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Basic Greek Words, Phrases, and Slang to Learn Before You Go to Greece

Opa! Learn these basic words and phrases and it won't be all Greek to you.

So you're dreaming of a trip to Greece. On the to-do list: Dust off your camera to capture the awe-inspiring ruins and dazzling cliffside sunsets, find the perfect island-hopping outfits for stylish Instagram snaps in front of white-washed houses draped with bougainvillea, and prepare yourself to come back a few pounds heavier from all the feta and haloumi doused in olive oil that will surely be eaten at many a quaint taverna.

Lower on the list of priorities may be picking up a few basic Greek phrases to converse with locals while you're there. Even though Greece is a popular tourist destination, few people consider trying to learn Greek as part of their travels.

The culprit is likely the Greek alphabet. If you're unfamiliar, think of the angular shapes used by college fraternities and sororities everywhere. Unlike the Latin alphabet of romance languages, Greek letters are indecipherable for English speakers, making the language more difficult to learn than Romance languages such as Spanish, Italian, and French.

But don't let that stop you from trying to pick up some Greek, especially before you leave for your trip. Michaela Kron of the popular language learning mobile app Duolingo , told Travel + Leisure of a survey they did of their users: "One interesting finding… was that many make the mistake of not learning a language ahead of an international trip, but in hindsight wish they had done it. We actually found that many of our users pick up Duolingo after a trip, likely because they are inspired by their travels to pick up a new language."

While you'll find that almost everyone speaks a basic level of English in the most popular tourist destinations, Greeks are a very friendly and social people, and they will love if you can trade a bit of banter with them in their own language — even if they poke fun at you for trying. When they treat you to a free slice of halva cake or a shot of ouzo at the end of your meal, you'll know you scored points for trying.

So get ahead of the curve and try to learn some common phrases (and even a little Greek slang) before you go. We assure you that attempting (and even butchering) the most basic of phrases with locals will make the trip more memorable — and perhaps even lead to a lasting friendship.

Below, you'll find phrases written first in Greek and the phonetic pronunciation following in parentheses, with emphasis placed on the syllables in capital letters. Use Google Translate to play an audio of how these phrases are pronounced.

Basic Greek Words and Phrases

Hello: Γειά σου (YAH-soo)

The less formal way to say "Hi" would just be "Γεια" (Yah). If addressing a group, say "YAH-sas".

Nice to meet you: Χάρηκα πολύ (HA-ree-ka po-LEE)

How are you?: Tι κανείς (tee-KAH-nis)?

Good morning: Καλημέρα (kah-lee-MER-ah)

You would say this greeting up until noon, and then for the rest of the day you can use "Γεια" (yah) as the standard greeting.

Good afternoon/evening: Καλησπέρα (kah-lee-SPER-ah)

Beginning around late afternoon/dusk and into the evening, you can use this greeting.

Goodnight: Καληνύχτα (kah-lee-NEEKH-tah)

Say this when going to bed.

Thank you: Ευχαριστώ (eff-kha-ri-STOE)

Remember that a good tourist is a polite tourist.

Please/You're welcome: Παρακαλώ (para-kah-LOE)

In Greek, the word for "please" and "you're welcome" is the same, making it all the more easy to learn. It's polite to say "para-kah-LOE" after asking for directions or the price of something. It can even be used to mean "I beg your pardon?" or "Huh?" when you've misunderstood or want someone to repeat something.

My name is... : Με λένε (may LEH-neh)...

What is your name?: πως σε λένε? (pos-oh LEH-neh)

Goodbye: Γειά σου (YAH-soo)

The more informal way of saying bye would just be "Yah." Recall that this is the same as saying hello (similar to "ciao" in Italian or "aloha" in Hawaiian). If addressing a group, say "YAH-sas."

See/Talk to you later: Τα λέμε (tah-LEH-meh)

You may hear people ending their conversations with this phrase as well.

Yes: Ναί (neh); No: όχι (OH-hee)

Be careful not to confuse yes and no — it's easy to mistakenly associate "neh" with "no" in English, and "oh-hee" with "okay" when in fact it's just the opposite! An easy mnemonic is to remember that they're actually the inverse of what you would initially think.

Excuse me/Sorry: Συγνώμη (See-GHNO-mee)

Say this to get someone's attention, ask to pass by someone, or apologize if you've bumped into someone.

Common Greek Phrases Travelers Should Know

Where is the bathroom?: Πού είναι η τουαλέτα (Poh-EE-nay ee tua-LEH-tah)?

Helpful hint: "Poh-EE-nay" means "Where is?" so you can ask for help with locating something by saying this while pointing to a specific location in your guidebook or on a map.

Do you speak English?: Μιλάτε αγγλικά (Mee-LAH-teh ag-li-KAH)?

Cheers!: Στην υγειά μας! (STIN-eh YAH-mas)

This literally means "To our health!" If addressing a group of people not including yourself, say "STIN-eh YAH-sas," which means "To your health!"

Bottoms up!: Ασπρο πάτο (AHS-pro PAH-toh)

Meaning literally "white bottom," if you use this with a new Greek acquaintance, you'll be sure to impress.

How much is it?: Πόσο κάνει αυτό (POH-soh KAH-nee af-TOH)?

You can get by with asking "POH-soh KAH-nee" (How much?). Adding the "af-TOH" just means "How much is it?"

I don't understand: Δεν καταλαβαίνω (Then Kah-tah-lah-VEH-noh)

Help! Βοήθεια (voh-EE-thee-yah)

I love Greece: Αγαπώ την Ελλάδα (Ah-gah-POH teen Eh-LAH-tha)

Oops!: Ωπα (OH-pa)

If there's one Greek word you may have heard before, it's likely "opa." Originally meaning "oops" or "whoops," it's now also used frequently as an exclamation of enthusiasm or joy in celebrations or to show appreciation for music, dancing, food, and drinks. For example, when you've thoroughly impressed your waiter with your new Greek skills, and he offers you a round of ouzo shots on the house, you can say, "Opa!" in appreciation.

Greek Slang and Phrases

What's up/How's it going?: Τι λέει (tee-LEI)

What are you up to?: Που είσαι (pou-eeSAY)

So good/so cool: και γαμώ (kay-gaMOU)

Although this is technically a curse word, you'll hear everyone using it colloquially to address friends. But only use it on someone you know!: μαλάκα (maLAka)

See you later: τα λέμε (ta LEH-meh)

Dude/man: ρε φίλε (reh-FEEleh)

73+ Essential Greek Travel Phrases for Tourists on a Greek Holiday

Disclosure: This essential Greek travel phrases for tourists article may contain affiliate links. If you click it and buy something you like, I’ll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you! Read more in  Disclaimer .

Are you traveling to Greece ? Interested in learning simple Greek phrases for tourists ? You are at the right place! Knowing travel phrases is highly required when in a foreign country, but you don’t need to be fluent in Greek to enjoy your time exploring Santorini scenery, the historical Athens, or beaches of Crete, knowing a few basic Greek words and phrases will supplement your experience in Greece, like a nice and strong ouzo.

After traveling to Greece multiple times, I can guarantee you, that learning some simple Greek words will give you further insight into Greek culture and their way of life. Want to know what are some common phrases I need to learn before travelling to Greece? Look below.

🥘 If you have been wondering “What is Anja’s favorite Greek food?”, you will find the answer hidden in the blog.

