Independent tourism and recreation in the city of Volos Historical information about the city of Volos 1. Anci...
1. Ancient settlements
The history of the territory of modern Volos begins long before the appearance of the city itself. In the vicinity there are archaeological monuments of Sesklo and Dimini, which existed already in the VII-V millennia BC. Here developed agriculture, cattle breeding, crafts and trade.
2. Iolk and the Bronze Age
In the Bronze Age, Iolkos was one of the important centers of the Mycenaean world. It is associated with the legend of Jason and the Argonauts, who went on the ship “Argo for the Golden Fleece”. Archaeological finds confirm the existence of a large settlement in the area of modern Volos.
3. Pagas and Demetriades
In ancient times, Pagasi became an important port, providing trade between Thessaly and the Aegean Sea.
In 294–293 BC, the Macedonian king Demetrius Polyorketes founded Demetriade, uniting several older settlements. The city quickly became a major commercial and naval center with powerful fortifications and a large port. Later it came under the rule of Rome and gradually lost its former importance.
4. Byzantine period
In late antiquity, the population began to move to more protected places. In the area of the modern quarter of Palea, a fortified settlement arose, which became one of the predecessors of the medieval Volos.
The name Hair is first reliably found in written sources in the XIV century.
5. Ottoman period
In 1423, the fortress of Volos came under the rule of the Ottoman Empire. Part of the Christian population moved to the mountainous areas of Pelion, where villages, crafts and trade began to develop.
In the XVII-XIX centuries, Volos gradually turned into an important port. Goods from Pelion and Thessaly passed through it, and merchants maintained connections with other ports of the Mediterranean and the Black Sea.
6. Greek Revolution and Accession to Greece
During the Greek Revolution of 1821, the Volos region became involved in the struggle against the Ottoman Empire.
The turning point occurred in 1881 when Thessaly, including Hair, became part of the Kingdom of Greece. After that, the city began to grow rapidly due to trade, port and favorable location.
7. Industrial flourishing
In the late XIX - early XX century, Volos turned into a major commercial and industrial center. Railroad, port, textile and food industries, metalworking and trade developed.
The population grew rapidly, with banks, schools, shops and public buildings appearing. In 1909, the first Greek Works Centre was established in Volos, reflecting the city’s importance as an industrial centre.
8. Refugees from Asia Minor
After the Greco-Turkish War of 1919-1922, thousands of Greek refugees from Asia Minor, Pontus and Eastern Thrace arrived in Volos. In the 1920s, new areas emerged, including Nea Ionia.
Refugees brought their own traditions, cuisine, crafts and entrepreneurial culture, significantly influencing the modern look of the city.
9. World War II
During World War II, Volos was under occupation. The city suffered from food shortages and economic difficulties.
The history of the Jewish community was particularly tragic. With the help of local residents and Greek authorities, some 700 members of the community were able to escape deportation and death in Nazi camps.
10. The 1955 earthquake
In 1955, Volos experienced a series of powerful earthquakes that destroyed and damaged a large number of buildings. After the disaster, the city had to be rebuilt on a large scale.
That is why modern Volos combines individual historical monuments with predominantly new urban development.
11. Modern development
In the second half of the XX century, Volos regained industrial and port importance. At the same time, education, culture and tourism developed.
In 1984, the University of Thessaly was founded, and Volos became one of the important educational centers of the region.
Today, the city remains a major port and economic center of Thessaly. Tourists are attracted by its ancient history, the connection with the myth of the Argonauts, the embankment, archaeological sites, the Bay of Pagaseum and the proximity of Mount Pelion.
Sea and promenade. Hair is suitable for relaxing by the sea, walking and exploring the Greek coastal life. There are cafes, restaurants and taverns along the coast, and the port remains an important part of urban life.
The Pelion Mountains near the city. The main advantage of Hair is the ability to quickly combine sea and mountain rest. Pelion is known for dense forests, traditional villages, stone houses, mountain trails and panoramic views of Pagasitikos and the Aegean Sea. Particularly interesting are Makrinitsa, Portaria and Tsagarada.
