Is It Safe to Travel to Greece Right Now?

Yes, Greece is safe to visit right now! I recently traveled to Greece, and it was one of the best trips I’ve ever taken. From the streets of Athens to the sunsets of Santorini, every part of Greece felt peaceful and safe. Popular destinations like Mykonos, Crete, and Meteora remain welcoming and safe for travelers.

Note – On Friday, February 28, 2025, Greece had a general strike to mark the second anniversary of the country’s greatest train accident. The strike started at midnight and went on for 24 hours, stopping public transportation like planes, trains, and boats all over the country. Things have cooled down now but stay aware.

Is Greece Safe to Visit Right Now? 

Here’s why Greece is safe:

• ATMs worked perfectly for me, and I had no issues withdrawing cash.

• Credit cards were accepted almost everywhere, from small shops to high-end restaurants.

• The locals were warm and helpful, making me feel at ease throughout my journey.

If you’re wondering about crime, don’t worry. Greece has a very low crime rate in tourist areas, like the Greek islands and historical landmarks. Of course, watch your belongings in crowded places like Monastiraki Square and Athens’s busy streets.

What’s Happening in Greece Right Now? 

2025 Safety Update: How Greece’s Economy Affects Travelers
While Greece’s 2008 crisis made headlines, 2024 data shows stability (Bank of Greece, 2024). Today, ATMs and card systems in Santorini and Mykonos outperform those in Paris or Rome. During my May 2024 visit, I withdrew €500 daily with zero issues. To be honest I didn’t faced any issues while I was traveling.

Here’s What You Need to Know:

During the peak of the crisis, locals faced withdrawal limits. But international travelers with foreign cards were not affected. Now, ATMs work perfectly, and I had no trouble withdrawing cash during my trip. Widespread use of credit cards has improved. Even in smaller towns and on the Greek islands like Santorini and Mykonos I rarely needed cash. Credit cards were accepted almost everywhere. Key destinations like Athens, Crete, and Meteora are as vibrant and well-maintained as ever. You won’t notice any lingering signs of the financial crisis in these areas.

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How Does the Crisis Affect Tourists Today?

The Greek financial crisis no longer impacts travelers. However, it’s always a good idea to stay informed. Strikes and protests occasionally occur in central areas like Syntagma Square in Athens. They are usually peaceful and easy to avoid.

I avoided a planned protest during my stay simply by checking “Greece news today” apps. Life in tourist zones, especially on the Greek islands, goes on as usual, and these events don’t disrupt the visitor experience.

Pro Tip: If worried about the crisis, stick to major tourist spots like Athens, Santorini, or Mykonos. They prioritize safety and services. By visiting Greece, you’ll support local businesses and the economy, which rely on tourism.

Why Greece is Still Thriving

Despite its financial struggles, Greece remains one of the top travel destinations in the world. The tourism sector is now vital to the country’s economic recovery. It has shown great resilience. In fact, Greece is projected to generate €22 billion in tourism revenues in 2024, surpassing its previous record of €20 billion in 2023. (Source: Greek Travel Pages)

The country’s commitment to tourism is evident in its:

• Well-maintained historical sites like the Acropolis in Athens and Palace of Knossos in Crete,

• Stunning beaches on islands like Santorini and Mykonos, and

• Friendly locals who go above and beyond to make travelers feel welcome.

Sustainability Efforts in Tourism

Greece has launched initiatives to manage overtourism and ensure sustainable tourism. This is in response to the rising number of tourists. For example, the government has imposed a €20 tourist tax on cruise ship passengers visiting popular sites like Santorini in peak seasons. This is to reduce strain on local resources. (Source: The Scottish Sun)

Final Thoughts on Greece’s Economic Recovery

Thanks to increased tourism revenues, Greece’s economy continues to stabilize. For instance, Greek banks have resumed paying dividends after 16 years, a sign of confidence in the financial sector’s recovery. (Source: Wall Street Journal)

Traveling to Greece is more than just a vacation—it’s an opportunity to experience its rich culture, warm hospitality, and incredible history while supporting its ongoing recovery. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins in Athens or enjoying the beauty of the Greek islands, you’ll find that Greece is as magical and welcoming as ever.

