Practical Info A-Z

Greece is unfortunately one of the more challenging travel countries in Europe for people with mobility impairments. The combination of ancient structures, narrow alleys, cobblestones, and hilly terrain makes many things complicated — but there are also bright spots.

Where It Works Well

• Athens Metro — all stations on lines 2 and 3 have elevators and tactile guidance systems. The metro is the most accessible means of transport in Greece
• New Acropolis Museum — fully accessible, elevators to all floors, wheelchair-accessible toilets
• Modern Hotels (from 4 stars) — generally have accessible rooms with walk-in showers and wider doors
• Thessaloniki — the waterfront promenade (Nea Paralia) is 5 km long, flat, and fully wheelchair-accessible
• Organized Beaches — some larger beaches on Crete (Elafonisi parking lot, Rethymno city beach), Rhodes, and Corfu have wheelchair-accessible ramps and Seastrac systems

Where It Gets Difficult

• Cyclades Islands (Santorini, Mykonos) — narrow, steep alleys, cobblestones, stairs everywhere. In Oia on Santorini, there is practically no flat meter
• Archaeological Sites — the Acropolis itself has a provisional elevator (north side), but the path there is steep and uneven. Delphi, Olympia, and Epidaurus are largely not accessible
• Ferries — larger ferries (Blue Star, Minoan Lines) have elevators and accessible cabins. Small speedboats and local Kaikis: forget it
• Public Buses (KTEL) — intercity buses rarely have ramps or low-floor entry
• Sidewalks — even in Athens often parked on, uneven, or non-existent. Curb cuts are hit or miss

Tips for Planning

• Choose islands with flat topography: Paros, Naxos, and Kos are much easier to navigate than Santorini or Hydra
• Rent a car instead of using public transport — gives the greatest independence, especially with automatic (reserve in advance!)
• Sailing4Handicap and Accessible Greece offer specialized travel advice

In an emergency (loss of passport, arrest, serious accident), the embassy or consulate is your first point of contact. Outside office hours, there are emergency numbers.

German Embassy Athens

• Address: Karaoli & Dimitriou 3, 106 75 Athens (Kolonaki)
• Phone: +30 210 7285 111
• Emergency outside office hours: +30 210 7285 111 (follow instructions)
• Web: athen.diplo.de
• Office hours: Mon-Fri 9:00-12:00 (Consular Section)

Honorary Consulates

Germany maintains honorary consulates on major islands and in coastal cities:

• Thessaloniki: Consulate General, +30 2310 251 120
• Corfu: +30 26610 36716
• Crete (Heraklion): +30 2810 226 288
• Rhodes: +30 22410 63730
• Patras: +30 2610 365 454

Austrian Embassy Athens

• Address: Leoforos Vasilissis Sofias 4, 106 74 Athens
• Phone: +30 210 7257 270
• Web: bmeia.gv.at/oeb-athen
• Office hours: Mon-Fri 8:30-11:30

Swiss Embassy Athens

• Address: Leoforos Iassiou 2, 115 21 Athens
• Phone: +30 210 7230 364
• Web: eda.admin.ch/athen
• Office hours: Mon-Fri 9:00-12:00

Greece uses 230 V AC, 50 Hz — exactly like in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.

The sockets are Type C (Europlug, two-pin) and Type F (Schuko with grounding). Travelers from the DACH region do not need an adapter.

Travelers from the UK, USA, or Australia need an adapter (Type C/F). In Athens, available cheaply at any electronics store.

Good to Know

• On some small islands, the power supply can be unstable during peak load in high summer — a power bank and flashlight are useful
• In older apartments and guesthouses, sockets are sometimes loose — a power strip with surge protection is practical
• In most cafes and taverns, you can charge your phone — just ask for a socket
• Large ferries (Blue Star, Minoan Lines) have sockets in the lounges

On holidays, banks, authorities, and many shops are closed. Supermarkets have reduced opening hours or are completely closed. Restaurants and tourist facilities usually remain open during the season — but not always.

Important: Greece follows the Orthodox calendar for Easter and Pentecost. The Orthodox Easter rarely falls on the same date as the Western one — sometimes up to 5 weeks later!

Orthodox Easter — a Special Experience

Easter is more important than Christmas for Greeks. Holy Week (Megali Evdomada) is intense: On Good Friday evening, solemn Epitaphios processions pass through every city and village — with brass bands, candles, and decorated biers. On Saturday night at midnight, the highlight: "Christos Anesti!" (Christ is risen!), fireworks, firecrackers, and lamb soup (Magiritsa). On Easter Sunday, lamb is roasted on the spit everywhere.