Ancient heritage. Hair is associated with ancient Iolkos, which is considered one of the most important centers of ancient Thessaly and in Greek mythology is associated with Jason and the Argonauts. In the vicinity you can see archaeological monuments reminiscent of the thousands of years of history of the region.
The combination of city and nature. Hair is convenient for travelers who do not want to choose between a large city and a resort. It has urban infrastructure, museums, shops and restaurants, and outside of urban development begin beaches, forests, mountain routes and small traditional settlements.
Active rest. Pelion provides opportunities for hiking, mountain walking, cycling and horseback riding. There are routes of varying complexity - from short walks to long hikes through forests and traditional villages.
Beaches and small resorts. In the vicinity of Volos there are many places for swimming both on the protected coast of Pagasitikos and on the open side of Pelion, facing the Aegean Sea. Therefore, the city is convenient to use as a starting point for trips along the coast.
Greek cuisine. Hair is known for its gastronomic culture, especially establishments that serve meze and small portions of various dishes along with drinks. On the trip, you should try local seafood, cheeses, meat dishes, pies and traditional Pelion products. The mountainous region is characterized by sausage and pepper dishes, homemade pastries and fruit sweets.
The atmosphere of traditional Greece. Unlike exclusively beach resorts, Volos retains the character of an ordinary Greek city. Here you can combine walks along the streets and the embankment with visits to taverns, markets, museums and trips to small settlements.
The story of Jason and the Argonauts. The mythological connection of Volos with Iolk and the legend of the Argonauts gives the city a special tourist atmosphere. For travelers, this is an opportunity to combine ancient history, Greek mythology and real archaeological sites.
A trip on the historic Pelion train. One of the unusual experiences of the region is the historic train “Moutzouris”, passing through the mountain landscapes of Pelion. The route allows you to see forests, bridges and traditional settlements from an unusual vantage point.
Suitable for different formats of rest. Hair is interesting for family tourists, lovers of history, gastronomic trips, hiking routes and beach rest. The city is also convenient as a base for exploring Pelion and the coast.
Year-round direction. Due to the combination of the city, the sea and the mountains, the hair is interesting not only during the beach season. In summer, you can combine swimming and excursions, in spring and autumn - walks and hikes, and in winter - trips to the mountain Pelion, where the ski center operates.
1. High-level hotels
Domotel Xenia Volos is one of the most famous 5* hotels in the city. It is located near the sea, near the center. The hotel has rooms and suites overlooking the city or the sea, swimming pools, a wellness area, a restaurant and other additional services. Suitable for comfortable rest, business trips and family travel.
Volos Palace Hotel is a large 4-star hotel in the central part of Volos. Suitable for travelers who are interested in convenient location, spacious rooms and the ability to quickly reach the promenade, port, restaurants and historical places.
2. Mid-range hotels
Aegli Hotel Volos is a popular 3-star hotel near the port and the city center. A good option for tourists who plan to walk a lot on the Volos and make trips around the neighborhood.
Hotel Kipseli is an urban 3-star hotel in the central district, convenient for short tourist trips. Nearby there are cafes, restaurants, shops and the city promenade.
Hotel Alexandros is another mid-range option in the central part of Volos. Suitable for those who primarily need a convenient location and a basic set of hotel services.
3. Small and economical hotels
For economical travel in Volos there are small hotels of categories 1-2*, as well as modern inexpensive city hotels. Options include Hotel Admitos, Azur Hotel Volos by GHH, Hotel Anastasia and Volos Inn. Such places are suitable for tourists who spend most of the day on excursions and walks, and housing is expected primarily a clean room and a convenient location.
Azur Hotel Volos by GHH is a modern option for inexpensive accommodation in the city.
Volos Inn is a small city hotel, convenient for independent travelers.
4. Apartments
Apartments are one of the convenient options for long-term stay, family trips and travel by the company. Usually they have more space than in a standard hotel room, and the presence of a kitchen allows you to cook your own meal.
