Is Greece safe for Israelis? Travel warning, protests and what to do (2026)

Is Greece safe for Israelis?

The short answer: yes, in most cases. Greece is one of the most popular destinations for Israelis, and most travellers have a completely normal holiday there. Still, since the war there have been pro-Palestinian demonstrations, anti-Israel graffiti and isolated incidents. So it is worth knowing the warning level, where protests are likely and how to behave.

What is Israel's travel warning for Greece?

According to Israeli media reports, Israel's National Security Council (NSC) lists Greece at Level 2 – occasional threat, as also reported in a September 2026 update. This means you can travel, but should take extra care. It is not a warning to avoid travel.

Warnings change with the situation. Before you fly, check the current level on the NSC's travel warnings page on gov.il.

The NSC's general advice for Israelis abroad, as published in the media:

• Stay away from demonstrations and gatherings of any kind.
• Keep Israeli and Jewish symbols low-key in public, and avoid large groups of Israelis.
• Avoid political arguments with strangers.
• Make sure someone at home knows where you are.
• Report any threat to the local police immediately.

What security measures does Greece take?

The Greek police step up security around Israeli and Jewish sites at times of tension. For example, at the end of February 2026 the police reportedly activated emergency plans in Attica (the Athens area) and Crete, with extra security at US and Israeli targets and at airports. Chabad houses and synagogues are protected, and where protests targeted Israelis, police were present.

Where are the protests?

Most demonstrations take place in central Athens, mainly Syntagma Square, near the Israeli embassy and around the universities. Thessaloniki also sees occasional protests. Most involve tens or hundreds of people, without violence against tourists.

In summer 2025 there were protests against an Israeli cruise ship:

• Syros, 22 July 2025: around 300 protesters at the port, and the Crown Iris, with about 1,600 Israeli passengers, sailed on to Cyprus without passengers disembarking.
• Rhodes, 28 July 2025: police pushed back a small group of protesters, and passengers disembarked without incident.

If you travel on an organised cruise, follow the cruise line's updates.

Is Athens safe for Israelis?

Athens is a large city and relatively safe for tourists. The most common risk is pickpocketing, on the metro and in crowded areas such as Monastiraki and Omonia. On protests: avoid Syntagma and the embassy area during a planned demonstration. The Chabad house and kosher restaurant in Psiri operate as normal. See also kosher food in Athens.

Is Crete safe for Israelis?

Crete is a very popular family destination for Israelis, with direct summer flights. Most visits are quiet. Chania has a synagogue (Etz Hayyim) and a Chabad house, and Hersonissos has a Chabad house. At times of tension the police also step up security on Crete.

Is Rhodes safe for Israelis?

Rhodes has a historic Jewish community, the Kahal Shalom synagogue and a Chabad house, and is one of Israelis' favourite islands. In summer 2025 there was a small protest against an Israeli ship, which the police handled. Day to day, tourists carry on as normal.

Is Thessaloniki safe for Israelis?

Thessaloniki is a student city, so it sometimes has demonstrations, mainly around the Aristotle University and in the centre. In the past, Israel's foreign ministry advised staying away from the university area and the US consulate during protests. The city has an active Jewish community, synagogues and a Jewish museum.

What about the smaller islands?

On islands such as Paros, Naxos or Milos there was mostly graffiti and small, peaceful protests in summer 2025. Most islands reported no incidents. Take normal precautions and follow updates.

Emergency numbers in Greece

Embassy of Israel in Athens: Marathonodromon 1, Psychiko. Phone: +30 210 6705500. According to published details there is also a WhatsApp emergency line outside opening hours. Check the current details on the embassy's website before you travel.

Tips for a safe trip to Greece

• Check before you go out: planned demonstrations are usually announced in advance. Our strikes page also covers strikes and protests that disrupt transport.
• Travel insurance: make sure you are covered. See travel insurance for Greece.
• Mind your belongings: keep your bag closed and your phone in an inside pocket, especially on the metro.
• Keep a low profile in crowded places: no need to hide, but avoid drawing unnecessary attention, for example through political arguments.

FAQ

Is Greece safe for Israelis? Yes, in most cases. The NSC lists Greece at Level 2 (occasional threat), meaning you can travel with extra caution. Most Israelis visit Greece without any incident.

Is Athens safe for Israelis? Yes, with attention to pickpockets and to demonstrations in the city centre, mainly at Syntagma Square and near the embassy.

Is Crete safe for Israelis? Yes. Crete is one of Israelis' favourite family destinations, with a synagogue and Chabad houses.

Is Rhodes safe for Israelis? Yes. There was a small protest against an Israeli ship in July 2025, and passengers disembarked without incident.

What is the travel warning level for Greece? According to the latest reports, Level 2 – occasional threat. Check the latest update on the NSC website before you fly.

Who do I call in an emergency in Greece? Dial 112. Tourist police: 171. Then inform the Embassy of Israel in Athens.