Greece is one of the most desired and visited countries in Europe during summertime. With its rich history, picturesque landscapes, vibrant culture, and delicious food Greece attracts all types of tourists. I’m one of them and can’t wait to return. A lot of people in Greece speak English, but knowing common Greek phrases for travel will show respect and can open doors to more meaningful interactions. Knowing essential Greek phrases will help in Cyprus or when ordering Greek food back at home. In this Greek language guide , you will find useful Greek phrases for tourists, including expressing gratitude, ordering food, a list of Greek phrases seeking assistance, and Greek phrases for travel when navigating. I encourage you to DOWNLOAD Greek travel phrases pdf for FREE and bring it with you to Greece. Let’s begin learning Greek, one essential Greek travel phrase at a time!

for ESSENTIAL TRAVEL PHRASES: • 73+ Essential ENGLISH Travel Phrases and Words You Should Know • 73+ Essential ARABIC Travel Phrases for Tourists in Arab Countries & Free PDF • 73+ Essential GREEK Travel Phrases for Tourists on a Greek Holiday & Download • 73+ Essential JAPANESE Travel Phrases for Tourists Visiting Japan & Free cheat sheet • 73+ Essential SLOVENIAN Travel Phrases for your trip to Slovenia & Free Download • 73+ Essential SWAHILI Travel Phrases for Travelers to East Africa + Free Download for WORDS & PHRASES in 101 different languages: • How to say You have beautiful eyes in 101 different languages • How to say What is the WiFi password in 101 different languages • How to say Hello in 101 different languages spoken around the World • How to say Love in 101 different languages spoken around the World • How to say I love you in 101 different languages spoken around the World • How to say Thank you in 101 different languages spoken around the World • How to say Happy Birthday in 101 different languages spoken In the World • How to say Happy New Year in 101 different languages spoken around the World • How to say Friend in 101 different languages spoken around the World with Pronunciation

for general GREECE TRAVEL TIPS: • GET OVER JET LAG WITH THESE 19 EASY-TO-FOLLOW TIPS for GREECE TIPS: • 73+ Essential Greek Travel Phrases for Tourists on a Greek Holiday for best TOURS IN JAPAN: • for INSTAGRAM CAPTIONS about GREECE: • 103 Amazing Athens Captions For Instagram and Athens Puns

Table of Contents

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1. Where is Greek spoken?

Did you know that more than 13 million people speak Greek? Greek is an official language in Greece and Cyprus . As a mother tongue, it is widely spoken by the Greek population in other countries. You would be able to hear Greek in certain regions of Albania, Bulgaria, Italy (specifically in the region of Calabria), and Turkey (mainly in the region of Western Thrace). Greek speaking communities can also be found in countries with Greek diaspora , such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and various European countries. There are numerous ways to learn easy Greek words and phrases by taking a language course. You can use language apps like Duolingo, or Memrise. You can sign up for a language exchange, download a cheat sheet in this blog post, or travel to Greece.

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2. GREEK language basics: alphabet and pronunciation

Before you start learning Greek words and phrases, it is important to familiarize yourself with the Greek alphabet . This will not be hard, since you already know some letters from Maths, and since many English and Greek letters kind of look the same. The Greek alphabet consists of 24 letters and does not include the letters W and X. However, it does include additional letters such as Ψ (psi) and Ω (omega). Is greek language easy to learn? Pronunciation of Greek words and phrases is generally phonetic , making it relatively straightforward. Each letter in the Greek alphabet has a consistent and distinct sound, making it easier to pronounce words accurately. A simple guide to Greek alphabet and pronunciation with similar English sounds:

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3. Essential Greek travel phrases

3.1. top greek words and phrases for travelers.

Top Greek words and phrases include expressions that showcase politeness and cultural respect, encouraging positive interactions with locals and are a base for every communication, all included in Greek basic phrases pdf available for download.

ALSO READ: • 103 Amazing Athens Captions For Instagram and Athens Puns

3.2. Common Greek travel phrases for greetings and introductions

Greek words to know when traveling for greetings lay the foundation for any interaction, allowing you to initiate conversations and make a positive first impression.

3.3. Essential Greek travel phrases for directions and getting around

Greek words and phrases for asking for directions will enable you to navigate unfamiliar streets and find your way around.

3.4. Useful Greek phrases for tourists when ordering food and drinks

Basic greek for tourists for ordering meals, asking for recommendations, and specifying dietary preferences ensure enjoyable dining experiences and help you explore local cuisines.

3.5. Practical Greek basic terms for shopping

Greek basics terms for inquiring about prices, negotiating, and asking for sizes or colors are handy when exploring markets and boutiques.

🥘 “What is Anja’s favorite Greek food?” It is moussaka. But I like it more with potato and meat than with eggplant.

ALSO READ: • How to say Hello in 100+ languages

3.6. Useful phrases in Greek for travel when checking in a hotel

Useful Greek words you will need when checking in a hotel, asking for towels, fixing air conditioning, enquiring what time is breakfast, and what is included in your room rate.

3.7. Helpful Greek travel terms in case of emergencies

Here you will find basic Greek phrases for travel in case of emergencies, natural disasters, or if you will be needing assistance in difficult or dangerous situations.

3.8. List of nonessential Greek phrases

If you’re like me and really love learning a few phrases in new languages, expand your study beyond the essential travel phrases. After learning Greek phrases to know when traveling expand your key Greek phrases with list of Greek phrases below;

4. Best language App for traveling abroad

Learning a language is a long process. If you think you won’t have time to learn Greek for travellers , or if the situations come your way when above mentioned Greek words and phrases won’t be enough, use Google Translate. This is my favorite language app, that I use on (almost) every trip.

4.1. Google Translate

Google Translate is the most popular language travel app that can be used everywhere. I personally use it on all my travels, when going to Tanzania to learn what some Swahili words mean, when in Mexico to help with my not-the-best Spanish, when in Italy, in Japan and other places. I’m sure you are familiar with the language app already. The most obvious feature is it will help you translate the destination language into your own one. But the absolute best feature is that it can translate the text using ‘ camera translation ’. All you have to do is open the app, point your camera toward the text in a foreign language and Google Translate will do the rest. Perfect for menus! It also translates text from the photos on your camera roll. And it also works offline, when you download the language pair on your phone. Language: 133 languages Download: iOS | Android | Website Price: Free

5. Final thoughts on Essential Greek Travel Phrases and Words

Whether it’s a warm greeting, ordering a meal, or expressing gratitude, common Greek travel phrases not only open doors to easier communication, but they also show respect and will help you to understand Greek culture in a different way. Before traveling to Greece, learn Greek language basics and Greek basic words that will help you to navigate through this blue and white country, full of history and sites. How to say Hello in Greek and how to say thank you in Greek language. Basic Greek phrases for directions, ordering food, and checking in a hotel. All combined in 100 Greek phrases pdf you can dowload for free. Which of these useful tourist Greek phrases have you managed to memorize so far? Let me know in the comments! Safe travels = ασφαλή ταξίδια [asfalí taxídia], Anja

➤ What you should read next …

• 103 Amazing Athens Captions For Instagram and Athens Puns • 73+ Essential Arabic Travel Phrases for Tourists in Arab Countries & Free PDF • How to say You have beautiful eyes in 101 different languages • 73+ Essential Slovenian Travel Phrases for your trip to Slovenia • How to say Happy Birthday in 100+ languages

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✈ Travel like a PRO

Are you ready to travel like a PRO? Save time and money with these travel tips and resources . I personally use these companies to save time and money. They do the work by providing a list of options, prices, and reviews from actual guests, for anywhere I am traveling worldwide. ✈️ FLIGHTS: I use Skyscanner in combination with Google Flights to find amazing flight fares (try the Explore feature). I book directly with an airline or pair it with Iwantthatflight for the best deals. 🏨 ACCOMMODATION: Booking.com is my favorite site for finding great hotel deals. They return the best rates and reviews are from actual guests! 🚘 RENTAL CARS: Discover Cars are my go-to, when planning an epic road trip. 🗽 TOURS & ACTIVITIES: I like to wander around on my own, but when I want to explore with a group, skip the line with an entrance ticket, I book it with GetYourGuide or Viator . ❤️‍🩹 TRAVEL INSURANCE: I never, under any circumstances travel without insurance. In most cases, I use yearly global travel medical insurance. But, if you don’t have that and some impromptu travel plans occur, use SafetyWing . With them, you can buy travel insurance even when you are already abroad. Better be safe, than sorry! 📲 ONLINE SAFETY: NordVPN keeps your devices’ browsing safe and malware-free. Stream shows from around the world, access social media in countries where they are blocked and buy cheap flights by changing your virtual location. 🛜 STAY CONNECTED WITH eSIM: Ditch the plastic SIM cards and waiting in lines at the airport! Airalo eSIMs allow you to connect as soon as you land at your destination. They have eSIMs for over 190+ countries worldwide.

