Safety in Greece: A Complete Guide for Expats and Travelers (2025)

Greece ranks among Europe's safest countries, with low violent crime rates and a welcoming attitude toward foreigners. The Global Peace Index consistently places Greece in the top third of the world's safest nations. Whether you're relocating to Athens, island-hopping through the Cyclades, or retiring to the Peloponnese, understanding Greece's safety landscape helps you settle in with confidence.

Overall Safety Rating

Greece is very safe by global standards. The country maintains low rates of violent crime, and serious incidents involving foreigners are rare. Major cities like Athens and Thessaloniki have typical urban challenges—petty theft, occasional protests—but nothing that should deter you from moving here.

Key safety indicators:

• Violent crime rate significantly below European average
• Murder rate under 1 per 100,000 (compared to 5-6 in the United States)
• Most crimes against visitors are non-violent (pickpocketing, scams)
• Strong police presence in tourist areas during peak season
• Well-developed emergency response infrastructure

The U.S. State Department rates Greece at Level 1 (Exercise Normal Precautions)—the safest category. The UK and Australian governments similarly advise that Greece poses no unusual security risks for travelers who take standard precautions.

Crime Statistics and Trends

Greece's crime landscape is dominated by property crimes rather than violent offenses. Understanding the patterns helps you take appropriate precautions.

Property crime: Theft remains the most common crime affecting visitors and residents. This includes pickpocketing in crowded areas, vehicle break-ins, and occasional home burglaries. Athens sees more property crime than other regions simply due to population density.

Violent crime: Assault, robbery, and other violent crimes occur at low rates. Random violent crime against foreigners is extremely rare. When violence does occur, it typically involves disputes between known parties or organized crime activities that don't affect ordinary residents.

Organized crime: Greece has some organized crime presence, primarily involving smuggling and financial crimes. This operates largely invisible to everyday life and doesn't impact typical residents or visitors.

Trend: Crime rates have remained stable over the past decade despite economic challenges. The 2008 financial crisis didn't produce the crime surge some predicted, and security has actually improved in many tourist areas due to increased police presence.

Tourist Scams to Avoid

Greece has the usual range of tourist-targeted scams. Knowing what to watch for prevents most problems.

The bar/club overcharge scam: Someone befriends you on the street and invites you for a drink. The bill arrives with inflated prices—sometimes hundreds of euros for a few drinks. This happens primarily in Athens and targets solo male travelers. Avoid accepting drink invitations from strangers, and always check menus with prices before ordering anywhere unfamiliar.

Taxi meter manipulation: Some taxi drivers quote flat rates well above metered fares, claim the meter is broken, or take longer routes. Use taxi apps like Beat or Uber (where available) for price transparency. If using street taxis, confirm the driver will use the meter before getting in.

The restaurant menu switch: A waiter shows you a menu without prices or with lower prices, then charges more. Ask for a priced menu, and check that what you ordered matches your bill. By law, restaurants must provide itemized receipts.

The friendship bracelet: Someone ties a "free" bracelet or places something in your hand, then demands payment. Don't accept items from strangers on the street.

ATM skimming: Card fraud exists. Use ATMs inside banks rather than standalone machines, cover your PIN, and monitor your accounts. Contactless payments are widely accepted—use them when possible.

The helpful stranger: Someone offers unsolicited help with tickets, directions, or luggage, then expects payment. Politely decline assistance you didn't request.

Pickpocketing Hotspots

Petty theft concentrates in predictable locations. Knowing where to be alert helps you protect your belongings.

Athens Metro: The most common pickpocketing venue. Crowded trains and station platforms during rush hour create opportunities for thieves. The stations at Monastiraki, Syntagma, Omonia, and Acropolis see the most incidents. Keep bags in front of you, avoid back pockets, and be especially alert when trains are crowded.

Monastiraki Square and Flea Market: The bustling atmosphere and tight crowds make this prime territory for pickpockets. Watch your belongings while browsing stalls.

