🇬🇷 Greece Healthcare Guide
Athens and Thessaloniki have well-equipped public hospitals and a strong private sector, but healthcare on the islands — where most visitors actually go — is far more limited, with many smaller islands operating only a basic health centre. If you take regular medication, bringing your full supply rather than planning to refill on a smaller island is the practical move.
Quick facts
- Emergency number: 166
- Healthcare system: universal-public
- Average GP visit: $40 USD
- EHIC/GHIC accepted: Yes
- Language barrier: medium
Healthcare overview
Greece’s public hospitals in Athens (Evangelismos, Laiko) and Thessaloniki provide emergency and inpatient care to EHIC holders, but chronic underfunding means long waits and stretched resources. Private clinics and hospitals in Athens and major tourist areas offer faster service at higher cost. Island destinations like Crete and Rhodes have adequate hospitals, but smaller islands rely on health centres (kentro ygias) with limited capabilities.
Island healthcare limitations
Smaller Greek islands have basic health centres only. For anything beyond first aid, air or sea transfer to a larger island or Athens is standard.
Private clinics in Athens
Private hospitals like Hygeia and Metropolitan Hospital offer shorter waits and English-speaking staff at out-of-pocket rates.
Vaccinations
Recommended
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- Typhoid
Prescriptions and pharmacies
Pharmacies (farmakeio) in Greek cities and tourist areas are well-stocked, and pharmacists often speak English. Some medications requiring a prescription in Northern Europe are available OTC in Greece, including certain antibiotics. Carry your full supply for island travel, as smaller islands may have one pharmacy with limited stock and seasonal hours.
Island pharmacy stock
Pharmacies on small islands stock basics but may lack specialist medications. Bring your full supply when island-hopping.
Tips for travellers
Athens’s university hospitals (Evangelismos, Laiko, AHEPA in Thessaloniki) handle complex chronic conditions, but wait times for specialist appointments in the public system can be lengthy. Private specialist clinics in Athens offer faster access, typically within days. Having your treatment plan saved and accessible in English or Greek helps specialists review your case, particularly if you need continuity during a longer stay on the islands.
Private specialists in Athens
Hygeia Hospital and Athens Medical Centre offer specialist appointments within a few days, with English-speaking staff.