In Volos there are both small studios and full-fledged apartments with several bedrooms. You can choose housing closer to the center, the promenade or in quieter residential areas.
For example, urban options include Downtown Apartment and Volos View.
The Athanasakeion Archaeological Museum of Volos
One of the city's main museums. Here are finds from Volos and the Magnesia region, covering the period from prehistoric settlements to antiquity. Of particular interest are the materials related to the ancient settlements of Pelion, Iolk and other centers of Thessaly. Transport: The museum is located near the center. From the central areas you can walk in about 15-25 minutes, city buses and taxis are also available.
Old Town of Palia (Palia)
The historical district of Volos, where the remains of old fortifications and traditional urban development are preserved. It is pleasant to walk along small streets, visit cafes, bars and restaurants. The area is especially interesting in the evening when local establishments come to life. Transport: easy to reach on foot from the central part of Volos; a trip by city bus or taxi takes a little time.
Palia Castle (Kastro Palaion)
The remains of medieval fortifications are located in the historical part of the city. From the original fortified settlement, fragments of walls and individual structures have been preserved. This place is interesting primarily because it allows you to see the earlier, medieval Hair. Transport: located within the central urban area, so it is most convenient to get on foot. You can drive by car, but the narrow streets of the historic district are not always convenient for parking.
Waterfront and port
One of the most pleasant places to walk. There are views of Pagasitikos Bay, moored ships and ferries, cafes, restaurants and taverns. The waterfront is particularly attractive at sunset. Transport: located directly in the center, next to the main streets and bus stops. Most tourists get here on foot.
Rigas Fereos Square and Central Streets
Volos Center combines neoclassical buildings, shops, cafes and restaurants. From here it is convenient to begin acquaintance with the city and gradually descend to the port and the embankment. Transport: The central part is compact, so the main places can be viewed on foot.
Volos City Museum (Volos City Museum)
The museum is dedicated to the modern history of the city, its industrial development, daily life of residents and important events of the XX century. It is especially interesting because it helps to understand how Volos turned from a port city into a major industrial and cultural center of the region. Transport: located near the center; you can walk or use the city bus.
Tsalapatas Brick and Tile Museum
The museum is located on the territory of the former industrial complex. Here you can see old production facilities, equipment and learn about the history of the Volos industry. This is one of the most unusual sights of the city for those who are interested in industrial history. Transportation: located in the Palia area. From the center you can walk in about 15-25 minutes or reach by bus or taxi.
Entomological Museum of Hair (Entomological Museum)
A small specialized museum with a collection of insects from different regions of the world. Especially interesting for families with children and tourists who like unusual museums. Transportation: not located in the tourist center. It is more convenient to use a city bus or taxi.
Anastasias Park (Anavros Park)
Green area near the sea, suitable for a quiet walk. Here you can combine a rest in the fresh air with a visit to the archaeological museum and a walk along the coast. Transport: You can walk from the center along the promenade; city bus and taxi are also suitable.
Anavros Beach (Anavros Beach)
A small city beach near the center of Volos. It is convenient for tourists who want to combine the excursion program with swimming without leaving the city. Transport: easy to reach on foot from the central part, by bus or taxi.
Mount Pelion (Pelion)
The main natural attraction in the vicinity of Volos. Pelion is known for forests, mountain trails, traditional villages and panoramic views. Due to the proximity of the mountains, Volos allows you to combine sea and mountain recreation in one trip. Transport: regional buses go to mountainous areas, but a car is more convenient for independent travel. You can visit several villages by car in one day.
Macrinitsa
One of the most famous villages of Pelion. It is called the “balcony of Pelion” due to its location on the mountainside and panoramic views of the Volos and Pagasitikos Bay. Stone houses, narrow streets and small squares make it one of the most interesting trips from the city. Transport: approximately 20-25 km from Volos. It can be reached by car, taxi or regional bus; due to mountain roads, the trip takes noticeably longer than the distance in a straight line.
