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Age to Drink in Greece: Can You Legally Raise a Glass in The Greek Isles?

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Greece is a wonderful place to visit, with its beautiful islands, ancient history, and delicious food. If you’re planning a trip and enjoy a drink now and then, it’s important to know the rules.

So, how old do you have to be to drink in greece?

In Greece, you need to be 18 years old to legally buy and drink alcohol. This means you can enjoy a glass of wine with dinner or try some local Greek beer, but only if you’re of legal age to drink in greece. Remember to always drink responsibly and be aware of the local laws.  

Alcohol Consumption Laws in Greece

So, what is the drinking age in greece for tourists? Here’s we’ve figured that.

  • Legal Greece Drinking Age: The legal drinking age in Greece is 18.  
  • Public Intoxication: While not explicitly illegal, public intoxication can lead to fines or arrest if it disrupts public order.
  • Drinking age for Greece and Driving: The legal blood alcohol limit for driving in Greece is 0.50 g/l. Penalties for drunk driving include fines, license suspension, and potential imprisonment.  
  • Alcohol-Related Offenses: Selling alcohol to minors is illegal and can result in fines or imprisonment. Underage drinking may also lead to fines or other penalties.  

Note: Laws can change, so it’s advisable to consult official sources for the most up-to-date information.

Is Private Consumption Allowed in Greece?

While the legal drink age in Greece is 18 for public consumption, there is no specific legal drinking age Greece for private consumption of alcohol.

This means that individuals under 18 can consume alcohol on private property, such as their own homes or the homes of their parents or guardians. It’s important to note that this does not mean that underage drinking is encouraged or without risks.

Underage drinking can have serious health and legal consequences.

Tips for Responsible Alcohol Consumption in Greece

So, what is the legal drinking age in greece? This section is based on research on Greek culture and traditions.

  • Pace yourself: Drink moderately and stay hydrated.
  • Be mindful of your surroundings: Avoid excessive drinking in public places, especially near religious sites or during religious holidays.
  • Respect local customs: Be aware of any cultural norms or taboos related to alcohol consumption.
  • Know your limits: If you feel yourself becoming intoxicated, stop drinking and consider getting a taxi or using public transportation.
  • Never drink and drive: Adhere to the legal blood alcohol limits and never drive under the influence of alcohol.

Important Considerations While Drinking Alcohol in Greece

So, you’re planning on enjoying some drinks while you’re in Greece? Awesome! Just wanted to give you a heads-up on a few things to keep in mind so you have a fantastic and safe time.

If you’ve understood the legal age for drinking in Greece? Now, it’s time to consider the factors for consuming the alcohol in Greek.

First off, remember that the legal Greek drinking age there is 18. So, if you look a bit young, be ready to show some ID if you’re buying drinks.

The way people in Greece enjoy alcohol is often pretty social. You’ll see people hanging out with friends and family in tavernas or cafes for ages, having a drink and chatting. It’s not really a big thing to drink alone there.

Now, while they definitely enjoy their drinks, especially wine, it’s usually in moderation, often with some yummy food. Think of it as part of the whole Mediterranean vibe. It’s also a good idea to sip on some water alongside your drink – helps you stay feeling good!

When it comes to getting behind the wheel, you’ve gotta be super careful. The laws against drink driving are strict. For most drivers, the limit is 0.5 g/l, and it’s even lower if you’re a newer driver or a professional.

Trust me, you don’t want to mess with this – the penalties can be serious, like fines, losing your license, or even more. You might even see the police doing random breath tests, so just be smart about it.

As for greek legal drinking age in public, while it’s not strictly against the rules everywhere, it’s generally better to be low-key about it and avoid causing any fuss. People usually prefer to enjoy their drinks at home or in bars and restaurants.

Of course, it’s always good to remember the health side of things. Too much of anything isn’t great, right? And just so you know, there have been some past concerns about dodgy spirits in less reputable places, so sticking to sealed drinks like beer or ordering from places that look legit is generally a safer bet.

You’ll also find some really interesting local drinks you might want to try, like:

  • Ouzo: That anise-flavored one they often serve with little snacks called meze.
  • Tsipouro/Raki: A strong one made from grapes, sometimes with a hint of anise.
  • Retsina: A white wine with a unique piney flavor.
  • Their local wines: Greece has been making wine for ages, so they’ve got some great reds, whites, and rosés.
  • Fruity liqueurs: They make some lovely sweet drinks from fruits like cherry or apricot.

When you’re out with people, you’ll probably hear “Yiamas!” which means “To our health!” It’s a nice little tradition to wait until everyone has their drink before you start, and it’s a friendly gesture to offer to top up someone else’s glass.

FAQs

Is 16 legal in Greece?

If you’re asking if it’s legal to be 16 years old in Greece, the answer is yes. but the legal drinking age in Greece is 18.

Can you go clubbing in Greece at 17?

No, you are likely to be denied entry to most clubs in Greece if you are under 18. Because the clubbing age in greece is 18 years.

Does Greece ID for alcohol?

Greece legal drinking age 18 and yes, the organizers in Greece may ask for ID to verify age for alcohol purchases.

Conclusion

So, what is legal drinking age in greece with parents?

In Greece, the legal drinking age is 18 years old. This age restriction applies to the purchase and consumption of alcohol in public establishments such as bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.

While there are no legal restrictions on private alcohol consumption, it’s important to remember that underage drinking can have potential consequences.

Disclaimer

This information is provided for general guidance and informational purposes only and should not be considered legal or professional advice. Laws and regulations can change, and this information may not be entirely comprehensive or reflect the most recent updates.

Resources

Greek Government: https://www.gov.gr/en

Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greek_National_Tourism_Organization

US Department of State: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html/ 1