Greece EDIA Resources

Public transportation in Greece is usually safe and reliable. The public transportation system in Athens has made significant process in improving accessibility for people with disabilities and physical mobility issues. The Athens Metro offers a user-friendly and accessible way to navigate, with all of its stations having accessible entrances and escalator. Most stations make it easy for wheelchairs to board and disembark, but if a station has a big gap between the platforms and trains, you can ask a stationmaster for a movable ramp and assistance. In addition, the stationmaster will also be able to help those with visual impairments, helping you board and notifying the head of the station where you will disembark. For more information on how to navigate accessibility features of public transportation in Athens, please visit the online guide, Accessible Routes: This is Athens. 

Taxi services in Athens also offer vehicles equipped for wheelchair users, but it is advised to request this specific type of taxi when calling for one, as they are not all specifically designed for wheelchair users. The National Confederation of Disabled People in Greece endorse G&K Services “Special Taxis,” a local wheelchair-accessible taxi service. 

Many key attractions in Athens also have accessibility features. The Acropolis has an elevator system that transports wheelchair users and those with physical mobility issues,, allowing them to avoid the steep climb. There may be a wait time for elevator access and it is recommended to book the elevator in advance (more information can be found here, under “amenities for the physically challenged.”) 

The terrain in Greece is mostly mountainous, covering over 80% of the country. The landscape is hilly, with many cobblestone streets. The hilly sidewalks, cobblestone streets, and uneven ground may make navigating Athens more challenging for some people. If you may be affected by steep terrain, you are advised to consult a physician as well as the Summer Abroad Diversity & Inclusion Program Coordinator before applying, so that you can work together on deciding if this program fits your needs. 

The climate in Athens is Mediterranean, and hot and sunny.  Summer in Athens can get very hot, reaching temperatures up to 35/36 °C, and even higher during heatwaves, up to 40 °C. The average humidity is 46%, offering occasional humidity although summers in Greece are generally hot and dry. It is important to plan for the heat and occasional humidity by packing breathable and light layers, cotton clothing, sun protection including sunscreen and hats. 

There are legislations in Greece that allow for service dogs to assist people with disabilities, however, service dogs are perceived differently in Greece than North America, and not everyone is aware of laws surrounding service dogs, with less familiarity with service dogs and their roles. It is important to research all requirements for service dogs, including the proper microchip (ISO-compliant microchip that is 15 digits long), a EU Pet Passport of a health certificate, and other requirements. Bringing a service dog to Greece will require organizing alternate accommodations, as the residence (CYA) may not allow service dogs. In addition, many field trips and site visits may not allow service dogs as well. If you have a service dog for a disability, is it advised that you contact your Accessibility Advisor and the Summer Abroad Diversity & Inclusion Program Coordinator (summerabroad.edi@utoronto.ca) so that we may assist you in researching this process thoroughly.

If you have specific accessibility and mobility needs that may not be supported by the residence accommodation, you do have the option to stay off-campus to access suitable accommodations, such as a hotel or apartment. These accommodations are paid for separately and may be more expensive than what the original accommodation would cost.  If you require a private accommodation for health reasons, you are required to research your own accommodations (i.e., hotels) in the area that are in close proximity to the residence. Please note that Summer Abroad does not book private accommodations for students, and that students are also responsible for additional incurred fees (paid directly to the hotel or booking website).  

We encourage you to reach out to the Summer Abroad Diversity & Inclusion Program Coordinator (summerabroad.edi@utoronto.ca) about any mobility-related requirements or accommodations as soon as you receive your program admission. We strongly encourage you connect with the Summer Abroad office to discuss your needs before applying your Summer Abroad program. We will work closely with you to plan your experience abroad, taking into consideration your accessibility needs.  

Greek culture has mental health-related stigma,  however Greek society continues to see a shift in social attitudes towards mental health. Since the 1990’s, there have been many mental health reforms in Greece, including changing attitudes in perceptions and the establishment of community-based mental health services. If you require mental health support while abroad, it is important to remember that any stigma comes from a cross-cultural difference, and does not stem from ignorance. For this reason, it is important to stay connected with iSOS if you require emotional and well-being support in the form of medical care or counselling. 

If you require support for any mental health concerns, we encourage you to reach out to Summer Abroad so we can work directly with you to provide necessary accommodations and support during your program. All Summer Abroad students have access to International SOS, which has a partnership with U of T, who will connect you with a network of health professionals in your area. If you require a doctor or counsellor in Greece, iSOS will be able to help you find a mental health professional in your area.  

If you are bringing medication with you into Greece, remember to check if your medication contains a controlled drug. You can check with the Greek Embassy to make sure your medication is legal. You should always carry your prescription medication in its original packaging, with your doctor’s prescription. 

