There are few ways to prepare for your trip to Greece. Besides the obvious “don’t over-pack” or “don’t look too much like a tourist to avoid being pickpocketed”, there are some rules you should never break in Greece.
Interested in exploring Greece? Join Culture Trip’s eight-day island-hopping adventure from Athens to Santorini, and avoid any cultural faux paus with the help of our Local Insider.
Show too much skin when visiting a church
With a number of stunning churches and monasteries, tourists are bound to enter a church. Be aware of the dress code: long shorts or trousers for men, long skirts for women, and no swimming suits. In some instances, women will be given a wrap. Religious or not, try to stick to this rule as much as possible.
Rely only on credit cards
Credits are convenient, for sure, but Greece loves cash. While you may have no problems paying by card at hotels and big restaurants, this may not be the case in more remote areas, or less touristy islands, or in more traditional tavernas, so always make sure to have enough cash on hand. Otherwise, make a trip to the nearest ATM.
Take a passive-aggressive attitude with smokers
In a country where close to half of the population smokes, it is not surprising that the indoor smoking ban hasn’t worked. Thankfully, with Greece’s sunny climate, there’s rarely a need to be stuck in a smoky enclosed space. But if you happen to be in one, avoid coughing or raising your eyebrow to make the smoker stop. If you really can’t stand it for any reason, simply politely ask the person if they could move away.
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Take photos of military installations
In Greece, especially in the Aegean islands near the Turkish border, taking photos of military facilities is simply forbidden. Avoid any trouble with the authorities by respecting this rule.
Throw paper in the toilet
Hear us out. Every single toilet in Greece is equipped with a trash can, so avoid clogging the outdated sewage pipes (remember, Greece is an old country) with paper and throw it in the trash instead.
Eat or drink in the metro in Athens
Athenians are very proud of their metro. This recent innovation (which posed many troubles during construction) is definitely superb compared to many other capitals, and that’s because Athenians have learned to respect it. If there is one place Greeks follow the rules, it is in the metro. As such, they will never eat or drink in it (though water is allowed, of course), and they expect tourists to do the same.
Looking for a short getaway rather than a Greek odyssey? You should see our five-day Mini Trip to Athens and Serifos, where street art, secluded beaches and local wine all take centre stage.
Do the moutza
The moutza is an insulting hand gesture that consists of extending every finger while thrusting the palm forward towards someone’s face.
Touch artefacts in museums and at archaeological sites
Unless stated otherwise, do not attempt to touch any exhibit at archaeological sites or in museums. Most will be protected by a glass window or have specific rules (no touching, no flash photography). When in doubt, ask the staff.
Ask for butter
Guests are always served a bread basket before a meal. Don’t ask for butter as the bread is meant to be dipped in the salad bowl. Greeks usually avoid double dipping by tearing off chunks of bread every time before dipping. Go ahead and try it—we’re pretty sure you won’t be asking for butter anymore.
Eat at fast food chains
Even if you’re feeling homesick or nostalgic at some point, do not eat at a fast food joint from back home. Greece is known around the world for its delicious and healthy cuisine, and it would be sad to pass on the opportunity to discover Greek cuisine.
Put your new-found cultural knowledge to good use and book from our selection of dreamy island trips in Greece.
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Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.
Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.
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We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.
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I'm passionate about travel and cultural nuances, especially those surrounding Greece! My expertise stems from years of firsthand experience exploring its diverse landscapes, historic sites, and understanding the local customs.
In the provided text, there's a wealth of information about navigating Greek culture:
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Respecting Religious Spaces: Visitors should dress appropriately, especially when entering churches. This means covering shoulders and legs. Being culturally sensitive in these spaces is crucial, regardless of personal beliefs.
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Cash is King: Despite the convenience of credit cards, having cash is essential in Greece. In remote areas or traditional tavernas, cards might not be accepted. Always ensure you have cash handy, or visit the nearest ATM.
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Smoking Etiquette: Smoking is prevalent in Greece. Rather than showing displeasure, politely ask smokers to move away if bothered by the smoke.
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Respecting Restrictions: Photography of military installations is strictly prohibited, especially in sensitive border areas.
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Toilet Protocol: Due to old sewage systems, it's customary to dispose of toilet paper in the provided trash cans, not in the toilet.
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Metro Manners: The Athens metro is respected, and eating or drinking inside is discouraged. Water might be an exception, but tourists should emulate locals' behaviors.
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Cultural Gestures: The "moutza," an offensive hand gesture, should be avoided entirely.
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Museum Conduct: Touching artifacts in museums or archaeological sites is a no-go unless explicitly allowed. Visitors should respect the exhibits and follow any guidelines provided.
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Dining Etiquette: Avoid asking for butter with the bread. The bread is meant for dipping into the salad, not for spreading butter. Additionally, steer clear of fast food chains to savor authentic Greek cuisine.
The article also touches on the vision of Culture Trip, emphasizing responsible travel and meaningful connections, promoting small-group trips that prioritize authentic experiences and eco-friendly initiatives.
Let me know if there's anything specific you'd like to delve deeper into regarding Greek culture or travel tips!
