Athens Isn't Safe?! Safety Tips When Travelling to Athens

Explore the historic sites and vibrant culture of Athens, featuring the iconic Parthenon, local delights like loukoumades, and more!

Athens has over 7 million visitors a year. Known for its deep-rooted history, the oldest city in the world has come a long way. It is now an extremely popular city on its own, and not just a place for a layover, before flying to visit one of the Greek islands. Over the years, Athens has really adapted to become a versatile city for everyone, with everything from its archaelogical sites, to its roof top bars, local tavernas with traditional Greek music, and its bustling shops. I have been lucky enough to visit Athens numerous times, with family, friends and even on solo trips and touch wood, I have never had any problems. But that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t be prepared before your trip. I have put together 5 key things to know before visiting the city.

1. Pick pocketing is very common; make sure you wear a cross body bag, and keep it in front of you at all times. You really don't need to be on high alert, Athens in general is a super safe city and the crime rate is really low compared to other major cities around the world, however just be extra cautious in busy areas such as the metro, and where there are street performers. As always, in tourist areas you just need to use your commons sense, have your wits about you and don't carry unnecessary items. Also, don’t draw attention to the fact that you are a tourist. For example, don’t carry around a Chanel bag in a run down area, don't have your phone out in the open when using google maps to get from A to B; try and plan your route beforehand. One thing I always do when I'm solo travelling is to act like a local, from how I dress, how I speak, and the confidence/attitude I give off. By doing these simple things it tends to limit the amount of people who will try to speak to me, or to distract me. BUT. Don't let this put you off, it is the same with any other major city in the world!

   
   

2. Athens is perfectly safe for solo female travellers, just use your common sense. You can watch my video on You Tube at Georgia Louise Travels on my experience of solo travelling. One of the areas I have been advised to avoid after dark is in and around Omonia Square, because it is known for it’s open drug use, and the area is slightly more run down than others. However, I have also stayed in an apartment in that area (before I knew about it… my friend told me the day I got there!), and I was perfectly fine, so really do be cautious, however take it all with a pinch of salt. If you can, spend that extra bit of money on a nicer more touristy area when booking your accommodation, and for Athens specifically, stay in the Syntagma, Monistiraki or Plaka neighbourhoods. If you do choose to stay a little bit further out of the city, like I did on my recent stay, stay right near the metro, so you are just a short 1-2 min walk from the station to your accommodation, so you limit your time being outside at night. On my most recent visit in March, I tried out a new neighbourhood, staying in Victoria which is primarily a residential area. It is one metro stop further along from Omonia Square, but still only a 20-30 min walk right into the heart of the city. The walk from the metro to my apartment is literally 30 seconds, which gives me a sense of safety.

   
   

3. If you are visiting Athens in peak summer, be reminded that temperatures can reach over 30 degrees. This mixed with being in a bustling city, means that temperatures can get pretty high! Remember that if you are climbing to the top of the Acropolis, there’s nowhere to hide. Do make sure that you treat your city break just like you would a beach vacation and lather up that spf, and reapply every few hours. Always keep a bottle of water to hand and don't be afraid to take frequent breaks if you need too. A hat would also be a useful accessory to keep with you and wear loose, cool clothing. Your safety is the most important thing!

   
   

4. Athens, like any other major city in the world does have it’s fair share of common scams, often targeting tourists. Whilst this is no different to many other major cities in the world, it is just something to be mindful of, but defintely shouldn’t stop you from visiting Greece’s capital. These scams can include someone offering to help you with your bags but actually stealing them, or one that I have seen many many times, particularly by the foot of the acropolis hill, is people who offer you a bracelet by complimenting you, then demanding you pay for it on the spot, whilst its tied around your wrist! The best way to avoid these scams is by giving a firm (but polite) NO, and just keep walking!

   
   

5. This may seem like an obvious one but athens is very busy. Very busy with people and very busy with cars. The zebra crossings here are not like the ones in the uk. They are simple a marking of a peoples crossing, not an automatic give way to pedestrians. Cars will not stop for you. Cars will drive around you, speed up to deter you from crossing, and even skip the red lights. Make sure you only cross as designated crossing points, and wait for all cars to come to a full stop before you enter the road. Do not assume cars will stop for you just because you are at a crossing.