Is Athens, Greece Safe For Tourists? 2023 Athens Safety Guide
Athens is world-renowned for its rich ancient history, delicious Mediterranean cuisine, and bustling city life. Whether you are a culture enthusiast or just looking to have fun in the sun, Athens has it all! But with every tourist destination, there are some safety concerns. This guide will help you plan your trip to Athens safely and make sure that your visit to the Greek capital is stress-free. We will discuss safety tips for different areas of travel, such as transport, accommodation and sightseeing. You’ll also learn about common scams that tourists should watch out for and ways to stay safe in the city. So let’s get started!
Is Athens Safe for Tourists in 2023?
Short answer: Absolutely! Overall, Athens is a very safe city to visit as the crime rates are currently at a very low level (lower than the average rate of other European cities). With its stunning monuments, delicious food, and friendly people, it’s easy to see why many travellers flock to this historic place every year. That being said, as with any metropolitan area, there are certain, small precautions you should take in order to ensure your safety while visiting Athens in 2023. By taking a few simple steps, you can ensure that your time in Athens is as safe and enjoyable as possible.
Top petty crimes and tourist scams in Athens affecting tourists
Taxi Scams in Athens
Travelling around Athens can be very enjoyable and fascinating, but it is important to remember that unfortunately there are taxi scams in the city. Many taxi drivers tend to overcharge tourists who may not be aware of the usual price, so it’s best to research the average fares before you get into one. Additionally, taxis at airports and ports tend to be significantly more expensive than those found elsewhere. To avoid this issue, it may be wise to download a local taxi app like Freenow prior to your trip as many locals use this and are familiar with the prices. This way, you can get around safely without having to worry about being taken advantage of by unscrupulous taxi drivers.
Petty Theft and Pickpocketing in Athens
Petty theft and pickpockets are an unfortunate reality in central Athens. The Greek police have taken steps to reduce this type of criminal activity, but it is still important to be aware of the risks and take precautions. Tourists should be careful when visiting popular touristic spots, as they can be a target for petty theft. Pickpockets tend to prey on unsuspecting tourists in crowded areas such as metro stations or busy streets so it is important for travellers to be aware of their surroundings and take extra precautions when visiting these areas. Omonoia Square is particularly notorious for such activities, especially at night. Keeping a close eye on your personal belongings, being mindful of crowded places, and only carrying the necessary amount of cash can help reduce the risk of theft.
Incorrect Restaurant Bills
When dining in Athens, it is important to pay close attention to the bill that you are presented with since some restaurant owners in Greece can often be deceptive when it comes to charging for meals and drinks. Tourists are particularly vulnerable to being overcharged as some restaurants may not provide receipts or display menus that show the actual prices of dishes. It is recommended to request a receipt and check the bill carefully to make sure all charges are accurate. Additionally, menus should always be available and prices should be clearly visible. Doing so can help protect tourists from being taken advantage of by unscrupulous restaurants in Athens.
It is also important to remember that restaurant owners cannot charge more than what is listed on the menu. If a higher price is levied, you should refuse to pay and demand that the correct amount be charged.
The Bracelet Scam
In Athens, the bracelet scam is becoming increasingly common and it causes many unsuspecting tourists to lose their money in a matter of moments without ever getting anything back. The scam works like this: people posing as friendly strangers will approach you and put a bracelet on your wrist. They’ll compliment it and suggest that it looks really nice on you before asking for money and many people, feeling guilty and flattered by the attention, will pay for the cheap bracelet. It’s important to remember that this is a scam and you should never give in to the pressure of paying for something you didn’t want after all. If someone approaches you with such an offer, decline politely and move on with your day.
When you “accidentally” drop something
This is a scam that occurs on the busy street of Ermou. It involves a person playing music on the street with a small cup filled with coins that have no value. The purpose of this is to make it easy for passers-by to accidentally hit the cup and feel guilty for losing the money. Scammers typically encourage people to give them an exorbitant tip to make up for their mistake. It is important to always pay attention to what is around you so you can avoid situations like that and never give in to demands from scammers. In the event that you do accidentally hit the cup, it is best to simply apologize and continue on your way. Do not fall prey to this scam!
Is Athens safe at night?
Athens is generally a safe place to be at night, but it is always advisable to take precautionary measures. The center of Athens and the neighborhoods around it are known for their vibrant nightlife since many people can be seen on the streets even after midnight. Nevertheless, there are certain locations that should be avoided during the night time such as Omonoia Square, Filopappou Hill, and Metaxourgio, as these areas are known to have higher crime rates. To enjoy a safe and pleasant night out in Athens, it is best to stay away from these areas and to take appropriate safety measures such as walking in groups or calling for a taxi.
Is Athens Safe For Solo Female Travellers?
As with other European capitals, Athens is perfectly safe to visit if you’re a woman travelling on your own. You don’t have to consider any extra precautions, just use your common sense and try to avoid bad neighborhoods, especially during nighttime. Other than that, you can explore the city just like any other visitor.
That being said, Greeks are considered extremely friendly and welcoming to foreign, solo visitors so don’t be afraid to ask for directions or advice if you need it. If you’re staying in a hotel, the staff there should also be able to provide useful information about which areas to avoid.
