Thessaly is the heartland of mainland Greece, a vast fertile plain ringed by dramatic mountains that cradles some of the country's most extraordinary sights. The region is home to Meteora, where ancient monasteries perch impossibly atop towering sandstone rock pillars, and to the Pelion Peninsula, a forested mountain arm curving into the Aegean with traditional stone villages and secluded coves.
Thessaly is one of the safest regions in Greece and in Europe. Violent crime is extremely rare. The main risks are minor opportunistic theft in cities, road hazards on mountain roads, and occasional flash flooding in gorges. No travel advisories are in effect for the region.
Current safety advisory
Very Safe
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Keep copies of important documents (passport, insurance) in separate locations.
Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.
Use registered taxis or rideshare apps. Avoid unmarked vehicles offering rides.
Trust your instincts — if a situation feels wrong, remove yourself from it.
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
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- EU Health Card (EHIC / GHIC)
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- EU citizens with a valid European Health Insurance Card receive emergency medical care at Greek public hospitals free of charge. UK visitors should carry the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). All visitors are advised to carry travel insurance with medical cover.
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- Pharmacies
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- Pharmacies (farmakaio) are plentiful in Volos, Larissa, and Trikala. Duty pharmacy rotations ensure 24-hour access — the duty pharmacy is listed in the window of closed pharmacies. In Kalambaka, the duty pharmacy information is posted at all local pharmacies.
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- Heat
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- Summers on the Thessalian plain (Larissa, Karditsa) can be very hot — temperatures exceed 38°C (100°F) in July–August. Stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and avoid strenuous outdoor activity between 13:00–17:00 in peak summer.
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- Water
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- Tap water is safe to drink in all Thessaly cities. Mountain spring water in Pelion is generally excellent quality. Bottled water (€0.50–1.50/~$0.54–1.62) is widely available.
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- Mosquitoes
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- Mosquitoes can be present in low-lying areas near lakes (Karla, Plastiras) in summer. Carry insect repellent. No malaria risk — Greece is malaria-free.
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
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