Is Athens Safe? Surprisingly Safer Than Many Major Cities

Ah, Athens. The cradle of Western civilization, birthplace of democracy, and... a city that makes our parents nervously clutch their pearls at the mere mention of visiting. Sound familiar?

When my wife Sarah and I first floated the idea of spending a week in Athens, you'd think we'd suggested bungee jumping into an active volcano. "But the protests!" cried my mother-in-law. "The pickpockets!" exclaimed my dad. Meanwhile, our more well-traveled friends rolled their eyes and insisted we'd be fine as long as we didn't "act like typical American tourists" (whatever that means).

So, which is it? Is Athens a treacherous labyrinth of danger, or just another big city where common sense prevails? Well, buckle up, fellow travelers, because Sarah and I spent 6 nights getting to the bottom of this age-old question. We're going to share exactly how we sussed out Athens' safety situation and give you the unvarnished truth about our on-the-ground experience.

But first, let me introduce ourselves. I'm West, a 45-year-old travel writer and safety expert with a degree from Cornell University's School of Hotel Administration. My better half, Sarah, is my partner in crime (figuratively speaking, of course – we're all about safety here!). We've spent the last two decades globe-trotting to over 30 countries across 6 continents, always with an eye for extraordinary experiences and, yes, staying out of trouble.

Now, let's dive into the 3 safety factors we considered before booking our tickets to the land of gyros and ancient ruins.

3 Safety Factors to Consider

01 - State Department Travel Advisory

First things first, I always check the U.S. Department of State travel advisories before planning any international trip. It's like getting a weather forecast for safety – not always 100% accurate, but a good starting point.

For Athens, and Greece in general, the current advisory level is "Exercise Normal Precautions." That's the lowest level on their scale, folks. It's basically the State Department's way of saying, "You'll probably be fine, just don't be an idiot."

To put this in perspective, Athens is considered safer than many other European capitals. It's like the straight-A student of the Mediterranean safety class.

State Department Travel Advisory Check: PASS

02 - Latest News

Next up, I dove into the recent news about Athens. This isn't just about safety – it's about getting a pulse on what's happening in the city.

Interestingly, much of the recent news about Athens has been positive. The city has been making strides in improving its firefighting capabilities, which is reassuring given the increased risk of wildfires due to climate change.

There's also been a significant focus on enhancing the tourist experience. Athens is welcoming about 6 million visitors annually, more than twice its population. That's a lot of souvlaki to go around!

The economic situation, while not perfect, has been steadily improving. This often correlates with reduced crime rates, although it's important to note that petty theft can still be an issue in tourist areas.

One particularly interesting tidbit: Greece experienced a 46% reduction in road fatalities between 2009 and 2015. As someone who's navigated some pretty harrowing roads in my travels, this was music to my ears.

Latest News Check: PASS

03 - Community Forums

Finally, I turned to the wisdom of the crowd. Travel forums can be a mixed bag, but they often provide valuable insights from recent visitors.

I spent hours combing through TripAdvisor and Reddit threads about safety in Athens. The consensus? Most travelers felt safe, with the usual caveats about being aware of your surroundings and watching out for pickpockets in crowded areas.

One Reddit user's comment stuck with me: "I felt safer walking around Athens at night than I do in some parts of my hometown in the US." Of course, everyone's experience is different, but it was reassuring to see so many positive reports.

A common theme was the friendliness of the locals. Many travelers recounted stories of Athenians going out of their way to help lost tourists or offer recommendations. This kind of community vibe often contributes to a safer overall environment.

Community Forums Check: PASS

With all three of our safety checks giving Athens the green light, Sarah and I felt confident booking our trip. But as any seasoned traveler knows, the real test comes when boots hit the ground. So, let's dive into our firsthand experience navigating the streets of Athens.

