GreeceVisa
Visa-freeLanguage
Modern GreekCar traffic
Right-handPhone code
+30Currency
EuroCovid
There are no COVID restrictionsInsurance policy
Insurance policy recommendedMinimum passport validity
at least 6 monthsRules of entry and stay
Transit rules
Entry with pets
Emergency contacts
Сustoms regulations
Information for motorists
Practical tips from experienced tourists
Embassy contacts
Do British citizens need a visa to explore Santorini and Greece?
British citizens can visit Greece, including Santorini, without a visa for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
Travel requirements for British citizens visiting Greece
With visa-free access, British citizens can enjoy Greece for short-term trips. As part of the Schengen zone, Greece makes travel easy, as long as you follow the 90-day stay rule.
What documents are required for British citizens entering Greece?
Even under visa-free travel, you’ll need:
- A passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your return.
- Proof of accommodation, such as a hotel booking or host’s invitation.
- A return ticket or proof of sufficient funds.
- Health insurance that meets Schengen requirements for emergency care.
How many days can British citizens stay in Greece?
The maximum duration of stay for the British is 90 days within any 180-day period. For extended stays, you’ll need to apply for a specific visa or residence permit.
What do British travelers need to know about Greece?
1. Plan your attractions online
Book tickets for popular sites like the Acropolis in advance to skip the crowds and enjoy your visit more.
2. Go off the beaten path with islands
Skip the mainstream spots and explore islands like Amorgos or Syros, which are just as beautiful and less crowded.
3. Discover hidden beaches
Use Google Maps or ask locals for lesser-known beaches that are worth the trek.
4. Try Greek wines
Santorini’s Assyrtiko wine and Crete’s vineyards offer unique flavors and a peek into Greek history.
5. Download key apps
- Ferryhopper: for planning ferries.
- Beat: a taxi app for Athens.
- Eatwith: for local culinary experiences.
6. Celebrate at local festivals
Greek festivals are full of music, food, and a lively atmosphere. Time your trip to join in the fun.
7. Take it easy during siesta
Midday downtime (2 PM to 5 PM) is perfect for a long lunch or a relaxing break.
Do British citizens need health insurance for a trip to Greece?
Yes, it’s a must for the British to have health insurance for Greece. Emergencies can be costly, and insurance keeps you secure. Visit World offers convenient insurance plans tailored to your trip.
Where to go in Greece if you’re from the United Kingdom
- Crete – the largest island with incredible scenery and history.
- Meteora – stunning monasteries with unforgettable views.
- Mykonos – a hotspot for nightlife and beach lovers.
- Santorini – the most romantic island in Greece.
- Athens – a perfect mix of ancient and modern attractions.
Greek food guide for British travelers
- Dolmades: grape leaves stuffed with rice and spices, a Greek classic.
- Baklava: a pastry dessert with nuts and honey, perfect for a sweet tooth.
- Gyros: flavorful meat, vegetables, and tzatziki in a warm pita.
- Greek salad: a healthy, tasty mix of feta, olives, and fresh veggies.
- Souvlaki: tender meat on skewers, served with sauce and vegetables.
- Moussaka: a comforting dish of baked eggplant, potatoes, and minced meat.
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:
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:
Representations of Greece in the countries of the world.
HOTLINE CONNECTIONS
ONLINE CHAT
PRODUCT CHAT
HOTLINE CONNECTIONS
ONLINE CHAT
PRODUCT CHAT
All materials and articles are owned by VisitWorld.Today and are protected by international intellectual property regulations. When using materials, approval from VisitWorld.Today is required.