Greece
Southern Europe • GRC
Last updated: October 13, 2026
Greece is a Mediterranean gem offering a perfect blend of ancient history, stunning island landscapes, and vibrant culinary traditions. It is an ideal destination for travelers seeking both cultural exploration and coastal relaxation.
Visa Requirements
Greece is part of the Schengen Area, allowing citizens from many countries like the US, UK, and Canada to enter for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism without a visa.
Typically Required Documents
- Valid passport with at least six months validity beyond the intended date of departure
- Proof of return or onward travel tickets
- Evidence of sufficient funds for the stay
- Travel insurance covering medical expenses
- Proof of accommodation for the duration of the visit
Popular Attractions
The Acropolis of Athens: A historic citadel containing the remains of several ancient buildings of great architectural and historic significance, the most famous being the Parthenon.
Santorini: Famous for its iconic whitewashed buildings, blue-domed churches, and breathtaking sunsets overlooking the volcanic caldera.
Meteora: A spectacular complex of Eastern Orthodox monasteries built on top of immense natural sandstone rock pillars.
Mykonos: Renowned for its cosmopolitan atmosphere, lively nightlife, and charming labyrinthine streets in Chora.
Knossos Palace: Located on Crete, this is the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on the island and is considered Europe's oldest city.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Greeks are known for their warm hospitality and it is common for locals to greet friends with a kiss on both cheeks.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or monasteries, ensuring shoulders and knees are covered to show proper respect.
Tipping is appreciated in restaurants; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10 percent is considered a kind gesture.
Dining is a leisurely social affair in Greece, so do not feel pressured to rush through your meal as service is often relaxed.
Avoid the offensive hand gesture known as the 'moutza,' which involves pushing an open palm toward someone's face.
Safety Tips
Greece is generally very safe, but keep a close eye on your belongings in crowded tourist areas like the Athens Metro to prevent pickpocketing.
Be cautious when walking on narrow, winding roads, as local driving habits can be aggressive and fast-paced.
Stay hydrated and use high-SPF sunscreen, especially during the intense summer heat between June and August.
Only drink tap water in areas where it is specifically marked as potable; otherwise, rely on bottled water for safety.
If planning to hike or explore remote areas, always inform someone of your itinerary and carry a reliable communication device.
Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, which is the universal European emergency number.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
Yellow Fever
Source: CDC
No yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for entry into Greece.
View sourceCore Vaccines
Routine Vaccines (MMR, Tdap, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to provide general immunity.
View sourceRoutine Vaccines (MMR, DTaP, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTaP, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccinations before travel.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
To avoid diseases transmitted by mosquitoes and other insects.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
To prevent foodborne illnesses while traveling.
View sourceInfluenza
Source: CDC
Annual vaccination recommended for all travelers, especially in winter months.
View sourceTdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis)
Source: CDC
Tdap booster recommended if it has been more than 10 years since the last booster.
View sourceSeasonal influenza vaccine
Source: CDC
Flu season occurs in winter months; vaccination is recommended.
View sourceMMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella)
Source: CDC
Routine vaccines are important for all travelers.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccine
Source: CDC
Vaccination recommended to reduce risk of severe illness.
View sourceCOVID-19 Vaccination
Source: CDC
Strongly recommended for travelers to protect against COVID-19 infection.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers due to potential exposure through contaminated food or water.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may eat or drink in areas with poor sanitation.
View sourceMMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers to ensure protection against these preventable diseases.
View sourceFor Most Travelers
General Hygiene
Source: CDC
Practice frequent hand washing to reduce the risk of common infections.
View sourceInsect Bite Prevention
Source: CDC
Prevent vector-borne diseases by using insect repellent and wearing appropriate clothing.
Use EPA-registered insect repellent and wear long-sleeved shirts and pants.
View sourceFood and Water Safety
Source: CDC
Prevent gastrointestinal illness by consuming safe food and water.
Drink only bottled or boiled water and avoid raw or undercooked foods.
View sourceFlu vaccination
Source: CDC
Recommended especially during flu season to reduce illness risk while traveling.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, etc.)
Source: CDC
Before travel to ensure protection against common diseases.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures
Source: CDC
To reduce the risk of diseases transmitted by insects like mosquitoes.
View sourceRabies (for certain travelers)
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers who may have animals contact in the rural areas or engage in outdoor activities.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for those with concerns about food and water safety.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap)
Source: CDC
Ensure that routine vaccinations are up to date before traveling to Greece.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may have sexual contact with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have medical procedures.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
Practice safe food and water habits to prevent travelers' diarrhea and other foodborne illnesses.
Drink only bottled, sealed, or boiled water; eat cooked foods served hot.
View sourceTyphoid vaccine
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may eat or drink outside of major restaurants and hotels.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers due to risk through food or water contamination.
View sourceItinerary-Specific
Typhoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers visiting smaller cities or rural areas.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Considered for travelers involved in outdoor activities or working with animals.
View sourceRabies (if engaging in high-risk activities)
Source: CDC
Consider vaccination if activities may expose travelers to bats or wild animals.
View sourceMeningococcal
Source: CDC
Recommended for certain groups; consult with specific itinerary.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Consider if you might have sexual contact with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or undergo medical procedures.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
Important for preventing foodborne illnesses during travel.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures
Source: CDC
Essential for travelers engaged in outdoor activities, particularly in rural areas.
View sourceRabies vaccination
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers engaging in outdoor activities in remote areas, especially with animals.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Consider for those who may have close contact with the local population or require medical treatment.
View source