Greece is a country with a rich cultural heritage and unique traditions, but some features of the local rules of conduct may be unfamiliar to a tourist. If you are planning a trip to this amazing country, it is worth paying attention to a few important points that will help you avoid possible difficulties.
Climate and health
Summers in Greece can be extremely hot, with temperatures reaching +45 degrees. On such days, it is important to follow a few simple rules:
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated,
- Use a cream with a high level of sun protection,
- Wear hats and use umbrellas to protect yourself from the sun.
If you feel unwell, call 166 or 112 immediately! Pharmacies in Greece are open from 08:00 to 13:00 and from 17:00 to 20:30, and they can not only sell medicines, but also provide first aid.
It's also worth keeping mosquitoes in mind, especially in rural and coastal areas – use repellents and try not to leave windows open, especially at night.
Photography & Security
Be careful with taking photos. For example, it is forbidden to photograph military facilities and areas related to defense - violation of this rule can lead to arrest and other serious consequences.
When crossing the road in Greece, you need to take extra care: Greek drivers often ignore traffic rules, so it's best to look around twice before taking a step.
Culture of alcohol consumption
In Greece, it is allowed to drink alcohol from the age of 18, although documents are rarely checked. Wine is an integral part of Greek culture and is often consumed in small quantities, especially during family dinners. The production of homemade wine is prohibited by law, but in the villages you can find unique species that are produced by small farms. Despite the general permission for the free consumption of alcohol, drunk driving is severely punished! In addition, it is not recommended to appear in public places in a drunken state - we hope you never do this.
Smoking in Greece
Smoking is one of the most important social problems in Greece: approximately 42% of the country's population smokes regularly, and the government is taking steps to reduce this statistics. Smoking is prohibited in taxis and public places, but restaurants and cafes usually have smoking areas, and in the future such zones are planned to be introduced in workplaces.
Tipping in Greece
In Greek restaurants and cafes, it is customary to leave a tip of 10-20% of the bill. In popular establishments, tips may be included in the bill, but if they are not, money can be left on the change tray.
Tips are usually not left to taxi drivers, except when the driver helps with luggage - then you can give a small amount. In public toilets (!), it is also customary to leave a small fee: this can improve the quality of service.
If you are cheated in a restaurant or café, do not hesitate to contact the tourist police at 171 - the police help to resolve disputes and defend the rights of tourists.