First Hand Experience in Athens

After a week of exploring Athens, I can confidently say that the city surprised us – in the best way possible. We found a vibrant, welcoming metropolis where ancient history and modern life coexist in a unique dance. But let's break it down neighborhood by neighborhood, shall we?

Plaka

Ah, Plaka – the beating heart of old Athens. This charming neighborhood, nestled at the foot of the Acropolis, is like stepping into a time machine (if time machines had souvenir shops and cafes, that is).

Sarah and I spent our first day getting lost in Plaka's narrow, winding streets. The area was bustling with tourists and locals alike, creating a lively but not overwhelming atmosphere. We felt completely at ease wandering around, both during the day and well into the evening.

Highlights of our Plaka adventure:

• Sipping Greek coffee at a quaint cafe while people-watching
• Exploring the Ancient Agora, once the heart of ancient Athenian life
• Enjoying a late dinner of mouthwatering souvlaki at a family-run taverna

Safety-wise, Plaka felt like one of the safest areas we visited in Athens. The streets were well-lit at night, and there was a noticeable police presence, though not in an intrusive way. Just remember to keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas, as you would in any tourist hotspot.

Is Plaka Safe? YES

Syntagma Square

Next up: Syntagma Square, the modern heart of Athens. This bustling plaza is home to the Greek Parliament and serves as a major transportation hub. It's also where we witnessed the famous changing of the guard ceremony – talk about pomp and circumstance!

We visited Syntagma Square multiple times during our stay, at various times of day and night. The area was always busy, but we never felt unsafe. The square itself is well-patrolled, and the surrounding streets are lined with shops, cafes, and hotels, keeping the area lively even after dark.

Our Syntagma Square experiences:

• Watching the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
• Shopping at the nearby Ermou Street, Athens' main commercial thoroughfare
• Using the metro station as a starting point for our daily adventures

One thing to note: pickpockets are known to operate in crowded areas like Syntagga Square, especially during peak tourist season. We didn't have any issues, but we were always mindful of our belongings, keeping valuables in a secure, cross-body bag.

Is Syntagma Square Safe? YES, but stay alert in crowds

Monastiraki

Monastiraki quickly became one of our favorite neighborhoods in Athens. This lively area is known for its flea market, street performers, and fantastic views of the Acropolis. It's where old meets new in the most delightful way.

We spent a full day exploring Monastiraki, starting with a morning visit to the flea market. The narrow streets were a hive of activity, with vendors selling everything from antiques to handmade sandals. As the day progressed, we noticed the area becoming busier, but never to the point of feeling uncomfortable.

Our Monastiraki adventures:

• Haggling (badly) for souvenirs at the flea market
• Enjoying a rooftop dinner with a breathtaking view of the illuminated Acropolis
• Late-night drinks at a trendy bar, where we chatted with friendly locals

Safety-wise, Monastiraki felt secure, even as night fell. The streets remained busy with a mix of tourists and Athenians out for dinner or drinks. However, as with any busy area, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables close.

Is Monastiraki Safe? YES, with normal precautions

Kolonaki

For a taste of Athens' upscale side, we headed to Kolonaki. This chic neighborhood is home to high-end boutiques, art galleries, and some of the city's best restaurants. It's the kind of place where you might spot Greek celebrities sipping espresso at sidewalk cafes.

Sarah and I spent an afternoon and evening in Kolonaki, feeling a bit underdressed but thoroughly enjoying the posh atmosphere. The wide, tree-lined streets and well-maintained buildings gave the area a sense of safety and elegance.

Our Kolonaki highlights:

• Window shopping at designer stores (and trying not to wince at the price tags)
• Visiting the Benaki Museum, which offers a fascinating journey through Greek art and history
• Indulging in a gourmet dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant (our one big splurge of the trip)

Kolonaki felt like one of the safest areas we visited in Athens. The streets were clean and well-lit, and the overall vibe was one of affluence and security. Even late at night, we felt completely at ease walking back to our hotel.