Safest Neighborhoods in Athens
Syntagma Square
Syntagma is the central hub of activity in Athens. Located at the heart of the city, this square is home to the Greek Parliament and features many upscale hotels along its perimeter that are perfect for travellers who look for convenience and comfort. While these accommodations can be costly, they are conveniently located near all major tourist attractions and provide easy access to public transportation, making them a great choice for visitors. Syntagma is considered one of the safest locations to stay in Athens, as it has a heavy presence of police officers and security staff.
Koukaki
Koukaki is a vibrant and lively district of Athens and it is considered the most popular district in Athens amongst tourists. Located in the heart of the city, it is perfect for those looking to explore the sights and sounds of Athens. Home to a vast variety of shops, small cafes, and restaurants, Koukaki offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for an intimate dinner at one of the many small eateries or some retail therapy, this is the place to be. The area also boasts numerous cultural attractions such as art galleries and museums. Not only is Koukaki the perfect place to explore Athens but it also offers a safe and secure environment for tourists to enjoy their stay. With its easy access to public transportation and close proximity to key attractions in the city, staying in Koukaki is an ideal choice for visitors.
Kolonaki
Kolonaki is a desirable destination for those who seek an upscale experience in Athens. Its prime location near Syntagma Square makes it easy to access, and its selection of high-end boutiques, restaurants, and cafes provides visitors with a luxurious atmosphere. Kolonaki is also generally safe, making it the perfect place to go for an enjoyable evening out. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious dinner, an exclusive shopping experience, or just a nice stroll around the area, Kolonaki is definitely worth exploring.
Psirri
Staying in the vibrant neighborhood of Psirri has its advantages. Located close to key locations such as Monastiraki, Psirri is a great base for exploring Athens. It’s also home to a variety of local tavernas and bistros, making it an ideal spot for those looking to experience the city’s nightlife. The area is well connected by public transport too so you can easily access other parts of Athens with ease. The Foundry Luxury Suites is also located at Psirri, making it easy for you to stay in comfort and style while you explore the city.
Neighborhoods in Athens that you might skip
Omonoia
Omonoia Square in Athens has been plagued with safety concerns over the years. The area is known for its high rates of petty crimes and drug dealing, but despite these issues, the square remains a popular destination for tourists due to its plentiful budget-friendly hotel options. While the region around Omonoia has been subjected to increased policing in recent years, it is still advisable for visitors to take extra precautions while visiting, especially at night.
Metaxourgio
Metaxourgio is a neighborhood close to Omonoia Square that has its own unique charm. With its plethora of interesting restaurants and cafes, it’s certainly worth a visit. However, you should be aware that there are some safety concerns involving drug usage and dealing in some parts of this neighborhood so you should be vigilant at all times.
Exarcheia
This is an urban region located in the center of Athens. This area is well-known for being home to the National Archaeological Museum of Greece, so it’s a must-stop destination for many travellers. However, visitors should be aware that some streets around Exarcheia can be dangerous and that thefts are not uncommon. It’s best to stay within the main areas and take extra precautions when walking around late at night.
Tips for a carefree vacation in Athens
Always watch your belongings
Athens is known for pickpocketing and this is the main threat to security as with many other popular places. Keep a watchful eye on your stuff – particularly in crowded places, metro stations, or the neighborhoods around Omonia and Exarchia. Keep your cash in a secure location. No fancy DSLR in your neck or a smartphone hung in your pocket when you stroll around the city or in public transportation.
Ensure that you have comprehensive travel insurance
There are several hospitals and clinics in Athens, but make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance if something unexpected happens. This includes coverage for medical services, repatriation costs, and even legal expenses if needed.
Note down your embassy’s contact details
When travelling abroad, it’s important to be aware of the details of your home country’s embassy in the country you are visiting. Knowing the exact location of your embassy can be invaluable in case any unexpected issues arise such as lost or stolen passports or needing medical assistance.
Don’t Behave Like a Typical Tourist
While visiting a foreign country it is important to blend in with the locals. Avoid anything that could identify you as a tourist, such as wearing clothes with logos or bulky backpacks. Instead, opt for clothing and accessories similar to what most locals wear. This will help you look more like a local resident and less like an obvious tourist. Additionally, try to avoid travelling in large groups, as this can draw unwanted attention and make you stand out more. By blending in with the locals, you can ensure that your presence is not noticed by potential criminals or scammers. With a little preparation and precaution, you can enjoy your travels in peace.
Final Thoughts Regarding Safety in Athens
Athens is a beautiful city with a lot to offer! With the right precautions, you can enjoy your time in Athens without any safety concerns. Avoid travelling alone at night and be aware of pickpockets. Make sure you have travel insurance and always keep your belongings secure. When in doubt, make sure to follow common sense — if something doesn’t feel right, trust your gut and move on. And most importantly, try to avoid looking like a typical tourist — don’t wear flashy clothes or accessories! By keeping these tips in mind, you will have no trouble enjoying your time in Athens.
Safe travels!
