Landmarks and scenery of Greece
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Travel Guide · Europe

Flag of Greece

Greece

Ancient ruins, island-hopping, and food that rewards curiosity.

Entry Requirements

Visa requirements for Greece depend on which passport you hold. Check the Traveller visa tool to see whether your passport needs a visa and, if so, how long you can stay.

Check if you need a visa for Greece

Emergency Numbers

General
112
Police
100
Ambulance
166
Fire
199

Currency

Name
Euro
Code
EUR
Symbol
€

Power Outlets

Outlet types
Type C, Type F
Voltage
230V
Frequency
50Hz

Time Zone

EET (UTC+2) — EEST (UTC+3) in summer

Best Time to Visit

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

July–August: extreme heat (35–40°C) and peak crowds, especially on Santorini and Mykonos

Tipping Customs

VenueTypicalNotes
Restaurants5–10%Not obligatory; leave on the table
TaxisRound up—
Hotels€1–2 per bag—
Tour guides€5–10 per person per day—

Dress Code

  • Modest dress at churches and monasteries — long sleeves, no shorts; sarongs sometimes available
  • Swimwear stays at the beach — town centres and tavernas expect covered shoulders and shorts at minimum
  • Casual is fine everywhere else

Social Etiquette

  • Philoxenia (love of strangers/hospitality) is fundamental — always accept food or drink offered
  • Greet with a handshake; close friends exchange two cheek kisses
  • Note: an open palm facing outward (like a 'stop' gesture) is rude in Greece — use a closed-fingered wave instead
  • Mealtimes are social and long — don't rush
  • Saying 'opa!' during a celebration is authentic; smashing plates is now mostly for tourists

Local Laws

Laws change. Verify current rules with your country's official travel advisory before departure.

  • Photography prohibited at certain archaeological sites — look for signs
  • Removing archaeological artefacts (even small rocks from ruins) is a criminal offence
  • Drug offences carry strict penalties
  • Alcohol purchase age is 18
  • Smoking banned in enclosed public spaces — fines apply

Common Phrases

EnglishLocalPronunciation
Hello (formal)Γεια σας / YiásasYAH-sahs
Hello (informal)Γεια σου / Yiá souYAH-soo
Thank youΕυχαριστώ / Efcharistóef-hah-rees-TOH
Please / You're welcomeΠαρακαλώ / Parakalópah-rah-kah-LOH
Excuse meΣυγγνώμη / Signómisig-NOH-mee

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