Tourists visiting historic sites in Greece should be aware of new guidelines aimed at protecting the country’s cultural heritage. According to Saga Holidays, travelers who violate these rules may face fines of up to £425 (€500).

One important regulation concerns footwear. Alison Porter, senior product manager at Saga Holidays, highlighted that high heels and sharp-soled shoes can damage the fragile surfaces of ancient sites. She recommended wearing comfortable and practical footwear to help preserve these locations.

Greece is renowned for its numerous historic landmarks, medieval towns, and archaeological sites that attract millions of visitors each year. Among the most prominent are the Acropolis of Athens, the Delphi Archaeological Site, and several UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Ancient Olympia and Epidaurus, both located in the Peloponnese region.

The recent release of Christopher Nolan’s film, "The Odyssey," has also increased public interest in Greece’s heritage, resulting in a reported 25% rise in related Google searches over the past week, according to Saga Holidays.

Porter noted that rules and restrictions vary widely across different UNESCO sites in Greece, and visitors may face penalties for actions such as vandalism, entering unauthorized areas, and consuming food or drinks in locations where these activities are prohibited—even if done unintentionally. She emphasized the importance of following these regulations and suggested that tourists consider traveling with a tour manager or guide who can provide information on local history, customs, and site-specific guidelines.

These measures aim to balance growing tourism demand with the need to safeguard Greece’s historic environments for future generations. Visitors are encouraged to stay informed about the rules at each site to ensure a respectful and lawful experience.