Useful information and general guidance
Useful numbers
Emergency: 112
Police: 100
Ambulance: 166
Greece county code: +30
Athens city code: 210
Nearest pharmacy
Ypakoi Pinotsi
Voulis 12, Athina 105 62.
Contact: +30 210322 5982
Opening Hours: Mon-Wed and Fri 8am-10:30pm, Thur 8am-9pm
Transportation
The complicated bus routes in Athens confuse a lot of travellers, so our advice is to walk to as many places as possible. When walking, beware of cars, motorcycles and scooters. Don't expect any vehicle to stop for you at a crosswalk, and don't trust a car to stop at a red light. A map of the city centre is essential.
Languages
Greek is the national language, but English is widely spoken.
Time
Local time is seven hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time (EST). If it is 12 noon in New York it will be 7pm in Athens.
Tipping
The tip is often included in the bill in a restaurant. If not, leave between 10 to 15%. At cafes, round the bill up to the nearest euro. Taxis expect change, as do cloak room attendants and porters.
Shopping advice
You will find plenty of shops in the old city selling gold jewellery with traditional Greek designs, hand-woven tablecloths and unusual pottery. The vendors in the old city and the markets can be persistent, and once you are inside a shop, it can be difficult to get out without leaving some money behind. There are lots of modern branded shops within minutes of the hotel.
What to wear out and about
Attire for men and women is casual, but not excessively so. To blend in with local residents, women should wear skirts and slacks, and men should wear long pants. It's acceptable for women to wear shorts, but not when visiting churches, monasteries and mosques.