How to Call Greece
Complete guide to dialing Greece (country code +30)
Planning to make a phone call to Greece? Whether you're connecting with family, friends, or business contacts, understanding the proper dialing procedure ensures your call goes through smoothly. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to call Greece from anywhere in the world. We'll cover step-by-step dialing instructions, including country codes and area codes, so you can confidently place your call. You'll also learn about common mistakes people make when calling Greece and how to avoid them. Additionally, we'll explore Greek phone etiquette to help you make a great impression, and provide a list of useful numbers you might need during your stay or when contacting Greece. Let's get started with making that connection to beautiful Greece!
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Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
International Dialing Format Structure
To call Greece from abroad, follow this universal format: Exit Code + 30 + Local Number (without leading zero). Greece's country code is +30, and you must remove the initial zero from Greek phone numbers when dialing internationally.
Dialing from Specific Countries
From the USA or Canada:
Use exit code 011
- Format: 011-30-[local number]
From the UK:
Use exit code 00
- Format: 00-30-[local number]
From other countries:
Most countries use 00 as their exit code, though some vary (Australia uses 0011). The + symbol replaces any exit code when dialing from mobile phones.
Step-by-Step Examples
Example 1: Calling an Athens landline (210 1234567)
- From USA: 011-30-210-1234567
- From UK: 00-30-210-1234567
- From mobile anywhere: +30-210-1234567
Example 2: Calling a Greek mobile number (697 1234567)
Greek mobile numbers start with 69. If shown as 0697 1234567 locally, drop the zero.
- From USA: 011-30-697-1234567
- From UK: 00-30-697-1234567
- From mobile anywhere: +30-697-1234567
Example 3: Calling a Thessaloniki landline (231 0987654)
- From USA: 011-30-231-0987654
- From UK: 00-30-231-0987654
- From mobile anywhere: +30-231-0987654
Important Notes About Leading Zeros
Greek numbers displayed locally include a leading zero (like 210 for Athens or 0697 for mobiles). Always remove this zero when dialing internationally. The zero is only used for domestic calls within Greece.
Quick Tips
Use the + symbol on mobile phones instead of memorizing exit codes—simply press and hold 0 to generate the + symbol, then dial 30 followed by the Greek number without its leading zero.
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Common Mistakes
Forgetting to Drop the Leading Zero
Greek phone numbers often start with 0 when dialing domestically, but this zero must be removed when calling from abroad. For example, if a local number is 210 123 4567, dial +30 210 123 4567, not +30 0210 123 4567.
Using the Wrong Exit Code
Many callers use incorrect exit codes for international dialing. While 011 works for the US and Canada, other countries use 00 or different codes. Avoid confusion by using the + symbol instead, which works universally on mobile phones.
Confusing Country Code with Area Code
Greece's country code +30 is not part of the area code. Athens' area code is 21, not 210. The complete format is: +30 (country) + 21 (area code) + local number.
Incorrect Number Length
Greek landlines have 10 digits total (including area code), while mobile numbers also have 10 digits starting with 6. Dialing fewer or more digits will fail to connect.
Adding Unnecessary Spaces or Dashes
While spaces help readability, some phone systems reject them. If your call fails, try entering the number without any spaces or special characters.
Cultural Etiquette
When making phone calls in Greece, understanding local customs helps create positive connections. Greeks value personal warmth even in telephone conversations, so don't be surprised by exchanges that feel more casual than in other countries.
Greetings and Tone
Answer calls with "Embrós" (hello) or "Léte" (speak/tell me). Greeks appreciate friendly conversation, so a brief exchange of pleasantries before business matters is expected and considered polite rather than time-wasting.
Business vs. Personal Calls
Business calls maintain some formality initially, but relationships often become warmer quickly. Use titles like "Kýrie" (Mr.) or "Kyría" (Mrs.) until invited to use first names. Personal calls are relaxed and can be lengthy, as Greeks enjoy extended conversations.
Timing Matters
Avoid calling between 2-5 PM when many Greeks rest during the afternoon break (mesimeriáno). Early mornings before 9 AM are also discouraged. Evenings after 6 PM work well for personal calls.