Portaria (Portaria)
Picturesque mountain settlement on Pelion with stone houses, green streets, taverns and hiking trails. Suitable for a day trip from the hair. Transport: You can get there by car, taxi or regional bus. The car is especially convenient for simultaneous visits to Portaria and Macrinitsa.
The Historic Pelion Railway
One of the unusual tourist attractions of the region. The historic train passes through the mountainous areas of Pelion, allowing you to see forests, gorges, bridges and traditional settlements. Transport: it is more convenient to get to the place of departure of the train in the area of Ano Lehonia by car, taxi or bus from Volos. The train ride is a separate tourist part of the route.
Ancient Dimini (Dimini)
Archaeological monument near Volos, associated with a prehistoric settlement. Here you can see the remains of an ancient settlement and get acquainted with the history of the region long before the appearance of classical Greek cities. Transportation: located outside the center. It is most convenient to go by car or taxi; you can also use a regional bus, but for an independent visit, the car is more practical.
Ancient Sesklo
Another important prehistoric monument in the vicinity of Volos. Sesklo is associated with one of the earliest developed agricultural cultures in Europe. Transportation: farther from the city than Dimini. It is better to use a car or taxi to travel; public transport is less convenient.
Carnival and Apocries (February – March)
In Volos there are costumed processions, concerts, festive performances and street festivities. The carnival period ends with the celebration of Clean Monday with traditional dishes and the launch of kites.
Greek Independence Day (25 March)
The city hosts festive ceremonies, parades, performances of schoolchildren and cultural events.
Easter celebrations (March – May)
During the Orthodox Easter, church services, processions, folk festivals and family festive events are held. Traditional local customs are particularly well preserved in the villages of Pelion.
Spring holidays and fairs (May)
In Volos and the surrounding settlements there are fairs, exhibitions of plants, flower festivals, concerts and performances of folklore groups.
Traditional Dance Festivals (June – July)
In the settlements of Pelion festivals are held with the participation of Greek and foreign dance groups. The program includes concerts, folk dances and master classes.
Gastronomic holidays (June - September)
In Volos and surrounding villages there are events dedicated to local cuisine, seafood, tsipouro, fruits and other regional products. The holidays are accompanied by music and folk festivals.
Summer concerts and cultural events (June-August)
The city organizes open-air concerts, theater productions, film screenings, exhibitions and dance evenings. Some of the events take place at sites near the sea.
Pelion Festival (July)
PelionFestival combines classical music concerts, creative classes, lectures and master classes. Events are held in the picturesque mountain settlements of Pelion.
Feast of fishing traditions in Agria (July)
In Agria, located next to the Volos, there are festive events with fish dishes, music, folk dances and evening festivities.
Holidays of local products (July – August)
In the villages of Pelion, gastronomic festivals and fairs are organized dedicated to fruits, olives, homemade pastries, meat products and other local products.
The Assumption of the Virgin (August 15)
One of the main Orthodox holidays. In Volos and the settlements of Pelion, worship services, processions, fairs, concerts and folk festivals are held.
Music Festivals (September)
In Volos and the region of Magnesia, concerts of classical and modern music, performances of choirs and various cultural programs are held.
Autumn exhibitions and cultural events (September – November)
After the end of the summer season, the city hosts exhibitions, theater productions, concerts, lectures and other events in cultural centers.
Christmas and New Year holidays (December – early January)
In the center of Volos there are festive decoration and fairs, concerts, children's performances and city festivities. Christmas services are held in churches.
Winter Music and Theatre Programs (December – January)
Volos cultural institutions host concerts, theater performances, vocal performances and music theater programs.
Winter (December to February)
During the day, the air temperature is usually about 9-11 ° C, at night - about 5-7 ° C. The weather is relatively mild, but more rain falls in winter, cold periods and rare snow are possible. The water temperature is kept at about 14-16 ° C, so the sea is too cold for swimming. Winter is suitable for a quiet acquaintance with the city, museums, historical sites and trips around the neighborhood.