Greece is Safe and Open for Travelers

Greece is one of the safest and most rewarding places to visit right now. Traveling solo, with family, or with friends? You’ll find locals who welcome you. There are breathtaking sights and a rich culture, too.

During my trip, I experienced stunning sunsets in Santorini, delicious meals in Athens, and relaxing beaches in Mykonos. Everywhere I went, I felt safe and welcomed. ATMs worked fine. Credit cards were widely accepted. Tourist spots were peaceful and well-kept.

If you’ve been wondering, “Is it safe to travel to Greece right now?” the answer is a big YES! Popular destinations like the Acropolis in Athens, Santorini, and the Greek islands are ready to welcome travelers.

Traveling to Greece now is also an opportunity to support local businesses and enjoy fewer crowds at top attractions. Whether you want to soak in history, relax on sandy beaches, or indulge in delicious Greek food, this country offers something unforgettable for everyone.

Pro Tip:

Pack light clothing, comfortable shoes for cobblestone streets, and a portable safe for cash. Don’t forget to check “Greece news today live” for updates before you travel. Explore Greece on your terms with SkyScanner’s car rental deals. Affordable, flexible, and perfect for your travel needs.

The Benefits of Traveling to Greece Right Now

Traveling to Greece right now has so many perks! From fewer crowds to supporting local businesses, there are plenty of reasons why now is the perfect time to visit the Hellenic Republic.

1. Fewer Tourists

I loved that many of the usual hotspots, like the Acropolis in Athens and Santorini, felt less crowded during my trip. This meant shorter lines, better photo opportunities, and a more relaxed experience overall. Even popular Greek islands, like Mykonos and Crete, were much calmer than expected.

2. Affordable Prices

Greece is surprisingly affordable compared to other European destinations. Whether you’re traveling on a budget or looking for luxury, there’s something for everyone. For example:

• Souvlaki for just €3 made for a quick and delicious lunch.

• Mid-range hotels were about €50–€80 per night.

• Ferries between islands like Santorini and Mykonos cost me around €20–€40.

Even exploring the Palace of Knossos or other historical landmarks like Meteora is budget-friendly, with tickets ranging from €10–€20.

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3. Warm and Welcoming Locals

One of my favorite parts of the trip was how kind and welcoming the Greek people were. From the hotel staff to taverna owners, everyone went out of their way to make me feel at home. It felt great to support their small businesses. The Greek economy depends on tourism.

4. Perfect Weather

Visiting Greece during spring or fall means enjoying perfect weather. The temperatures are warm but not too hot, making it ideal for exploring ancient ruins, hiking, or lounging on the beach. I visited in May, and it was sunny every single day.

5. Incredible History and Culture

Greece is like a living museum. From the Parthenon in Athens to the stunning Meteora monasteries, there’s something fascinating at every turn. Exploring Greek islands like Crete also means diving into ancient history, such as the ruins of the Palace of Knossos.

Don’t forget the food! Every meal I had, from a €3 souvlaki to fresh seafood on the coast, felt like a cultural experience. It’s impossible not to fall in love with the history, food, and culture.

6. Support Greece’s Economy

Tourism in Greece is vital to local families and businesses. Traveling now is not just about having an incredible vacation—it’s also about supporting the Greek economy as it continues to recover. Knowing my trip made a small difference added meaning to my journey.

Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling to Greece

Is Greece safe for families?

Yes! Greece is very family-friendly. I saw plenty of families with kids enjoying beaches, historical sites, and small, quiet villages. Many restaurants have kid-friendly menus, and locals are welcoming to families. Greece is a great destination for kids and parents alike. You can explore ancient ruins in Athens or relax on a beach in Crete.

Do I need to worry about protests?

