Is Weed Legal in Zante?

Zante (also known as Zakynthos) is one of Greece’s most popular party islands, known for its beaches, nightlife, and relaxed vibe. But while the atmosphere may feel free and easy, the laws around cannabis are anything but. If you’re wondering, “is weed legal in Zante?”, the answer is clear: no.

Cannabis is illegal in Greece, and Zante follows national law. Although small-scale possession may not always lead to jail time, drug laws are enforced, and tourists should be cautious—especially in nightlife areas like Laganas, where police presence is high during the summer season.

Is Cannabis Legal in Greece?

No. Cannabis is classified as a controlled substance under Greek law. Although reforms have been made to allow medical cannabis in specific situations, recreational use remains illegal across the country—including in Zante.

Recreational Cannabis in Zante: What’s the Law?

Recreational cannabis is not legal, but Greece does distinguish between personal use and intent to supply.

Possession of Small Amounts:

• Considered a misdemeanour, but still a criminal offence

• Police may arrest and detain you

• You will be required to appear in court, though first-time offenders often receive a suspended sentence or are referred to a drug education programme

Possession of Larger Amounts or Repeat Offences:

• Treated as intent to distribute

• Can result in 1 to 5 years in prison, depending on the quantity and circumstances

Use in Public:

• Smoking cannabis in public places—beaches, streets, clubs, hotel balconies—can lead to arrest and criminal charges

Tourists are not exempt from these laws, and Greek authorities take drug offences seriously.

What Are the Penalties?

Cannabis Clubs or Shops in Zante?

Unlike Spain, Greece does not have cannabis clubs, dispensaries, or legal outlets for recreational cannabis. You may see people smoking or be offered cannabis in nightlife areas, but:

• Street dealers are illegal

• The quality is unregulated

• You risk scams, arrest, or exposure to dangerous substances

There are no legal ways for tourists to buy or use cannabis in Zante.

Medical Cannabis in Greece

Greece legalised medical cannabis in 2017, but access remains tightly controlled.

• Only a few cannabis-based medicines, like Sativex, are available for conditions such as multiple sclerosis

• Raw cannabis, oils, or flowers are not legally sold to patients

• Prescriptions can only be issued by Greek doctors, and access is mostly limited to residents

Tourists cannot bring medical cannabis into Greece, even with a prescription from their home country. Doing so can result in arrest at the airport or border.

What About CBD?

CBD (cannabidiol) is legal in Greece, including Zante, if it contains less than 0.2% THC.

• CBD oils, creams, and edibles are available in some health shops

• However, CBD flower or buds can be mistaken for illegal cannabis and may lead to legal trouble

To stay safe, only purchase labelled CBD products from reputable shops, and avoid carrying CBD when flying.

Tourist Advice: What You Need to Know

If you’re visiting Zante:

• Do not bring weed or cannabis products into Greece

• Do not buy from street dealers—it’s illegal, unsafe, and risky

• Avoid smoking in public, especially near hotels, clubs, and beaches

• If arrested, contact your embassy immediately—but know that Greek authorities apply the law strictly

Even a small amount of cannabis can lead to court dates, legal costs, and travel restrictions.

Future Outlook

While Greece has made small steps forward with medical cannabis and industrial hemp, the country remains conservative on recreational use. There are no plans to legalise weed in the near future, and decriminalisation is limited to case-by-case court outcomes.

In Summary:

• Weed is illegal in Zante and across Greece

• Possession, use, and sale are criminal offences

• Tourists are subject to the same laws as locals

• Medical cannabis is legal, but access is restricted to Greek patients

• CBD is legal, if it contains less than 0.2% THC

Zante may be party-friendly, but Greece’s drug laws are no joke. If you're heading there, enjoy the beaches and bars—but leave cannabis out of your plans.