Spring (March-May)
In March, the air warms up to about 14 °C, in April - to 17-19 °C, and in May - to 22 °C. At night, the temperature gradually rises from about 7 °C to 14 °C. The water remains cool: about 14 °C in March, 15 °C in April and 19 °C in May. Spring is especially good for excursions, walks along the hair, trips to Pelion and hiking routes.
Summer (June - August)
This is the warmest and driest time of the year. The daytime temperature is usually around 26-29 °C, and in the hottest periods can be higher. At night, heat is maintained - about 19-22 ° C. The water warms up to 23-27 °C: about 23-24 °C in June, 26-27 °C in July and August. Summer is best for beach holidays, swimming, sea walks and trips along the coast. July and August are the hottest months.
Autumn (September-November)
In September, summer heat is still preserved - about 25 ° C in the afternoon, in October about 20 ° C, and in November about 16 ° C. At night, the temperature gradually decreases from about 18 °C to 11 °C. The sea remains warm: about 25-26 °C in September, 22 °C in October and about 19 °C in November. September is especially convenient for combining beach holidays and excursions, and October is for walking, traveling around the Pelion and sightseeing without the summer heat.
The main language is Greek.
The official language of the city and all of Greece is Greek. In the tourism sector, hotels, restaurants and shops, English is often used, so tourists usually manage to explain themselves without knowing Greek.
English.
English is especially common among employees of hotels, cafes, restaurants, travel companies and transport. In the small villages of Pelion, knowledge of English may be less common, so a few Greek phrases will be helpful.
Greetings and socializing.
When meeting, it is customary to greet and treat politely. You can use the simple "Yasas" (Γεια σας) - "Hello", and in an informal setting "Yasu" (Γεια σου) - "Hello". Greeks generally value friendly and calm communication.
Guest attitude.
Greek culture is characterized by hospitality. In cafes and taverns, do not rush the staff: eating is often perceived as a time for communication and rest. The official tourist portal of Greece also highlights the importance of local hospitality and traditions.
Behavior in churches and monasteries.
When visiting Orthodox churches, you should dress with restraint: it is advisable to cover your shoulders and knees. Inside the temple, you should behave quietly, do not interfere with worship and do not take photographs where it is forbidden.
Photography.
Do not photograph military facilities, military equipment and some other objects with regime restrictions. In such places it is necessary to pay attention to warning signs.
Behavior in public places.
Excessively noisy, aggressive or obscene behavior should be avoided, especially when intoxicated. For violation of public order, the police can detain the offender.
Alcohol.
In Greece, the sale and supply of alcohol to persons under 18 is prohibited. When buying alcohol, you can ask for a proof of age.
Drugs.
Illicit drugs, including cannabis, are prohibited. For storage, use, transportation and sale there are serious penalties. Tourists should not carry such substances even in transit through airports.
Documents.
During your stay, it is advisable to have a passport or other valid identity document with you. The police may require it to be presented, and a copy of the document is not always accepted instead of the original.
Payment in restaurants and shops.
When buying goods or services, checks should be kept. In restaurants, the visitor must be provided with a detailed bill.
Tips.
Tipping is not strictly mandatory, but for good service in a restaurant, cafe or when providing tourist services, they are usually left. The size can be determined independently depending on the quality of service.
Food in taverns.
In Volos, the culture of tsipuradico (tsipouradiko) is especially widespread - establishments where tsipuro is served along with small portions of meze snacks. It is usually customary to enjoy food and communication calmly, rather than perceive a visit to such an institution as a quick meal.
Observance of local holidays.
During Orthodox holidays and local festivals, some institutions can work on a modified schedule. In small settlements of Pelion, local religious and folk traditions are especially noticeable, so tourists should respect the ceremonies held.
Basic local words and phrases
Hello - Γεια σας!Transcription: Yasas!
Hi - Γεια σου!Transcription: Yasu!
Good morning - Καλημέρα!Transcription: Kalimera!
