Greece’s healthcare system is excellent, but treatment costs can add up fast if you’re uninsured. Covering any emergency situations will give you peace of mind.
General Travel Etiquette and Cultural Respect
Greece is known for its hospitality, but it’s still important to be mindful of local customs. In churches or monasteries, dress modestly: no exposed shoulders or knees. Taking photos inside these spaces can be frowned upon, so always ask for permission first.
If you’re offered food, it’s considered polite to accept. And even though tips aren’t mandatory, leaving a small tip for good service (around 5-10%) is always appreciated.
Pharmacies and Hospital Care in Greece
Pharmacies are abundant, and most pharmacists can provide medication for minor ailments. Look for the green cross sign, which signals an open pharmacy. If you require more serious medical care, Greece’s hospitals and health clinics are of good quality, particularly in larger cities.
However, if you’re visiting smaller islands, you may need to travel to the mainland, or a larger island, for specialized treatment facilities.
Staying Connected
If you find yourself in need of direction or have an emergency, mobile coverage is strong in most parts of Greece, even on many islands. Wi-Fi is widely available in cafes, hotels, and restaurants. It’s still a good idea to have a SIM card with data access, especially if you plan to be in more remote areas.
Useful Apps
There are a number of apps that can be helpful during your stay in Greece. Download an offline map app before you arrive, so you can navigate even when you lose signal. Additionally, local transport apps like ‘Beat’ (for taxis) and ‘OASA Telematics’ (for public transportation in Athens) can simplify your travel experience.
Final Thoughts on Staying Safe in Greece
By staying mindful of your health and safety, your trip to Greece should be smooth sailing. Follow these tips, pack wisely, and enjoy everything this beautiful country has to offer.
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