Ah, Greece. Sun, sea, feta, history that makes your head spin and sunsets so pretty they almost look fake. But while it’s easy to get lost in the magic, there are a few tourist traps and cultural no-nos that can turn your dream trip into a cringe-worthy story. Want to blend in like a savvy traveller and not star in “Tourists Behaving Badly”? Here’s your list of what not to do in Greece.
1. Don’t Flush the Toilet Paper
🚽 We’ve said it once, we’ll say it again: Greek plumbing can’t handle it. There’s a bin next to the loo for a reason. Ignore this rule and you’ll be the reason the pipes scream.
2. Don’t Expect Everything to Run on Time
⏰ Buses, ferries, even dinner plans — Greek time is its own magical dimension. Stressing about punctuality here will only ruin your mood. Relax, grab a coffee and let time do its Greek thing.
3. Don’t Assume Everyone Lives on Santorini or Mykonos
🏝️ Yes, they’re gorgeous, but Greece is much bigger than two islands. Don’t limit yourself to the obvious — there’s Crete, Rhodes, Naxos, Meteora and a whole universe of underrated gems.
4. Don’t Skip the Sunscreen
☀️ Greek sun doesn’t play around. Forget SPF and you’ll go from “holiday glow” to “crispy tomato” faster than you can say ouzo.
5. Don’t Be Stingy with Greetings
👋 Greeks love a friendly hello. Walking into a shop or café without at least a “Yassou” is borderline rude. Smile, greet, connect. It’s free and it makes you look less like a lost tourist.
6. Don’t Expect Free Tap Water Everywhere
💧 In many tavernas, you’ll need to order bottled water. Don’t sulk about it — just hydrate and move on. At least the wine is cheap.
7. Don’t Take Photos Inside Churches Without Respect
⛪ Yes, that monastery is Instagram gold, but remember it’s a sacred place. Cover your shoulders, keep your voice down and ask before snapping. No one likes a disrespectful flash-happy tourist.
8. Don’t Wave with an Open Palm
✋ The “moutza” (open palm wave) is considered offensive in Greece. You might think you’re saying hi, but they’ll think you’re… not very polite. Stick to a friendly nod or a classic “Yassou”.
9. Don’t Rely on Cards in Small Towns
💶 Yes, it’s 2025, but in small villages and markets, cash still rules. Don’t be that tourist frantically hunting for an ATM because the bakery won’t take your shiny Visa.
10. Don’t Rush Your Meal
🍽️ In Greece, eating is an event, not a pit stop. Wolfing down your souvlaki and asking for the bill in five minutes is peak tourist energy. Slow down, enjoy the mezze, sip your wine and live like the locals — unhurried.
✨ Final Thoughts:
Greece is stunning, generous and endlessly hospitable, but it rewards travellers who show a bit of respect and patience. Avoid these ten rookie mistakes and you’ll glide through your holiday like a well-fed local, not a clueless tourist with sunburn and plumbing regrets.
So, pack your manners, your sunscreen and a little bit of Greek patience. The feta will taste better, the sunsets will shine brighter and the locals might even pour you that extra glass of wine “on the house”.
