A trip to Greece offers a luxurious experience. You can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Aegean Sea, historic ruins, and Mediterranean cuisine.
From the contrast of the white buildings and blue sea on Santorini Island to the mystical ruins of the Acropolis, you’re sure to be captivated by Greece’s charm!
But what would happen if you were injured or fell ill during your trip to Greece? Let’s look at examples of illnesses and accidents that travelers should be cautious about while traveling.
Common Accidents in a Trip to Greece
- Food Poisoning from Mediterranean Cuisine
→ For consultation only: €50–€200
→ If hospitalization is required: €700–€2,000 - Heatstroke or Dehydration While Sightseeing
→ Emergency medical fees: €100–€300
→ IV treatment costs: €200–€500 - Fractures from Falling During Visits to Ruins
→ X-ray and treatment costs: €1,000–€5,000
In particular, hospitalization or surgery can easily cost several thousand euros. To prepare for such high medical costs, purchasing medical insurance with sufficient coverage before your trip is crucial.
The following travel insurance plans are easy to apply for online and offer comprehensive coverage.
| Safety Wing | World Nomads | Heymondo | |
| Insurance Cost (4 weeks) | $56.28 | $215.38 | $113.05 |
| Minimum Coverage Period | 5 days ($10.05~) | 1day ($24.15~) | 1day ($13.21~) |
| Medical Insurance | $250,000 | $5 million | $5 million |
| Flight Delay | $200 | $500 | $450 |
| Dental Treatment | $1,000 | $300 | $300 |
| Theft Compensation | None | $2,500 | $1,700 |
| Waiting Period | None | 72 hours | 72 hours |
* If you are viewing on a smartphone, you can scroll left and right.
By utilizing these insurance services, you can travel to Greece with peace of mind, prepared for any unexpected situations.
To fully enjoy a memorable trip, be sure to consider enrolling in travel insurance!
Healthcare Standards and Medical Costs in Greece
The standard of healthcare in Greece is among the higher levels in Europe.
Both public and private medical facilities are well-equipped, and high-quality medical services are readily available, especially in major cities and tourist areas.
However, medical care is not free, and for travelers, public health insurance does not apply, meaning all costs must be paid out of pocket. Below is an overview of typical medical expenses in Greece.
| Item | Estimated Medical Costs |
| General Consultation | €40~€100 |
| Emergency Visit | €100-€250 |
| Prescription | €10~€50 |
| Ambulance Use | Base fee (€70) + Distance fee (€2/km) |
| Hospitalization (per day) | Private Room: €600-€10,00 ICU: €1,500~€2,500 |
If you suffer an injury or illness during your trip to Greece and are not covered by insurance, you will be responsible for paying the full cost of the above-mentioned medical expenses.
For example, if you fall while sightseeing and break a bone, the cost of an X-ray, surgery, and hospitalization could quickly add up to several thousand euros.
Additionally, if you are transported by ambulance or need to be hospitalized, the medical expenses can become significantly high.
Is it mandatory to have insurance when entering and staying in Greece?
When traveling abroad, some countries require proof of medical insurance as a condition of entry.
For example, in the Czech Republic, travelers are required to present proof of medical insurance upon entry, and it must be carried alongside the passport during the stay. Violating this rule can result in fines.
Reference: Which countries require travel insurance when entering the country?
On the other hand, in Greece, insurance is not currently mandatory.
However, for the following reasons, it is strongly recommended to enroll in travel insurance before your trip to Greece.
1. Requirements for Schengen Visa Applicants
Travelers from countries that require a Schengen visa may be asked to present proof of insurance covering at least €30,000 in medical expenses upon entry.
Therefore, these travelers must ensure they have insurance coverage before traveling.
*This condition does not apply to travelers from visa-exempt countries (e.g., Japan, the United States) who are visiting Schengen member countries for short stays (up to 90 days).
2. The Risk of High Medical Costs in Case of Emergency
When using medical services in Greece, public insurance does not apply to foreign travelers, meaning all treatment costs are paid out of pocket.
For example, emergency consultation fees and hospitalization costs can range from hundreds to thousands of euros, potentially leading to unexpected expenses.
Examples of High Medical Costs During a Trip to Greece
In Greece, if you sustain an injury or fall ill during your trip, you may face high medical costs. Let’s take a look at a few cases where significant expenses might arise.
