Local culture in Greece

Greece may be a European country with familiar facilities and social structures, but expats may still need some time to adjust to the local culture here.

It is a country of rich traditions and ancient history, while also boasting beautiful beaches and plenty of sunshine. Greek characteristics have been shaped by a fascinating blend of the ancient and the modern, as well as the country’s long history as a crossroads between East and West.

Language barriers in Greece

Many consider Greek to be a tricky language to learn. There are differences between spoken and written Greek, as well as between regional idioms. The language also uses inflexions, where the meanings of words change depending on the tone. As a result, during the first stages of learning Greek, you can expect some confusing exchanges.

Generally, locals are accepting of foreigners who don’t speak Greek. At the same time, Greeks are extremely proud of their language, and rightly so: it is one of the oldest in the world and has made significant contributions to the English language. If you intend on staying, you would do well to learn the language – not only does it create more possibilities for employment, but it is also the best way to integrate into Greek society.

Food in Greece

Food and drink are important in Greece, serving as the gathering point for socialising. Locals spend hours at coffee shops when they can, but this is typically less about the coffee itself and more about spending time with friends or family.

Even in the toughest times, Greek people are fantastic hosts who provide their guests with everything they can. Expats who enjoy this privilege should always bring a gift for the host, such as wine or flowers. They should also be prepared to eat whatever is in front of them – it is considered rude to turn down food.

Time in Greece

It is often said that Greek people would rather relax than rush through their daily routines. Time in Greece seems to move more slowly. Statistics show that the average Greek employee works more hours a year than most Europeans, but this fact doesn’t affect the value Greeks place on enjoying life’s simple pleasures. Being half an hour late for a social gathering is normal and even expected, but expats should try to be on time for business appointments.

Women in Greece

Women in Greece experience a mix of traditional and modern societal expectations, with noticeable gender disparities in the workplace and public life. While legal protections exist, the gender wage gap remains a concern, with women earning significantly less than men for similar roles.

In the workplace, women are underrepresented in leadership positions, and balancing career and family responsibilities frequently falls disproportionately on them. That said, Greece is largely a safe country for expat women, and many feel comfortable walking alone, especially in major cities and tourist areas.

Still, women may occasionally experience harassment on the street. As in any destination, exercising caution and following local customs can enhance personal safety and your overall experience in Greece.

LGBTQ+ in Greece

Greece has made significant progress in LGBTQ+ rights in recent years and is considered one of the more LGBTQ+-friendly countries in southeastern Europe. Same-sex civil partnerships have been legal since 2015, and in 2024, Greece became the first Orthodox Christian-majority country to legalise same-sex marriage and adoption.

Athens and Thessaloniki have thriving LGBTQ+ communities, with vibrant Pride events and a growing number of inclusive spaces. While younger generations and urban areas tend to be more accepting, social attitudes can still be conservative, particularly in rural areas. Public displays of affection between same-sex couples are generally tolerated in major cities, but we recommend avoiding these in more traditional or religious areas.