Not really. Protests are rare in tourist areas, and when they do happen, they’re usually peaceful. During my trip, I simply avoided major squares when I heard about planned demonstrations. Stick to tourist-friendly areas, and you’ll be fine.

Are ATMs and credit cards reliable?

Yes! ATMs worked perfectly with my international card. Shops, restaurants, and hotels widely accepted credit cards. I did keep some Euros as backup cash, which I recommend for emergencies, but I didn’t need to use them often.

What’s the best time to visit Greece?

Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) are the best times to visit. The weather is warm but not too hot, and tourist crowds are smaller. I visited in late spring and loved the mild temperatures and blooming landscapes.

Is it safe for solo travelers?

Absolutely. As a solo traveler, I felt completely safe in Greece. The locals were friendly, and I had no issues walking around tourist spots during the day. At night, I stuck to well-lit areas and used taxis or rideshare apps to get around.

Is Greece safe for families?

Yes! Greece is very family-friendly. I saw plenty of families with kids enjoying beaches, historical sites, and small, quiet villages. Many restaurants have kid-friendly menus, and locals are welcoming to families. Greece is great for kids and parents. You can explore ancient ruins in Athens or relax on a beach in Crete.

Do I need to worry about protests?

Not really. Protests are rare in tourist areas, and when they do happen, they’re usually peaceful. During my trip, I simply avoided major squares when I heard about planned demonstrations. Stick to tourist-friendly areas, and you’ll be fine.

Are ATMs and credit cards reliable?

Yes! ATMs worked perfectly with my international card, and credit cards were widely accepted in shops, restaurants, and hotels. I did keep some Euros as backup cash, which I recommend for emergencies, but I didn’t need to use them often.

What’s the best time to visit Greece?

Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) are the best times to visit. The weather is warm but not too hot, and tourist crowds are smaller. I visited in late spring and loved the mild temperatures and blooming landscapes.

Is it safe for solo travelers?

Absolutely. As a solo traveler, I felt completely safe in Greece. The locals were friendly, and I had no issues walking around tourist spots during the day. At night, I stuck to well-lit areas and used taxis or rideshare apps to get around.

Do I need travel insurance for Greece?

Yes, I always recommend travel insurance. It gives you peace of mind in case of emergencies like missed flights, health issues, or lost luggage. I used World Nomads, which covered me for everything from minor delays to medical assistance.

Is the tap water safe to drink?

In most places, yes! In Athens and many mainland cities, tap water is safe to drink. However, on some islands, it’s better to stick to bottled water, which is cheap and widely available.

What are the COVID-19 rules in Greece?

Greece has eased many COVID-19 restrictions. It’s best to check the latest guidelines before traveling. Masks were still recommended in crowded indoor spaces during my visit. Otherwise, it felt like pre-pandemic normalcy.

What’s the cost of traveling to Greece?

Greece is budget-friendly compared to other European destinations. For example:

• A budget hotel can cost around €50 per night, while luxury options go up to €200+.

• Meals at a taverna were about €10–€15, and street food like souvlaki was just €3.

• Entrance fees for historical sites ranged from €10–€20.

You can easily adjust your trip to fit your budget. You can splurge on a luxury experience or travel on a shoestring.

Are the Greek islands safe?

Yes, the Greek islands are extremely safe for tourists. Santorini, Mykonos, Crete, and Corfu are the most visited. They have a well-developed infrastructure. Even the quieter islands like Syros and Naxos are just as welcoming.

Do I need a visa to visit Greece?

If you’re from the EU, US, Canada, or Australia, you don’t need a visa for stays under 90 days. Just make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.

Can I visit Greece during the winter?

Yes, but it’s a completely different experience. Most islands are quiet, with many tourist services closed. But, cities like Athens and Thessaloniki are lively year-round. Winter is also a great time to explore cultural and historical sites without the crowds.

So, what are you waiting for?

Book your trip to Greece today and get ready to explore the beauty, history, and magic of the Hellenic Republic. Greece is waiting for you!