Greece is a country located in southeastern Europe, known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. As a popular tourist destination, Greece has much to offer to Muslim travellers seeking to explore the country’s Islamic heritage and experience its unique blend of ancient and modern influences. Learn more in our halal food guides. Explore halal food in Greece for more information. Explore Muslim travelers for more information.

From the historic city of Athens to the picturesque islands of Santorini and Mykonos, Greece offers a diverse range of experiences for Muslim travellers, including halal food options, prayer facilities, and cultural attractions that showcase the country’s Islamic heritage. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient ruins, relaxing on the beach, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Greece is a destination that should not be missed by Muslim travellers.

Is Greece Muslim-Friendly?

Greece is moderately Muslim-friendly with limited but growing infrastructure:

  • 500,000+ Muslims: Including native Thracian Muslims
  • Ottoman heritage: Historical mosques throughout
  • Athens Mosque opened 2020: First in modern Athens
  • Thrace region: Native Greek Muslim community
  • Growing halal options: In tourist areas
  • Island challenges: Limited options on smaller islands

Greece requires planning but offers stunning destinations for Muslim travelers.

Does Greece Have Halal Food?

Halal food is available in Athens and major tourist areas:

Athens:

  • Omonia area: Immigrant communities with halal shops
  • Monastiraki: Some Middle Eastern restaurants
  • Syntagma area: Growing halal options
  • Gyros: Some shops offer halal versions

Thessaloniki:

  • Second largest city: Some halal restaurants
  • Near the port: Middle Eastern options

Islands:

  • Santorini: Very limited (see Santorini page)
  • Mykonos: Limited options
  • Rhodes: Ottoman history, some halal
  • Crete: Limited but some options in Heraklion

Safe eating strategies:

  • Seafood: Greece has excellent fresh fish
  • Horiatiki salad: Greek salad (check feta authenticity)
  • Vegetarian dishes: Dolmades, spanakopita (verify no meat stock)
  • Fresh fruit and vegetables: Abundant
  • Olive oil dishes: Common in Greek cuisine

Avoid: Souvlaki and gyros unless verified halal, dishes with pork.

What Is the Largest Mosque in Greece?

Athens Mosque (Masjid al-Athina) is the most significant modern mosque:

  • Opened 2020—first mosque in Athens in 180 years
  • Located in Votanikos district
  • Capacity for 350 worshippers
  • Modern design without minaret (local restrictions)

Historical mosques:

Fethiye Mosque (Athens): Ottoman-era, now museum Tzistarakis Mosque (Monastiraki): Now a museum

Thrace region mosques:

  • Komotini: Several active mosques
  • Xanthi: Active Muslim community
  • Native Greek Muslim population maintains mosques

Are There Many Muslims in Greece?

Greece has approximately 500,000-600,000 Muslims:

  • Thracian Muslims: 100,000+ native Greek Muslims (Turkish, Pomak, Roma)
  • Immigrants: Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Afghan, Arab communities
  • Refugees: Syrian and other Middle Eastern refugees

The Thracian Muslim community has special protected status under the 1923 Lausanne Treaty and maintains Turkish-language education and mosques.

Is Greece Safe for Muslims?

Greece is generally safe for Muslim travelers:

Positives:

  • Tourist-friendly country
  • Mediterranean hospitality
  • Low violent crime
  • Thracian Muslims live peacefully
  • Growing awareness of halal needs

Considerations:

  • Some anti-immigrant sentiment
  • Limited halal in rural areas and islands
  • Language barrier in remote areas
  • Summer heat can be intense

Greece is safe for Muslim tourists, especially in Athens and major tourist destinations.

Top Muslim-Friendly Destinations

Athens

  • Acropolis: Ancient Greek wonder
  • Athens Mosque: Visit for prayers
  • Omonia area: Halal food options
  • Plaka: Historic neighborhood

Thessaloniki

  • White Tower: City landmark
  • Ottoman heritage: Historical sites
  • Aristotle Square: City center
  • Some halal options: In city center

Thrace Region

  • Komotini: Active Muslim community
  • Xanthi: Traditional Muslim quarter
  • Authentic experience: Native Greek Muslims
  • Less touristy: Cultural immersion

Santorini/Mykonos

  • Stunning beauty: Iconic Greek islands
  • Limited halal: Rely on seafood
  • Plan ahead: Bring snacks
  • See dedicated Santorini page for details

Practical Tips for Muslim Travelers

  1. Athens Mosque: Visit the new mosque for prayers
  2. Seafood everywhere: Safe halal option
  3. Omonia for halal: Best area in Athens
  4. Island planning: Prepare for limited halal
  5. Thrace for culture: Native Muslim community
  6. Greek hospitality: Generally welcoming
  7. Currency: Euro (EUR)
  8. Summer heat: Plan outdoor activities for morning/evening