Good evening - Καλησπέρα!Transcription: Kalispera!
Good night - Καληνύχτα!Transcription: Kalinichta!
Good-bye - Αντίο!Transcription: Andio!
Thank you - ευχαριστция!Transcription: Efcharisto!
Please - Παρακαλция!Transcription: ParacalO!
Yes - Nαι.Transcription: Ne.
No - .χι.Transcription: Ohh.
Sorry - Συγν.μη. Transcription: Signomi.
Please speak more slowly - μιλήστε πιο αργά, παρακαλ,. Transcription: Miliste pio arga, paracalo.
I don't understand - Δεν καταλαβαίνω. Transcription: Dan Catalaveno.
Do you speak English? - μιλάτε αγγλικά; Transcription: Milate anglica?
Where is...? - Πού είναι...?Transcription: Pu Ine...?
How much does it cost? - Πόσο κοστίζει; Transcription: Poso kosisi?
I want it - θέλω αυτό. Transcription: Body aphtho.
I need help - .ρειάζομαι βοήθεια. Transcription: Chryazome Voitia.
Where's the toilet? - Πού είναι η τουαλέτα; Transcription: Pu Ine and tual Eta?
Where's the bus stop? - Πού είναι η στάση του λεωφορείου; Transcription: Pu Ine and take that leophorion?
Words for cafes and taverns
Menu - Menu Transcription: Manu.
Water is not transcription: Nero.
Coffee - Καφές Transcription: Cafes.
Beer - Mπύρα Transcription: Bira.
Wine - Κρασί Transcription: Beauty.
Tsipuro - TσίπουροTranscription: Tsipuro.
Food - .αγητόTranscription: Fagito.
Fish - аάριTranscription: Psari.
Seafood - θαλασσινά Transcription: TalasinA.
Invoice, please - Toν λογαριασμό, παρακαλ С. Transcription: Tone of logariasmO, paracalO.
Very tasty - Πολύ νόστιμο!Transcription: Poly' Nostimo!
Without meat - .ωρίς κρέας. Transcription: Horice Creas.
Without fish, .ωρίς .άρι. Transcription: Horice Psari.
I am a vegetarian/vegetarian - Eίμαι χορτοφάγος. Transcription: Ime Hortofagos.
Hotel words
I have a reservation - ниеχω κράτηση. Transcription: Echo cratisi.
I want to settle in - θέλω να κάνω check-in. Transcription: Body in Cano check-in.
What time is breakfast? - Thou ρα είναι το πρωινό; Transcription: Ti Ora Ine this proino?
Where's my number? - Πού είναι το δωμάτιό μου; Transcription: Pu Ine to Dom Atio Mu?
Is there Wi-Fi? - πάρχει Wi-Fi; Transcription: Ipaarhi Wi-Fi?
I need a key - .ρειάζομαι το κλειδί. Transcription: Chryazome to clidia.
Pelion honey
One of the most successful edible souvenirs. Mountainous areas produce fragrant local honey, which can be bought from small producers. It is better to choose small glass jars that are convenient to transport.
Apple products from Zagora
Pelion is known for Zagora apples, including Starking and Firiki varieties. They make juices, jam, sweets and concentrated products. Especially interesting is apple petimezi (petimezi) - a thick traditional syrup.
Greek spoon sweets
Glyko tou koutaliou (glyko tou koutaliou) are fruits or berries cooked in thick syrup. For Pelion, this is one of the characteristic traditional products. As a souvenir, it is convenient to buy in small sealed jars.
Spetsofai (spetzofai)
One of the most famous dishes of Pelion is sausage with pepper and tomatoes. You should definitely try it at the restaurant. As a souvenir, the finished dish is not suitable, but you can buy some ingredients and local meat products while observing the rules of transportation of products.
Local herbs and tea in mountain areas
In Pelion, fragrant wild herbs and plants are collected. You can buy dried herbal mixtures for tea and cooking. This is an easy, inexpensive and convenient souvenir.
