Is Topless Sunbathing Allowed in Greece? What Tourists Should Know

Greece is a top vacation destination that draws millions of tourists each year with its sunshine, beautiful beaches, and laid-back Mediterranean vibe. If you're heading to the Greek islands or the mainland this summer, you might be wondering: Can you sunbathe topless in Greece? Is it common or frowned upon? Here's what you should know before baring it all.

Is Topless Sunbathing Legal in Greece?

Yes, topless sunbathing is not illegal in Greece. There are no laws that prohibit women from sunbathing without a bikini top. However, as in many countries, legality and social acceptance are two different things. While topless sunbathing is accepted in many tourist-heavy areas, it may not be welcomed everywhere.

In popular destinations like Mykonos, Santorini, and Rhodes, topless sunbathing is quite common and generally goes unnoticed. These places cater to international tourists, many of whom are used to more relaxed beach norms.

Where Is Topless Sunbathing Commonly Accepted?

If you're looking to sunbathe topless without attracting unwanted attention, it's best to head to beaches where it's already the norm. Some options include:

Nudist Beaches

Greece has both official and unofficial nudist beaches where going topless - or fully nude - is completely normal. Some of the most popular include:

Red Beach (Crete) - Near Matala, this beach is known for its nudist-friendly atmosphere and striking scenery.
Banana Beach (Skiathos) - A lively beach with a designated area for nudists.
Paradise Beach (Mykonos) - Famous for its party scene, this beach welcomes all kinds of beachgoers, including those who prefer going topless.

Tourist Hotspots

On the beaches of large tourist destinations such as Mykonos, Kos, Zakynthos, and Rhodes, topless sunbathing is often tolerated and not unusual. Locals in these areas are generally used to seeing it and tend not to react.

Remote Beaches and Coves

If you're unsure about the social vibe of a certain area, Greece has countless secluded beaches where you can feel comfortable sunbathing topless without drawing much attention.

Where Topless Sunbathing Is Less Common

Even though topless sunbathing is not illegal, there are places where it's just not part of the local culture. In more traditional or conservative communities, going topless might feel out of place or attract curious looks.

Small, traditional villages - Locals here may not be used to topless tourists, and it might come off as disrespectful.
Family beaches - When surrounded by families with children, it's more considerate to keep your top on.
Near churches and monasteries - Out of respect for Greece’s strong Orthodox Christian culture, it’s best to avoid going topless near religious sites.

⚠️ Note: In some towns, like Artemida (Loutsa), topless sunbathing is not commonly practiced, even though it’s not illegal. Most locals don’t do it, and it might feel socially inappropriate. If you're in such areas, it's best to follow local norms and keep your top on.

Tips for Going Topless in Greece

If you choose to sunbathe topless, keep these tips in mind for a smooth and respectful experience:

Read the room - If other women around you are topless, you’re probably good to go.
Be discreet - If you notice people staring or seeming uncomfortable, consider covering up or moving to a more private area.
Be respectful - Greeks are used to tourists, but showing awareness of local customs goes a long way.
Keep it to the beach - Always put something on when leaving the sand, whether you're grabbing food or just going for a walk.

Topless sunbathing in Greece is generally accepted in the right settings, but being mindful of local norms -especially in more traditional areas like Artemida - will help you enjoy your vacation comfortably and respectfully.