Dos & Don'ts
- Speak our (body) language. Don't think that you need to learn some Greek before you get here. ...
- Pick your restaurant wisely. ...
- Haggling is not cool. ...
- Tread carefully. ...
- Take your time. ...
- What not to wear. ...
- Follow toilet etiquette. ...
- Avoid the clichés.
The biggest thing is to note is simply this: don't flush toilet paper down the loo. You will find there are bins to the side of the toilet where you can dispose of your tissue instead. The bins tend to have lids and foot pedals and are emptied at least once daily, so it's not as gruesome as it sounds.
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The Greek dress code is generally casual and relaxed, but it's important to respect certain cultural norms, particularly when visiting religious sites. In religious sites, you will want to be sure your knees and shoulders are covered. Yes, it's traditional, but better to either not enter or be respectful.
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Don't bare your shoulders. That means no tank tops, sleeveless tops, or shirts with shoulder cut-outs unless you're covering your shoulders with a shawl or cardigan. Cover your knees. Shorts and short skirts can be frowned upon — the same goes with ripped jeans.
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It is acceptable to wear shorts, whether you are a woman or a man. However, NEVER (and I do mean NEVER) wear shorts if you want to visit a church or monastery. Also, if you plan to do a walking tour of Athens, ditch the shorts and opt for a dress – if you are a woman – or a pair of long pants – if you are a man.
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White and light colors (choose an outfit in light colors such as white, blue, pink, or light beige to emphasize the natural beauty of the island, which is famous for its beautiful white architecture, white beaches, and clear blue sea);
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The biggest thing is to note is simply this: don't flush toilet paper down the loo. You will find there are bins to the side of the toilet where you can dispose of your tissue instead. The bins tend to have lids and foot pedals and are emptied at least once daily, so it's not as gruesome as it sounds.
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Two pieces of body language that can cause unintentional offence are hand gestures; don't hold your hand up, palm out, to anybody, and don't make an OK sign by forming a circle with your thumb and forefinger – both are extremely rude.
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Is it safe to wear jewelry in Greece? Yes. Greece is a relatively safe country with low crime statistics, so you don't have to worry about wearing expensive jewelry. However, it's better to stick to light items as heavy accessories can exacerbate the heat during the day.
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Versatile, Light Weight and Neutral Clothing Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics such as linen, cotton, and silk. Pack mix-and-match pieces like neutral-colored shorts, skirts, and trousers that can be paired with different tops. Don't forget to include a few dresses for evenings out.
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Basic Etiquette
- People may keep less personal space when queuing. ...
- Do not cross your legs in front of those who have a higher status to you or in a formal situation.
- There is a cultural expectation in Greece that one accepts the generous offers of others. ...
- Refusing something offered can be interpreted as an insult.
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Unless you're at the beach, going barefoot is not a thing in Greece. Make sure you wear shoes when walking around the villages.
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I think you've been misinformed there. Greeks wear jeans just as much as anywhere else. Normal rules apply - dress up for smart restaurants & churches etc, I'd say. Also, it gets awfully hot to wear jeans in Greece!
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Don't wear hot pants or crop tops if you're planning on visiting any churches or monasteries. Some things are better left to the imagination. If you must wear hot pants, save them for a trip to the beach. And stay away from high heels, especially when visiting our slippery, sensitive marble ruins.
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Masks are no longer required on public transport or most indoor spaces in Greece. Masks are still required in healthcare facilities and nursing homes. Healthcare facilities also require COVID-19 tests for patients and those accompanying them.
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In Athens and many other parts of Greece, the water is safe to drink. However, because of various concerns regarding supply and infrastructure, it's popular on both the islands and the mainland to buy bottled water rather than drinking straight from the tap.
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Do You Pay for Public Bathrooms in Greece? Public restrooms in Greece cost money (around 50 cents). Most restrooms are fairly clean, but many of the toilets don't have seats so you'll need to squat over them. To be safe, I recommend carrying around some hand sanitizer in case the bathroom you visit doesn't have soap!
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