1. Travel Documents:
For EU Citizens: A valid identity card with Latincharacters is sufficient for entry into Greece. A passport is not required.
For Non-EU Citizens: You must have a valid passport to enter the country.
For Minors: All minors must have their own identity document or passport.
2. Traveling with pets:
If you’re bringing pets, ensure they have a valid health certificate. Contact your veterinarian and the Greek Embassy in your country to obtain the necessary documentation for your pet.
3. Health precautions:
Medical Assistance: In case you need medical help, make sure you have your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) and active medical insurance. This will ensure you have access to necessary healthcare services.
Summer Heat: Serious health issues can arise due to the summer heat, especially in July and August. To prevent health problems during extreme heat, it is recommended to drink plenty of water, shower frequently, avoid physical activities, avoid alcohol, and apply sunscreen. It is advised to avoid direct contact with the sun between 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM.
4. Emergency preparedness:
For more travel advice and safety warnings, please consult the website of your country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and/or the website of your country’s embassy, as well as that of Greece.
European Emergency Number: 112
Ambulance: 166
Police: 100
Fire Department: 199
5. Currency:
The official currency is the euro. Credit cards are generally accepted, but it’s advisable to carry cash for your excursions. Banks are open only in the morning and most close at 2:30 p.m.
6. Time:
The time zone is : GMT +1.
7. Driving license:
A driving license issued by a member country of the European Union (EU) or the European Economic Area (EEA) is valid throughout the European Economic Area (EEA) until it expires, so you are not required to exchange it for a Greek one. In case of loss or theft of your driving license, you must report it to the Hellenic police (e.g., at the Tourist Assistance Office in Athens) and then report the loss or theft in person at your country’s consulate.
8. Means of Transport:
Athens
The fastest way to get around Athens is by metro. The Athens metro network consists of 3 lines and is connected to the tram, bus routes, and the suburban railway. The suburban railway provides a direct connection between the port of Piraeus and Athens International Airport, and it also connects Athens to Halkida in Euboea, as well as Kiato and Corinth in the Peloponnese. Athens also has an extensive bus and trolleybus network. The tram network links the city center to the coastal suburbs of Faliro, Voula, and Piraeus.
For more information on public transport in Athens, call 11185 or visit www.oasa.gr.
Taxis in Athens are yellow with a “TAXI” sign on the roof. You can hail a taxi in Greece by simply raising your hand or going to a taxi rank (piatsa). These ranks are located in many parts of Athens, mainly in central areas.
Other Regions of Greece
Generally, every region in Greece, whether on the mainland or the islands, has its own means of transport, with buses being the primary mode of transport. However, on islands where vehicles are prohibited, such as Hydra, or on very small islands, alternative transport methods are used.
9. Maritime Information:
Since Greece has a rich maritime tradition and the sea plays an essential role in the daily lives of its inhabitants, the Greeks’ relationship with boats is similar to that of city dwellers with buses! There are numerous ferry routes to countless destinations, with multiple stops, serving as many passengers as possible. Greek ferries are highly developed and well-equipped, with many maritime companies offering their services with modern and luxurious fleets. Most ferries come with all necessary amenities, including restaurants, snack bars, lounges, cabins, and more. All Greek islands are connected to the mainland, and regular services between islands allow for pleasant and varied island-hopping vacations. Access to the ports is easy, as is purchasing tickets.
Important notes:
10. Flight Information:
Greece has an extensive air network, offering both domestic and international flights. The country boasts 15 international airports located in various cities and islands, welcoming direct international flights as well as charter services. Opting to travel by plane to a Greek city or island ensures a comfortable, safe, and fast journey.
Major International Airports in Greece:
Attica:
Ionian Islands:
North Aegean Islands:
Crete:
Northern Greece:
Peloponnese:
Dodecanese Islands:
Major Regional Airports in Greece:
Cyclades:
Epirus:
Macedonia:
Crete:
Northern Sporades Islands:
Central Greece:
Peloponnese:
North Aegean Islands:
Dodecanese Islands:
Ionian Islands: