Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Safe Travel
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Crime has heightened in Athens with the onset of the financial crisis. Though violent
street crime remains relatively rare, travellers should be alert on the streets, especially at
night, and beware the traps listed here.
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Streets surrounding Omonia have become markedly seedier, with an increase in prostitu-
tes and junkies; avoid the area, especially at night.
Pickpockets
Favourite hunting grounds are the metro, particularly the Piraeus-Kifisia line, and
crowded streets around Omonia, Athinas and the Monastiraki Flea Market.
Taxi Scams
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Most (but not all) rip-offs involve taxis picked up from ranks at the airport, train stations,
bus terminals and particularly the port of Piraeus. At Piraeus, avoid the drivers at the port
exit asking if you need a taxi; hail one off the street.
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Some drivers don't turn on the meter and demand whatever they think they can get away
with; others claim you gave them a smaller bill than you did and short-change you. Only
negotiate a set fare if you have some idea of the cost.
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Some drivers may try to persuade you the hotel you want to go to is full, even if you
have a booking.
Bar Scams
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Scammers target tourists in central Athens, particularly around Syntagma. One scam
goes like this: friendly Greek approaches solo male traveller; friendly Greek reveals that
he, too, is from out of town or does the 'I have a cousin in Australia' routine and suggests
they go to a bar for a drink. Before they know it women appear, more drinks are ordered
and the conman disappears, leaving the traveller to pay an exorbitant bill. Smiles disap-
pear and the atmosphere turns threatening.
