Athens is a vibrant and historically rich city, known for its ancient ruins, buzzing neighborhoods, and warm hospitality. It’s a safe destination for tourists, but as with any major city, being informed and alert will help ensure your visit is smooth, enjoyable, and worry-free.
Is Athens Safe for Tourists?
Yes, Athens is generally very safe for travelers. Millions of people visit each year without incident. That said, staying aware of your surroundings is always wise—especially in popular areas such as Syntagma Square, Monastiraki, and Plaka, where pickpocketing can occasionally happen.
Basic safety precautions:
- Keep bags zipped and close to your body in crowded places.
- Avoid dimly lit streets or parks late at night, especially alone.
- Use trusted transportation options like licensed taxis or apps (see below).
Cash or Card: What Should You Carry?
In Athens, credit and debit cards are widely accepted, even in many smaller establishments. You can typically use your card in:
- Hotels
- Restaurants and cafes
- Most shops, supermarkets, and even kiosks
- Metro stations and buses (via ticket machines or mobile apps)
However, it’s still a good idea to carry a small amount of cash (euros) for:
- Occasional small purchases at street vendors or very local spots
- Backup in case a card machine is out of service
- Tipping (not required, but appreciated in taxis, restaurants, or for hotel staff)
Pro Tip: Contactless payments (tap-to-pay) are common, so carrying a contactless-enabled card or using a mobile wallet (like Apple Pay or Google Pay) makes transactions fast and easy.
ATMs are easy to find and most offer instructions in English, with the option to withdraw in various currencies.
Transportation & Taxi Safety Tips
- Always use licensed taxis. Official ones are yellow and metered.
- Avoid unmarked cars offering rides, even outside tourist attractions.
- Consider using apps like FreeNow (formerly Beat) for greater convenience, driver tracking, and digital payments.
Tip: Confirm that the taxi meter is running, and be wary of flat rates unless previously agreed upon for long-distance trips.
Health & Wellbeing Tips for Exploring Athens
- Stay hydrated: Especially during the summer months, when temperatures often exceed 35°C (95°F).
- Wear sunscreen and a hat, and take breaks in the shade if you’re walking or touring for extended periods.
- Use comfortable shoes for walking over uneven, sometimes slippery stone paths in ancient sites.
Watch Out for Common Scams
- Politely decline unsolicited “tour guides” or services, especially near attractions like the Acropolis or Monastiraki Square.
- Be cautious of people asking for donations or signatures—this can be a distraction tactic.
Keeping Your Belongings Safe
- Use a cross-body bag or money belt.
- Keep passports, credit cards, and large amounts of cash in a hotel safe.
- Never leave bags or valuables unattended, even at a cafe.
Emergency Numbers in Athens
Keep these numbers handy, or save them in your phone:
- Police: 100
- Ambulance: 166
- Fire Department: 199
- Tourist Police (English-speaking assistance): 171
The Tourist Police are trained to assist foreign visitors and can help with theft reports, directions, or legal issues.
Stay Safe and Enjoy Athens
By following a few basic safety tips, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy all that Athens has to offer—from climbing Lycabettus Hill to strolling the historic streets of Plaka. Athens is not just walkable and welcoming—it’s a place where ancient history and modern life blend beautifully.
Want more? Read our guide:
[“Exploring Athens’ Neighborhoods on Foot: Where to Walk, Shop, and Snack”]
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