Where is Greek spoken?

Greek is an official language in Greece and Cyprus. Greek language can also be heard in neighboring regions certain regions and in countries with Greek diaspora, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and various European countries. 

How do you say Good Morning in Greek?

Καλημέρα pronounced as “Kaliméra” Learn more Greek holiday phrases and common Greek words for tourists on Anja On Adventure blog. Here you can also FREE DOWNLOAD basic Greek words pdf and coloring pages with Greek words.

How to pronounce Thank you in Greek?

Thank you in Greece is Σας ευχαριστώ . Thank you in Greek phonetically is “ Sas efcharistó”. Now than you know how do you say thank you in Greek, learn more basic phrases in Greek and common Greek words for holiday on Anja On Adventure blog. Here you can also FREE DOWNLOAD basic Greek phrases pdf and coloring pages with basic words in Greek.

How to say Hello in Greek?

Γειά σου pronounced as “Geiá sou”. Learn more common phrases in Greek and common holiday Greek phrases on Anja On Adventure blog. Here you can also FREE DOWNLOAD basic Greek phrases for tourists pdf and coloring pages with Greek words.

How do you say Goodnight in Greek?

Καληνύχτα pronounced as “ Kalinichta”. Learn more Greek words for travel and common Greek phrases for holiday on Anja On Adventure blog. Here you can also FREE DOWNLOAD Greek for tourists pdf and coloring pages with Greek words.

How do you say Cheers in Greek?

Στην υγειά σας pronounced as “ Stin ygeiá sas”. Learn more phrases in Greek for tourists and common Greek words list on Anja On Adventure blog. Here you can also FREE DOWNLOAD Greek travel phrases cheat sheet pdf and coloring pages with Greek words.

How do you say YES and NO in Greek?

How to say Yes in Greek? Ναι , pronounced as “Ne”. How to say No in Greek? No is Όχι , pronounced as “Óchi”. Learn more Greek tourist phrases and common Greek for travelers on Anja On Adventure blog. Here you can also FREE DOWNLOAD Greek phrasebook pdf and coloring pages with Greek words.

❥ About Anja On Adventure

Anja On Adventure is a travel blog, a collection of insider tips and information on destinations, that I visited as a solo female traveler, tour guide, teacher, yacht stewardess, and Survivor challenge tester. Anja, is a thirty-something adventure-seeking, sun chasing, beach hopping, gin-loving, tropics enthusiast with a creative mind and sarcastic spirit, who loves coconut and mango but doesn’t like chocolate and sweets. I am passionate about all things travel, maps, and puzzles. Click here to learn more About me .

About the author: Anja

50 Basic Greek Words & Phrases: Useful Common Greek Phrases And Words To Learn For Your Trip To Greece!

Marco Santos

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Have you booked your dream Grecian adventure and looking for some handy basic Greek words , and common phrases in Greek to make use of during your stay? In this guide, we’ve got you covered with exactly that!

It’s no secret, we absolutely adore everything about Greece. From the idyllic romantic Greek islands to the historic streets of Athens, the out of this world Greek cuisine, and not to forget the hospitable and warm Greek people themselves.

From the moment we set foot in Athens for a few nights and throughout our Greek island hopping adventure which included stops in Mykonos, Naxos, and Santorini , we were hooked and have vowed to return to beautiful Greece to explore more of this divine country.

Whilst we didn’t have any problems at all with communication throughout our journey, learning a few essential words and phrases in Greek goes a long way towards impressing your local hosts. 

In this post, we’ve decided to put together a list of the most common Greek phrases, some basic Greek words as well as other useful expressions in Greek that you may find handy along your own journey.

Of course, the Greek language is not easy to learn. Least of all because they make use of a completely different alphabet and pronunciation may be a challenge.

As such, we’ve also gone ahead and provided you with pronunciation guides to help you ace this list of essential Greek words and phrases. 

Disclaimer: This post contains links to services or products that I trust and recommend and from which I may earn commissions. Read our privacy policy for more.

Pssst…Before you jet off to idyllic Greece, be sure you have all your essentials packed by reading our European packing guide . 

50 Handy & Common Greek Words & Phrases to Learn

Basic Greek Words

Along your travels, you’ll no likely need some basic Greek words and expressions that may range from simple pleasantries, the Greek “thank you”, or how to say “no” in Greek. Here are some of the essentials to get you started. 

Greetings in Greek

Here are some more useful greetings in Greek that include things like how to say hello in Greek or what goodbye in Greek is. 

When to use which Greek greeting:

“Good morning” is typically used up until noon, 12:00. Thereafter you can start switching to using ‘Geia Sas’ (Hi / Bye). 

“Good evening” can start to be used around late afternoon (from around 16:00 pm onwards is good) and can be used into the night. 

The use of “Good night” is really intended to signal you calling it a night and usually only later after around 21:00 pm. Say you are heading to bed or perhaps you are leaving a dinner party to head back to your hotel, then this form would be more appropriate. 

Useful & Basic Phrases in Greek

The following expressions and phrases and expressions in Greek may come in very handy when trying to navigate through your travels in Greece. Regardless if you want to impress your local host, or simply want to express love in a different language , these Greek phrases will certainly come in handy!

Useful Greek Vocabulary

Here are a few good-to-know Greek words that you can use in combination with the phrases mentioned above!

Basic Greek Numbers

Here is a list of how to count from one to ten in Greek that may come into play if you wanted to say order two beers or one glass of wine!

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20 of the Most Beautiful Travel Words and their Unique Greek Origins

Beautiful travel words of Greek origin inspire and give meaning to all types of travel experiences.

By knowing about these Greek-related travel words, you will, in effect, gain a greater insight into the world of travel, especially when visiting Greece.

All of these beautiful travel words have something special about them.

It could be how a word sounds, the feelings, and wanderlust they inspire, the beautiful images they bring to mind, or some special uniqueness that makes them memorable.

The Most Beautiful Travel Words of Greek Origin

One thing is for sure, this list of the most beautiful travel words with unique Greek origins will expand your vocabulary—which is always a good thing.

I’ve also included another list of travel words at the end of this list (after the 20 most beautiful travel words) that didn’t make it into the top twenty.

The reason for doing this is so you can fully appreciate all the Greek-related travel words I considered for inclusion in this list of beautiful travel words.

It wasn’t easy to settle on these twenty best travel words of Greek origin, but I’m happy enough with the result.

Have a look and see what you think.

1. Aegean Sea – Travel Words

Origin: Greek

A beautiful word that brings to mind a few of the most beautiful Greek Islands , including Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete—to name a few.

“Happy is the man, I thought, who, before dying, has the fortune to sail the Aegean sea.” – Nikos Kazantzakis.

According to Greek Mythology, the Aegean Sea owes its name to an ancient King of Athens, Aigeas (Aegeas).

Aegeas was the father of the famous Greek hero, Theseus, who slew the Minotaur on the island of Crete.

When returning to Athens, Theseus sailed back to Athens with black sails after forgetting to change the ship’s sails to white ones.

As a result, his father thought it meant that his son hadn’t survived the ordeal. The fateful error led to the King’s tragic death since he decided to end his life by jumping into the sea.

Eventually, the surrounding sea would become known as the Aegean Sea.

Aegean Airlines also took its name from the same source.

The word Athens immediately conjures up beautiful images of The Parthenon.

Most overseas travelers first arrive by plane to Athens when they vacation in Greece.

The city received its name from the Goddess Athena.