Best places for Easter: Corfu (spectacular pot-throwing tradition on Holy Saturday), Patmos, Tinos, Hydra, every Greek village on the mainland.

Greece has been a member of the Eurozone since 2001 — so you don't need to exchange money if you're coming from the DACH region.

Card Payment

Since 2017, all Greek shops are legally required to accept electronic payments. In practice, this works excellently in cities, larger islands, and tourist areas — contactless (NFC) almost everywhere.

But: On small islands, in remote mountain villages, and at some small taverns, kiosks, and beach vendors, despite the requirement, sometimes "cash only" is accepted — especially when the terminal is "just broken."

ATMs

• Availability: In every city, every village with more than a few hundred inhabitants, and on all tourist islands
• Fees: Greek banks (Alpha Bank, Piraeus Bank, Eurobank, National Bank of Greece) do not charge a fee at the ATM. Your German bank charges 0-5 EUR per withdrawal depending on the account
• Tip: Always choose "without conversion" when the ATM asks — otherwise, you'll pay the worse exchange rate of the ATM operator (DCC trap, affects non-Euro cards)
• Daily limit: Usually 600 EUR per withdrawal, depending on the bank

Cost Overview (Reference Values 2025/2026)

No vaccinations are required for Greece. Medical care is good in the cities, but can be limited on small islands.

Before the Trip

• EHIC card (European Health Insurance Card) is a must! It is on the back of your insurance card and entitles you to treatment in public hospitals and with contracted doctors
• Travel health insurance is still strongly recommended — it covers repatriation, private doctors, and extras not covered by the EHIC (from 10 EUR/year)
• Refresh standard vaccinations (tetanus, diphtheria) if more than 10 years old

Medical Care on Site

• Public hospitals in Athens, Thessaloniki, Heraklion, Patras, and all larger cities. Quality varies — in Athens on Western European level, simpler in the countryside
• Health centers (Kentro Ygeias) on most inhabited islands — basic care, in serious cases transfer by helicopter or ferry
• Pharmacies (Farmakeio) — recognizable by the green cross. Very well stocked! Many medications that require a prescription in Germany are available over the counter in Greece (e.g., mild antibiotics, cortisone creams). Pharmacists often speak English
• Private clinics in Athens and Thessaloniki — faster treatment, but significantly more expensive. Only worthwhile with travel health insurance

Common Health Issues on Vacation

• Sea urchins: The most common "souvenir" — black spines in the foot after swimming on rocky coasts. Soak spines in vinegar, then carefully remove with a needle. Do not squeeze! See a doctor if inflamed
• Jellyfish: Occasionally in late summer, rarely dangerous. Rinse with seawater (NOT freshwater!) if in contact, vinegar helps. The purple jellyfish (Pelagia noctiluca) stings the most
• Stomach issues: Sometimes due to excess olive oil when adjusting. Increase slowly, drink plenty of water
• Sunburn: The Greek sun is significantly stronger from May than in Central Europe. SPF 30+ is a must, especially on the water (ferry, boat!)

Greece has invested massively in digital infrastructure in recent years. In tourist areas, the coverage is good.

WLAN (WiFi)

• Hotels and Apartments: Free WiFi is standard, even in simple accommodations
• Cafes and Restaurants: Free WiFi almost everywhere — ask for the password or check the table display
• Airports and Ferry Ports: Free WiFi (often time-limited to 30-60 minutes)
• Beaches: At organized beaches (with loungers/umbrellas), often WiFi from the beach bar

Mobile Network

Three major providers: Cosmote (Telekom subsidiary, best network), Vodafone Greece, and Wind Hellas. Coverage is good in populated areas, but there may be dead zones in mountain regions and on very small islands.

EU Roaming

For travelers from the EU, since 2017, "Roam like at Home" applies: You use your German/Austrian/Swiss data volume without extra charge (Switzerland: depending on the provider, caution!). Calls, SMS, and data at home rates.

Prepaid SIM on Site

If you need a Greek number or want to save your roaming volume:

• Cosmote: "What's Up" Prepaid — 10 EUR for 10 GB (30 days), available at any Cosmote shop or kiosk
• Vodafone: "CU" Prepaid — similar conditions
• ID/Passport required for purchase (EU regulation)

Greece has changed significantly in recent years and is now one of the most progressive countries in Southeast Europe — at least legally and in the major cities.

