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General Information for Tourists in Greece

Language

  • Greek

Time Zone

  • (GMT+3)

Currency

  • The official currency in Greece is the Euro (€).
    Currency can be exchanged at banks and currency exchange offices located in cities and major tourist areas.
    ATMs are widely available throughout the country.

Tax

  • VAT in Greece is at 24%

Electricity & Plugs

  • The electric voltage in Greece is 220 volts at 50 Hz.
    Sockets are type F (standard European socket with 2 pins).
    It is recommended to bring an appropriate adapter for your electronic devices.

Telephone Code

  • +30 (0030)

Emergency Numbers

  • Ambulance / General Emergency: 166
  • Fire Department: 199
  • Police: 100
  • Tourist Police (special assistance for tourists): 1571
  • Emergency Doctors (SOS medical service): 1016
  • Poison Control Center: +30 21 0779 3777
  • Coast Guard: 108

Fishing Regulations

In Greece, recreational fishing is permitted, but specific regulations must be observed to protect marine life. Both shore and boat fishing are allowed, but there are restrictions on the species, sizes, and quantities of fish that can be caught. Some species are protected throughout the year, and regulations govern the type of fishing equipment that can be used.

  • Fishing with nets is prohibited.
  • Fishing with a spear gun is prohibited in May.
  • Fishing with oxygen tanks or any other type of gas is prohibited.
  • Fishing with a spear gun, using a flashlight, or any other light equipment is prohibited, regardless of the time of day.
  • Fishing with electricity or explosives is prohibited.

As of 2014, no fishing license is required for recreational fishing, either from the shore or from a boat. However, it’s essential to check local regulations, particularly in protected areas, where special permits may be required.

5 kg per person per day, or one large fish exceeding this weight.

Maximum catch weight: 5 kg per day.

Only rods and hand lines are allowed. The use of nets and explosives is prohibited.

Closed season and Limitations

Spearfishing is prohibited during May, and certain species, such as some sharks and rays, are fully protected and cannot be caught at any time.

5 kg per person per day, or one large fish exceeding this weight. The total combined weight of all fish caught by multiple fishers on the same boat must not exceed 10 kg per day unless one fish exceeds this weight.

Maximum catch weight: 10 kg per day when multiple people are on board.

Special species rules

Special permits are required for swordfish and tuna, and there are size restrictions in place for these species. Only one species of fish, such as grouper, white grouper, dusky grouper, or red porgy, may be caught if it exceeds 45 cm in length.

Spearfishing is permitted during specific months, subject to restrictions on equipment. Commercial equipment, such as trawl nets, is not permitted for recreational use.

Shore fishing

5 kg per person per day, or one large fish exceeding this weight.

Maximum catch weight: 5 kg per 24 hours.

Only rods and hand lines are allowed. The use of nets and explosives is prohibited.

Catch limit from shore: 5 kg

Drone Regulations

Drone use is permitted in Greece, but some strict laws and guidelines must be followed to ensure safe and legal operation. All drone operators—whether hobbyists or professionals—must adhere to the following rules when flying in Greek airspace:

  • Do not fly over people or large gatherings.
  • The maximum altitude is 120 meters (394 feet).
  • Maintain a minimum distance of 50 meters from buildings, vehicles, and individuals not involved in the drone operation.
  • Do not fly beyond 500 meters from the operator, or beyond visual line of sight, whichever is shorter.
  • Filming archaeological sites is strictly prohibited.
  • Always respect the privacy of individuals.
  • Do not fly within 8 kilometers of airports or any area with active air traffic.
  • Drone flights are permitted only during daylight hours and in good weather conditions. However, flights are allowed up to 30 minutes before sunrise and 30 minutes after sunset.
  • Avoid flying in sensitive areas, including government buildings and military zones, as the use of drones in such locations is strictly forbidden.

See more info: here

Recreational Diving Regulations

Divers are permitted to dive independently and in most areas of Greece without a dive operator, but several important legal restrictions must be followed.

Under Law 3409/2005, as amended by Law 4688/2020, the following key regulations apply:

Diving is prohibited in the following areas:

  • Areas where vessels are crossing or anchored.
  • Locations designated for military activities or training exercises.
  • Within 100 meters of the departure point of rented motorized water recreational vehicles.
  • Zones are designated as marine protected areas by law.
  • Areas where underwater cables or public utility systems are installed.
  • Any location where the Port Authority has imposed a ban due to safety concerns for vessels or individuals.
  • Diving is not permitted for individuals who are not certified by a recognized diving organization authorized to issue certifications in Greece.
  • Diving is prohibited from one hour after sunset to one hour before sunrise, unless the Port Authority grants written permission.
  • Diving at shipwrecks older than 50 years is not allowed without being accompanied by a licensed diving provider.

Certified Divers Must Not:

  • Engage in spearfishing or use fishing tools while diving.
  • Collect, disturb, or damage marine flora and fauna, or disrupt the ecological balance of the area.
  • Carry fishing gear or catch marine life on their dive vessel.
  • Retrieve, photograph, or move archaeological artifacts.
  • Take photos or videos in restricted areas without written approval from the relevant authority.
  • Diving alone without a buddy is prohibited.

Every Diver is Obligated To:

  • Report any discovery of archaeological artifacts, wrecks, or objects of interest to the police and the Port Authority.
  • Display a diving flag on any vessel accompanying divers.
  • Carry a diver's buoy if moving more than 50 meters from a boat or diving without boat support.

General Recommendation:

There are many reputable diving centers throughout Greece. It's highly recommended to contact a local dive center to ensure you're fully informed about local regulations and to get useful tips on nearby diving sites, attractions, and guided diving tours they may offer.