Athens - Post Report Question and Answers
Are there personal security concerns to be aware of at this post? Please describe.
Pickpocketing and such in the tourist areas, there were rumors of home invasions, but we didn't know anyone personally. There are always protests that were closing roads, so just check before you head downtown. - Oct 2023
The dangers to Americans that may have been prevalent in the 80s and 90s is mostly gone. I would generally not recommend advertising your Embassy employment, but that is just common sense. Pick pockets do operate pretty heavily in the tourist areas and on public transportation. - Jan 2023
None, unless you want to ride a motorcycle or scooter. - Mar 2022
No concerns. Felt very safe. - Jan 2020
Normal pickpocketing, car break-in issues. - Mar 2018
Terrorism is always a concern. - Feb 2018
Home and car break-ins. - Oct 2017
There are protests almost every day. As long as you avoid them, you should be fine. Pickpocketing is an issue in tourist areas. - Jan 2017
Athens is a large cosmopolitan city that is very safe. Just be aware of your surroundings and your valuables. Common theft occurs in the Plaka shopping area. I have never had an issue with this. Only carry money that you plan to spend that day, and don't carry your whole wallet with a bunch of credit cards. There are a few neighborhoods to avoid at night (e.g. Exarchia). - Dec 2016
There were daily protests while we were there - all downtown and sometimes at the Embassy. I never felt unsafe, even when we ventured near the protest area. That said, the Embassy issues warnings and restrictions for a reason, so be careful! - Sep 2013
Greece used to be the safest country in the world. However, in the last 10-12 years, robberies, murders and thefts, especially home break-ins, have surged. Certain areas near the center of Athens at night can be quite dangerous. - Jul 2012
I did not feel concerned with security. As an American, there are always concerns, but Greece seemed pretty safe. - Jun 2010
Not really, I feel safe here. There is petty crime, but murders are rare. Use common sense. - Jan 2009
Yes, there are anti-American terrorist groups here (worst in Europe) and frequent demonstrations directed against the U.S. Embassy or the local authorities. Street crime doesn't go much beyond pickpocketing or purse snatching, though. - Dec 2008
Fewer than in the States for general crime. A bit of a concern as an American abroad during war time, but we try to keep as low a profile as possible. Meaning-- we do everyday things but we don't wear American flags our anything like that out in public. - Jun 2008