Reminder: Students with pre-existing concerns must meet with their Accessibility Advisor to discuss needs and prepare relevant documentations before applying for Summer Abroad.  

Greece is a LGBT-friendly country, with LGBT rights and social attitudes making significant process over the past few decades. There are anti-discrimination laws based on sexual orientation and gender identity, as well as other laws that legally recognize gender changes without surgery requirements, and also including civil unions for same-sex couples. The acceptance of LGBTQ+ people in Greece can differ based on different regions, so some areas may show signs of conservative attitudes. For this reason, it is always recommended to exercise personal judgment and consider local customs and laws when navigating LGBTQ+ issues in specific locations, especially while exploring the country on your own. Being aware of local attitudes and customs can help ensure a safe and positive experience during your time in Greece.  

Summer Abroad is committed to providing a supportive and inclusive environment for all students, and support students of all sexual orientations and gender identities. If you have any concerns or require support regarding your 2SLGBTQ+ accommodations, please do not hesitate to reach out to us, so we can assist you in finding additional resources as well as explore your accommodation options. 

Greece is generally a safe destination for women travellers. However, it is important to always be vigilant and adhere to basic safety precautions, be aware of your surroundings, and travel in groups. There are low incidences of petty crime, but there is always a chance of pickpocketing, purse, or phone snatchings, especially in busy crowds. Stay informed, travel with friends, remain cautious, and use trusted transportation instead of walking alone, or late at night. 

If you experience sexual harassment or feel uncomfortable while you are abroad, you can reach out to Summer Abroad and Safety Abroad for help, and they will help connect you with U of T resources including the Sexual Violence Prevention & Support Centre. For more information on how Safety Abroad can support you in a crisis, please click here to view Safety Abroad’s resources (under “sexual harassment & violence” and “in a crisis.”) 

Emergency contraceptive pills (i.e., Plan B, called Norlevo in Greece) are available without a prescription at pharmacies, and proof of age is not required. 

The dominant ethnicity in Greece is Greek, where ethnic Greeks make up the vast majority of the population.  Greece is generally considered a safe destination for racialized travellers, who generally report positive interactions, mostly in urban areas and tourist destinations. In other areas that are less diverse, racialized travellers may experience more noticeable discrimination, as xenophobia and racism towards racial minorities in Greece does exist. It is important to be aware of local customs and cultural norms and take steps to ensure your safety, including always carrying identification and using trusted transportation services.   

If you feel unsafe or experience racism during your time in the Summer Abroad program, we encourage you to report the incident immediately to the Summer Abroad office or reach out to the On-Site Coordinators, who will contact U of T Safety Abroad to provide immediate support, including connecting you with U of T Resources such as the Anti-Racism and Cultural Diversity Office (ARCDO). 

Although a secular country, Greece’s majority religion is Greek Orthodox, with about 81-90% of the population identifying as Greek Orthodox. Other religious minority groups include Muslims, Catholics, and Jewish people. There is a strong association between Greek identity and Orthodoxy, as being Orthodox is synonymous with being “truly Greek.” The ties between nationalism and religious identity may sometimes lead to a lack of understanding or acceptance of other religions, but it is important to know that these differences stem from cross-cultural differences and not ignorance. 

If you are looking for religious accommodation support during your Summer Abroad program, such as religious observations that may conflict with academic activities and field trips, please contact the Summer Abroad Diversity & Inclusion Program Coordinator in advance. Summer Abroad will work closely with you to ensure that your religious observance needs are accommodated to the best of our ability, creating an inclusive environment that respects and values your faith while planning and participating your Summer Abroad experience.  

The Muslim population in Greece is a minority, but there are still halal food options.  When visiting restaurants and purchasing food in Greece, it is important to do your research and see if halal food options are available. There are numerous online guides to eating halal food in Greece, such as Halal Trip’s Athens Guide and Trip Advisor’s Halal Restaurants in Athens Guide. 

To eat kosher in Greece, it is important to research ahead, as the Jewish community in Greece is very small. Online resources and guides include Chabad of Greece that provides information on local kosher options, Kosher Greece, an online guide to kosher restaurants and grocery stores in Greece, and Kosher Without Borders, a website that lists kosher restaurants and food services in multiple countries across the world where kosher options are less common. 

It is not difficult to eat as a vegetarian in Greece. There are many online guides including The City of Athens’ Visitor Guide: Vegetarian Athens, Greekality’s online survival guide to eating vegetarian and vegan in Athens, and The Vegan Word’s “Ultimate Vegan Guide to Athens, Greece.”