Is Greece safe? An honest guide for visitors
Short answer
Greece is a safe country for visitors, with low violent crime. The realistic risks are pickpocketing in Athens, summer heat and wildfires, road traffic and sea or ferry conditions in strong winds; Greek people are generally helpful to visitors.
The real risks
Pickpocketing
On the Athens metro (especially line 1 between Piraeus and Kifisia and the airport line), at Monastiraki and Syntagma, and on crowded buses. Keep bags closed and phones in front pockets.
Heat and wildfires
In July and August Athens often exceeds 35°C, and wildfires can break out in dry areas. Visit sites early, drink water and follow 112 alert messages.
Road safety
Greece has one of the higher road-accident rates in the EU. Drive carefully on mountain and island roads, and wear a helmet on scooters and quad bikes.
Sea and wind
The summer meltemi can make the sea rough and cancel ferries; swim at sheltered beaches on windy days.
Bar scams
Occasionally in central Athens a friendly stranger invites you to a bar with inflated bills; decline invitations from strangers.
Taxi overcharging
Rare, but check the meter is running; Athens airport has a fixed day and night fare to the centre.
Areas and times to take care
Tourist areas such as Plaka, Koukaki, Monastiraki and Syntagma are fine day and evening. In Athens, take more care late at night around Omonia, the streets towards Exarchia and the area around Larissis station, where petty crime and drug use are visible. Party resorts on some islands can be rowdy at night; watch drinks and stay with friends.
Getting around safely
Athens metro and buses are safe but watch for pickpockets. Yellow taxis are metered; the FreeNow and Uber apps book licensed taxis. KTEL buses and ferries are safe and reliable, though ferries can be cancelled in strong winds. Rent scooters only if experienced; quad-bike accidents are common on islands.
Solo and women travellers
Greece is generally comfortable for women travelling alone, including on islands and ferries. Normal precautions apply in central Athens late at night and in party resorts: watch your drink, use taxis late and be wary of over-insistent attention, which is usually more annoying than dangerous.
Health, water and heat
Tap water is safe in Athens and most mainland towns; on some small islands it is desalinated or not recommended for drinking, so locals use bottled water. Sunburn and heat are the main health risks in summer. Pharmacies are excellent; EU visitors should bring their EHIC.
Official travel advice
Check your government's advice before you travel — it is updated when things change.
Some links on this page are partner links. If you book through them TonyPlan earns a small commission — the price you pay is exactly the same.
Common questions
Is Greece safe for tourists?
Yes. The main risks are pickpocketing in Athens, summer heat and wildfires, and road safety.
Is Athens safe at night?
Plaka, Koukaki and Syntagma are busy and fine; take extra care around Omonia and Larissis station late at night.
Can you drink the tap water in Greece?
Yes in Athens and most mainland towns; on some small islands it is desalinated and bottled water is better.