Greece is taken into account a really protected nation by a number of authorities companies around the globe.
Pickpocketing can occur in Greece, particularly in busy vacationer areas, however it’s not the primary menace vacationers must be involved about.
In recent times, excessive heatwaves have develop into a critical security difficulty throughout the nation. Rising world temperatures have led to more and more scorching summers, with Greece and different components of southern Europe repeatedly experiencing record-breaking warmth. These intense circumstances have, at instances, confirmed lethal for vacationers caught unprepared.
Chania, on the island of Crete, for example, lately noticed its highest recorded temperature at 112.1°F (44.5°C). In the meantime, sturdy, dry winds throughout these heatwaves typically spark wildfires, forcing evacuations and posing extra dangers to residents and guests alike.
Learn on for important journey security ideas and updates on tips on how to keep safe whereas exploring Greece year-round.
Newest Information from Greece:
October 16, 2025: Greece’s Main Cities Ranked Amongst Europe’s ‘Least Secure’
The 2025 Numbeo Crime Index has raised questions in regards to the perceived security of Greece’s main cities, reflecting rising public concern over safety.
Athens scored 55.3 factors, rating sixteenth, whereas Thessaloniki adopted with 52.5 factors and a Twenty third-place end. Each cities fall beneath the index’s “Average Crime” class, suggesting a noticeable sense of insecurity amongst residents.
The report attributes a part of this notion to localized incidents, reminiscent of current explosions in central Athens linked to anarchist and anti-state teams.
Throughout Europe, nonetheless, the strongest emotions of insecurity have been discovered within the UK and France. The UK had 4 of the 5 “most harmful” cities, led by Bradford, whereas France dominated the highest ten with cities like Marseille and Paris, each combating reputations for road and arranged crime.
Areas to Keep away from
No authorities company is at present warning its residents towards touring to any areas of Greece, together with its islands.
Nevertheless, in Athens, there are a few neighborhoods you may need to keep away from, particularly if visiting solo or after darkish.
Athens’ sketchier neighborhoods embody Omonia, Exarchia, Kolokotroni, Victoria Sq., Metaxourgio, Sepolia, Patissia and Monastiraki.
Official Journey Advisories
US Journey Advisory
For the US authorities, Greece is likely one of the most secure locations on the planet. As of at this time, the nation ranks at “Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions.”
Crucial recommendation for People is to register within the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to obtain safety alerts and make it simpler for authorities to find you in case of want.
That appears to be significantly vital now, with so many vacationers going lacking as a result of excessive climate circumstances.
Canada Journey Advisory
Canada additionally considers Greece a really protected nation and solely requests that vacationers take regular safety precautions when visiting.
However, the nation has warned vacationers about petty crimes like pickpocketing, purse snatching and baggage theft, particularly in massive metropolitan cities.
Security Suggestions for Greece
Like most European locations, Greece is usually protected however not completely risk-free. Keep alert in crowded areas the place pickpocketing and bag snatching can happen, and by no means go away valuables unattended.
Keep away from climbing the Acropolis or mountaineering within the noon summer season warmth — even locals warn that no sunscreen can stop heatstroke. Be cautious of overly “useful” strangers or folks providing small items like bracelets, as these may be scams.
Whereas Athens and different cities are energetic at evening, it’s finest to not stroll alone in quiet areas. Watch your drink in bars, and take licensed taxis with working meters.
Costume modestly when visiting church buildings or monasteries, and skip excessive heels on historic ruins — they’re typically prohibited. Lastly, do not forget that Greek drivers may be unpredictable, so all the time cross streets rigorously.