Legal Situation

• Same-sex marriage legal since February 2024 — making Greece the first Orthodox Christian country with marriage for all
• Anti-discrimination laws in the workplace and service sector since 2015
• Adoption by same-sex couples allowed since 2024

In Everyday Life

• Athens: Vibrant LGBTQ+ scene, especially in the Gazi district (bars, clubs, community centers). Athens Pride in June with growing attendance
• Mykonos: THE international LGBTQ+ travel destination in Greece — a magnet for the community since the 1960s. Numerous LGBTQ+-friendly bars, clubs, hotels, and beaches (Super Paradise, Elia Beach)
• Thessaloniki: Progressive student city with its own Pride parade and active scene
• Islands in general: No problem on tourist islands (Crete, Rhodes, Corfu). Small, remote islands and rural areas on the mainland are more conservative
• Holding hands in Athens, Mykonos, and tourist areas is unproblematic. In traditional villages and on very small islands, it may attract curious looks — hostility is extremely rare

Events

• Athens Pride: June — the largest Pride event in Greece with a parade through the city center
• Thessaloniki Pride: June — second-largest Pride parade
• XLSIOR Festival (Mykonos): August — one of Europe's largest LGBTQ+ music festivals

Greece has its own unique opening hours rhythms. The Greek concept of Mesimeri (midday rest) shapes daily life — especially in summer and on the islands.

The Siesta Lives!

Between 2:00 PM and 5:30 PM the country rests — especially in summer and on the islands. Many shops close, people speak quietly, construction noise is prohibited. If you are considerate, you will be immediately recognized as a respectful traveler.

The Greek postal service is called ELTA (Ellinika Tachydromeia) and is recognizable by the yellow mailboxes and the blue logo.

Postcards and Letters

• Postcard/Letter to Germany/Austria/Switzerland: 0.90 EUR (standard letter up to 20g)
• Delivery time: 5-10 business days — sometimes faster, sometimes significantly longer. Greek post is not known for speed
• Stamps are available at post offices, sometimes also at Periptera (kiosks) and souvenir shops

Packages

• ELTA packages to Germany are possible but expensive and slow (10-20 days)
• Alternative: DHL and UPS have branches in Athens and larger cities — significantly faster (3-5 days), but also more expensive
• Souvenirs: Many shops offer their own shipping — often cheaper and easier than packing yourself

Good to Know

The mailboxes often have two slots: "Esoteriko" (domestic) and "Exoteriko" (international). Germany is "Exoteriko"!

Greece is a very safe travel destination. The crime rate is low, violent crimes against tourists are extremely rare. Greeks are hospitable and helpful — if you get lost or need help, someone will assist you.

What to Watch Out For

• Pickpocketing: In the Athens metro (especially Line 1 Piraeus-Kifissia), at the Monastiraki flea market, in Plaka, and around Syntagma Square. As in any big city: carry valuables in front, keep backpack closed
• Tourist traps: In Plaka (Athens) and around Syntagma, there are bars that charge inflated bills. Always check the menu/prices beforehand. This also applies to "friendly invitations for a drink" from strangers
• Ferries: Occasionally theft from unattended bags on passenger ferries — book a cabin or carry valuables on your person

Road Traffic — the Biggest Risk

The Greek driving style is... creative. Greece has one of the highest accident rates in the EU. On the islands, scooter accidents are the most common cause of injury among tourists.

• Greek drivers overtake in curves, ignore stop signs, and drive at night without lights on country roads
• Scooters: Rent only with experience! Gravel on roads, stray animals, no guardrails. ALWAYS wear a helmet (mandatory, but rarely enforced)
• Pedestrians: Greek drivers do not stop at crosswalks. Make eye contact with the driver, then cross
• At night: Unlit roads on the islands, potholes, stray dogs and cats — drive slowly!

Wildfires

In July and August, there are regular wildfires, especially on the mainland (Attica, Peloponnese, Euboea) and on large islands (Rhodes, Crete). Greek authorities evacuate quickly and professionally. Stay informed via the app "112 Greece" (official disaster protection app) and follow the fire department's instructions.

Earthquakes

Greece is in a seismically active zone. Light earthquakes are frequent and hardly noticed. Severe quakes are rare. Hotels and newer buildings are earthquake-proof. In case of a serious quake: get under a sturdy table, away from windows, go outside after the quake.