Is Kolonaki Safe? YES, very much so

Psiri

Psiri was where we got our fix of Athens' hipster scene. This formerly run-down neighborhood has been transformed into a hub of art, music, and nightlife. It's gritty but in a cool, Instagram-worthy way.

We visited Psiri twice during our stay – once during the day to explore its street art and quirky shops, and once at night to experience its famous bar scene. The contrast was striking; by day, it's a quiet, almost sleepy neighborhood, but as night falls, it comes alive with energy.

Our Psiri experiences:

• Taking a self-guided street art tour (and probably looking very touristy with our map and camera)
• Enjoying live Greek music at a packed rebetiko bar
• Late-night souvlaki from a hole-in-the-wall joint that might just serve the best meat in Athens

Safety-wise, Psiri required a bit more awareness than some of the other neighborhoods we visited. While we never felt threatened, the narrow streets can get quite dark at night, and the party atmosphere means there's potential for pickpocketing. We made sure to stick to well-lit areas and kept a close eye on our belongings.

Is Psiri Safe? YES, but exercise caution late at night

Omonia

Omonia Square and its surrounding area have a bit of a reputation. Once considered the commercial heart of Athens, it's gone through some tough times. However, recent revitalization efforts are starting to pay off.

We decided to check out Omonia during the day, mainly out of curiosity. The square itself has been renovated and now features a pretty impressive fountain. The surrounding streets, however, still show signs of neglect in some areas.

Our Omonia observations:

• Watching locals go about their day in the bustling square
• Visiting the nearby Central Market, a feast for the senses with its colorful produce and boisterous fishmongers
• Grabbing a quick lunch at a no-frills souvlaki shop recommended by a local

While we didn't encounter any problems in Omonia, it didn't feel as comfortable as other parts of Athens. There was a visible police presence, which was reassuring, but also a sign that extra security is needed. We decided to skip visiting at night and stuck to areas we felt more at ease in after dark.

Is Omonia Safe? EXERCISE CAUTION, especially at night

Exarchia

Ah, Exarchia – Athens' notorious anarchist neighborhood. Known for its politically charged atmosphere, street art, and occasional clashes between locals and police, it's not your typical tourist destination. But hey, we're not your typical tourists.

We visited Exarchia during a quiet weekday afternoon, curious to see this unique corner of Athens for ourselves. What we found was a neighborhood that felt more like a vibrant university area than the hotbed of unrest it's often portrayed as.

Our Exarchia adventure:

• Browsing through independent bookshops and record stores
• Sipping Greek coffee at a laid-back cafe filled with students
• Admiring the thought-provoking political murals that cover many buildings

Safety-wise, Exarchia felt fine during our daytime visit. The streets were busy with locals going about their day, and we didn't sense any tension. However, it's worth noting that protests can occur here, especially in the evenings or on significant political dates. We chose not to visit at night, following the advice of our hotel concierge.

Is Exarchia Safe? YES during the day, EXERCISE CAUTION at night

Athens by Foot/Uber

One of the best ways to really get a feel for a city is to walk it, and Athens is no exception. We found the city to be incredibly walkable, with most major attractions within easy reach of each other.

During our week in Athens, we averaged about 8 miles of walking per day (thanks, fitness tracker!). The city's compact center meant we could easily stroll from the Acropolis to Syntagga Square, then over to Monastiraki for dinner, all in one day.

Safety-wise, we felt comfortable walking in most areas, especially during the day. The streets were generally busy with a mix of locals and tourists, which added to the sense of security. However, as with any big city, there were a few precautions we took:

• We avoided walking in unfamiliar areas after dark
• We kept our valuables in a secure, cross-body bag
• We were extra vigilant in crowded areas and on public transportation

Speaking of public transportation, we found the Athens metro to be clean, efficient, and generally safe. However, we did hear warnings about pickpockets, especially on crowded trains or at busy stations like Omonia.