Voice Messages
Greeks often prefer speaking directly rather than leaving messages. If someone doesn't answer, try calling back later rather than leaving a voicemail, which may go unchecked.
Cultural Considerations
Speaking expressively with animated vocal tones is normal and shows engagement, not anger. Interruptions during conversation are common and reflect enthusiasm rather than rudeness. Don't rush conversations—Greeks value building rapport through unhurried dialogue.
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Emergency Numbers
Emergency Services in Greece:
- 112 - European Emergency Number (connects to police, ambulance, or fire services)
- 100 - Police
- 166 - Ambulance (EKAB)
- 199 - Fire Department
- 108 - Coast Guard (for maritime emergencies)
- 1016 - Tourist Police (multilingual assistance for visitors)
All emergency numbers are toll-free and accessible from any phone, including mobiles, even without credit or a SIM card. The 112 number operates 24/7 with English-speaking operators available, making it the most reliable option for international visitors. The Tourist Police (1016) specifically assists travelers with emergencies, theft, or disputes and typically has staff speaking multiple languages. Response times vary depending on location, with urban areas generally receiving faster service than remote islands or mountain regions.
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance & Information Services
- Dial 11888 for domestic directory assistance and general information inquiries throughout Greece.
International Operator
- Contact 139 for international operator assistance, including placing collect calls and obtaining foreign numbers.
Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO)
- Call 1572 for multilingual tourist information, travel advice, and assistance with accommodations and attractions.
Embassy Contacts
- US Embassy Athens: +30 210 721 2951
- UK Embassy Athens: +30 210 727 2600
- Canadian Embassy Athens: +30 210 727 3400
- Australian Embassy Athens: +30 210 870 4000
Consumer Protection Hotline
- Dial 1520 for consumer complaints and disputes.
Taxi Complaints
- Call 1019 to report taxi service issues in Athens.
Pharmacy Information
- Dial 1434 to locate 24-hour pharmacies (farmakeio) in your area.
Tips for Calling Greece
When calling Greece, remember the country operates on Eastern European Time (UTC+2, UTC+3 during daylight saving). To avoid inconvenient hours, calculate the time difference from your location carefully. Business calls are best placed between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM Greek time, Tuesday through Thursday, when offices are fully staffed and focused.
For business purposes, always schedule calls in advance via email. Greeks appreciate professional courtesy and punctuality. Avoid calling during the traditional siesta period (2:00-5:00 PM), though this is less observed in major cities. Mondays and Fridays tend to be busier, making midweek preferable.
Key dates to avoid include Greek Orthodox Easter (dates vary annually), August 15th (Dormition of the Virgin Mary), and late July through August when many businesses operate reduced hours or close for summer holidays. Christmas period (December 24-26) and New Year's should also be avoided.
For clear communication, speak slowly and confirm important details via follow-up email. Mobile reception is generally excellent, but landlines offer more stability for lengthy business discussions. Consider using video calling platforms for important meetings to enhance understanding.
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for Greece is +30. You need to dial this code before the local phone number when making international calls to Greece from anywhere in the world. It identifies Greece within the international telephone numbering system.
To call Greece from your cell phone, dial + (or 011 in the US), then 30 (Greece's country code), followed by the local phone number. For example, to call an Athens number, dial +30 followed by the 10-digit local number.
No, you should not drop the zero when calling Greek landlines and mobile numbers. Greece uses a closed numbering system, so dial +30 followed by the complete 10-digit number, including the leading zero if present in the local format.
The cheapest way to call Greece is using ZippCall, which offers affordable pay-as-you-go international calling rates. With ZippCall, you can call from your web browser, iPhone, or Android device with no contracts, no subscriptions, and no hidden fees—just transparent, low-cost rates for calling Greece.
In Greece, dial 112 for the European emergency hotline (works for all emergencies). Specific numbers include 100 for police, 166 for ambulance, and 199 for fire department. These numbers are free and can be dialed from any phone.
Yes, you can call Greece directly from your web browser using ZippCall. Simply visit the ZippCall website, enter the Greek phone number you want to reach, and make your call without downloading any software or apps—it's fast, convenient, and affordable.
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