Adults only (18+)

Legal Status of Cannabis in Greece

Cannabis is not legal for recreational use in Greece, although limited medical use is permitted under strict regulation. The country maintains a conservative stance on recreational drug use, and cannabis remains classified as a controlled substance under Greek narcotics law. Possession, cultivation and trafficking of cannabis are all illegal, and penalties can range from administrative fines to imprisonment depending on the circumstances. However, Greek law does distinguish between drug users and traffickers, which allows for some leniency in cases involving small amounts intended for personal use. Despite this, Greece does not allow open use of cannabis, and public consumption is likely to result in police intervention.

Possession and Personal Use

Possession of cannabis in Greece is treated as a criminal offence, even in small amounts. If an individual is caught with a quantity that is considered to be for personal use, they may face arrest, a court appearance and a potential sentence of up to five months in prison. First-time offenders may receive a suspended sentence or be ordered to attend a rehabilitation programme instead of serving jail time, depending on the circumstances. The Greek courts have discretion in determining whether the quantity possessed qualifies as personal use, and there is no fixed threshold defined in law. While the punishment for personal use may be lighter than for trafficking, it is still a criminal offence that carries legal consequences.

Cannabis Cultivation and Supply

Cultivating cannabis is illegal in Greece regardless of intent. Growing even a small number of plants for personal use can lead to serious legal repercussions. Cultivation is typically treated as evidence of intent to distribute, which carries significantly harsher penalties under Greek law. Trafficking or supplying cannabis, even in non-commercial settings such as sharing among friends, is considered a criminal act and can result in long-term imprisonment. Greek drug law is particularly strict when it comes to supply offences, and individuals found guilty of trafficking can face sentences of ten years or more, especially if there are aggravating factors such as large quantities or organised activity.

Medical Cannabis in Greece

Greece legalised medical cannabis in 2017, allowing patients with specific conditions to access cannabis-based treatments. In 2018, the government also lifted restrictions on the cultivation and production of medical cannabis for commercial purposes, creating a regulated industry aimed at both domestic use and export. However, access for Greek patients remains limited in practice. While cannabis-based medicines are technically legal, they are only available via prescription and require approval through a centralised health system. Products must be obtained from licensed pharmacies and are typically used for conditions such as chronic pain, cancer-related symptoms and neurological disorders. Smoking cannabis as a medical treatment is not authorised under the current legal framework.

CBD and Hemp Products

CBD products are legal in Greece as long as they contain less than 0.2 percent THC and are derived from approved industrial hemp varieties. These products are commonly found in health shops, wellness stores and online, and include oils, capsules and topical creams. However, the sale and advertising of CBD must comply with Greek and European Union regulations. While CBD is not considered a narcotic, authorities monitor its distribution to ensure it meets safety and labelling standards. Consumers should purchase CBD from reputable sources and be aware that products with higher THC content are still classified as illegal drugs.

Cannabis and Public Use

Public use of cannabis is illegal in all parts of Greece, including tourist destinations and islands. Smoking cannabis in public may result in arrest, fines or even jail time depending on the quantity and the attitude of local police. Greece has strict rules on public conduct, and drug use is not tolerated in public spaces such as beaches, parks, cafes or hotels. Even medical cannabis users are not permitted to consume their medication in public. Tourists should be particularly cautious, as Greek law does not provide exemptions based on nationality or medical prescriptions issued in other countries. Any use or possession of cannabis in public can quickly become a legal issue.

Driving and Drug Laws

Driving under the influence of cannabis is strictly prohibited in Greece. Law enforcement authorities have the power to conduct roadside checks and may administer drug tests if impairment is suspected. Driving while intoxicated by cannabis is treated as a serious offence and may lead to fines, suspension of a driving licence or imprisonment. Even trace amounts of THC in the bloodstream can result in legal consequences, regardless of whether the cannabis was used recreationally or for medical reasons. Drivers should also be aware that police checks are more common during tourist seasons and in areas with high traffic or nightlife.

Tourists and Cannabis Laws in Greece

Tourists visiting Greece must follow the same drug laws as residents. Bringing cannabis into the country, even in small amounts or for medical purposes, is illegal and can result in arrest or prosecution. Greek customs officers are strict about drug importation, and there is no exemption for cannabis prescribed legally in another country. While some tourists may encounter relaxed attitudes in certain areas, this does not reflect the law and should not be interpreted as tolerance. Those caught with cannabis may face fines, legal proceedings and potential bans from returning to Greece in the future.

Misconceptions About Cannabis in Greece

One common misunderstanding is that cannabis is decriminalised in Greece. While there is some leniency for personal use, cannabis remains illegal and is not decriminalised in the formal legal sense. Another misconception is that Greece's relatively liberal stance on certain lifestyle issues means that cannabis use is overlooked. In reality, police regularly enforce drug laws and tourists are not exempt from prosecution. The belief that CBD products are equivalent to cannabis is also incorrect, as only low-THC CBD is permitted and any psychoactive product is classified as a narcotic under Greek law.

Outlook for Cannabis Reform

Although Greece has taken steps to legalise medical cannabis and develop a local cultivation industry, there is currently no political momentum to legalise recreational cannabis. Public attitudes remain cautious, and the government has prioritised regulating the medical and CBD sectors rather than expanding access to recreational use. It is unlikely that Greece will follow the example of countries like Germany or the Netherlands in the near future. For now, cannabis remains a controlled substance with strict penalties for misuse, and residents and tourists alike must remain informed and cautious.

In Summary

Cannabis is illegal for recreational use in Greece and possession, use or cultivation can lead to criminal charges. Medical cannabis is permitted under prescription for specific conditions, but access is limited and tightly regulated. CBD products are legal if they meet low THC thresholds and are sold according to EU regulations. Public consumption, driving under the influence and bringing cannabis into the country are all prohibited. Tourists should be especially careful, as Greek drug laws apply universally and enforcement is consistent. While there is a growing medical industry, recreational cannabis remains firmly against the law.