Omonia Square: This central Athens area has a rougher reputation, particularly at night. It's improved significantly in recent years but warrants extra awareness. Petty theft, drug activity, and occasional harassment occur here more than elsewhere in central Athens.

Plaka and Acropolis area: Heavy tourist foot traffic attracts pickpockets despite the heavy police presence. Stay alert around major monuments and in crowded restaurants.

Syntagma Square: The parliament area sees large crowds, protests, and consequently pickpocket activity. Be aware during the changing of the guard ceremony when attention focuses elsewhere.

Prevention tips:

• Use a crossbody bag worn in front
• Don't keep valuables in back pockets
• Carry a photocopy of your passport; leave the original secured at accommodation
• Distribute cash and cards across multiple locations
• Be especially alert when someone bumps into you or creates a distraction

Safety by City

Athens

The capital is safe by European city standards. Central areas are well-patrolled, and serious crime against residents is uncommon. The main concerns are pickpocketing in tourist areas and occasional political protests.

Neighborhoods to approach with extra caution:

• Omonia Square and surrounding streets (improving but still has drug activity and rough edges at night)
• Parts of Exarchia (anarchist presence; occasional clashes with police, but generally safe for visitors during the day)
• Areas around Larissa and Peloponnese train stations (petty crime, homelessness)

Generally safe neighborhoods:

• Kolonaki (upscale, low crime)
• Kifissia (affluent northern suburb)
• Plaka (heavily touristed but safe)
• Glyfada (seaside suburb with strong security)
• Koukaki (residential, popular with expats)
• Pangrati (quiet residential, near central Athens)
• Marousi (business district, modern amenities)
• Psychiko and Filothei (wealthy residential areas)

Thessaloniki

Greece's second city is generally considered safer than Athens. Petty crime exists but at lower rates. The waterfront and Aristotelous Square areas are well-monitored. The university area sees occasional student protests. The Ano Poli (Upper Town) is safe and charming for walking, even at night.

Greek Islands

The islands are exceptionally safe. Violent crime is virtually nonexistent on smaller islands where communities are tight-knit. Santorini, Mykonos, and Rhodes see some pickpocketing during peak season simply due to tourist volume, but nothing approaching mainland levels. The party islands (Mykonos, Ios, parts of Corfu) have standard nightlife-related incidents—drink spiking, intoxication-related injuries—but serious crime remains rare.

Island-specific considerations:

• Mykonos: Expensive and safe, but watch for nightclub overcharging
• Santorini: Very safe; main hazards are donkey rides and slippery paths
• Crete: Large island with varied areas; cities like Heraklion warrant standard urban awareness
• Rhodes: Tourist areas heavily policed; safe overall
• Corfu: Safe except for occasional package-tourism-related disturbances

Women's Safety

Greece is reasonably safe for women, including solo travelers. The Mediterranean culture includes some catcalling and attention that women may find unwelcome, but this rarely escalates beyond verbal comments. Physical harassment is uncommon.

Practical advice:

• Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps, especially at night
• Keep accommodation location saved on your phone
• In bars and clubs, watch your drink—drink spiking occurs occasionally
• Don't walk back to accommodation alone late at night in unfamiliar areas
• Islands with party reputations (Mykonos, Ios) warrant extra caution around nightlife venues
• Greek men may be persistent with attention; a firm "no" usually ends unwanted interaction
• Local women regularly walk alone at night in residential areas—it's generally safe to do so

Solo female travel: Many women travel alone in Greece without incident. Hostels, hotels, and tourist infrastructure are well-established. Greek hospitality often means locals look out for solo travelers. The main adjustments are standard travel precautions rather than Greece-specific concerns.

LGBTQ+ Safety

Greece has made significant progress on LGBTQ+ rights. Same-sex marriage became legal in February 2024, making Greece the first Orthodox Christian country to legalize it. Discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity is illegal in employment, housing, and services.

