
08/23/2025
Queen Elizabeth II traveled the world during her reign, but Greece was one place she never officially visited.
Queen Elizabeth II's 70-year reign saw her visit over 116 countries, yet Greece remained notably absent from her official travel schedule. While she did travel to Greece once as a princess in 1950, she never made an official state visit as queen. The reason behind this absence is tied to personal history—specifically, the deep emotions of her husband, Prince Philip.
Born into the Greek royal family, Prince Philip had a complex and often painful relationship with his birth country. After his family’s exile, they were subjected to harsh treatment, and the experience left lasting scars. This likely influenced Prince Philip’s views on Greece, leading him to avoid returning there in an official capacity. His feelings, in turn, may have contributed to the Queen’s decision not to make an official visit.
While Elizabeth's absence from Greece was a curious omission in her travel history, it speaks to the personal connections and emotions that can shape even the most public of royal duties.