Preparation file

Preparing for Thessaloniki

In Greece the day starts late, the middle of the afternoon is quiet and the evening runs into the night. The currency is the euro, cards are common but cash is still needed with small traders. What follows applies across the whole country.

Last updated: 2026-08

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Meals and the rhythm of the day

All of Greece

Lunch moves into the afternoon and dinner into the night. In the middle of the afternoon small shops may close for a few hours; plan shopping and visits around that.

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Ancient sites and churches

All of Greece

Ancient sites are open and without shade; churches ask for covered clothing. If both are in the same day, dress for both.

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Money and cards

All of Greece

The currency is the euro. Cards work in larger businesses; in small tavernas, markets and island shops cash is still part of daily life. Carry some with you.

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Practical notes

All of Greece

Sockets are type C/F at 230 V, so no adapter is needed. Tap water is drinkable on the mainland and varies on the islands. Pharmacies are marked with a green cross.

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In an emergency

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Emergency call: 112One number for police, ambulance and fire. It is the same across Europe, so there is nothing to look up on arrival.
Tourist police: Unit in tourist areasThe unit that deals with visitors and has foreign-language support; theft reports are directed here.
Pharmacy: Green crossThe out-of-hours rota is listed on the notice at the door.
Lost passport: Your country's missionReport the loss to the police first, then apply to your mission. On a group tour, tell your tour leader immediately.

Checklists

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Phrases worth knowing

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