Legal landscape:

• Same-sex marriage: Legal since 2024
• Same-sex adoption: Legal since 2024
• Anti-discrimination laws: Cover sexual orientation and gender identity
• Legal gender recognition: Available without surgery requirements
• Hate crime protections: Include sexual orientation and gender identity

Social attitudes: Public attitudes vary by location. Athens has a visible LGBTQ+ scene, with bars, clubs, and annual Pride celebrations. Mykonos has long been an LGBTQ+-friendly destination with an active gay scene. Thessaloniki is more conservative but has a growing community.

Rural areas and smaller islands tend toward traditional values. Same-sex couples may attract attention or disapproval in conservative communities. Public displays of affection between same-sex couples might receive stares or comments in some areas, though harassment is uncommon.

Practical tips:

• Athens neighborhoods like Gazi and Metaxourgio have active LGBTQ+ nightlife
• Mykonos, particularly the town area, is openly welcoming
• Read the room in rural areas and smaller islands
• The Orthodox Church remains socially conservative, but this rarely affects daily life
• Younger Greeks are generally more accepting than older generations

Driving Safety

Driving in Greece requires adjustment for visitors used to more orderly traffic cultures. Greek driving is fast, assertive, and often ignores traffic rules that seem more like suggestions.

Key challenges:

• Aggressive driving: Tailgating, speeding, and sudden lane changes are common. Motorists often ignore speed limits.
• Motorbikes and scooters: They weave through traffic and may pass on either side unexpectedly.
• Pedestrian crossings: Drivers often don't stop for pedestrians, even at marked crossings. Look both ways and don't assume cars will yield.
• Mountain roads: Narrow, winding roads with poor barriers and sharp drops. Drive slowly and yield to oncoming traffic.
• Drink-driving: Greece has strict laws (0.05% BAC limit, lower for new drivers), but enforcement is inconsistent.

Motorbike and quad bike safety: Rental accidents cause numerous injuries to tourists each year. You need a valid motorcycle license (Category A1 minimum) to rent bikes over 50cc. Always wear helmets—it's required by law and by your insurance. Many travel insurance policies exclude quad bikes entirely or classify them as extreme sports.

Natural Hazards

Earthquakes

Greece is seismically active—the most earthquake-prone country in Europe. Small tremors happen frequently, and larger earthquakes occur periodically. Buildings in seismic zones are constructed to withstand significant shaking.

What to do:

• If indoors: Drop, cover under sturdy furniture, hold on. Stay away from windows.
• If outdoors: Move away from buildings, power lines, and trees.
• After shaking stops: Check for injuries, be prepared for aftershocks.
• Familiarize yourself with assembly points—find yours at mysafetyplan.gov.gr

Wildfires

Summer wildfires are a serious hazard, particularly from April through October. Greece's dry climate, strong winds, and mountainous terrain create dangerous conditions. In recent years, devastating fires have affected areas near Athens, the Peloponnese, and various islands.

Prevention and response:

• Register your phone for emergency alerts (turn on Emergency Alerts in your phone settings)
• Follow @112Greece on social media for official updates
• Don't light fires—it's illegal and extremely dangerous
• Dispose of cigarettes properly
• Have an evacuation plan if living in wildfire-prone areas
• Keep a go-bag with essentials ready during fire season

Extreme Heat

Summer temperatures regularly exceed 40°C (104°F). Heatwaves have caused fatalities among tourists, particularly those hiking or engaging in outdoor activities without adequate preparation.

Precautions:

• Avoid outdoor activities during peak heat (12:00-16:00)
• Stay hydrated—drink water continuously, not just when thirsty
• Wear sun protection: hat, sunscreen, light clothing
• Know the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke
• Air conditioning is essential for summer accommodation

Emergency Numbers

Save these numbers before you need them:

• General Emergency (Police, Fire, Ambulance): 112
• Police: 100
• Ambulance: 166
• Fire Department: 199
• Coast Guard: 108
• Tourist Police: 1571
• Poison Control Center: 210 779 3777
• Roadside Assistance (ELPA): 10400

112 is the universal emergency number throughout the European Union. Operators speak English.

