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 GreeceEmergency 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
| Venue | Typical | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Restaurants | 5–10% | Not obligatory; leave on the table |
| Taxis | Round 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
| English | Local | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello (formal) | Γεια σας / Yiásas | YAH-sahs |
| Hello (informal) | Γεια σου / Yiá sou | YAH-soo |
| Thank you | Ευχαριστώ / Efcharistó | ef-hah-rees-TOH |
| Please / You're welcome | Παρακαλώ / Parakaló | pah-rah-kah-LOH |
| Excuse me | Συγγνώμη / Signómi | sig-NOH-mee |
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