Case 01: Fracture from Falling at the Acropolis
This is an example of treatment costs if you slip and break a bone while sightseeing at the ruins.
- Emergency transportation: €300
- Surgery costs: €10,000
- Hospitalization (5 days): €4,000
- Rehabilitation costs: €1,200
→ Total: €15,500
*If the incident occurs in mountainous areas or on remote islands, additional helicopter transport fees may apply.
Case 02: Emergency Hospitalization Due to Food Poisoning from Seafood
Greece is known for its fresh seafood, but if you experience food poisoning from raw seafood, here is an estimate of the costs for hospitalization.
- Emergency transportation: €250
- Hospitalization (3 days): €2,200
- Consultation and testing fees: €700
- Treatment and medication costs: €600
→ Total: €3,750
*In severe cases, the number of hospitalization days may increase, leading to higher costs.
Case 03: Surgery and Hospitalization Due to a Bicycle Accident
This is an example of costs for a case where a traveler falls while cycling and breaks their shoulder.
- Emergency transportation: €200
- Surgery costs: €8,500
- Hospitalization (4 days): €3,000
- Rehabilitation costs: €1,100
→ Total: €12,800
*In tourist areas, it’s important to be cautious of traffic conditions and road conditions.
Check Now! Travel Insurance Services Available for Online Application
Travel insurance that can be applied for online and allows you to file claims online when needed is incredibly convenient.
The travel insurance options listed here are highly convenient because all procedures can be completed online, and they offer comprehensive coverage.
- Safety Wing: A cost-effective travel insurance plan that can be purchased online the same day. It also allows enrollment from abroad without any waiting period.
- World Nomads: Offers comprehensive coverage, including medical insurance as well as protection against theft.
- Heymondo: Features plans tailored for long-term travelers, with options that include up to $10 million in medical coverage.
To enjoy your trip to Greece with peace of mind, consider enrolling in one of these insurance plans!
1. Safety Wing
Safety Wing is known for its excellent cost performance and comprehensive coverage, is a popular travel insurance option.
Its high convenience, with the ability to easily apply online and receive coverage immediately, makes it a great choice.
Even if you’re already in Greece, you can enroll in the Safety Wing without any waiting period from the local area.
Features of Safety Wing
- Monthly premium: $56.28
- Insurance coverage can be purchased for as short as 5 days
- No waiting period for enrollment from abroad
- 24/7 live chat support
- Covers flight delays and lost baggage
- Smooth online process from quote to enrollment
The specific insurance coverage details are as follows:
| Coverage Type | Coverage Limit | Examples of Coverage |
| Medical Insurance | $250,000 | Hospitalization, nursing care, ambulance for hospitalization, MRI diagnostics, long-term care after discharge, prescriptions, complications of pregnancy. |
| Emergency Dental Treatment | $1,000 | Emergency dental treatment to resolve the onset of acute pain (sudden and unforeseen). |
| Emergency Transportation | $100,000 | Costs for emergency transport to a well-equipped hospital. |
| Medical Return | $5,000 | Emergency return costs for medical reasons. |
| Emergency Return | $5,000 | Transportation costs for emergency return due to the death of a family member. |
| Lost Checked Baggage | $3,000 | Compensation if baggage is not found after 10 days of being reported lost (maximum $500 per item). |
| Flight Delay | $200 | Meals and accommodation expenses for delays exceeding 12 hours (up to $100 per day for a maximum of 2 days). |
| Passport Theft | $100 | Costs for reissuing a passport or visa in case of theft. |
| Auto Accident | $250,000 | Accidental automobile accidents occurring while possessing a valid license and wearing safety equipment. |
| Trip Interruption (Return) | $250,000 | Circumstances necessitating return due to family death or similar reasons. |
| Death | $20,000 | Costs for transporting remains back to Japan (up to $10,000 if buried locally). |
* If you are viewing on a smartphone, you can scroll left and right.
Additionally, you can customize the insurance period to match your travel schedule, making it even more cost-effective.
If you’re looking for an insurance plan with high cost performance and comprehensive coverage, consider Safety Wing.
Start by easily estimating your insurance premium.
Nomad Insurance for $56.28/month
* Easy estimate of insurance premiums according to your travel plan!
