When it comes to holiday destinations beloved by the Brits, Greece is definitely up there. With its warm weather, even in the autumn, beautiful beaches and delicious food, the Mediterranean country attracts millions of tourists every year.
In 2022, Greece reported record numbers of people from the UK, with 4.5 million British holidaymakers visiting. With this in mind, the Foreign Office has warned people of a little-known rule that could land them a hefty fine while on holiday.
The Government website states that smoking cigarettes in certain places could land you a fine of €500 – or roughly £420. The ban applies to indoor public places such as shopping centres and bus stations.
“It’s illegal to smoke in indoor public places, including shopping malls and transport hubs,” the Foreign Office warned. “You could get a fine of up to 500 euros.”
The smoking ban came into force in 2010 in a bid to crack down on high rates of the habit. George Papandreou, prime minister of Greece at the time, said: “It will contribute to the work we’re doing today that’s aimed at changing attitudes, norms and behaviour to improve our quality of life and to make our country viable – not just its economy but in everyday life.”
The Guardian reported at the time that those caught violating the new law will be fined between €50 and €500 and have their names recorded in an offenders’ database. Businesses will be fined between €500 and €10,000, the newspaper said.
Since 2019, the ban has also applied to equivalent products such as vapes and e-cigarettes. The Foreign Office added that excessive drinking can land you a fine or even a stint in prison.
It said: “The Greek police will arrest you for any behaviour they find rowdy or indecent, especially where excessive drinking is involved. Some fancy dress costumes may be regarded as offensive and therefore against decency laws.
“The courts are likely to impose a heavy fine or a prison sentence if they judge the behaviour to be illegal. Your travel insurance may not cover you if you miss flights because of an alcohol-related arrest.”