What to Do if You Get Sick In Santorini

Santorini is the kind of place that shows up on every dream vacation list — iconic blue-domed churches, villages built into cliffs, sunsets you’ll talk about for years. But if you get sick while you’re there? It can feel like paradise just turned upside down.

The good news? Santorini is well-prepared for visitors. The island’s healthcare system, local pharmacists, and English-speaking doctors make it easy to get the help you need — whether it’s a mild tummy bug, a heat headache, or something more serious.

This is your ultimate guide to staying healthy, finding help fast, and getting back to enjoying your Greek island escape.

First Things First: Don’t Panic

Feeling under the weather on holiday can make you want to crawl back under the covers. And sometimes, that’s exactly what you should do! But if you’re feeling worse than just “a bit off,” don’t wait — get help.

Santorini’s private clinics, trusted local doctors, and friendly pharmacists are used to helping travelers. The key is to act early, rest, and hydrate so you can get back to those sunset views.

Understanding Santorini’s Healthcare System

Greece’s public healthcare system is called ESY — it’s solid for locals but can be slow for travelers. That’s why most tourists go to private clinics instead.

Public vs. Private

• Public hospitals: Good for serious emergencies but expect longer waits and less English spoken.
• Private clinics: Faster, more comfortable, and more likely to have staff who speak English. They’re also usually happy to give you a doctor’s note if you need one for insurance or a tour refund.

Keep in mind that private care costs more, but good travel insurance usually covers it.

When to Call a Doctor in Santorini

Sometimes you just need rest, bottled water, and a light meal. But don’t ignore signs that you should see a doctor:

• High fever that won’t drop
• Severe stomach cramps or vomiting
• A rash or bite that’s spreading fast
• Sunstroke or dehydration symptoms (dizziness, confusion)
• Allergic reactions
• Trouble breathing

If you’re not sure, it’s better to check. Local doctors are friendly, professional, and used to treating tourists.

Important Emergency Numbers

• 112 — General European emergency number
• 166 — Greek ambulance line

Always save these in your phone. If you’re in an emergency, ask your accommodation host or a local to help explain your location to responders — a Greek address written down is very handy.

When to Call an Ambulance

• Chest pain
• Trouble breathing
• Major injuries
• Severe allergic reactions

If it’s serious, don’t wait — call 112 or 166.

Pharmacies in Santorini: Your Best Friend for Minor Issues

Santorini has plenty of pharmacies — look for the green cross sign. Pharmacists in Greece are well trained and can help with:

• Cold & flu medicine
• Painkillers
• Rehydration salts
• Creams for sunburn or insect bites

Most pharmacists speak some English. If your symptoms stick around after a day or two — book a doctor instead.

If you need help late at night or on a Sunday, ask your hotel or look online for duty pharmacies (εφημερεύοντα φαρμακεία).

Travel Insurance: Why It’s a Lifesaver

Travel insurance is a must on the islands — private clinics will ask you to pay upfront. Good insurance can reimburse you, or cover your visit directly.

What to Keep for a Claim

• Copies of your insurance policy
• Doctor’s notes
• All receipts for treatment & medication

Tip: Save photos of these in your phone, just in case.

What If You Need a Specialist?

Got a chronic condition or traveling while pregnant? Bring your health summary in English, pack extra medication in your carry-on, and know where the nearest private hospital or OB-GYN is.

Santorini has a small but reliable network of private specialists — Air Doctor can help you find one that suits your needs.

Avoiding Illness: A Few Santorini Tips

• Hydrate — the sun is intense, especially in July & August.
• Tap water — technically drinkable in parts of Santorini but most locals stick to bottled.
• Sun safety — reapply sunscreen often, wear hats, and rest in the shade midday.
• Food safety — choose busy restaurants with lots of local customers; seafood should be fresh and cooked.
• Mosquitoes — not a huge risk here but a bit of repellent helps if you’re sensitive to bites.

Finding an English-Speaking Doctor in Santorini

No one wants to waste hours scrolling maps and translation apps while feeling sick. Air Doctor lets you instantly find trusted, English-speaking doctors in Santorini. You can choose a clinic, book a house call to your villa, or even see someone virtually.

No confusion, no awkward language barrier — just clear, reliable care.

Getting Help Beyond Healthcare

If you lose your meds, passport, or need emergency support, your country’s embassy or consulate can help with medical evacuation, replacement travel documents, or contacting family. Always have that number handy.

Recap: Sick in Santorini?

• Use private clinics for faster care and English-speaking staff.
• Call 112 or 166 in an emergency.
• Try pharmacies for minor issues, but see a doctor if symptoms stick around.
• Keep your insurance info & receipts safe.
• Stay hydrated, protect yourself from the sun, and trust local care.

About Air Doctor

With the Air Doctor app in your pocket, you can access medical care and receive expert medical guidance anywhere you travel.

Air Doctor offers a wide range of benefits, including:

• A global network of over 20,000 multi-lingual doctors and specialists
• Choice of clinic, at-home (hotel), and video consultations
• Healthcare access in 90 countries
• 24/7 multi-lingual support
• Transparent pricing and reviews
• Most common medical specialties, including GPs and pediatricians

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