For times when walking wasn't practical or we were feeling a bit tired (8 miles a day is no joke!), we turned to Uber. The ride-hailing service is relatively new to Athens but is gaining popularity. We used it several times and found it to be safe and reliable.

Here's when we opted for Uber instead of walking:

• Late at night, especially when returning from dinner in a neighborhood far from our hotel
• When traveling to and from the airport
• On one particularly hot afternoon when the thought of walking up another hill made us both whimper

One memorable Uber ride was with a driver named Kostas, who gave us an impromptu history lesson about every landmark we passed. It was like getting a bonus tour of the city!

Recommended Safe Itinerary

Based on our experiences, here's a 3-day itinerary that hits the highlights of Athens while sticking to the safest and most interesting areas:

Day 1:

• Morning: Start at the Acropolis, arriving early to beat the crowds and heat
• Afternoon: Explore the charming streets of Plaka, stopping for lunch at a traditional taverna
• Evening: Dinner in Monastiraki with views of the illuminated Acropolis

Day 2:

• Morning: Visit the Ancient Agora and the excellent museum there
• Afternoon: Shop and people-watch along Ermou Street near Syntagma Square
• Evening: Enjoy the nightlife in Psiri (but remember to stay aware of your surroundings)

Day 3:

• Morning: Check out the changing of the guard at Syntagma Square, then visit the nearby Benaki Museum
• Afternoon: Explore the upscale Kolonaki neighborhood, perhaps indulging in a fancy lunch
• Evening: End your trip with a sunset dinner at a rooftop restaurant in Monastiraki, soaking in final views of the Acropolis

This itinerary keeps you in the safest and most interesting parts of Athens while giving you a good mix of history, culture, and modern Greek life.

Final Thoughts

So, is Athens safe? After our week-long adventure, Sarah and I can confidently say: yes, Athens is generally a safe city for tourists. Like any major urban area, it has its challenges, but with some common sense and awareness, we felt secure throughout our stay.

Let's break it down:

• Crime rates in Athens are lower than in many other European capitals. The city has a crime index of 58.16, which is considered moderate.
• Greece ranks 65th out of 163 countries in the 2023 Global Peace Index, placing it in the upper half globally.
• The U.S. Department of State categorizes Greece as a low-threat location globally.

However, it's not all gyros and ancient ruins. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

• Be vigilant in crowded tourist areas and on public transportation to avoid pickpockets.
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight, especially in busy areas.
• Use ATMs in well-lit, secure locations and be discreet when handling cash.
• Avoid walking alone in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas at night.
• Be cautious of scams targeting tourists, such as overpriced taxis or fake "tourist police."
• Stay informed about local events and avoid large gatherings or demonstrations.
• Use official taxis or reputable ride-sharing services.
• Keep copies of important documents separate from originals.
• Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun, especially during summer heatwaves.
• Be respectful of local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

One aspect of Athens that genuinely impressed us was the healthcare system. Greece's healthcare ranks 14th out of 195 countries in the Healthcare Access and Quality Index. While we thankfully didn't need medical attention during our trip, it was reassuring to know quality care was available if needed.

It's worth noting that safety can vary by neighborhood. Areas like Plaka, Syntagma Square, and Kolonaki felt extremely safe at all hours. We exercised a bit more caution in areas like Psiri late at night and Omonia in general. As for Exarchia, while interesting to visit during the day, we chose to avoid it after dark due to its reputation for occasional unrest.

One personal anecdote that stands out: On our second night, Sarah realized she'd left her phone at a restaurant in Plaka. Panic set in (as it would for any of us in this smartphone-dependent age), but when we returned to the restaurant, not only had they kept the phone safe, but they also insisted we stay for a complimentary dessert. This kind of hospitality left a lasting impression on us about the character of the Athenian people.