2. World Nomads
World Nomads is one of the strongest overseas travel insurance options, offering comprehensive coverage, including medical insurance and protection against theft, such as pickpocketing.
With easy online enrollment and the flexibility to choose plans based on your travel destination and duration, you can enjoy your trip with peace of mind.
Features of World Nomads:
- Insurance rates vary based on the destination
(Example: 4-week insurance period, including the U.S., costs $265.07 per month) - Medical coverage limit is $5 million (or unlimited)
- Includes coverage for flight delays and lost baggage
- 24/7 support (phone/email)
Specific insurance coverage is as follows:
| Coverage Type | Coverage Limit | Examples of Coverage |
| Medical Insurance | $5 million | Hospitalization, nursing care, emergency ambulance for hospitalization, MRI diagnostics, long-term care after discharge, prescriptions, etc. |
| Emergency Dental Treatment | $300 | Emergency dental treatment to resolve acute pain (sudden and unexpected onset). |
| Medical Transportation | $500,000 | Costs for emergency transportation to an equipped hospital. |
| Emergency Return | $500,000 | Costs associated with emergency return due to sudden illness or injury. |
| Baggage Coverage | $2,500 | Coverage for theft, damage, or loss of baggage that occurs during travel. |
| Flight Delay | $500 | Compensation for additional accommodation and transportation costs incurred due to flight cancellation or delays over 12 hours. |
| Trip Interruption (Return Home) | $3,500 | Costs for returning due to family illness or death. |
| In the case of Death | $15,000 | Transportation costs for repatriation of remains to Japan, or costs for local burial. |
* If you are viewing on a smartphone, you can scroll left and right.
World Nomads’ insurance premium is $215.38 for 4 weeks, which is on the higher side, but in return, it offers up to $5 million in coverage, with an unlimited plan also available.
This reliable insurance covers a wide range of issues, from accidents and illnesses to theft, ensuring you’re protected during your travels.
Visit the official World Nomads website to get an estimate of the insurance premium tailored to your travel schedule.
3. Heymondo
For those planning a long-term stay in Europe, including Greece, Heymondo is highly recommended for its excellent cost performance.
By choosing the 3-month plan, you not only save on the monthly premium but also have access to plans with up to $10 million in medical coverage.
In addition to medical insurance, Heymondo also offers coverage for theft, such as pickpocketing, providing strong support for enjoying a long stay with peace of mind.
Features of Heymondo:
- Cost-effective 3-month plan for long-term travelers
- Insurance premiums vary depending on the country you’re traveling to
- Medical coverage limit is $5 million (or $10 million)
- Includes coverage for flight delays and lost baggage
- 24/7 support (phone/email)
Specific insurance coverage is as follows:
| Coverage Type | Coverage Limit | Examples of Coverage |
| Medical Insurance | $5 million | Hospitalization, nursing care, ambulance for hospitalization, MRI diagnosis, long-term care after discharge, prescriptions, etc. |
| Emergency Dental Treatment | $300 | Emergency dental treatment to resolve acute pain (sudden and unexpected onset). |
| Extended Stay Costs | $1,800 | Emergency transportation costs to a well-equipped hospital. |
| Emergency Medical Transport | $5 million | Emergency return costs for medical reasons. |
| Baggage Coverage | $1,700 | Transportation costs for emergency return due to family bereavement. |
| Flight Delay | $450 | Meal and accommodation expenses for delays over 12 hours (maximum $100 per day for 2 days). |
| Trip Interruption (Return) | $3,500 | Circumstances requiring return due to family death, etc. |
| In the Case of Death | $100,000 | Transportation costs to return the body to Japan (up to $10,000 for local burial). |
* If you are viewing on a smartphone, you can scroll left and right.
The above details are for the standard plan (Travel Insurance Top).
In addition, Heymondo offers a variety of other insurance plans. Depending on the plan, premiums may vary, but you can also choose a plan with up to $10 million in medical coverage.
For more detailed information on premiums, check out the Heymondo website for an estimate.
Thank you for reading to the end!!
If you’re looking to find the perfect travel insurance for yourself, be sure to check out the link below for more details.
The Best Nomad Insurance; We highly recommend Safety Wing [$56/month].
We’ve selected popular insurance services for travelers and nomads abroad, summarizing their features and benefits in an easy-to-understand way. You’re sure to find the perfect plan for your needs. Please have a look!
