How Does Emergency Numbers Work in Greece?
Last verified: 2025-06 · Europe
1The Quick Answer
Dial 112 for all emergencies (EU standard), 100 for police, 166 for ambulance, and 1572 for coast guard sea emergencies.
2What You Need to Know
The pan-European 112 connects to all emergency services and works from any phone, including without a SIM. The dedicated numbers are: 100 (police/Hellenic Police), 166 (EKAV ambulance service), 199 (fire brigade), and 1572 (Hellenic Coast Guard for sea and maritime emergencies). Operators at 112 can assist in English. When on an island, note that response times may be longer than on the mainland.
3Practical Tips
Practical Tips
- 1Save 1572 in your phone if you plan to do water sports, sailing, or boat trips — coast guard response is fast and professional.
- 2112 works even without a SIM card or mobile signal on some networks — always try it first in an emergency.
- 3Athens has tourist police (1571) who can help with non-emergency issues like theft reports needed for insurance claims.
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