Is Weed Legal in Greece?

Cannabis laws vary widely across Europe, and Greece has a mixed approach depending on whether the use is recreational or medical. Here's the full breakdown of cannabis legality in Greece as of 2024.

Recreational Cannabis Use in Greece

Recreational cannabis is illegal in Greece.
Possession, cultivation, and distribution of cannabis for non-medical use is prohibited and punishable under Greek drug laws.

What happens if you’re caught?

• Possession of small amounts (typically a few grams) is still considered a criminal offence, but may be treated as a misdemeanour for first-time or low-level offenders.

• Repeat offences or larger quantities can lead to serious charges, including prison time.

• Cultivating cannabis plants, even for personal use, is illegal unless specifically licensed for medical or industrial use.

Greek police enforce these laws, and cannabis-related arrests are not uncommon. For example, in late 2024, authorities destroyed over 8,000 illegally grown plants at a hidden farm in central Greece.

Is Medical Cannabis Legal in Greece?

Yes—medical cannabis is legal in Greece under strict conditions.

Key facts:

• Legalised in 2017, but prescriptions became more widely available in 2024 after regulatory delays.

• Only registered patients with specific health conditions can access medical cannabis, typically for:

  • Cancer

  • Chronic pain

  • Epilepsy

  • Multiple sclerosis

• Cannabis is dispensed in regulated forms (such as oils, flowers, or capsules), but not for smoking in public.

The Greek government has issued licenses to a limited number of medical cannabis cultivation and processing facilities, making Greece one of the few EU countries allowing domestic production.

What About CBD and Hemp in Greece?

CBD is legal in Greece, provided it contains less than 0.2% THC, in line with EU guidelines.

• You can legally buy CBD oils, capsules, and cosmetics in pharmacies and health shops.

• Industrial hemp cultivation is also legal, but farmers must be licensed and grow only approved strains.

⚠️ Keep in mind that some police may not distinguish easily between legal hemp flower and illegal high-THC cannabis, so carrying flower-form CBD can still carry risk.

Can Tourists Use Cannabis in Greece?

No—tourists are subject to the same laws as Greek citizens. Recreational use is illegal, and bringing cannabis into the country—even for personal medical use—can result in serious legal issues unless you have pre-approved documentation under international medical agreements.

Summary: Is Weed Legal in Greece?

Final Word

Cannabis in Greece sits in a legal grey zone for many people. While medical cannabis is legal and CBD is widely available, recreational weed is still strictly banned.

If you're travelling to or living in Greece, it's best to stick to legal CBD products or speak with a doctor about medical cannabis eligibility. Possession of THC-containing cannabis without authorisation still carries legal consequences.