Greeks are the heaviest smokers in Europe — over 40 percent of the population smokes.

But those who enjoy a cigarette won't be able to smoke inside public places from July 1.

The tobacco ban includes work places, from offices to airports, trains and taxis.

And most bars, cafes and restaurants have to have separate and clearly marked smoking and non-smoking sections.

But the owner of this restaurant and many other businesses say they don't fully understand the new law.

And that some of the measures were only announced the day before the ban:

[Nikos Koutouzis, Restaurant Owner]:
"We will remove the ashtrays as of today and put them only on the outside tables for those who want to smoke, until we can understand what exactly the law states, because until now we don't understand it. Of course if the law is enforced and 30 percent of the restaurant must be for smokers we will follow the law."

Smokers think restaurants, bars and cafes are likely to lose customers.

[Panayiotis, Smoker]:
"I would rather stay home with friends and have a drink if I can't go somewhere where I can smoke. I think this will create a crisis for businesses, if the law is enforced of course."

Previous attempts to restrict smoking in hospitals and offices have widely been ignored.

Now, smokers and businesses will be fined for breaking the law.

Smoking-related diseases kill about 20 thousand people a year in Greece, costing the country over 2 billion Euros annually.

So the health ministry hopes the new ban will finally get Greeks to kick the habit.