Greece
The Muslim Travel Guide to the Cradle of Civilization
Greece is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. A quick Google search will show you breathtaking views of white buildings, deep blue water and perfect sunsets. What people don’t know is that those pictures are from a small Greek island known as Santorini. However, there is so much more to Greece than just its many Islands. It is a country filled with history that predates Islam and is rightfully regarded as the cradle of western civilization.
However, despite all the beauty and historical significance, what stood out about Greece was the beautiful people. Despite Islam being a small minority (only 1.25% of the population) in the country, the Greek people were nothing but kind and welcoming. The waiters at restaurants, taxi drivers, Airbnb hosts and everyone else we met. We never felt unsafe or out of place and that is what stood out most.
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Things to Do & See
Greece is a fairly large country. There are lots to do and see but if you are visiting Greece, you are most likely going to want to spend most of your time in Athens and one of the Greek Islands.
Athens
Athens is a busy city with lots to offer. You can spend many days here and still have lots to do and see.
- Acropolis – some of the best-preserved ancient buildings in the world
- Panathenaic Stadium (First Olympic Stadium)
- Lycabettus Hill for a spectacular view – 7,50 Euros for a round trip on the cable car
- Athens Parliament Building
- Tip: Make sure to watch the Guard change that takes place every hour.
- Walk around in Plaka
- Go the Athens National Garden (free)
- Check out one of the many Museums
Santorini
You can’t visit Greece and not visit one of the many Greek Islands. Some of the popular Islands are Corfu, Mykonos, Parus, Naxos, Crete, and Zante. However, Santorini is the most popular Island and is definitely worth the visit. Santorini is comprised of many towns. Oia and Thira are the most popular with the most high-end hotels. You can find accommodation of any range and there are also many options for getting around the Island.
If you’re visiting Santorini, make sure to read my Santorini Travel Guide – 12 things every Muslim should know before visiting Santorini
Meteora
If time permits, I would highly recommend visiting Meteroa. It is about 4.5 hour drive from Athens but the experience is well worth it. It is possible to visit Meteroa in one day either by bus or train. Meteora is located near the city of Kalambaka and you can travel there bus or train. Many tour companies offer day trips.
Thessaloniki
There is already to do in Athens, but if you are here for a longer period and want to explore more of the country, Thessaloniki is a city you add to your itinerary. It is the second-largest city in Greece and has a lot of remnants from the Ottoman Empire and Byzantine era.
Where to Stay
If you’re looking for cheaper accommodation, I recommend staying a 10-15 walk from the acropolis. Airbnb is an excellent option for longer stays, especially if you plan to cook your own meals. You can sign up using this link to receive $35 off your first booking.
Where to Pray
There are a few Masjids scattered around Athens that you can check out depending where you are. Athens technically does not have any “official” Masjid so many of them are hidden away or unmarked.
Where to Eat
O Thanasis
- One of the only Halal restaurants in the heart of Athens.
Choureal
- Best dessert place for your sugar fix.
5Φ
- Authentic, Greek Food at affordable prices
Yiasemi
- A fun and trendy Bistro in Plaka. It gets a little busy in the evening, but it’s worth the wait.
When you’re in Greece, you must have a Freddo (a coffee drink) and you can’t visit Greece and not have a Greek Salad.
How to get around
- Driving can be a little crazy in Greece. I don’t recommend it.
- Uber does not work in Greece, however, you can use the Uber app to call a Taxi. This is the most expensive option but also the most convenient.
- Beat is a ride-sharing app that can be used.
- Public transit (Buses and Subways) are well connected and is a more affordable option. A 90-minute ticket costs 1.40 euros, 24-hour ticket is 4.5 euros and the 3-Day tourist ticket is 22 euros.
- Walking is the best option because it will allow you to experience the city more intimately.
How to stay safe in Greece
Greece is a safe country for Muslims. We came across many Muslims walking around Athens and all the locals we came across were kind and welcoming.
The one thing you should be aware of is pickpocketing in busy areas. Like every touristy hub in the world, pickpocketing is common and you should appropriate precautions.
- Don’t carry excess cash or important documents (passport) with you
- Keep your bags/purse in front of you at all times
- Avoid very busy areas if you can
General Tips
- You will be doing a lot of walking. Wear comfortable shoes and keep yourself hydrated.
- Greece generally has pleasant weather all year round, however, it can get cold in the evenings, so dress accordingly.
- Tap water is safe to drink in Athens, not on the Islands
- Use the uber app to call a Taxi. Some taxi driver may try to cheat tourists by asking for a flat rate or may add on extra charges. This happened to me so be warned.
- Familiarize yourself with the grocery store (referred to as the Super Market). There are a few supermarket chains that exist. for example Market Inn, Bazaar Supermarket, Ok! Anytime Market, etc.
Fun Facts
- The Acropolis is almost 2500 years old, which makes it older than the time of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and Prophet Eesa (Jesus)
- The first official Masjid in Athens is set to open in September 2019
- Tzisdarakis Mosque, now known as the Museum of Ceramics was a Masjid built by the Ottomans. It still visually resembles the shape of a Mosque and you will come across as you walk around in Athens.