Clean Monday

📣 Traveler notes

Greece is a historically rich country with a culture characterized by warmth, informality, and strong familial ties. While the Greek Orthodox Church remains central to national identity, modern society is generally secular. Visitors are encouraged to show genuine interest in local customs and maintain respect for traditions and personal space.

• Clean Monday is a movable holiday, falling six Mondays before Palm Sunday.
• National Public Holidays include New Year's Day (Jan 1) and Epiphany (Jan 6).
• The Greek Orthodox Church is significant to national identity, but contemporary Greek life is secular.
• Physical and verbal expressions of warmth are common and expected.
• Modesty regarding clothing is recommended in churches and religious sites.
• Avoid sensitive historical discussions (e.g., Macedonian issue, Greek debt crisis) to ensure respectful interaction.
• Politeness and respectful behavior are valued when interacting with locals. Initiating greetings and treating strangers with respect are appreciated. When offered food, sampling it is considered polite. Dress modestly (covering shoulders and knees) when visiting churches or monasteries. Avoid making disparaging comments about Greek history.