Posted by Athens is a fascinating city with a deep history, impressive sights, and a vibrant culture. As one of the oldest cities in the world, it attracts millions of tourists from all over the world each year. However, as with any large city, there are some safety considerations to be aware of and typical tourist traps to avoid. In this article, we’ll give you valuable tips on how to make your stay in Athens safe and enjoyable.
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Safety in Athens
Athens is generally a safe city, and it’s largely safe for tourists to visit. However, as with any major city, there are some areas where you should be especially careful. In general, if you follow the same safety rules you would in any other major city, you’ll be well protected.
Crime and Safety
Athens has made great strides in terms of general safety in recent years, but like any major city, criminal activity does occur. Most safety issues involve theft, especially pickpocketing. These incidents occur primarily in tourist hotspots, on public transport, and in busy streets.
Tips for avoiding theft:
Keep valuables safe: Avoid displaying valuables such as wallets, cell phones, and cameras openly. Use a lockable bag or backpack that you can keep an eye on at all times.
Be vigilant in crowds: You should be especially vigilant in busy areas such as Monastiraki Square, the Old Town (Plaka), and Syntagma Square. Pickpockets often work in groups and take advantage of crowds.
Cash and credit cards: It’s advisable not to carry too much cash. Credit cards are widely accepted, but keep them in a secure locker.
Areas with higher crime rates
Although Athens is generally considered safe, there are some neighborhoods where you should be more cautious. You should especially avoid walking alone at night in the following areas:
Omonia Square: This area has a somewhat poorer reputation in terms of safety. Although it has many hotels and shops, there have been reports of thefts and drug dealing in the surrounding area.
Exarchia: A trendy neighborhood known for its alternative scene, it is also notorious for political disputes and occasional riots. Be especially careful at night.
Traffic Safety
Traffic in Athens can be chaotic, especially on busy streets and during rush hour. Pedestrians should be especially careful, as Greek road users do not always follow safety precautions. There are no dedicated crosswalks in many areas, and even when they exist, many vehicles do not stop.
Traffic Safety Tips:
Be careful when crossing streets, even when the traffic lights are green.
If possible, use public transportation such as the metro, buses, or taxis instead of driving in heavy traffic.
Typical Tourist Traps in Athens
Tourists in Athens are often the target of certain “tourist traps” designed to extract money from them. These traps can range from overpriced offers to scams. However, by doing your research in advance, you can easily avoid most of these traps.
Excessive Prices in Restaurants and Cafes
In tourist areas like Plaka and near the Acropolis Museum, there are many restaurants that try to overcharge tourists. Often, there are no clear price information on the menus, or a “tourist surcharge” is charged.
Tips for Dealing with Restaurants:
Check Prices in Advance: If the restaurant has a menu outside, look at the prices before entering.
Avoid Tourist Areas: Look for restaurants that are off the beaten track. A good indicator is that locals also frequent these restaurants.
Check the Bill: Always read the bill carefully to make sure there are no unjustified additional charges.
Taxis and Overpriced Rides
Taxis are common in Athens, but tourists can easily get caught on overpriced rides. Some taxis take roundabout routes to artificially increase the price or claim that the taximeter is not working.
Tips for dealing with taxis:
Use the meter: Make sure the driver turns on the meter. If the driver refuses, get out and find another taxi.
Agree on fares in advance: If you’re traveling a long distance, you can negotiate the price in advance or ask your hotel or a reliable source for an approximate fare.
Official taxis and apps: If possible, use apps like Beat or Uber for safer and more transparent pricing.
Scams at tourist attractions
Another common problem in Athens are scammers who approach tourists at famous tourist attractions like the Acropolis or Monastiraki Square. They sometimes offer supposedly “free” services that end up costing a lot, or they sell fake tickets for tourist attractions.
Tips to avoid scams:
Buy tickets only from official sales outlets: Buy tickets for the Acropolis or other attractions only from official ticket offices, or even better, online at Getyourguide.
Avoid “deals” on the street: Be wary of “offers” from vendors on the street. These are often not only expensive but also fraudulent.
Trust your gut: If something seems strange or too good to be true, it’s often better to be cautious and decline the offer.
Fake “free” offers
There are also scams where tourists are offered “free” services, such as a bracelet or a flower, which must later be “paid for” at a high price. You should be especially wary of such “gifts” in tourist areas.
Tips to avoid:
Don’t accept “gifts”: If someone offers you something “free,” be it a flower or a bracelet, remember that there will always be a price.
Refuse politely: If you’re offered something, decline politely but firmly.
Athens is an exciting and fascinating city worth exploring. With a little attention and caution, you can avoid the usual tourist traps and look forward to a safe, enjoyable experience. With these tips, you’ll be well prepared and can enjoy your trip without any unpleasant surprises. Have a good trip!