Can You Flush Toilet Paper in Greece? A Definitive Guide for Aussie Travellers
It’s the question every Aussie asks the moment they step off the plane in Athens: “Can I flush the loo paper?” The short answer? Nope. Don’t even think about it.
Why you can’t flush in Greece
Greek pipes aren’t built for the same load as back home. Most are around 50mm wide (that’s about as thick as a garden hose), so even a couple of squares of paper can cause chaos. In Australia, our sewage pipes are much wider, so we never think twice. In Greece, a flush-happy tourist can cause a plumbing disaster faster than you can say “Yamas!”.
That’s why you’ll spot a bin next to almost every toilet. That’s where the paper goes. Yes, it feels weird at first. No, you won’t be the only one doing it.
The exceptions (because of course there are some)
Fancy hotels: Some brand-new resorts in Santorini or Mykonos claim their plumbing can cope. But unless the sign says “go ahead”, assume the bin is your new best friend.
Airports and malls: Modern facilities are more forgiving, though bins still appear more often than not.
Villages and islands: The smaller and older the place, the stricter the no-flush rule.
How do you know what to do?
Look up: There’s usually a big, bold sign saying “Please don’t flush paper.”
Look down: If there’s a bin beside the toilet, it’s not for decoration.
Ask: If you’re still unsure, your host or waiter will happily explain. Trust me, you won’t be the first to ask.
What Aussies should expect
At first, it feels wrong. You’ll hover over the bin like you’re breaking a law. But after a couple of days you won’t even think about it. Everyone does it, from locals to tourists, and the bins are emptied regularly.
So relax. You won’t be living in filth. Most bins are lined, lidded, and whisked away daily. It’s all very civilised—just a little different to what you’re used to.
What if I accidentally flush toilet paper in Greece?
Don’t stress. One rogue flush isn’t going to bring down the whole village. But here’s the survival guide if you slip up:
Stay calm: You haven’t committed a crime (yet).
Don’t make it a habit: The system can usually handle a little, but repeat offences can cause blockages.
If things go south: A clogged loo is awkward in any country. In Greece, it means a plumber squeezing into your tiny bathroom while you awkwardly apologise with Google Translate. Save yourself the drama.
Think of it like dropping your phone in the toilet — everyone’s worst nightmare, but recoverable. Just learn from it and never do it again.
Tips to survive the no-flush rule
BYO tissues: Some public toilets are BYO paper.
Hand sanitiser is your mate: Especially in rural areas or roadside stops.
Don’t panic: Greeks know the system feels odd to visitors. They’ll usually smile and point you in the right direction.
In Greece, the golden rule is simple: when in doubt, don’t flush. If there’s a bin, use it. If there’s a sign, follow it. And if you forget? Well, at least you’ll leave Greece with a story that starts with “So there I was, blocking the loo in Mykonos…”.