Chestnuts and their products
The mountainous areas of Pelion are rich in chestnut forests. Chestnuts make jam, sweets and other products of long-term storage.
Walnuts and other nuts
Nuts are used in the traditional cuisine of Pelion and are well suited as an edible gift. It is better to choose hermetically packaged products.
Traditional pies and pastries
In the villages of Pelion, homemade cakes with cheese, greens and other fillings are common. Try them directly during the trip, as fresh pastries are not suitable for long transportation.
Tsipuro (tsipouro)
Hair is especially known for the culture of Tsipuradico, small establishments where Tsipuro is served along with meze. A bottle of local drink can be a good souvenir for an adult traveler. When transporting alcohol, it is necessary to take into account the customs rules of the destination country.
Local wine
The region of Magnesia produces wines that can be purchased in specialized stores and from manufacturers. This is another option for a gastronomic gift, if alcohol rules allow.
Documents
A valid foreign passport is required for travel, and depending on citizenship, a Schengen visa or the right to visa-free entry. For EU citizens, a national ID card can be used when traveling to Greece. For non-EU nationals, the passport must normally be issued no more than 10 years ago and valid for at least 3 months after the intended departure from the EU. It is advisable to carry a copy of your passport and visa and keep the original in a safe place unless it is required for a specific procedure.
Health insurance
It is recommended that the tourist obtain medical insurance for the entire period of travel. If a Schengen visa is required for entry, health insurance is one of the documents for obtaining it. It is desirable that the policy covers emergency medical care, hospitalization, transportation to a medical facility and, if necessary, repatriation.
European Health Insurance Card
It is also useful for EU citizens to have an EHIC, the European Health Insurance Card. It allows to receive the necessary state medical care under the conditions provided by the system of the host country. EHIC does not replace full travel insurance.
112112 is the single European emergency number. In Greece, he works around the clock and for free. Through it you can call the police, firefighters, ambulance or coast guard. You can even call from a mobile phone without a SIM card; in the absence of a signal from one operator, the call can pass through the available network.
Police - 100
The number 100 is used to call the police immediately. It operates all over Greece.
Ambulance - 166
Number 166 is the National Emergency Medical Center (EKAB). It is used to call an ambulance and emergency transportation to the hospital.
Fire service - 199
Number 199 is used to call the fire department. This is especially important when traveling in the summer, as there is a seasonal risk of wildfires in Greece.
Coast Guard - 108
Number 108 is used to communicate with the Greek Coast Guard. It can be useful in emergency situations at sea or coast.
Tourist Police - 1571
Room 1571 is designed to help tourists. Greek police indicate that the line operates in Greek, English, French and German.
Mobile communications
The main mobile operators in Greece are COSMOTE, Vodafone Greece and Nova. They provide mobile and data services; operators have 4G/5G networks. For a short trip, it is usually enough to roam your operator or travel SIM/eSIM. Before traveling, it is worth checking the roaming conditions and the cost of mobile Internet.
Safety at sea and beaches
When swimming, it is necessary to take into account the warnings of rescuers, the state of the sea and weather conditions. When travelling by boat or ferry, crew requirements and life-saving means should be observed.
Trips to Pelion
When traveling from Volos to the mountainous areas of Pelion, winding roads should be considered, especially when driving independently. In the hot season, it is useful to have a supply of water, a charged phone and check the weather conditions in advance.
Wildfires and extreme heat
In the summer, civil protection warnings should be carefully considered. In case of high fire danger, you should not start a fire, leave garbage or go to closed forest areas. Greek authorities also recommend monitoring official emergency alerts.
How long can you stay in Greece?
For third-country nationals who are allowed visa-free entry into the Schengen area, the standard limit is up to 90 days in any 180-day period. This period is considered total throughout the Schengen area, not separately for Greece. If a citizen needs a Schengen visa, the period allowed is also determined by the visa and the general rule of short stay. Residence for more than 90 days requires an appropriate national permit or a long-term Greek visa.
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