In Greek Mythology, Athena and Poseidon had a contest to see who would become the patron of the Greek city.

Athena gifted the people the olive tree, while Poseidon made a spring gush forth from rocks.

Athena’s gift was deemed the best of the two by the people, so the city was named in her honor.

I had to include this word as one of the most beautiful travel words of Greek origin.

Athena, the Goddess of wisdom, is also beautiful, as proven by the famous beauty contest between Aphrodite, Athena, and Hera.

It wouldn’t have been smart on my part not to have included Athens in a list of the most beautiful travel words.

An atlas is a collection or book of maps, but it’s also an airline company.

According to Greek legend, Atlas was a Titan condemned to carry the heavens upon his shoulders.

The Titan Atlas is the reason why we can all travel around and explore the world.

4. Eleutheromania

Have you ever felt the intense desire for freedom? Well, the word for this feeling is Eleutheromania.

It’s similar to the feeling of wanderlust in different languages. Travel is one way that makes people feel free, and eleutheromania is the desire for that feeling.

It comes from Ancient Greek ἐλευθερία (eleuthería, ‘freedom’) plus‎ -mania.

It’s another word for Paradise!

Greek Mythology deemed the Elysian Fields as being a heavenly resting place after death.

It was seen as the go-to-place in the afterlife. Sadly not everyone was allowed entry into Olympus, the home of the Gods.

One of France’s main streets is named after this heavenly abode, the Champs-Élysees in Paris.

The street is famous for connecting the Arc de Triomphe with the Place de la Concorde. Many consider it to be one of the world’s most famous commercial streets.

Elysian has to be one of the most beautiful travel words because everyone wants to end up in paradise one day. At least you can visit it in Paris.

6. Eudaimonia 

It’s that happy feeling you get when you travel.

Feeling great when traveling, then the Greek word that describes it is eudaimonia.

It comes from Greek philosophy that has been translated as meaning happiness or well-being.

It has to be one of the biggest reasons why many people love traveling and exploring new places.

Europe is where it’s all at. You have Greece, Italy, and so many other great countries to visit.

It all started with Europa, the mythological princess who ended up being seduced by Zeus.

Zeus took her to the island of Crete across the ocean after the princess sat on his back while he was disguised in the form of a beautiful white bull.

At the time, she had no idea that it was really Zeus, the king of the Gods.

No one could have foreseen that Europa would bestow her name to a group of countries that would one day be known as Europe.

It has become one of the most sought out travel destinations globally, and it all started with a weird sea voyage of her own.

You have the world, and then you have the Galaxy.

It all started with the Milky Way, which is based on the Greek myth of Heracles, who, as a child, spilled some milk.

The word is derived from the Greek galaxias (kuklos) ‘milky (vault)’, from gala, galakt- ‘milk.’

I thought about it carefully, but I couldn’t leave Greece out from this list of beautiful travel words.

Greece is where many tourists dream of visiting, especially during the Greek summer.

Aristotle used the term “Graiko” as the name for the first inhabitants of the region.

It was later adopted by the Romans and turned into “Graecus,” a Latin word, to describe the people on the land now known as Greece.

10. Greek Islands

If there is one word better than Greece, then it would have to be the Greek Islands.

Santorini and Mykonos come to mind immediately when thinking about the Greek Islands.

With 227 inhabited Greek Islands to explore, and the rest, which number from 1200 to 6000 depending on the minimum size you consider, there’s something for everyone.

Once you’ve visited one of the best Greek Islands, you’ll be hooked forever.

11. Halcyon

The English word “halcyon ” describes an idyllically peaceful and perfect time that occurred in the past.

Halcyon means “kingfisher” in Greek.

A halcyon was a legendary bird in Greek Mythology that made its nest on the Aegean Sea. As the daughter of Aeolus, the god of winds, the bird possessed the power to calm the rough winds and waves.

The name of the God of travel deserves a place in the most beautiful Greek travel words for obvious reasons.

In Greek ἕρμα (herma) means “cairn, a pile of stones, boundary marker.”

13. Hodophile 

If you love to travel, you can consider yourself a Hodophile.

A lover of roads, one who loves to travel.

This word is derived from Ancient Greek ὁδός (hodós), which means travel.

How can a relatively unknown Greek Island be one of the most beautiful travel words?

Well, it’s all due to one of the most beautiful and famous travel poems of all time.

Ithaka Poem

As you set out for Ithaka hope your road is a long one, full of adventure, full of discovery. …

15. Odyssey

In ancient Greek times, the most famous journey would have to be the one described in Homer’s epic poem “The Odyssey.”

It took the Greek hero Odysseus ten years to return home after the Trojan War had finished.

16. Peripatetic

Someone who wanders from place to place, living a nomadic existence.

This word is traced back to the time of Aristotle and his followers. The philosophers often walked around peripatos (covered walk in the Lyceum) where Aristotle held his lectures.

It comes from the Greek word peripatētikos. From peripatein, meaning “to walk up and down.”

17. Santorini

Beautiful images of Santorini are often used in advertising and tourist brochures to get you thinking about taking a trip to Greece.

Ok, so it’s not a Greek word, but the island is in Greece, and it’s the most beautiful Greek Island in my opinion, so here it has to be.

18. Strikhedonia

If you ever felt like saying to hell with it, then you may be surprised to know that there’s actually a word for it. That word is strikhedonia.

It’s a popular Greek word associated with travel! That’s because many travelers and bloggers have done such a thing. To hell with it! I’ll quit my job and go traveling.

Obviously had to come from the Greeks.

19. Thalassophile 

For all of you beach lovers out there, this is what you are, a Thalassophile.

Derived from the Greek words θάλασσα / thalasso (sea), and -phile, from Greek philos ‘loving’.

20. Xenophilia

Someone who is attracted to foreign peoples, foreign cultures, manners, and/or customs.

It’s the reason why so many of us pack our bags to go traveling. Foreign things make travel experiences so much more interesting.

This unique travel word comes from the Greek “xenos,” meaning “stranger, unknown, foreign,” and “philia,” defined as “attraction or love.”

The beauty of this word is that it has the opposite meaning of being a Xenophobe.

Xenophobe describes a person that dislikes or is prejudice against people from other countries. No one wants to be known as a Xenophobe.

For this reason, I include Xenophilia as one of the most beautiful travel words.

Travel Words with Greek Origins that missed out

Acatalepsy – the idea that it is impossible to understand anything, which includes travel experiences.

Airplane (Aeroplane) – from the Greek ἀήρ (aēr), “air” and either Latin planus, “level,” or Greek πλάνος (planos), “wandering”.

Anemoia – a nostalgic sense of longing for a past you yourself have never lived. Maybe you were born in the wrong time period, or maybe you love something about a certain decade in time, like the music.

Aragma – The act of chilling. When the Greeks say ‘pame gia aragma spiti sou, ‘it means ‘let’s go chill at your place.’

Cosmopolitan – can be traced back to Pythagoras, who first used the Greek word kosmos to describe the order of the universe.

Erotic – from Eros, the Greek God of desire.

Eunoia – beautiful thinking.

Iris – Goddess of the rainbow.

Meraki – putting a part of yourself (your soul) into what you’re doing with complete focus and love.

Museum – from the nine Muses who presided over the arts and sciences.

Music – literally means the art of the Muses.

Nemophilist – lover of the woods.

Peratzatha – people-watching.

Philoxenia (Filoxenia) – literally translated as “friend to the stranger” / hospitality.

Taxidi – the Greek word for trip or journey.

I’m sure you would have learned a new word or two for this extensive list of beautiful travel words.

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Greek Words & Phrases for Travel

Greece is a destination that will leave you with unforgettable, exquisite recollections of locations. You will also engage with the Greeks, a wonderfully hospitable people whose entire culture focuses around giving visitors the best possible service. Greeks will go out of their way to make you feel welcome and pleased because they all believe that when they interact with tourists, they are acting as a sort of ambassador for their culture and ethnic identity.