Comparing Athens to other major cities we've visited, we'd say it feels safer than Rome or Barcelona in terms of petty crime, but perhaps not quite as secure as some Scandinavian capitals. It's on par with many U.S. cities in terms of general safety, with the added bonus of lower violent crime rates.

Cultural awareness plays a big role in staying safe and respectful. Greeks are generally warm and hospitable, but they appreciate tourists who make an effort to understand local customs. For example, it's considered rude to make the "OK" sign with your hand – in Greece, this gesture is offensive. Instead, a slight nod of the head is a common way to signal agreement.

As for seasonal variations, Athens is generally safe year-round. However, the summer months (June to August) see a significant influx of tourists, which can lead to increased instances of petty theft in crowded areas. On the flip side, winter months may see fewer tourists but occasional protests, particularly around universities or government buildings.

For LGBTQ+ travelers, Athens is generally welcoming, especially in areas like Gazi, known for its vibrant gay scene. However, public displays of affection may attract attention in more conservative areas or on public transportation.

Families traveling with children will find Athens quite accommodating. The city's main attractions are child-friendly, and Greeks are generally very warm towards kids. Just be mindful of the heat during summer months and ensure little ones stay hydrated.

Solo travelers, particularly women, should exercise the usual precautions but generally won't face any unique safety challenges in Athens. The city is accustomed to tourists, and many Athenians speak at least some English, making it relatively easy to ask for help if needed.

One final tip: learn a few basic Greek phrases. Not only is it respectful, but locals truly appreciate the effort. A simple "Ευχαριστώ" (ef-kha-ri-stó, meaning "thank you") can go a long way in fostering goodwill.

In conclusion, our week in Athens left us with a deep appreciation for this city where ancient history and modern life intertwine so seamlessly. Yes, exercise common sense and stay aware of your surroundings, but don't let exaggerated safety concerns hold you back from experiencing all that Athens has to offer. From the awe-inspiring Acropolis to the bustling markets of Monastiraki, from the trendy bars of Psiri to the upscale charm of Kolonaki, Athens is a city that deserves to be explored.

So pack your comfortable walking shoes, brush up on your Greek mythology, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in one of the world's oldest cities. Athens isn't just safe – it's a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered. Yamas! (That's "Cheers!" in Greek – a word you'll definitely want to know for those rooftop bar nights!)

About Us

Hey there! We're West and Sarah, a couple of 40-something travel enthusiasts with a passion for exploring the world safely and deliciously. With over two decades of globetrotting under our belts and visits to more than 30 countries across 6 continents, we've honed our travel skills and developed a knack for sniffing out both hidden gems and potential pitfalls.

West here – I'm a Cornell University School of Hotel Administration graduate turned travel writer and safety expert. My background in hospitality and keen eye for detail help me craft experiences that blend luxury with local authenticity. When I'm not writing about our adventures, you can find me plotting our next culinary conquest or geeking out over the latest travel gadgets.

Sarah's the other half of our dynamic duo. With her background in cultural anthropology and a palate that can detect spices from a mile away, she's our go-to for understanding local customs and finding the best hole-in-the-wall eateries. She's also the voice of reason when I get too excited about trying "authentic" street food of questionable origin.

Together, we're on a mission to help everyone travel better and safer. We believe that with the right information and a dash of adventure, anyone can explore the world with confidence. Our articles aim to provide that perfect blend of practical safety tips, insider knowledge, and mouth-watering food recommendations.

We're all about finding those win-win situations in travel – where you can step out of your comfort zone just enough to have an incredible experience, without taking unnecessary risks. Whether you're a solo traveler, a family with kids, or a couple looking for your next romantic getaway, we've got insights to help make your trip unforgettable (in a good way, not in an "I got pickpocketed in Barcelona" way).

So come along for the ride! Let us be your virtual travel buddies, guiding you through the highs and lows of global exploration. With our tips, you'll be navigating foreign streets like a local and ordering off the secret menu in no time. Happy and safe travels, friends!

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