The Best Travel Insurance Plans for GREECE in 2025
- The best travel insurance plans for Greece
- Is it currently safe to travel to Greece?
- Is travel insurance required by law to enter Greece?
- Why take out travel insurance for Greece?
- What Should Travel Insurance for Greece Cover?
- The cost of travel insurance for Greece
- How to pay less for your travel insurance to Greece
- Will my current insurance cover me in Greece?
- FAQ
Travel insurance for Greece: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Greece covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, lost baggage, and repatriation costs.
2. Key protection: Insurance is not mandatory for Canadians, but it is highly recommended for medical emergencies.
3. Healthcare cost: A hospital stay in Greece can cost over $700 CAD per night for foreign visitors.
4. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Greece typically costs between $30 and $60 CAD.
5. Good to know: Your passport must be valid 3 months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen area.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travellers every month. After analyzing 38 travel insurance policies available in Canada, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Greece.
The best travel insurance plans for Greece
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | CA$1.5M | Our top pick for safe travel to Greece. - high medical ceiling - emergency evacuation - repatriation included |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | CA$1.5M | Reliable option for short trips in Greece. - 24/7 medical helpline - trip cancellation coverage - no deductible |
| Tourist Card | CA$780K | A practical choice for tourism in Greece. - good medical coverage - emergency assistance - competitive price |
| Travel Pass Monde | CA$1.2M | A balanced contract for travel in Greece. - medical evacuation benefits - hospital costs covered - wide international support |
| Globe Partner | CA$465K | Dependable for trips with essential guarantees. - medical care abroad - repatriation - civil liability cover |
| Globe Traveller | CA$780K | Affordable for short, low-risk travel in Greece. - essential medical protection - fast reimbursement - capped medical limits |
- high medical ceiling
- emergency evacuation
- repatriation included
- 24/7 medical helpline
- trip cancellation coverage
- no deductible
- good medical coverage
- emergency assistance
- competitive price
- medical evacuation benefits
- hospital costs covered
- wide international support
- medical care abroad
- repatriation
- civil liability cover
- essential medical protection
- fast reimbursement
- capped medical limits
Is it currently safe to travel to Greece?
As of June 2025, the Government of Canada’s Global Affairs Canada advises travellers to take normal security precautions when visiting Greece. The current safety level is the lowest, meaning risks are similar to those found at home, but local factors require vigilance.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: demonstrations and strikes are frequent in Athens and Thessaloniki, particularly near Syntagma Square and the National Technical University complex. Protests can become violent without warning, and fires have recently disrupted life on the island of Chios.
- Health risks: healthcare quality varies across Greece. While medical services in Athens are generally good, hospitals on islands such as Chios may lack resources. Medical evacuation from remote areas may be necessary if you become seriously ill or injured.
- Environmental hazards: Greece is prone to natural disasters including wildfires, especially during summer in regions like the Peloponnese, and earthquakes, notably in the Aegean Islands.
- Road safety: accidents involving tourists on motorbikes or scooters are common on islands such as Mykonos and Santorini. Roads outside major cities may be poorly maintained and lighting conditions at night can be insufficient.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the Government of Canada, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Greece.
Is travel insurance required by law to enter Greece?
No, travel insurance is not legally mandatory for Canadian citizens to enter Greece for tourist stays up to 90 days.
This is because Canada benefits from the Schengen visa exemption, so Canadians are not subject to the insurance requirement imposed on Schengen visa applicants. However, travel insurance is strongly recommended by both Canadian and Greek authorities due to potential for costly medical care, accidents, or cancellations.
According to our data, 50% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to Greece. This reflects both the generally safe environment and the importance of covering unexpected medical and travel expenses.
Why take out travel insurance for Greece?
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Greece.
In Greece, private clinics such as Hygeia Hospital in Athens or Interbalkan Medical Centre in Thessaloniki are often used by foreigners, where medical services can be expensive. Access to public hospitals outside major cities can be limited, and medical evacuation from islands or remote regions may come at a significant cost.
Travel insurance covers medical expenses, hospitalisation costs, medication, ambulance transportation and repatriation costs to Canada in the event of a serious incident.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Greece.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Hygeia Hospital | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | 3,200 EUR (about CA$4,700) | up to 100% |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | 1,200 EUR (about CA$1,760) | up to 100% |
| I need to be repatriated | 18,000 EUR (about CA$26,400) | up to 100% |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | 5,600 EUR (about CA$8,200) | up to 100% |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
What Should Travel Insurance for Greece Cover?