Greeks prefer to be English language users . Therefore even though the Greek language is significantly different from Latin languages and uses a different alphabet, you should have no trouble engaging and navigating Greece wherever you go. Some may even speak languages other than English. Therefore, if someone overhears you speaking English, German, or even French, don’t worry that they won’t understand you since they probably will!

That being said, learning a few Greek words before your trip can only benefit you. Not only would it benefit you to know what to say to the occasional old person who doesn’t speak your language, especially if you want to travel and explore isolated areas of the nations you visit, but you will also excite the Greeks and win their admiration.

So get a head start and attempt to learn a few idioms (and perhaps even some Greek slang) before you travel. Trying (and even failing) to communicate with locals in even the most basic of words will make the trip more memorable and may even result in a lifelong connection.

Greek language – Basic Info

Greek is a very distinctive language. Many of the words were also in use throughout Ancient Greece , and the alphabet itself is thousands of years old. Greek is a difficult alphabet for most tourists to master. But after you’ve mastered memorization of the Greek alphabet, you ought to be able to read simple Greek words and phrases . You will be able to understand any road signs written exclusively in Greek thanks to this when traveling throughout Greece and the Greek islands. However, you don’t have to learn how to read the alphabet if you only want to learn a few Greek words and essential phrases.

Just simply learning the sounds of a few essential phrases, you may be a “good tourist”!

Pronunciation

Greek sounds are often not difficult for English people to pronounce. A, e, I o, u, and y are the only vowel sounds that are consistently uttered, as seen in the table opposite. The standard pronunciation of the letter S is “s”, however “z” is used before an m or g. The initial sound in “that” is represented by the letter d; the sound represented here as this is usually pronounced as in “thin,” not “that.” 

The sentences below are written in Greek first, with the phonetic pronunciation following in brackets, emphasizing the stressed syllables. 

Greek Phrases and Basic Words

• Yes, Ναί (neh), No, όχι (ohhee)

Avoid confusing yes and no. it’s simple to think that “neh” in English means “no” and “ohhee” means “okay” when in reality it means the exact reverse! Remembering that they are the opposite of what you would immediately expect might serve as an effective mnemonic.

• Okay, Εντάξει (entaksee)

When we also frequently say “OK”, especially in casual conversation, you should expect to hear it dozens of times while visiting Greece. You can try using it instead of “OK” to impress Greek individuals you meet because it’s simple to pronounce.

• Hello, Γειά σου (yah soo)

Simply saying “Hello” would be less formal (yah). When speaking to a group, pronounce “yah sas”.

• Nice to meet you, Χάρηκα πολύ (hareeka polee)
• How are you?, Tι κανείς (tee kanees)?
• Good morning, Καλημέρα (kahleemerah)

Before noon, this greeting is used. Thereafter, “ Γειά ” (yah) is the customary greeting for the remainder of the day.

• Good afternoon-good evening, Καλησπέρα (kahleesperah)

You can start using this greeting in the late afternoon-dusk and into the evening.

• Goodnight, Καληνύχτα (kahleeneektah)
• Thank you, Ευχαριστώ (effkharistoe)
• Please-You’re welcome, Παρακαλώ (parakahloe)

Greek has one word for both “please” and “you’re welcome”. It’s polite to say “parakahloe” after requesting information such as directions or a price. In situations where you’ve misinterpreted something or need someone to repeat yourself, it can also be used to signify “I beg your pardon?” or “Huh”?

• My name is…, Με λένε (mee Lehneh)…
• What is your name?, Πως σε λένε? (pos se lehneh)
• Goodbye, Γειά σου (yahsoo)

“Yah” is a simpler and more casual way to say goodbye. Keep in mind that this is equivalent to saying hello (similar to “ciao” in Italian or “aloha” in Spanish). When speaking to a group, pronounce “yahsas”.

• See you-Talk to you later, Τα λέμε (ta lehmeh)

You could also overhear folks putting their talks to rest with this phrasing.

• Excuse me-Sorry, Συγνώμη (Seeghnomee)

Say this to get someone’s attention, to ask permission to pass by, or to apologize if you accidentally ran into someone.

Greek Expressions Travelers Should Know

Basic important words.

• Airport, Αεροδρόμιο (aerodromio)
• Ship, Πλοίο or Καράβι (pleeo or caravee)
• Car, Αυτοκίνητο (autokeeneeto)
• Train station, Σταθμός τρένου (stathmos trenou)
• Bus, Λεωφορείο (leoforeeo)
• Hotel, Ξενοδοχείο (ksenodoxeeo)
• Water, Νερό (nero)
• Food, Φαγητό (fageeto)
• Bathroom, toilets, Τουαλέτα (toualeta)
• Bill, Λογαριασμός (logariasmos)
• Pharmacy, Drugstore, Φαρμακείο (farmakeeo)

Basic Everyday Words

• Where is the bathroom?, Πού είναι η τουαλέτα (Pou eene ee tualehtah)?

A helpful tip is to use the phrase “Pou eene,” which means “Where is”, to ask for directions to a particular spot while pointing to it on a map or in your guidebook.

• Do you speak English?, Mιλάτε αγγλικά (Meelahteh aglikah)?
• Cheers!, Στην υγειά μας! (stin eh yahmas) or Γειά μας (yahmas)

The literal translation is “To our health”! If you’re speaking to a group of people, you should utilize it.

• Bottoms up!, Άσπρο πάτο (Ashpro Pahtoh)

If you use this with a new Greek acquaintance, which literally means “white bottom,” you’ll be sure to wow them.

• How do I go to…, Πως πάω στο…  (Pos pao sto…) 
• How much is it?, Πόσο κάνει αυτό (Pohsoh kanee aftoh)?
• Where is the nearest ATM?, Που είναι το κοντινότερο ΑΤΜ (pou einai to kontinotero ATM)?
• Where can I withdraw money?, Που μπορώ να βγάλω λεφτά (pou boro na vgalo lefta)?
• I am looking for…, Ψάχνω για… (psahno gia…)
• I don’t understand, Δεν καταλαβαίνω (Then Kahtahlahvehnoh)

Greek phrases for the street

• I am lost, Έχω χαθεί (eho hathee)
• Turn left, Στρίψε αριστερά (streepse areestera)
• Turn right, Στρίψε δεξιά (streepse dekseea)
• Go straight ahead, Πηγαίνετε ευθεία (peegenete eftheea)
• Go back, Πηγαίνετε πίσω (peegenete peeso)
• Stop, Σταματήστε (stamateeste)

Greek words for placing a drink or meal order

• I would like to order please, Θα ήθελα να παραγγείλω παρακαλώ (tha eethela na parageeilo parakalo)
• I would like to have, Θα ήθελα να έχω (tha eethela na eho)
• I would like a glass of wine, beer, Θα ήθελα ενα ποτήρι κρασί, μπύρα (tha eethela ena poteeree krasee, mpeera)
• Could I have some water?, Μπορώ να έχω λίγο νερό (boro na eho leego nero)?
• Enjoy your meal, Καλή όρεξη (kalee oreksee)
• Oops!, Ώπα (opa)

Opa is most likely the only Greek word you’ve heard before. Its original meaning was “oops” or “whoops,” but it is now widely used to express excitement or delight at festivities or to express appreciation for music, dancing, food, and beverages. Say “Opa!” in appreciation if your waiter offers you a round of complimentary ouzo shots after you’ve thoroughly won him over with your improved Greek language abilities.

• Fun-joy, Κέφι (kefi)

Kefi which means fun in Greek, can be used to describe happy occasions, such as dancing at a party or sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. In a larger sense, it refers to being present and lovingly accepting each moment for what it is. This term should undoubtedly make you grin if you hear it.