Tourist Police: Specifically handles visitor issues including theft reports, complaints about businesses, and assistance. Available 24/7 during tourist season in major destinations.

Safe Neighborhoods in Athens

For those relocating to Athens, neighborhood choice significantly affects daily quality of life. Here's a breakdown of safe residential areas:

Kolonaki: Athens' most upscale neighborhood. Expensive but very safe. Embassies, designer shops, and excellent restaurants. Good for professionals seeking a central, polished address.

Kifisia: Affluent northern suburb with tree-lined streets and large homes. Excellent schools, safe streets, family-friendly. 30-40 minutes from central Athens.

Glyfada: Seaside suburb south of Athens. Popular with expats and Greeks alike. Safe, with good beaches, shopping, and nightlife. International schools nearby.

Koukaki: Trendy neighborhood near the Acropolis. Safe residential streets with good cafes and restaurants. Popular with young professionals and creative types.

Pangrati: Quiet residential area behind the Panathenaic Stadium. Family-friendly, safe, affordable by central Athens standards. Good neighborhood feel.

Marousi: Business district in northern Athens. Modern, safe, with good amenities. Home to many corporate headquarters and the 2004 Olympic complex.

Psychiko and Filothei: Wealthy, quiet neighborhoods with embassies and large houses. Among the safest in Athens. Limited nightlife but excellent for families.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Greece safe for tourists?

Yes. Greece is one of Europe's safer destinations. Millions of tourists visit annually with few incidents. Standard precautions against pickpocketing and scams are sufficient for most visitors. Violent crime against tourists is rare.

Is Athens safe at night?

Central Athens is generally safe at night, especially in tourist and upscale areas like Plaka, Kolonaki, and the waterfront. Avoid Omonia Square and surrounding streets late at night. Use licensed taxis or ride apps rather than walking alone through unfamiliar areas after dark.

Is it safe to drink tap water in Greece?

Tap water is safe in Athens and most mainland cities. Some islands rely on desalinated water that's safe but may taste different. When in doubt, bottled water is inexpensive and widely available.

Should I be worried about earthquakes in Greece?

Small earthquakes happen frequently and are rarely felt. Buildings are constructed to earthquake standards. Know basic earthquake safety procedures, but daily life doesn't require constant concern. Major damaging earthquakes are infrequent.

Is Greece safe for solo female travelers?

Yes. Many women travel solo in Greece without problems. Exercise standard precautions: use licensed transport at night, watch your drink in bars, and stay aware of your surroundings. Greek culture may involve more male attention than some visitors are used to, but this is typically harmless.

How does Greece compare to other European countries for safety?

Greece is comparable to other Southern European countries. Safer than large Western European capitals (Paris, London) for property crime in many respects. Less safe than Scandinavian countries but within normal European ranges. Significantly safer than most destinations outside Europe.

What's the biggest safety risk in Greece?

For most visitors, traffic and road accidents pose the greatest physical risk—not crime. Driving is aggressive, and motorbike/quad bike accidents injure tourists regularly. Natural hazards (heat, wildfires, earthquakes) represent real but manageable risks with proper awareness.

Are the Greek islands safe?

Extremely safe. Smaller islands have virtually no crime. Even party islands like Mykonos see mostly minor incidents related to nightlife. The main island hazards are natural: strong currents for swimmers, slippery paths, and sun exposure.

Greece offers an excellent quality of life with safety conditions that compare favorably to most European destinations. The concerns that exist—petty theft, aggressive driving, summer natural hazards—are manageable with basic awareness. For expats and long-term residents, Greece provides a secure environment where most people feel comfortable walking alone at night, leaving doors unlocked in villages, and raising families without significant safety concerns.