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Greece Travel Safety 2025: Essential Tips for Earthquakes, Entry Requirements, and Tourist Alerts
- 2025/03/27
- 再生時間： 3 分
- ポッドキャスト
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サマリー
あらすじ・解説
Greece remains a generally safe destination for travelers in 2025, but there are some recent developments to be aware of. The U.S. Department of State currently advises exercising normal precautions when visiting Greece. However, ongoing seismic activity near certain Greek islands has prompted some specific alerts.
On February 7, 2025, the U.S. Embassy in Greece issued a natural disaster alert regarding a series of earthquakes near the islands of Amorgos, Santorini, Anafi, and Ios. While no major damage has been reported, authorities are closely monitoring the situation. Travelers to these areas should stay informed about local conditions and follow any guidance from Greek officials.
The Greek government declared a state of emergency on Santorini on February 6, 2025, due to the risk of landslides and rockfalls from ongoing tremors. If planning to visit Santorini, be aware of this heightened risk and exercise caution, especially in areas prone to landslides.
Beyond seismic concerns, travelers should take standard precautions against petty crime, which can occur in tourist areas. The Greek police offer a dedicated unit to assist foreign tourists, reachable 24/7 by dialing 1571.
For U.S. citizens, an important change is coming regarding entry requirements. The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) was originally set to launch in 2025 but has now been pushed back to late 2026. Once implemented, U.S. travelers will need to obtain ETIAS authorization before entering Greece and other Schengen countries.
Greece has also implemented some new tourism-related policies. As of January 1, 2025, there is an increased tourism tax on accommodations, including hotels and short-term rentals. The exact amount varies based on the type of lodging and time of year.
When it comes to health and safety, Greece generally offers adequate medical care in major cities and towns with large hospitals. However, on smaller islands or in remote areas, medical evacuation to a central hospital may be necessary in case of serious illness or injury. Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended.
For those enjoying Greece's beautiful beaches and waters, be aware of potential hazards. Tidal changes and strong winds can create dangerous currents. Always obey warning flags at beaches and seek local advice about any dangerous marine life.
Lastly, if renting a car, remember that Greek law requires visitors to carry both a valid U.S. driver's license and an international driver's permit, even if the rental company doesn't request to see it. Driving without these documents can result in hefty fines.
Overall, while Greece continues to be a welcoming destination, staying informed about local conditions and taking sensible precautions will help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
On February 7, 2025, the U.S. Embassy in Greece issued a natural disaster alert regarding a series of earthquakes near the islands of Amorgos, Santorini, Anafi, and Ios. While no major damage has been reported, authorities are closely monitoring the situation. Travelers to these areas should stay informed about local conditions and follow any guidance from Greek officials.
The Greek government declared a state of emergency on Santorini on February 6, 2025, due to the risk of landslides and rockfalls from ongoing tremors. If planning to visit Santorini, be aware of this heightened risk and exercise caution, especially in areas prone to landslides.
Beyond seismic concerns, travelers should take standard precautions against petty crime, which can occur in tourist areas. The Greek police offer a dedicated unit to assist foreign tourists, reachable 24/7 by dialing 1571.
For U.S. citizens, an important change is coming regarding entry requirements. The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) was originally set to launch in 2025 but has now been pushed back to late 2026. Once implemented, U.S. travelers will need to obtain ETIAS authorization before entering Greece and other Schengen countries.
Greece has also implemented some new tourism-related policies. As of January 1, 2025, there is an increased tourism tax on accommodations, including hotels and short-term rentals. The exact amount varies based on the type of lodging and time of year.
When it comes to health and safety, Greece generally offers adequate medical care in major cities and towns with large hospitals. However, on smaller islands or in remote areas, medical evacuation to a central hospital may be necessary in case of serious illness or injury. Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended.
For those enjoying Greece's beautiful beaches and waters, be aware of potential hazards. Tidal changes and strong winds can create dangerous currents. Always obey warning flags at beaches and seek local advice about any dangerous marine life.
Lastly, if renting a car, remember that Greek law requires visitors to carry both a valid U.S. driver's license and an international driver's permit, even if the rental company doesn't request to see it. Driving without these documents can result in hefty fines.
Overall, while Greece continues to be a welcoming destination, staying informed about local conditions and taking sensible precautions will help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.