Greek phrases and words for emergency

• Thief, Κλέφτης (kleftees)
• Help!, Βοήθεια (voeetheea)
• I need help, Χρειάζομαι βοήθεια (hreeazome voeetheea)
• Fire, Φωτιά (foteea)
• Police, Αστυνομία (asteenomea)
• I need a doctor, Χρειάζομαι γιατρό (hreeazome yiatro)
• Aspirin, Ασπιρίνη (aspeereenee)
• I am sick, Είμαι άρρωστος (eime arostos)
• I have headache, έχω πονοκέφαλο (eho ponokefalo)
• Ambulance, Ασθενοφόρο (asthenoforo)
• There is an emergency, Υπάρχει κατάσταση έκτακτης ανάγκης (eeparxee katastasee ektaktees anagees)

If you are visiting around the holidays (Easter/Christmas)

• Merry Christmas, Καλά Χριστούγεννα (kala hristougena)
• Happy Easter, Καλό Πάσχα (kalo pasha)

Greek Slang

• What’s up-How’s it going?, Τι λέει (tee lei)?
• What are you up to?, Που είσαι (pou eesay)?
• So good-so cool, και γαμώ (kay gamo)
• See you later, τα λέμε (ta lehmeh)
• Dude-man, ρε φίλε (reh feeleh)
• One, Ένα (ena)
• Two, Δύο (deeo)
• Three, Τρία (treea)
• Four, Τέσσερα (tesera)
• Five, Πέντε (pente)
• Six, Έξι (eksee)
• Seven, Εφτά (efta)
• Eight, Οχτώ (ohto)
• Nine, Εννέα (enea)
• Ten, Δέκα (deka)
• Twenty, Είκοσι (eekosee)
• Thirty, Τριάντα (treeanta)
• Forty, Σαράντα (sarada)
• Fifty, Πενήντα (peneeda)
• Sixty, Εξήντα (ekseeda)
• Seventy, Εβομήντα (evdomeeda)
• Eighty, Ογδόντα (ogdoonta)
• Ninety, Εννενήντα (eneneeda)
• Hundred, Εκατό (ekato)  
• Monday, Δευτέρα (deftera)
• Tuesday, Τρίτη (treetee)
• Wednesday, Τετάρτη (tetartee)
• Thursday, Πέμπτη (pemptee)
• Friday, Παρασκευή (paraskevee)
• Saturday, Σάββατο (savato)
• Sunday, Κυριακή (keereakee)

Try to learn some of these Greek words or expressions before your trip to Greece. It is certain that the Greeks will be impressed and will appreciate your effort to speak their language. Enjoy your vacation!

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Survival Greek Travel Phrase Guide with Pronunciation

Buying a ferry ticket to Santorini? Need directions to the Parthenon? Don’t expect everyone to speak English. Take my free Greek travel phrase guide with pronunciations and strike up a conversation with ease.

If you’re planning a trip to Greece or Cyrus, you’ve come to the right place. I’m a firm believer in learning a few choice phrases in the language of the country you’re visiting, so that’s exactly what I’m going to give you.

While English might be an international language, it doesn’t mean we should be lazy and assume everyone speaks it nor neglect to make an effort. But since you’re here, I know that’s not you. After all, why travel unless you learn more about people, culture and language ?

As part of my on-going series of creating travel phrase guides, today I’m going to share some of the most common and useful Greek phrases.

To help me, I’ve asked a dear Greek friend, (whom I met in my French class) to help create this guide and provide all the important pronunciations, so you won’t have to learn the Greek alphabet!

You’ll be speaking Greek faster than you can say “It’s all Greek to me”!

See what I did there?

Ok, enough with the language jokes, let’s take a quick look at the Greek language so you’re a bit more clued up on its origin, use, and vocabulary.

I hope you enjoy this post as much as I enjoyed bringing it together. If you have any requests for other languages, let me know in the comments section!

Want to have fun whilst learning Greek? Struggling to find decent Greek language resources? I recommend getting uTalk . Available as a desktop site and app, uTalk is awesome for learning key words and phrases in Greek especially if you want to use it for travel purposes.  It’s great for beginners getting started in a language and invaluable for intermediates looking to fill in gaps in their vocabulary and pronunciation. 

What I love most about uTalk is that you can jump around their extensive library of topics and choose what you want to learn, when you want, and at your own pace.  Because I believe in uTalk so much, I reached out to them and we’ve teamed up to offer you an exclusive 30% OFF reader discount across all of uTalk’s 140 languages! This offer isn’t available anywhere else! Click here to claim your exclusive 30% discount.

Where is Greek spoken?

Greek is the official language of Greece (also called the Hellenic Republic) and the Republic of Cyprus. I know, shocking, right?

Outside of these countries, there are big Greek and Cypriot communities in the US, the UK, Australia , Germany , Canada , Chile, South Africa and Russia, but also in neighbouring countries, such as Albania, Bulgaria and Turkey.

Spoken by about 13 million people, Greek belongs to the Hellenic branch of the Indo-European language family.

A Brief History of Greek

The Greek language has a long and rich history stretching all the way back the thirteenth century B.C. to the present.

The earliest form of the language is called “Linear B” (13th century B.C). This form of Greek used by writers such as Homer (8th century B.C.) and Plato (4th century B.C.) is called “Classical Greek.”

Modern Greek, which is what you’ll encounter in your travels, is a descendant of Proto-Greek , the ancestor of all Greek dialects.

The 24 letters of Greek alphabet was developed from the Phoenician alphabet and has been in use since the late 9th or early 8th century BC.

The word alphabet itself comes from the first two letters of the Greek alphabet: άλφα [alpha] and βήτα [beta].

The Greek alphabet gave rise to the Latin, Cyrillic, Gothic and various other alphabets.

Now for the tricky stuff!

Pronunciation Tips

In 1982, the Greek language was greatly simplified with the introduction of the monotonic system. Since then, only the acute accent and the double dots are used instead of the many other little marks that could surround a letter.

As a general rule, all Greek words of more than one syllable, with a few exceptions, are written with an accent which indicates where you should put the emphasis.

The bulk of Greek vocabulary evolved from Proto-Greek. Modern Greek has also borrowed words from other languages such as French , German , and most recently from English .

It’s estimated that around 30% of the English vocabulary consists, directly and indirectly, of words of Classical Greek origin. Most of them are technical and scientific terms.

Words of Greek origin are often used at the beginning of a word, such as:

Some other words of Greek origin include;

P.S. If you’re reading this on your phone and can’t see the pronunciation column, turn it to landscape mode. For some reason tables aren’t mobile friendly. Sorry!

Basic Greek Phrases for Travellers

Greetings Essentials Questions Eating Out Getting Around Numbers Days Emergencies

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Over to you!

Which of these phrases are the most useful? What other languages would you like a travel phrase guide for? Are you planning a trip to Greece or have already been there? Let me know using the comments section below or join me on social media to start a conversation.

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Michele creates language learning guides and courses for travel. What separates her from other instructors is her ability to explain complex grammar in a no-nonsense, straightforward manner using her unique 80/20 method. Get her free guide 9 reasons you’re not fluent…YET & how to fix it! Planning a trip? Learn the local language with her 80/20 method for less than the cost of eating at a tourist trap restaurant Start learning today!

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Thanks Michele. That’s really great. Not planning a trip to Greece any time soon but will keep this handy. Are you doing a Norwegian one? I might be heading there over Christmas so it should come in handy.

Hi Basil, yes indeedy. I’ve reached out to a Norwegian friend who is helping me develop it as we speak! Norway is incredible. You’ll have a wonderful time 🙂

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Phrases to Know for Your Trip to Greece

Wherever you go, nothing makes your travels easier than knowing a few words in the local language, and in Greece , even a few words will warm your welcome and may even inspire a lasting friendship. Fortunately, if you're planning a trip to Greece this year, it only takes a few minutes to learn some basic Greek phrases that will help you get around the European country.

From saying good morning, good afternoon, and good nights (kalimera, kalispera, and kalinikta) to simply saying hello in Greek (yia sas or yiassou), these common phrases should help facilitate your international travels—residents will appreciate your effort in learning their language and be more likely to help you.

