Continent: | Europe |
Population: | 10.4 Mio. inhabitants |
Area: | 131'958 km² |
Capital City: | Athens |
Currency: | EUR |
Language: | Greek |
Time zone: | UTC +2 (EET) UTC +3 (EEST) |
Calling code: | +30 |
Greece is a captivating country in southeastern Europe, known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. It offers a perfect blend of culture and nature: ancient ruins like the Acropolis in Athens, breathtaking beaches with crystal-clear waters, and picturesque islands such as Santorini and Mykonos. Greek cuisine is another highlight, featuring fresh ingredients and traditional dishes like moussaka and souvlaki. Greece is an ideal destination for culture enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Entry
You are obliged to be able to always identify yourself with your passport or identity card. An airport tax of EUR 18.50 and a security fee of EUR 5.00 will be charged at the airport on departure.
Safety
The country is stable but continues to suffer from a severe economic crisis. Cases of pickpocketing and purse snatching are very common. Especially in Athens, many thefts of purses and ID cards are reported, especially in the metro between Athen’s airport and the city.
Important phone numbers
100 - police
112 - ambulance
112 - fire department
Language
Greek is the official language in Greece. Now it is Modern Greek, a further development of the ancient Greek language.
In the popular resorts and on the large islands, tourists have no problems in terms of communication, as German and English are widely spoken. A Greek dictionary will be of little use, as it also depends on pronunciation and intonation to be understood correctly by the locals. However, anyone travelling by car in Greece should familiarize themselves with the Greek alphabet in order to be able to read the road signs.
Currency and means of payment
In Greece you pay in Euro (EUR). You can pay everywhere with credit cards. It is accepted as a means of payment in all shops, Restaurant or Hotels. But it doesn't hurt to have some cash with you. Taxis and smaller shops sometimes not accept credit cards.
Tip
Usually, the bill is rounded up. The tip of up to 10% of the amount is left on the table. The price is also rounded up in the taxi.
Transport and infrastructure
The roads are generally in good condition, but the unpredictable behaviour of many road users poses a considerable risk of accidents. Extreme caution is required, especially on winding mountain roads, but also on motorways. The motorways are toll roads.
There is a widespread network of scheduled buses. There are only railway lines between the big cities. There are regular ferries between the islands.
Risk due to nature
Greece is in an earthquake zone. It cannot be ruled out that earthquakes or volcanic eruptions in the Mediterranean will trigger tsunamis that can reach all coastal areas of the Mediterranean.
In the summer months, there is a considerable risk of forest fires in many places. Fires often spread rapidly because of strong winds.
Rules of conduct
The hand signals are different as in many other countries. Practically every gesture in which the open palm is directed towards a person is understood as an insult. Therefore, even when waving goodbye, the hand is turned inwards so as not to show the palm to the other person. Even the sign for "o.k.", which we are familiar with, has an insulting meaning in Greece.
National holiday
25. March - on 25 March 1821, Greek men and women revolted against almost 400 years of foreign rule by the Ottoman Empire (the Ottoman Empire was the predecessor of today's Turkey). The liberation struggle lasted for many years. In 1830, the Greek state was finally founded.
28. October - the Ochi Day is the second national holiday. On 28 October 1940, the Greeks rejected demands by the Italian dictator Mussolini. He wanted Greece to submit to Italy by 28 October - and threatened war. Allegedly, the Greek government at the time simply sent a fax to Italy with only the word "Ochi" meaning "No". The national holiday that takes place every year on 28 October is therefore also called "No" Day.