Athens Safe Travel Guide

Athens is a safe destination for travelers, even after dark, but staying alert is key. This guide shares essential safety tips for exploring the city—whether you’re wandering through neighborhoods or avoiding common scams. When visiting Athens, it’s crucial to follow basic safety practices to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Here are some general tips:

Stay Aware of Your Surroundings

Always be mindful of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas like markets, tourist sites, and public transportation. Popular spots around the historic center (Monastiraki, Thiseio) attract large crowds, so keeping an eye on your belongings is crucial.

Keep Valuables Secure

Use a money belt or neck pouch to keep your valuables safe. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or unnecessary credit cards. Always keep your belongings under your control, and avoid placing wallets, passports, and credit cards in your hand luggage. Store them in a hidden, secure spot within your clothing, and never in your back pockets.

Blend In

Try to dress like a local to avoid standing out as a tourist. This can help you avoid attracting unwanted attention.  As a general rule of thumb, avoid immediately trusting overly friendly strangers you meet. Use our area guides to plan your stay and activities, and stick to your itinerary for a safe experience.

Fake Tickets

To avoid falling victim to ticket scams, always purchase tickets for attractions directly from official websites, authorized vendors, or at the attraction’s entrance. Be cautious of third-party sellers offering discounts, as their tickets may be counterfeit or invalid.

Transportation Safety

Public Transportation

While the metro, buses, and trains are typically secure, remain cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas. Trains may be packed during certain times of the day (from 8:30 am to 10: 00 am and 18:00 pm to 19:30 pm); to minimize risk, try to avoid entering when there is a high volume of passengers on the platform, as this is when pickpocketing is most likely to occur.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing

Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps like Uber and Free Now, and avoid stopping taxis on the streets. Ensure the meter is running, or agree on a fare before starting your journey.

Rental Cars

When renting a car, make sure to keep the doors locked at all times and refrain from leaving any items visible inside. Look for secure parking lots or garages when parking in the city center.

Neighborhood Safety

Safe Neighborhoods

Plaka, Kolonaki, and Syntagma are among Athens’ safest neighborhoods, known for their vibrant atmosphere and well-lit streets both day and night.

Ilisia

Ilisia is a largely residential and academic area, home to parts of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens. It is considered safe, especially during the day, with many students and locals around.

Ambelokipoi

Ambelokipoi is a bustling neighborhood with many government offices, hospitals, and local businesses. It is generally safe and popular with both locals and visitors.

Mavili Square

Located right next to the American Embassy, Mavili Square is known for its cafes, bars, and vibrant nightlife. It’s a popular spot among locals and expats.

Areas to Be Cautious

While Athens is relatively safe, it’s best to be cautious in areas like Omonia Square and Metaxourgeio, especially during late night hours.

Health and Medical Safety

Keep Cool and Protected

Athens summers are intense. Stay hydrated by drinking lots of water and safeguard yourself from the sun by using sunscreen and wearing a hat.

Local Healthcare

Familiarize yourself with local healthcare facilities. The public healthcare system in Greece is good, but private hospitals may offer quicker service.

Travel Insurance

Always have travel insurance that covers medical expenses and emergencies.

Emergency Contacts and Services

Emergency Numbers

The general emergency number in Greece is 112. For the police, dial 100; for medical emergencies, dial 166 and for fire emergency 199.

Local Police Stations

Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest police station to your accommodation.

Athens Tourism Police Department

(+30) 210 9200724, 210 9200729

Address: 43-45 Veikou  Street, 117 42, Koukaki, Athens

Embassy Contacts

Have the contact information for your country’s embassy or consulate handy

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