Although Greek is the primary language of Greece, many residents and citizens also speak English, German, and French, so chances are if you start with a Greek hello, you can quickly admit your Greek isn't great and ask if the person speaks another language. This respect for culture is the first step in immersing yourself fully in Greek life on your vacation.

Common Greek Phrases

Greek citizens greet one another differently depending on the time of day. In the morning, tourists can say kalimera  (kah-lee-MARE-ah) and in the afternoon can use kalomesimeri (kah-lo-messy-mary), though in practice, this is rarely heard and kalimera can be used both times of the day. However, kalispera (kah-lee-spare-ah) means "good evening" and kalinikta (kah-lee-neek-tah) means "good night," so use these specific terms as appropriate.

On the other hand, "Hello" can be said at any time by saying yai sas, yiassou, gaisou, or  yasou  (all pronounces yah-sooo); you can also use this word in parting or as a toast, though yia sas is more respectful and should be used with seniors and with almost anyone for extra politeness.

When asking for something in Greece, remember to say please by saying parakaló (par-ah-kah-LO), which can also mean "huh" or a shortened version of "please repeat that" or "I beg your pardon." Once you get something, you can then say efkharistó (eff-car-ee-STOH) to mean "thank you"—if you're having trouble pronouncing this, just say "If car I stole" but drop the last "le."

When getting directions, make sure to look out for deksiá (decks-yah) for "right" and aristerá (ar-ee-stare-ah) for "left." However, if you're saying "you're right" as a general affirmation, you would instead say entáksi (en-tohk-see). When asking for directions, you can say "where is—" by saying "Pou ine?" (poo-eeneh).

Now it's time to say goodbye! Antío sas (an-tyoh sahs) or just antío can be used interchangeably, like adios in Spanish, to both mean a form of goodbye!

Other Tips and Common Errors

Don't confuse "yes" and "no" in Greek—yes is né, which sounds like 'no' or 'nah' to English speakers, while no is ókhi or ochi, which sounds like "okay" to English speakers, though in some areas it is said more softly, like oh-shee.

Avoid relying on your understanding of spoken directions. Get a good map to use as a visual aid when you ask, but make sure your informant knows where you are to start! Most maps in Greece show both Western letters and Greek letters, so whoever is helping you should be able to read it easily.

Greek is an inflected language, which means that the tone and accent of the words change their meanings. If you mispronounce something, even words that look or sound alike to you, many Greeks truly will not understand what you meant—they are not being difficult; they really don't mentally classify their words the way you are saying them.

Getting nowhere? Try emphasizing a different syllable and have directions and names written down whenever possible.

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Easy Greek Words and Phrases to Learn for Travel

Planning a trip to Greece, and interested in learning common phrases? You are in the right place! After traveling to Greece many times myself I found that a fun way to immerse myself in travel was to learn some basic Greek words and phrases. It can greatly enhance your travel experience. 

While many Greek people speak English, making an effort to communicate in their native language shows respect and can open doors to deeper cultural interactions.

In this comprehensive blog post, we have compiled a list of easy Greek words and phrases that will help you navigate daily situations, interact with locals, and immerse yourself in the vibrant Greek culture. 

When I travel to any foreign country I make an effort to be a good tourist and learn the most common words. It shows good manners to have a basic understanding of the key phrases used in that foreign language. 

So, let’s dive in and explore these essential Greek words for effortless travel conversations!

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The Origin of the Greek Langauge

The Greek language holds a rich historical and cultural significance, dating back several millennia. Greek is one of the oldest recorded languages within this language family, and it has had a profound influence on the development of Western civilization.

The Greek Langauge Through The Years

Proto-Greek , the earliest form of the Greek language, is believed to have been spoken around the 3rd millennium BCE. Over time, it evolved into various dialects, including Mycenaean Greek, which was used during the Bronze Age and recorded on clay tablets discovered at Mycenaean archaeological sites.

Classical Greek Period

The Classical period of Greek , which lasted from the 9th century BCE to the 6th century CE, saw the emergence of influential works by renowned poets, playwrights, and philosophers like Homer, Aeschylus, Sophocles, Plato, and Aristotle. During this period, the Attic dialect, spoken in Athens, gained prominence and became the standard form of Greek.

After the conquests of Alexander the Great in the 4th century BCE, Greek culture and language spread across vast territories, creating a common linguistic and cultural bond known as Koine Greek. Koine Greek served as a lingua franca throughout the Hellenistic period and the Roman Empire, greatly influencing the development of subsequent languages, including Latin.

With the rise of the Byzantine Empire in the 4th century CE, Greek continued to flourish as the administrative and literary language, even though it underwent certain changes in pronunciation and grammar. Byzantine Greek, as it was known, remained in use until the fall of Constantinople in 1453.

Modern Greek Period

During the Ottoman period, from the 15th to the 19th century, the Greek language faced significant challenges, but it managed to survive through the efforts of scholars and the Greek Orthodox Church. The struggle for Greek independence in the early 19th century played a crucial role in revitalizing the language and establishing Modern Greek as the official language of the newly formed Greek state.

Today, Modern Greek is spoken by approximately 13 million people, primarily in Greece and Cyprus. It has evolved from its ancient roots but still retains a strong connection to its historical origins. The Greek language continues to be celebrated for its contributions to literature, philosophy, science, and the arts, and it remains an important symbol of Greek identity and cultural heritage.

List of Essential Greek Words

Easy greek words to learn for effortless travel conversations.

Formal Greetings and Basic Phrases

Let’s begin with some basic Greek phrases and some common greetings that will help you establish rapport and initiate conversations with locals.

• Γεια σας (YAH sas) – Hello (formal)
• Γεια σου (YAH soo) – Hello (informal)
• Ευχαριστώ (ef-ha-ree-STOH) – Thank you
• Παρακαλώ (pa-ra-KA-loh) – Please
• Ναι (ne) – Yes
• Όχι (OH-hee) – No
• Συγνώμη (seen-NO-mee) – Excuse me
• Γεια σας και αντίο (YAH sas ke an-DEE-oh) – Goodbye

These simple greetings and phrases will go a long way in establishing a friendly connection with the Greek locals and showcasing your respect for their language and culture. 

Common Greek Words and Phrases

Here are the most common Greek words and phrases for “good night,” “good afternoon”, “good morning,” and “good evening”:

• Good Night:
• Καληνύχτα (ka-lee-NEEKH-ta) – Good night
• Good Morning:
• Καλημέρα (ka-lee-ME-ra) – Good morning

      3. Good afternoon:  

          “Καλησπέρα” (ka-lee-SPER-a).

• Good Evening:
• Καλησπέρα (ka-lee-SPER-a) – Good evening

These phrases are commonly used in Greece to greet someone at different times of the day. By using these greetings, you can show respect and politeness to the locals while immersing yourself in Greek culture.

Directions and Transportation

When traveling, it’s essential to know how to ask for directions and navigate transportation options.

Here are some keywords and phrases related to directions and transportation in Greek:

• Πού είναι; (poo EE-neh) – Where is…?
• Αριστερά (ah-rees-TEH-rah) – Left
• Δεξιά (THEK-see-ah) – Right
• Ευθεία (ef-THI-a) – Straight ahead
• Στάση λεωφορείου (STAH-see le-o-fo-REE-ou) – Bus stop
• Σταθμός τρένου (STAH-thmos TREH-nou) – Train station
• Αεροδρόμιο (ah-ro-DRO-mee-oh) – Airport

These phrases will help you communicate your destination and inquire about directions effectively.

Additionally, understanding these transportation-related terms will assist you in finding your way around Greece’s vibrant cities and exploring its breathtaking landscapes.

