Ukrainians living in Greece, temporarily staying in the country or planning a trip should pay more attention to local rules in public places, on roads and near historical monuments. Greek authorities are tightening controls on visitor behavior as the influx of tourists puts additional strain on archaeological sites, islands with special traffic regulations and urban infrastructure.
New restrictions near historical sites
Greece is introducing stricter rules for visitors to the Acropolis of Athens and other archaeological sites, where any careless action could damage ancient surfaces or cultural heritage elements. Tourists are prohibited from visiting such areas wearing thin-heeled shoes, as high heels can leave marks on ancient pavements.
It is also prohibited to touch historical sites, take pebbles or other fragments from the area that visitors may perceive as souvenirs. Greek law provides for punishment for such violations, and the fine can reach 900 euros.
What to consider near the Acropolis
Ukrainian refugees and tourists visiting Athens with children or family should think in advance about clothing and footwear for excursions. The safest option for archaeological areas is comfortable, flat-soled shoes that are suitable for stone paths and do not pose a risk to the monument.
When visiting historical sites, you should also carefully monitor children so that they do not accidentally pick up stones, debris or other objects from the area. Even seemingly minor actions can be considered a violation of cultural heritage protection rules.
Restrictions on Hydra Island
The island of Hydra, known for its traditional architecture and lack of cars, has a special rule regarding luggage. Tourists are prohibited from carrying wheeled suitcases through the streets, as such items create a burden on the narrow stone streets and disrupt local traffic regulations.
For transporting luggage, travelers are advised to use the services of local donkeys. This requirement may be unusual for Ukrainians who are used to moving around with suitcases on their own, so before traveling to the island, it is better to clarify the rules of accommodation, delivery of belongings, and the route from the port to housing.
Road fines
Ukrainians who use a car, rent a vehicle, or ride electric scooters should take into account the strict Greek fines for violating traffic rules. Smoking in a car with a child under 12 is punishable by a fine of 1,500 to 3,000 euros, with possible loss of your driver’s license.
Running a red light or overtaking across a solid line can cost around 700 euros. The fine for not wearing a seat belt is around 350 euros, for parking in an unauthorized place – from 40 to 150 euros, and for talking on the phone while driving without a hands-free system – around 100 euros.
Separate liability is provided for driving while intoxicated. Depending on the circumstances, the amount can range from 78 euros to over 1,200 euros.
Why fines can catch up later
Greece is actively expanding the system of automatic recording of violations. In one month, several dozen new cameras recorded 10 thousand cases of violations of the rules, and by the end of 2026, the country plans to install more than 2 thousand cameras with artificial intelligence.
For Ukrainians who rent a car, it is important to remember that data on violations is stored by the vehicle owners. Because of this, the fine may create problems during your next visit to Greece or when using rental services again.
What to do before your trip
Before traveling to Greece, Ukrainian refugees and tourists should check the rules for visiting archaeological sites, the conditions of movement on the islands, and the requirements for drivers. Particular attention should be paid to footwear for excursions, rules for transporting luggage, parking, using a phone while driving, seat belts and behavior in a car near children.
Rules and restrictions in Greece concern everyday situations that are easy to underestimate: walking near a monument, traveling in a rental car, a short stop in the city or moving with a suitcase on an island. For Ukrainians who are in the country due to the war or are arriving temporarily, knowing these rules will help avoid large fines and unnecessary difficulties during their stay in Greece.
