British tourists planning holidays in Greece are being advised to check their footwear carefully before visiting some of the country’s most iconic landmarks. Since 2009, Greece has enforced a strict ban on wearing high heels at many ancient monuments, including the Acropolis in Athens, as part of ongoing efforts to protect these historic sites from damage.
Visitors wearing high-heeled shoes risk being denied entry to these attractions and could face fines of up to 900 euros (approximately £771) if they disregard the rule. The prohibition was introduced because the sharp heels can cause significant erosion and cracking to the delicate surfaces of Greece’s ancient structures.
A statement on the Acropolis official website explains:
“Most types of shoes are allowed at the Acropolis, except for high heels that have been forbidden in 2009 at all of Greece’s ancient monuments. The ban was put in place due to the damage that the sharp soles were adding to Greece’s ancient sites.”
While many tourists typically choose comfortable footwear such as trainers or flats for sightseeing, authorities emphasize that those wearing prohibited shoes will be refused access unless they have alternative footwear available. Fines are generally imposed on those who intentionally flout the rules, for example by switching back into high heels after gaining entry.
Travel experts from Tiger.co.uk have reiterated the importance of adhering to these regulations, adding:
“In Greece, wearing high heels is prohibited at certain historic sites, including famous attractions like the Acropolis and the Epidaurus Theatre. This rule helps protect delicate surfaces from erosion and cracking. Sitting on ancient monuments is also discouraged out of respect for preservation efforts.”
The warning to holidaymakers comes amid growing attention to dress codes and conduct regulations across popular European holiday destinations. For example, in parts of Spain and Italy, tourists are advised to avoid wearing swimwear away from beaches, with fines of up to €500 imposed in some areas for violations.
In Sorrento, Italy, local authorities introduced similar measures in 2022 after complaints about visitors walking through town in bikinis or without shirts, which residents found inappropriate.
As summer holiday season approaches, experts urge travellers to familiarise themselves with local rules to avoid unexpected penalties and to respect cultural norms.
