Everyday Personal Safety in Greece: Practical Habits That Reduce Risk
Why everyday safety habits matter
Personal safety in Greece is largely about preventing opportunistic incidents: pickpocketing in crowded areas, bag snatches near transport hubs, and occasional scams aimed at tourists and locals alike. The good news is that small, repeatable habits can cut your risk dramatically without making life feel restrictive. The goal isn’t to be fearful; it’s to be prepared, observant, and confident.Situational awareness without paranoia
Start with a simple baseline: know what “normal” looks like where you are. In busy parts of Athens, Thessaloniki, or popular islands, “normal” includes crowds, street vendors, and people moving close to you. Awareness means checking your surroundings periodically, noticing who is behind you, and avoiding getting absorbed in your phone while walking.If you need directions, step to the side with your back against a wall or a fixed object. This reduces the chance of someone coming up behind you and also helps you keep your bag and pockets in view.
How to carry valuables safely
Most street theft succeeds because valuables are easy to access. Make it hard.- Keep your phone in a front pocket or zipped bag, not in a back pocket or loosely in your hand in dense crowds.
- Use a crossbody bag worn in front, with the zipper facing inward. In tight spaces, rest your hand on the zipper.
- Split valuables: one payment card and limited cash in your wallet, a backup card stored separately in your accommodation.
- Keep passports secured. If you must carry it, use an interior pocket or money belt and avoid pulling it out in public.
A practical rule: if you can’t feel it, you can’t protect it. When you’re in a crowd, you should be able to feel your phone and wallet locations without checking.
Public transport and crowded hotspots
The highest-risk moments tend to be transitions: entering/exiting metro stations, escalators, and bus doors. Keep bags in front during boarding and avoid placing your phone on top of luggage while navigating ticket gates.On the Athens Metro and other busy lines, pickpockets may work in small groups, using distractions like jostling, asking a question, or positioning themselves to block your movement. If someone bumps you unusually hard, immediately check that your phone and wallet are still where they should be.
If you’re using taxis or ride-hailing, confirm the vehicle and driver details when possible and avoid displaying cash. Sit in the back seat if you’re alone, and share your trip details with a friend when traveling late.
Nightlife safety: smart enjoyment
Greece has an active nightlife, especially in city centers and tourist areas. Most nights out are uneventful, but the same basics apply.Choose a meeting spot with friends and keep a plan for getting home. Watch your drink being made, don’t leave it unattended, and be cautious about accepting open drinks from strangers. If you feel unexpectedly unwell, tell staff or a trusted friend and seek help immediately.
For more in-depth guides and related topics, be sure to check out our homepage where we cover a wide range of subjects.
Walking home late? Stick to well-lit routes and busier streets. If you’re in a quieter area, consider a taxi rather than cutting through alleys or shortcuts.
What to do if you feel followed
The safest response is to change the environment.- Cross the street and vary your route. If the person mirrors your moves, treat it seriously.
- Enter a well-lit business (café, kiosk, hotel lobby) and stay there.
- Call someone and speak loudly and clearly about your location.
- If you feel in immediate danger, call the emergency number (112 in Greece) and describe what’s happening.
Avoid going straight to your accommodation if you think someone is following you; you don’t want to reveal where you’re staying.
Common street scams to recognize
Scams change over time, but many share the same patterns: urgency, distraction, and pressure.Be wary of:
- Overly friendly strangers who insist on helping with ATMs or tickets.
- Petition or “donation” approaches that block your path or push paper into your hands.
- Bracelet/flower gifts that quickly become a demand for payment.
A polite, firm “No, thank you” and continued movement works best. You don’t owe explanations.
If something happens: immediate steps
If you’re robbed or lose a phone/wallet, act quickly. Cancel cards using your bank’s app or hotline. If your phone is missing, use “Find My”/device tracking to lock it and erase data if needed. Report the incident to the police; if you need insurance claims, a report is often required.If you are a visitor, contact your embassy/consulate if your passport is stolen. Keep digital copies of key documents stored securely to speed up replacements.