Understanding the people of Greece helps you integrate faster.
- The official language is Greek, while English is widely spoken in tourism and larger cities.
- Greece counts more than 6,000 islands and islets, of which roughly 200 are inhabited.
- It has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, sunny winters.
Most of the population follows Greek Orthodox Christianity, shaping festivals and daily life.
Greek cuisine is known for olive oil, feta cheese, moussaka and Greek yogurt.
Typical character
Orthodox Easter is the most important celebration of the year.
UNESCO sites such as the Acropolis, Delphi and Olympia are spread across the country.
Traditional music features the bouzouki, and the sirtaki dance is familiar to visitors.
Everyday lifestyle
The Vietnamese community is small but present in Athens.
Opening a bank account requires a passport, tax number and residence documents.
Summers can be very hot, so choose a home with air-conditioning and near the sea if possible.
Greetings and etiquette
Wine and ouzo are traditional drinks at gatherings.
- Greece is the cradle of philosophy, democracy, drama and the Olympic Games.
- Greeks value family, hospitality (philoxenia) and long shared meals.
- Greek uses its own alphabet and is one of the oldest languages still spoken.
- Greece lies in Southeastern Europe at the southern tip of the Balkan Peninsula on the Mediterranean.
- The capital, Athens, is the political and economic hub and the birthplace of Western democracy.
Do's and don'ts
Rents outside central Athens are often softer than in many Western European cities.
The public health system (ESY) serves residents, though many add private insurance.
Residence holders must register a tax number (AFM) and a social-security number.
Fitting into the community
Public transport in Athens includes a convenient metro, buses and trams.
Fresh food, sunny weather and a relaxed pace are big pluses.
The cost of living in Greece is among the most comfortable in the EU.
Need a tailored roadmap?
Viking Global Group walks with you from paperwork to settlement. Call +849.219.219.88 or email [email protected] for a free consultation.
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Frequently asked questions
How would you describe the Greek character?
Greeks are often described as warm, hospitable, expressive and direct, enjoying conversation and lively debate. Family and friendships come first, and there is strong pride in history and culture. Raised voices in conversation usually signal passion rather than anger.
What is philoxenia?
Philoxenia, literally friendship to strangers, is the Greek tradition of hospitality. Guests are offered food and drink, given generous help and treated with care. Accepting invitations graciously and showing appreciation are the best ways to respond.
What etiquette should newcomers observe?
Greet people warmly, expect handshakes or cheek kisses among acquaintances, and be open in conversation. Avoid careless comments on sensitive historical or political topics. The open palm gesture pushed towards someone, called the moutza, is offensive and should be avoided.
How do Greeks view time and punctuality?
Social time is relaxed and arriving a little late to casual gatherings is normal, but punctuality is expected in professional settings. Personal relationships and trust matter greatly in business, so taking time to build rapport before negotiating is often effective.
How easily do foreigners integrate into Greek society?
Many find integration rewarding thanks to the welcoming culture, though language and bureaucracy can be barriers. Learning Greek, joining local activities, respecting traditions and being patient with the pace of life help foreigners become part of their community.
Information is for reference and may change under the latest official policy. Please contact us for current regulations.
