Greece, renowned for its ancient ruins, sun-drenched islands, and rich cultural heritage, is a top destination for travelers worldwide. But for those considering cannabis use during their visit, a pressing question arises: is weed legal in Greece?
As of 2025, Greece has made significant strides in its cannabis legislation. While recreational cannabis remains illegal, the country has established a regulated framework for medical cannabis use. This article delves into the current legal landscape of cannabis in Greece, exploring what’s permitted, what’s not, and what both residents and tourists should be aware of.
Is Weed Legal In Greece? Current Status in 2025
As of 2025, the legal landscape of cannabis in Greece is as follows:
- Medical Cannabis: Legalized in 2017, with prescriptions becoming available in 2024. Patients with qualifying conditions can access medical cannabis products through licensed pharmacies.
- Recreational Cannabis: Remains illegal. Possession, cultivation, and distribution for non-medical purposes are prohibited and subject to legal penalties.
- CBD Products: Legal, provided they contain less than 0.2% THC. These products are widely available in pharmacies and health stores.
While medical cannabis has been legalized, the implementation has faced delays, and recreational use continues to be strictly regulated. It’s essential for residents and visitors to understand these distinctions to ensure compliance with Greek laws.
Medical Cannabis in Greece
Greece legalized medical cannabis in 2017, becoming one of the first countries in southeastern Europe to take this step. However, it wasn’t until 2023–2024 that the first prescription-based cannabis products began reaching patients through licensed pharmacies.
As of 2025, patients in Greece can access medical cannabis under the following conditions:
- They must have a valid medical prescription from a licensed physician.
- Medical cannabis is available for conditions such as chronic pain, multiple sclerosis, nausea from chemotherapy, epilepsy, and other qualifying illnesses.
- Only approved pharmaceutical cannabis products are allowed—no smoking of raw cannabis flower is permitted under the medical law.
- Distribution is handled by authorized pharmacies with a government-controlled supply chain.
While access has improved, there are still logistical challenges. Not all pharmacies carry cannabis-based medicines, and many patients report limited awareness among doctors. Still, the market is expanding gradually as more suppliers become licensed and public understanding increases.
Read more on medical cannabis in the EU via EMCDDA
Recreational Use: What’s Allowed and What’s Not
Although Greece has embraced medical cannabis, recreational cannabis remains illegal as of 2025. However, the country has adopted a relatively lenient approach to personal possession in small amounts.
Here’s what’s currently allowed—and what’s not:
- Possession of small amounts for personal use is decriminalized, not legalized. You won’t face prison time, but you may receive a warning, fine, or referral to a drug treatment program.
- Public use of cannabis is prohibited and can result in fines or police intervention—even for tourists.
- Cultivation of cannabis plants for personal use is illegal, even in small quantities.
- Importing seeds or cannabis products without a license is considered trafficking and is subject to criminal charges.
In short: Greece isn’t turning a blind eye to weed, but it’s also not aggressively prosecuting low-level users. However, penalties can escalate quickly depending on the amount in possession or suspected intent to distribute.
Traveling with Weed in Greece: Can Tourists Use It?
For tourists wondering is weed legal in Greece during vacation—the answer is still no when it comes to recreational use. Greece enforces its drug laws equally for residents and visitors, meaning tourists are subject to the same penalties for possession, use, or importation of cannabis.
Here’s what travelers should know:
- Bringing cannabis—even medical products—from another country is illegal, even with a prescription.
- Customs and airport authorities may confiscate products containing THC, and possession can lead to fines or legal issues.
- Carrying CBD products is legal only if they contain less than 0.2% THC and are properly labeled.
- Using cannabis in public spaces—including beaches, parks, or bars—is prohibited and may result in police involvement.
If you rely on cannabis for medical reasons, it’s best to bring documentation, use certified CBD products, and consult a healthcare provider before traveling. Greece is cannabis-friendly in the medical sense—but not a safe place for casual use as a tourist.
CBD Products in Greece: Legal or Not?
While THC is tightly regulated in Greece, CBD (cannabidiol) products are legal, provided they meet specific requirements. As of 2025, the Greek government allows the sale and use of CBD products that contain less than 0.2% THC.
Here’s what to know if you’re shopping for or traveling with CBD in Greece:
- CBD oils, creams, edibles, and capsules are widely available in health shops, pharmacies, and online.
- Products must be derived from industrial hemp and labeled accurately with THC content.
- Greek authorities tolerate CBD, but labeling errors or THC levels above 0.2% may cause problems with customs or police.
- There is no need for a prescription to buy CBD products in Greece.
The local CBD market is still developing, and regulations are occasionally unclear. If you’re unsure about a product, choose third-party one lab tested and sourced from a reputable brand.
Cannabis Culture in Greece: Public Attitudes and Events
While the legal framework around cannabis in Greece is still restrictive, public opinion has slowly become more open—especially among younger generations. In recent years, the conversation around cannabis use has shifted from taboo to trending.
Here’s how cannabis culture is evolving in Greece:
- Younger adults tend to be more supportive of cannabis legalization, particularly for medical purposes.
- Annual cannabis events like “Athens Cannabis Expo” attract thousands of visitors, industry professionals, and advocates from across Europe.
- Greek media increasingly covers cannabis-related news and policy debates, contributing to broader awareness and acceptance.
- Despite these changes, social stigma around recreational use still exists—especially in more conservative or rural areas.
In short, the cannabis community in Greece is growing, vocal, and active—but still navigating a cautious legal and cultural environment. As more people ask is weed legal in Greece, public debate continues to evolve, even if the laws remain restrictive.
Penalties and Legal Risks
Even though Greece has eased some restrictions—especially regarding medical cannabis—violating cannabis laws can still lead to serious legal consequences. Understanding these risks is crucial whether you’re a resident or just visiting.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Possession of small amounts for personal use: Decriminalized but not legal. Police may issue a warning, fine, or order a mandatory rehabilitation session.
- Cultivation: Growing cannabis plants, even for personal use, is illegal and can result in criminal charges.
- Distribution or trafficking: Selling or transporting cannabis (even small amounts) is considered a felony, punishable by prison time.
- Importing products: Bringing in seeds or cannabis-derived items with THC, even for personal use, is prohibited and can trigger customs or legal issues.
Penalties vary depending on the quantity, intent, and prior offenses. While Greece has modernized its approach in some areas, cannabis-related offenses are still treated seriously by law enforcement and courts.
Conclusion
So, is weed legal in Greece? As of 2025, the answer is: partially. Medical cannabis is legal and slowly becoming more accessible, while recreational cannabis remains illegal—though small amounts for personal use are decriminalized.
If you’re living in or visiting Greece, it’s important to stay informed and cautious. While CBD products are legal and widely available, anything containing THC—even in small amounts—can carry legal risk.
Greece is making progress, but it’s not yet a cannabis-friendly destination for casual or recreational use. Stick with CBD if you’re looking for legal relief, and avoid taking chances with unregulated or imported products.
When in doubt, play it safe and stay within the law. 🇬🇷
