Visit World - Georgian Citizens Traveling to Greece: Entry Rules, Visa Requirements & Regulations

Do Georgian citizens need a visa to enter Greece or Santorini?

No, Georgians do not need a visa for short-term travel to Greece, including the popular island of Santorini. The visa-free regime allows you to stay in the country for up to 90 days within 180 days. This applies to both the main tourist destinations and the islands, including Santorini, which is a real pearl of Greece.

Entry rules to Greece for Georgian citizens

As part of the visa-free regime, Georgian citizens can visit Greece for tourism, family visits or short-term business trips. Greece is part of the Schengen area, so Georgian citizens can travel without a visa, as long as they keep to the allowed length of stay.

What is the maximum allowed length of stay in Greece for Georgians?

For Georgians, the maximum period of stay in Greece is 90 days within 180 days. This rule applies to tourist and short-term trips. Longer stays, such as work or study, require a special visa or residence permit.

What documents are required to enter Greece for Georgian citizens?

Even if a visa is not required, Georgians must have the following documents with them:

A passport with a validity period of at least 6 months after the planned return.
Confirmation of accommodation reservation (hotel or apartment) or an invitation from the host country.
A return ticket or proof of financial capacity to purchase one.
Health insurance that covers emergency medical care in the Schengen area.

Do Georgian citizens need health insurance to travel to Greece?

Yes, health insurance is mandatory for Georgians. In case of emergencies, treatment in Greece can be expensive, and a health insurance policy will provide coverage for emergency care. You can easily apply for a policy on the Visit World portal by choosing the right plan for your trip.

The best places and resorts in Greece that travelers from Georgia should visit

1. Santorini is an island with white houses and blue domes, ideal for a romantic vacation.

2. Athens is a city full of history, with the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and modern cultural institutions.

3. Mykonos is a popular resort for lovers of beaches and active nightlife.

4. Crete is the largest island in Greece, with everything from sandy beaches to ancient ruins.

5. Meteora is a unique cliff-top monastery worth visiting for breathtaking views.

What should Georgian tourists know before traveling to Greece?

1. Book attractions online and in advance

Want to see the Acropolis without crowds? Book tickets with a specific time on the official websites. This not only saves you time, but also allows you to enjoy the locations in a more relaxed atmosphere.

2. Explore hidden islands

Replace Santorini or Mykonos with lesser-known but no less picturesque places like Syros or Folegandros, where you'll find an authentic atmosphere, incredible views, and lower prices.

3. Apps that make life easier

Take advantage of local apps:

Ferryhopper is ideal for scheduling ferries between islands.
Beat - your transportation assistant in Athens, like Uber, but with local drivers.
Eatwith - for booking cooking classes with local chefs.

4. Time for wine discoveries

If you are in Santorini or Crete, visit the wineries. Asirtiko, a wine from the volcanic soil of Santorini, has a unique flavor. Wine tours are more than just a tasting; they are a journey into Greek history and culture.

5. Greek festivals and secret parties

Try to synchronize your trip with local festivals: for example, wine festivals or fish festivals on the islands. These are often real open-air parties where you can meet locals and feel the Greek spirit.

6. Hidden beaches are your everything

There are hundreds of beaches in Greece that only the locals know about. Use Google Maps or ask the islanders about their favorite spots. Often these locations are only accessible on foot or by boat, but they are worth the effort.

7. Siesta is a holiday of tranquility

From 14:00 to 17:00 in many regions, shops, pharmacies and even cafes close. Use this time for a leisurely lunch, reading on the beach or enjoying the Greek rhythm of life.

What to try from the local cuisine in Greece: tips for Georgian citizens

Gyros: juicy meat in a pita with vegetables and tzatziki sauce.
Moussaka: traditional casserole with eggplant, potatoes and minced meat.
Dolmades: grape leaf rolls stuffed with rice and spices.
Souvlaki: a kebab of meat served with vegetables and sauce.
Greek salad: a simple but tasty mix of vegetables, olives, feta, and olive oil.
Baklava: a dessert with nuts and honey.

If you do not enjoy visa-free entry to Greece, you may need an airport transit visa.