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers hospital, doctor, and outpatient costs if ill or injured in Greece, where private clinic costs can be high. We recommend a reimbursement limit of at least CA$500,000 for full protection. |
| 🚑 Medical evacuation | Pays for emergency transfer, including air or sea ambulance from islands or remote regions to Athens or back to Canada. Aim for at least CA$200,000 coverage for evacuation services. |
| ✈️ Repatriation | Covers costs to return to Canada in the event of a serious medical incident or death. Seek a minimum of CA$100,000 for complete peace of mind. |
| 💊 Prescription drugs | Reimburses the cost of medicines prescribed as a result of injury or illness in Greece. A limit of at least CA$5,000 is recommended. |
| 🧳 Baggage and valuables | Provides compensation for theft or loss of baggage or valuable items, an important risk in busy tourist cities. A limit of CA$2,500 is advised. |
| 🦴 Adventure sport coverage | Extends protection to incidents during activities such as scooter accidents or water sports, which are common in Greece. Recommend plans covering at least CA$75,000. |
| 🧩 Trip cancellation/interruption | Refunds your prepaid, non-refundable costs if trip is disrupted by emergency, illness, or severe weather. Choose at least CA$5,000 in trip protection coverage. |
| 📞 24/7 assistance services | Offers round-the-clock phone support in English or French for help locating medical care, dealing with emergencies, or navigating local procedures. This should be automatically included. |
We recommend a reimbursement limit of at least CA$500,000 for full protection.
Aim for at least CA$200,000 coverage for evacuation services.
Seek a minimum of CA$100,000 for complete peace of mind.
A limit of at least CA$5,000 is recommended.
A limit of CA$2,500 is advised.
Recommend plans covering at least CA$75,000.
Choose at least CA$5,000 in trip protection coverage.
This should be automatically included.
Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards in Canada often has low reimbursement limits and restricts coverage for medical emergencies and valuables. Choosing a trusted insurer offering comprehensive benefits is safer. Compare leading options on HelloSafe and subscribe online to receive instant certification for your trip.
The cost of travel insurance for Greece
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | CA$38 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | CA$55 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | CA$80 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | CA$155 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The price of your travel insurance for Greece is influenced by several elements: your age, the duration of your trip, your destination within Greece, and the level of coverage, including options like trip cancellation or emergency evacuation. Keeping these factors in mind is essential to choose a policy that protects you against unforeseen events.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow to pay less for your travel insurance to Greece
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Greece while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🗓️ Trip duration | Longer stays in Greece usually mean higher premiums, even for basic insurance or emergency medical plans. | Limit your coverage to your actual travel dates and avoid covering any additional days not required. |
| 👤 Traveller's age | Prices tend to rise for older travelers, especially for medical and evacuation coverage in remote regions. | Compare quotes across providers; Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62. |
| 🧳 Covered activities | Water sports, scooter rental, or hiking in mountainous regions can raise premiums or even require add-ons. | Only declare activities you plan to do in Greece to avoid unnecessary charges on your insurance plan. |
| 💶 Level of coverage | Medical costs, especially for evacuation from Greek islands, can be high, often requiring robust coverage. | Seek plans meeting your needs but avoid paying extra for coverage extras you are unlikely to use. |
| 🤝 Deductible | Choosing a higher deductible reduces your premium, but be ready for higher out-of-pocket payments if needed. | Select the highest deductible you are comfortable with to save money on your policy. |
| 📱 Assistance services | Multilingual 24/7 assistance is important in Greece, especially on islands or in rural areas. | Look for insurers offering included 24/7 support—these plans may cost less than buying separate services. |
| 👨👩👧👦 Number of travelers | Traveling as a family or with a group in Greece can unlock discounts and simplify administration. | Bundle everyone on one policy for cost savings and easier management, if you are traveling together. |
Will my current insurance cover me in Greece?
It’s completely legitimate to wonder whether your existing coverage, such as public or private health insurance or credit card insurance, will protect you during a trip to Greece. Unfortunately, this coverage is often limited or insufficient for travel emergencies, high medical costs, or evacuation needs.
Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Greece? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (OHIP, RAMQ, MSP) | Limited coverage | Emergency care abroad reimbursed up to CA$50/day; does not cover ambulance evacuation, private clinics, or repatriation. | Travel insurance covers up to CA$1,000,000+, includes evacuation, 24/7 assistance, and direct payment to Greek healthcare. |
| Private health insurance (Manulife, Sun Life, Canada Life) | Limited coverage | Possible reimbursements after return, max CA$25,000, usually excludes ongoing or emergency evacuation and multi-day hospital care. | Travel insurance reimburses CA$1,000,000+ for medical treatments, plus trip interruption, lost luggage, and on-site emergencies. |
| Classic credit card (RBC Visa Classic, TD Classic Visa, BMO Mastercard) | Limited coverage | Medical < CA$10,000, no trip cancellation, baggage, extended stays, or evacuation from Greek islands or remote areas. | Travel insurance provides CA$1,000,000+ for emergencies and covers activities, lost baggage, and long hospital stays in Greece. |
| Premium credit card (VISA Infinite, ScotiaGold Amex, CIBC Aventura) | Limited coverage | Medical up to CA$100,000, limited trip delay, generally no adventure activity cover or full evacuation outside major cities. | Travel insurance covers CA$1,000,000+ for medical, evacuation, adventure sports, and comprehensive support for emergencies. |
Example
While on Santorini, Mark crashed his scooter, requiring an air ambulance to Athens and surgery, costing $40,000. His RBC Avion card's insurance had a moped exclusion, and his provincial plan only covered a few hundred dollars. He was left with a massive, unexpected bill for his Greek island adventure.
Expert advice
Critical situations like trip interruption due to a relative’s illness are often excluded from credit card or provincial health plans. Read your policy conditions carefully to avoid surprises. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to purchase dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Greece?
Canadian citizens do not need a visa for tourist or business stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period in Greece, as it is part of the Schengen area. Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date from the Schengen zone. Additional entry requirements, such as proof of funds, may apply.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Greece?
Start by comparing travel insurance options using the HelloSafe comparison tool. Check the coverage and exclusions for guarantees relevant to Greece, such as medical evacuation and natural disasters. Buy your chosen policy online. You will then receive your insurance certificate by email, which you should bring with you on your trip.
Are adventure activities such as scooter or boat rentals covered by travel insurance in Greece?
Not all travel insurance policies cover adventure activities automatically. If you plan on renting a scooter, motorbike, or participating in water sports, check the policy to confirm these are included. Some insurers offer optional coverage for such activities, and adding these can cost more, typically CA$10–CA$40.
Does travel insurance for Greece include coverage for natural disasters, like wildfires or earthquakes?
Many comprehensive travel insurance plans cover emergency medical costs or trip interruption if a natural disaster disrupts your travel plans in Greece. However, the extent of coverage and exclusions will vary. Read your policy carefully to ensure events like wildfires, evacuations, or earthquakes are included before departing.
How much does travel insurance for Greece cost for a Canadian family?
For a Canadian family of four, travel insurance for a two-week stay in Greece typically ranges from CA$100 to CA$400, depending on the age of family members and the levels of coverage selected. Adding adventure or cancellation coverage will increase your premium, while higher deductibles can help lower your insurance cost.
If I travel to several countries in Europe, will my Greece policy cover me elsewhere?
Most travel insurance policies valid for Greece will also cover you in other Schengen countries, as long as travel occurs within the covered dates. Ensure your itinerary is included when booking, and confirm with your insurer if extra countries require notification or additional coverage for specific destinations or activities.
Do I need a visa to travel to Greece?
Canadian citizens do not need a visa for tourist or business stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period in Greece, as it is part of the Schengen area. Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date from the Schengen zone. Additional entry requirements, such as proof of funds, may apply.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Greece?
Start by comparing travel insurance options using the HelloSafe comparison tool. Check the coverage and exclusions for guarantees relevant to Greece, such as medical evacuation and natural disasters. Buy your chosen policy online. You will then receive your insurance certificate by email, which you should bring with you on your trip.
Are adventure activities such as scooter or boat rentals covered by travel insurance in Greece?
Not all travel insurance policies cover adventure activities automatically. If you plan on renting a scooter, motorbike, or participating in water sports, check the policy to confirm these are included. Some insurers offer optional coverage for such activities, and adding these can cost more, typically CA$10–CA$40.
Does travel insurance for Greece include coverage for natural disasters, like wildfires or earthquakes?
Many comprehensive travel insurance plans cover emergency medical costs or trip interruption if a natural disaster disrupts your travel plans in Greece. However, the extent of coverage and exclusions will vary. Read your policy carefully to ensure events like wildfires, evacuations, or earthquakes are included before departing.
How much does travel insurance for Greece cost for a Canadian family?
For a Canadian family of four, travel insurance for a two-week stay in Greece typically ranges from CA$100 to CA$400, depending on the age of family members and the levels of coverage selected. Adding adventure or cancellation coverage will increase your premium, while higher deductibles can help lower your insurance cost.
If I travel to several countries in Europe, will my Greece policy cover me elsewhere?
Most travel insurance policies valid for Greece will also cover you in other Schengen countries, as long as travel occurs within the covered dates. Ensure your itinerary is included when booking, and confirm with your insurer if extra countries require notification or additional coverage for specific destinations or activities.
