Greece

EXPLORE GREECE Your Comprehensive Destination Guide At a Glance Total area: 131,957 square kilometers   Capital:  Athens Religion: Eastern Orthodox Christianity (Greek Orthodox Church)Population: Approximately 10.2 million Languages: Greek; English is widely spoken, as well as German, French, and ItalianCurrency: Euro (EUR, €) Banking Hours: Mon–Fri, 8:00 am–2:30 pm  Telephone/Communication: The country code is +30. Greece has strong mobile coverage and offers 4G/5G in most urban areas and popular islands. Free Wi-Fi is common in cafes, hotels, and some public areas. Climate: Mediterranean climate. Summers: Hot and dry (June to September), especially in the islands and southern mainland. Average highs often reach 30–35°C (86–95°F). Winters: Mild and wetter, especially in the north and mountain regions. Best time to visit: April to June & September to October (fewer crowds, pleasant weather) VAT in Greece Eligibility Criteria To qualify for a VAT refund in Greece: Residency: You must be a permanent resident outside the European Union. Minimum Purchase: Spend at least €50 (including VAT) in a single store on the same day. Export Requirement: Goods must be exported from the EU within three months of purchase. Note: Not all stores participate in the VAT refund scheme. Look for the “Tax-Free Shopping” sign or inquire at the checkout. How to Claim Your VAT Refund Shop at Participating Stores: Request a Tax-Free Form at the time of purchase. Provide your passport details to complete the form. Ensure the form is filled out correctly and keep all receipts. At the Airport: After customs validation, proceed to the VAT refund service counter (e.g., Global Blue, Premier Tax Free). Submit your stamped forms to receive your refund. By Mail If you cannot claim the refund at the airport, please mail the stamped forms and receipts to the VAT refund service provider. Make sure to complete all necessary sections, including your credit card details, for the refund. Refund Amount and Fees Refund Percentage: Depending on the refund agent and service fees, you can receive approximately 12.5% to 14.75% of the purchase amount back. Service Fees: Refund agents may deduct a commission from your refund. Payment Methods: Refunds can be issued via cash, credit card, bank transfer, or e-wallet. Travel Requirements Entry & Visa Passport Validity: Your U.S. passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen Area, which includes Greece. It is advisable to have at least 6 months of validity to avoid potential issues during transit through other countries. Visa-Free Travel:  180 days U.S. citizens can enter Greece without a visa for stays of up to 90 days within 180 days for tourism, business, or short-term study. Proof of Return or Onward Travel: You may be required to show a return ticket or evidence of onward travel. Sufficient Funds: Be prepared to demonstrate that you have enough financial means to cover your stay. Health Insurance: While not mandatory, it’s strongly recommended to have travel insurance that covers emergency medical expenses during your stay in Greece COVID-19 Requirements: As of May 2023, Greece has lifted all COVID-19 entry requirements. Proof of vaccination or recovery is not required, but it is best to stay updated on any changes. Upcoming Changes: ETIAS and Entry/Exit System ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System): In late 2026, U.S. citizens must obtain an ETIAS authorization before traveling to Greece and other Schengen Area countries. U.S. citizens can apply online, pay a €7 fee, and typically receive approval within a few minutes to a few days. Exit System (EES): Scheduled for implementation in October 2025, the EES will collect biometric data (fingerprints and facial scans) at border crossings within the Schengen Area. This system aims to enhance border security and streamline entry and exit processes. Travel Tips Apply for ETIAS Early: Once ETIAS becomes operational, apply well before your travel date, as processing times can vary. Stay Informed: Regularly check official sources, such as the U.S. Department of State and the European Commission, for the latest travel advisories and requirements. Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that includes coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and unexpected delays. Enroll in STEP: Register with the U.S. Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive important updates and facilitate assistance in emergencies Getting there from the US Traveling from the United States to Greece is more convenient than ever, with numerous direct and connecting flight options available—especially during the spring and summer months when tourism peaks. Major U.S. Cities with Direct Flights to Greece Nonstop flights typically operate to Athens International Airport (ATH) from the following major U.S. cities: New York City (JFK, EWR)—year-round or seasonal Philadelphia (PHL) Chicago (ORD) Washington, D.C. (IAD) Boston (BOS) Atlanta (ATL) Miami (MIA) Los Angeles (LAX)—mostly seasonal Airlines offering direct or one-stop flights include Delta Air Lines United Airlines American Airlines Emirates Lufthansa, Air France, Swiss, ITA Airways (via European hubs) Aegean Airlines (Greece’s flagship carrier) Flight Duration Direct flights: ~9–11 hours from the East Coast One-stop flights: ~13–16 hours total travel time, depending on the route and layover city Travel Safety Tips General Safety: Stay Alert in Crowded Areas: Tourist hotspots like Athens (especially near the Acropolis, Plaka, and Monastiraki) can attract pickpockets. Keep your belongings secure and be vigilant. Entry & Health Safety Requirements: No Mandatory COVID-19 Restrictions: Greece has lifted all COVID-19 entry restrictions—no proof of vaccination, negative tests, or quarantine is required for travelers from the U.S. or other countries. Travel Insurance: Although the law does not mandate it, we strongly recommend obtaining comprehensive travel insurance that covers health emergencies, trip cancellations, and medical evacuation. Health Precautions: Carry any personal medications, and consider bringing basic first aid supplies. Tap water is safe to drink in most areas, but bottled water is recommended in some islands or rural areas. Transportation Safety: Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps. Driving in rural areas can be challenging due to narrow or winding roads, so exercise caution if renting a car. Beach & Water Safety: Always swim in designated areas with lifeguards present. Watch