Please follow the link to see if you need a transit visa: https://travel.gov.gr/

If you wish to travel to Greece with your pet, your pet will need a microchip, proof of rabies vaccination and a health certificate approved by a USDA veterinarian. For more information on permitted ports of entry or if your pet is less than 3 months old, please visit the website for more information:

https://www.mfa.gr/usa/en/services/services-for-greeks/pets-animals.html

If you plan to travel in Europe after arriving in Greece, your pet must be accompanied by a pet passport. You can get a pet passport from an authorized veterinarian in Greece.

Dial 112 to contact any emergency service.

In Greece, 112 is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and can connect the subscriber to:

by the police
Fire brigade
Emergency medical service
Coast Guard
National hotline for children SOS.

For information and advice on Greek customs regulations, visit the Customs website:

https://www.aade.gr/customs

If you are not a citizen of a country that is a member of the European Union, you will need to obtain an International Driving License (IDL) before renting a car in Greece. If you plan to drive your own car, you need a valid registration and proof of international insurance in addition to the IDL (check with your insurance company beforehand).

There are 2 ways to rent a car in Greece. One of them is online, where you can reserve the right car before your trip. Another option is to contact a car rental provider that is located in the area you plan to visit.

To rent a car, a minimum driving experience of at least 1 year is required. The minimum age is 21 years (for some types of cars – 25 years).

The maximum age for renting a car in the country also varies, but most often they allow you to rent a car under the age of 70.

1. Adapt to the Greek time

Greeks tend to hold a healthy Mediterranean belief that most things can be put off until tomorrow and nothing needs to be done in a hurry - the Spanish "mañana" is equal to the Greek "avrio". So don't expect fast service in restaurants or smooth transportation.

2. Entrance fees

All major ancient monuments, as well as most museums, charge an entrance fee ranging from €2 to €12, with an average cost of about €3. Entrance to all public monuments and museums is free on Sundays and holidays from November to March.

3. Outside of Athens, Greece is not very adapted for people with disabilities

Access for travelers with disabilities has improved somewhat in recent years, but most accessible attractions, hotels and restaurants tend to be located in Athens. While access to beaches has improved, much of the rest of Greece remains inaccessible to wheelchair users, and the abundance of stones, marble, slippery cobblestones and stepped alleys create unpleasant obstacles. People with visual and hearing impairments also rarely receive adequate services.

4. Carry cash and do not rely on cards or ATMs

As part of the EU, Greece uses the euro. In restaurants, service charges are usually included in the bill, and although tipping is not expected, it is always appreciated and a few coins can be left if the service was good. Taxi drivers usually expect you to round up the fare.

Keep in mind that ATMs on the islands can lose connection for a day or two, making it impossible for anyone (including locals) to withdraw money. It's a good idea to have some extra cash with you in case this happens during your visit.

5. Drink plenty of water and remember how dangerous the sun can be

On many islands in Greece, tap water is still safe to drink, but not recommended - ask if you are in doubt. Keep a supply of bottled water on hand for hydration as well as safety; many tourists underestimate how hot it can be in Greece, and heat strokes and serious sunburns are common on beaches with little shade.

6. Pickpocketing and other petty crimes are common in public places

The main risks of theft in Greece are pickpockets in major cities and theft of belongings while vacationing on busy, popular beaches (leave your passports in hotel safes). Never leave your belongings unattended and do not leave bags hanging from the back of the seat where you cannot keep an eye on them.

The Tourist Police work in cooperation with the regular Greek police. Each Tourist Police office has at least one English-speaking officer. If you need to report your passport stolen or lost, contact the Tourist Police first and they will be the translators between you and the regular police.

7. Emergency number for tourists

Of course, when you go on vacation abroad, you don't want to think that something will go wrong. And emergency numbers are something we don't usually use. As a foreigner traveling to Greece, it doesn't make sense to write down all the emergency numbers you might need. Therefore, keep a single number: 171 (the number of the local tourist police).

This is a special police unit trained to deal exclusively with helping tourists who encounter problems in Greece. They can help you with any problem: from finding a doctor to resolving disputes. And, of course, they can help you with anything related to local legislation. They are available 24/7 and although they mainly deal with Athens issues, you can call them from anywhere in the world.

And the most important thing is that they all speak English, but there is a high probability that they speak other languages as well. So save this number before you travel to Greece: 171.

Sources:

https://letterstobarbara.com

https://www.roughguides.com

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