Travel advisory issued by the Foreign Affairs Office for all travelers visiting Greece
Traveling to Greece can be a delightful experience, but it's essential to be aware of potential risks and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Here's a breakdown of the key safety considerations and tips for traveling in Greece.
Current Risks and Safety Tips
Risks:
- Seismic Activity: Greece is situated in an active seismic zone, with minor earthquakes reported near the Cycladic islands in early 2025. Staying informed and following local guidance during seismic events is crucial.
- Wildfires: The summer months, particularly from April to October, carry a high risk of wildfires. Tourists should be prepared for possible evacuations and follow local instructions.
- Civil Unrest and Crime: Demonstrations and strikes can occur frequently, and petty crime, such as pickpocketing, is common, particularly in large cities like Athens, Thessaloniki, and Piraeus during the travel season from April to November.
Safety Tips:
- Stay Informed: Monitor local news for updates on earthquakes and wildfires.
- Follow Local Guidance: Adhere to evacuation orders and follow instructions from local authorities during emergencies.
- Wildfire Precautions:
- Ensure your mobile is registered for emergency alerts.
- Avoid starting fires, ensure cigarettes are extinguished, and do not leave litter.
- Follow @112Greece for official updates.
- Travel Insurance: Ensure comprehensive insurance covers adventure activities, rental vehicles, and medical evacuation.
- Plan Ahead: Hike with well-planned routes, favorable weather conditions, and adequate supplies.
Foreign Office Advice:
The Foreign Office has issued warnings about the high risks of wildfires in Greece, among other concerns. It advises travelers to be cautious and prepared for emergencies. General advice includes avoiding areas where fires are active and following local authorities' instructions to ensure safety.
Overall, while Greece remains a popular and generally safe destination, being aware of these risks and taking appropriate precautions can help ensure a secure and enjoyable trip.
Additional Tips:
- Stay Alert: The risk of theft is higher in places with many people, such as airports, public squares, buses, or the metro.
- Keep Important Documents Safe: Make copies of all important documents and keep them separate from the originals.
- Use Safe Transportation: Park vehicles in supervised parking lots and pay without cash whenever possible.
- Check Travel Advisories: The Foreign Office recommends using a warning app specifically for Greece to protect against unexpected natural disasters, such as bush and forest fires.
Remember, Greece is home to approximately 39 airports and important ferry connections, making it easily accessible for tourists. With careful planning and a keen awareness of the potential risks, Greece can offer an unforgettable travel experience.
- Maintaining a lifestyle that prioritizes awareness and safety can help ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience in Greece, such as being aware of seismic activity, wildfires, and civil unrest.
- To augment your travel insurance, it's advisable to follow some additional tips like staying alert, keeping important documents safe, and using safe transportation, especially in large cities like Athens, Thessaloniki, and Piraeus during the travel season from April to November.