The official language is Greek (Modern Greek / Nea Ellinika) — with its own alphabet, which may seem intimidating at first glance but can be quickly deciphered with a little practice.

Communication in English

English is spoken almost everywhere in Greece — especially by the younger generation (under 40) and throughout the tourism sector. In hotels, restaurants, ferry offices, and museums, you can get by easily with English. It may be more challenging in the countryside and with older Greeks.

German in Greece

German is the second most common foreign language in Greece. On Crete and Corfu, surprisingly many people speak German — often due to work in Germany or German tourists. In tourist areas, you often find German-language menus.

Why a Few Words in Greek are Worth Gold

Greeks are delighted when tourists say even just "Kalimera" (Good morning) or "Efcharisto" (Thank you). It opens doors, brings smiles, and sometimes gets you a free dessert in the tavern. It's no exaggeration: even a clumsy "Kalispera" is met with genuine joy.

The 10 Most Important Words

More vocabulary and pronunciation rules can be found in the language guide (next chapter).

The international dialing code for Greece is +30. Greek mobile numbers start with 69x, landline numbers with the area code (e.g., 210 for Athens, 2310 for Thessaloniki).

Important Emergency Numbers

Tips

• 112 works from any mobile phone, even without a SIM card and without credit
• The Tourist Police (171) speaks English and helps with all problems — from fraud to lost passports to rental car issues. Very helpful!
• In case of a car accident: ALWAYS call the police (even for minor accidents) and insist on a report — the insurance needs it
• The app "112 Greece" (iOS + Android) sends your GPS location directly to the emergency control center

Tipping is not mandatory in Greece, but appreciated — and expected in some situations.

Typical Tips

Good to Know

• In taverns, there is often a "couvert" (cover charge) on the bill — this is NOT a tip, but a fee for bread, cutlery, and tablecloth (1-2 EUR per person). This is legal and common
• With card payment, there is usually no tip option on the terminal. Leave the tip separately in cash on the table
• In simple taverns in the countryside, tips are less expected than in tourist restaurants

The drinking water situation in Greece varies greatly depending on the location.

Where Tap Water is Drinkable

• Athens: Yes! The water comes from the Mornos reservoir and is of excellent quality. It tastes neutral and is safe
• Thessaloniki: Drinkable, slightly calcareous
• Mainland in general: Drinkable in most cities and villages. When in doubt, ask your accommodation

Where You Should Use Bottled Water

• Cyclades (Santorini, Mykonos, Paros, etc.) — water is obtained by ship or desalination plant and is often salty, chlorinated, and taste-wise... challenging
• Small islands in general — water scarcity is a real issue, especially in high summer. Use water sparingly!
• Dodecanese (Rhodes, Kos) — safer with bottled water
• Crete: Drinkable in Heraklion and Chania, better use bottled water in small southern villages

Practical Tips

• Bottled water: Extremely cheap! 1.5L for 0.30-0.50 EUR in the supermarket, 0.50L for 0.50 EUR at the kiosk
• In restaurants: Water is almost always brought as a bottle (0.50-1.50 EUR). You can ask for tap water ("nero apo ti vrisi") — no problem in Athens, on islands you'll still get a bottle
• Refillable water bottle: Practical and eco-friendly on the mainland. Unfortunately, less feasible on the islands
• Mountain springs: In mountain villages, there are often public springs (Vrisaki) with fresh, cold mountain water — locals fill their canisters there. Usually excellent quality!

As an EU country, Greece follows the EU duty-free allowances for personal use.

EU Duty-Free Allowances (from/to Germany)

Strictly Prohibited: Export of Antiquities

Greece has extremely strict laws to protect its cultural heritage. The export of antiquities, archaeological finds, and art objects before 1453 is strictly prohibited and is punished with heavy fines and even imprisonment.

What Else is Prohibited

• Taking stones, shards, pottery shards from archaeological sites — even if it's "just a small piece." Seriously: people get arrested at the airport for this
• Sand and shells from protected beaches (e.g., Elafonisi, Balos) — high fines
• Sponges: You can buy and export natural sponges (no problem), but harvesting wild sponges is regulated

Entry with Pets

• EU pet passport with valid rabies vaccination
• Microchip identification
• Greece has MANY stray dogs and cats — better keep your dog on a leash