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What to Do if You Get Sick In Thessaloniki

Not feeling well in Thessaloniki? This guide has you covered — find an English-speaking doctor, use local pharmacies, handle insurance, and get back to enjoying Greece’s coolest city.

Thessaloniki is one of Greece’s most vibrant cities — famous for its waterfront cafes, ancient ruins, and buzzing food scene. But even in the best destinations, you can get sick. Whether it’s a sudden stomach bug, sunstroke from too many hours exploring, or a slip while wandering its cobbled streets, it’s always better to be prepared.

This guide covers everything you need to know if you’re sick in Thessaloniki — how the healthcare system works, where to find an English-speaking doctor, what to expect at local pharmacies, and how to avoid extra stress while you recover.

Getting Sick Abroad Can Be Stressful — But You’ve Got This

sick in Thessaloniki

Feeling under the weather when you’re far from home can feel scary. But Thessaloniki has modern clinics, helpful pharmacies, and friendly doctors ready to help. The key is knowing where to go — and acting quickly if you need it.

Understanding Thessaloniki’s Healthcare System

Greece has both public and private healthcare. Locals often use both — but as a traveler, you’ll probably prefer private care because it’s quicker and much more likely to have English-speaking staff.

Private vs. Public

Public hospitals: Good for emergencies, but wait times can be long. Staff may not always speak fluent English.

Private clinics: Faster, more comfortable, and clearer communication. Expect to pay upfront — but your travel insurance should cover it.

Tip: Bring your passport and travel insurance details with you for any appointment.

Emergency Medical Care

Serious emergencies are rare — but they can happen. Here’s what you need to know.

Essential Emergency Numbers

  • 112 — EU-wide emergency number (ambulance, fire, police)
  • 166 — Greek ambulance service

Save these on your phone when you arrive. And keep your hotel address written in Greek — it helps a lot if you need to call.

How to Call an Ambulance in Thessaloniki

If you or someone with you needs urgent help — like chest pain, trouble breathing, severe allergic reaction, or major injury — call 112 or 166 immediately. Speak slowly and clearly.

When To Go to a Hospital vs. an Urgent Care Clinic

Go to a hospital: For life-threatening emergencies or serious injuries.

Go to a clinic: For fever, stomach bugs, infections, rashes, or anything that’s worrying but not an emergency.

Pharmacies & Medication: What You Need To Know

greek pharmacy

Pharmacies (look for the green cross) are your best friend for mild issues like colds, headaches, upset stomachs, or minor skin rashes.

Pharmacists in Greece are highly trained and usually speak good English. They’ll advise you on what you can get without a prescription — but if your symptoms don’t improve in a day or two, see a doctor.

Finding 24/7 pharmacies: Many are open during normal business hours. For late-night or Sunday help, ask your hotel or check local listings for duty pharmacies (εφημερεύοντα φαρμακεία).

What To Do if You’ve Got Travel Insurance

Good travel insurance makes getting help much less stressful. Private clinics usually expect payment upfront, so be ready to pay — then claim back.

Documents You’ll Need to Submit a Claim

  • Your insurance policy number
  • Doctor’s note or report
  • Receipts for your visit and any medicine

Always check with your insurer for exactly what they need. Keep copies on your phone just in case.

Language Barriers

Most private doctors and pharmacists speak English. But if you need it, here are a few handy Greek phrases:

  • “I need a doctor” — Χρειάζομαι γιατρό (Chree-AHZ-oh-meh yia-TRO)
  • “It hurts here” — Πονάει εδώ (Po-NAH-ee e-THO)
  • “Do you speak English?” — Μιλάτε αγγλικά; (Mee-LAH-te ang-lee-KAH)

Or, just book with Air Doctor to skip the stress — you’ll only see English-speaking professionals.

How To Avoid Getting Sick in Thessaloniki

Most travelers feel great — but here’s how to keep it that way.

  • Drink bottled water if you’re unsure about taste.
  • Wash your hands often or use sanitizer.
  • Eat at busy restaurants with high turnover for the freshest food.
  • Protect yourself from the sun, especially in summer.
  • Use mosquito repellent in the evenings near water.

Healthcare Tips for Pregnant Travelers & Those with Pre-existing Conditions

Traveling while pregnant or managing a health condition? Thessaloniki’s private clinics are well equipped for families, expats, and special medical needs.

  • Bring a simple medical summary in English.
  • Pack extra meds — always in your carry-on.
  • Use Air Doctor to find local OB-GYNs, pediatricians, or specialists if you need them.

Finding an English-Speaking Doctor in Thessaloniki

Searching online when you feel unwell isn’t fun. Air Doctor makes it simple — you can see trusted, vetted, English-speaking doctors in Thessaloniki with clear pricing and reviews.

Book a clinic visit, virtual consult, or even a hotel visit. Same-day options mean no stressful waits.

Getting Help Beyond Healthcare

If you need to replace lost prescriptions, your passport, or arrange emergency travel, your embassy or consulate can help. Save their number before you travel.

Recap: Sick in Thessaloniki? You’re Sorted

  • Private clinics are best for fast, English-speaking care.
  • Call 112 or 166 for emergencies.
  • Try pharmacies first for minor issues, but see a doctor if it lingers.
  • Keep all receipts for insurance claims.
  • Stay hydrated, eat smart, and look after yourself — you’ll be back exploring in no time.

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 cardiologists, dentists, and pediatricians

FAQs

What illness is Thessaloniki famous for?

Nothing scary — most travelers just deal with mild tummy bugs, mild dehydration, or seasonal colds.

How can I avoid getting sick in Thessaloniki?

Wash your hands, stick to reputable places to eat, drink bottled water if you’re unsure, and use mosquito repellent if you’re near water at night.

Do I need to worry about mosquitoes in Thessaloniki?

They can be around near water in summer, but they’re usually just an annoyance — a bit of repellent is enough.

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Jenny Cohen Drefler

Jenny Cohen Derfler

Air Dr CEO & Co-Founder

Jenny is the CEO and one of the Co-Founders at Air Doctor. She spent more than 20 years at Intel, most recently as general manager of its manufacturing facility in Israel and before that in various engineering and manufacturing roles in Silicon Valley. Air Doctor is her second startup having previously founded electric vehicle company ElectRoad.

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