Dining and Food

Greek cuisine is renowned worldwide for its delicious flavors and fresh ingredients. To fully savor the culinary delights of Greece, here are some essential Greek words and phrases related to dining and food:

• Μενού (me-NOO) – Menu
• Εστιατόριο (es-tee-a-TO-ree-oh) – Restaurant
• Καφενείο (ka-fee-NEE-oh) – Café
• Ποτό (po-TO) – Drink
• Φαγητό (fa-yee-TO) – Food
• Μια εισιτήριο για δύο, παρακαλώ (mee-a ee-see-TEE-ree-oh ya THEE-o, pa-ra-KA-loh) – A table for two, please
• Ευχαριστώ για το γεύμα (ef-ha-ree-STOH ya to YEV-ma) – Thank you for the meal

These basic terms will enable you to order food, ask for recommendations, and express gratitude for a delightful dining experience.

Embrace the Greek culinary scene with confidence and explore the mouthwatering delicacies that Greece has to offer.

Shopping and Souvenirs

Exploring local markets and shops is an integral part of any travel experience. Here are some Greek words and phrases that will come in handy while shopping for souvenirs or engaging in retail therapy:

• Κατάστημα (ka-TA-stee-ma) – Shop
• Τιμή (TEE-mee) – Price
• Πόσο κάνει; (POH-so KA-nee) – How much does it cost?
• Αγορά (ah-go-RAH) – Market
• Δώρο (DOR-o) – Gift
• Θέλω να αγοράσω αυτό (THE-lo na a-go-RA-so af-TOH) – I want to buy this

These phrases will enable you to engage in shopping conversations, inquire about prices, and express your desire to purchase items of interest.

Shopping in Greece will be a delightful experience as you navigate markets and boutiques with confidence.

Basic Numbers

Knowing basic numbers in Greek will assist you when dealing with prices, quantities, or time-related conversations. Here are some fundamental numbers to get you started:

• Ένα (EH-na) – One
• Δύο (THEE-o) – Two
• Τρία (TREE-a) – Three
• Τέσσερα (TE-se-ra) – Four
• Πέντε (PEN-de) – Five
• Δέκα (THE-ka) – Ten
• Είκοσι (EE-ko-see) – Twenty
• Εκατό (e-ka-TOH) – One hundred

Being able to count and understand basic numbers will be beneficial while shopping, taking public transportation, or communicating about quantities.

The best way to practice what you have learned is to leave the tourist areas and visit some local businesses. 

Ways to Learn Easy Greek Words & Phrases

Learning any language requires dedication, practice, and exposure. For an effective way to learn the Greek language, consider the following:

Language Courses:

Enroll in a formal language course or join a Greek language class. This structured approach provides a solid foundation in grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation.

Look for courses at local community centers, colleges, or online platforms that offer Greek language instruction.

Language Apps and Online Resources:

I found that learning easy Greek words using apps worked the best for me. Utilizing language learning apps is also one of the easier ways to incorporate practicing during the day. Also, check out websites that offer Greek language lessons and exercises for simple phrases.

Some popular apps include Duolingo, Memrise, and Babbel . Online resources like Greek language podcasts, videos, and interactive websites can also be valuable tools for learning.

🇬🇷 Rosetta Stone is one of the best language programs on the market. Currently offering 40% off all products !

Immersion Programs:

Consider participating in immersive language programs where you can study Greek in Greece itself. This immersive experience allows you to practice speaking with native speakers, engage in cultural activities, and fully immerse yourself in the language and culture.

You can check places like Facebook Groups or go online to find the best programs.

Language Exchange:

Find a language exchange partner or join language exchange groups where you can practice Greek conversation with native speakers.

This provides an opportunity to practice speaking, improve fluency, and learn more about Greek culture from a local perspective.

Self-Study:

Supplement your learning by using Greek language textbooks, workbooks, and grammar guides. There are numerous resources available that cater to self-study, including phrasebooks, dictionaries, and grammar references. Set aside dedicated study time and practice regularly.

For example, you can buy a number of products such as:

• Biblical Greek Alphabet Flash Cards
• Teach Yourself Greek Complete Learning Series of 50 Books
• Pimsleur Greek Modern Basic Audio Course

Practice Speaking:

Once you learn Greek, actively practice speaking your useful Greek words whenever possible. Practice with native speakers, join conversation groups, or engage in language exchange sessions.

Even if you make mistakes, consistent speaking practice will enhance your fluency and build confidence.

Since I moved to Athens in 2023 , I have been making it a daily practice to speak with locals.

Cultural Immersion:

Immerse yourself in Greek culture through music, movies, TV shows, and literature. Expose yourself to Greek media to familiarize yourself with the language, accent, and cultural nuances.

This will deepen your understanding of the language and make learning more enjoyable.

Travel to Greece:

Visit Greece to experience the language in its natural environment. Engage with locals, order food in Greek, explore local markets, and immerse yourself in the local culture. Practicing your language skills in real-life situations will accelerate your learning process.

Remember, language learning is a gradual process, and patience is key. Consistency and regular practice will yield the best results.

Embrace the learning journey, celebrate small victories, and enjoy the process of acquiring the beautiful Greek language.

Final thoughts on learning Easy Greek Words:

If this is your first time learning a new language, congratulations. It is never an easy task. 

Get excited that you’ve familiarized yourself with essential Greek words and short phrases for effortless travel conversations. 

Learning these basic words will enhance your travel experience in Greece, allowing you to communicate effectively, connect with locals, and immerse yourself in the rich Greek culture. 

Remember, even a small effort to speak the local language of the country can go a long way in building bridges and creating memorable experiences. 

So, embrace the Greek language, enjoy your travels, and savor every moment as you explore the stunning landscapes, indulge in delicious cuisine, and create lifelong memories in the captivating country of Greece. Opa!

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Melissa Byron, a seasoned solo traveler since 2009, is the founder & visionary behind A Solo Woman Traveling. Drawing from her extensive personal experience globetrotting solo to over 40 countries, she has dedicated herself to a mission: crafting invaluable guides and itineraries for women who embark on solo adventures.

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Basic Greek Phrases: 50 Essential Words And Sayings

So, you’re heading off to Greece? Great choice. We’d put this land of glimmering islets , see-through seas, fish-sizzling tavernas, and herb-scented mountains up there with the most gorgeous in all of Europe. From the white-sand beaches of Rhodes to the party bars of Mykonos, you’re sure to have an epic time.

One of the true highlights has to be the local Greek people. Uber-friendly, always interested, and with a strong connection to national traditions, they are a fascinating bunch to meet and mingle with. But there’s just one problem: Language!

While it’s true that over 50% of Greeks are now estimated to speak English in some shape or form, it’s never a bad idea to try and get a grip on the local tongue. Cue this guide. It runs through the ins and outs of the Greek lingo and offers a guide to 50 basic Greek phrases that we think every would-be island hopper should have up their sleeve. Notepads at the ready? Let’s begin…

Table of Contents

What language do they speak in Greece?

Before we get started, it’s worth laying out some basics. Just in case you didn’t know, they speak Greek in Greece. One of the 24 official languages of the European Union, it’s actually one of the oldest documented languages there is. There’s a history here that spans a whopping 3,400 years, going all the way back to the earliest days of the Linear B tablets of ancient Minoa .

Greek was the language of choice for the iconic civilizations of the Heroic Age and then, later on, city states like Athens and Sparta. Homer used it to write his great epics, The Iliad and The Odyssey , and the New Testament is also thought to have been written in Greek before it was written in Latin. The upshot? This is, without question, one of the most important languages in Western culture.

Modern Greek is a little different to the ancient versions of the language spoken way back when. It’s now common throughout the southern Med, spoken by an estimated 12.5 million people in – naturally – Greece itself, Cyprus , along with large populations in Albania, the Balkan Peninsula, and along the Black Sea coast.

The Greek alphabet

One of the hardest things for English speakers approaching the Greek language is the fact that Greek uses a different alphabet. It’s actually been in use since the 9 th century BC, so is far more venerable than many language systems currently in use around the globe.

There was a time when the Greek alphabet came in many forms, with varying numbers of letters and sounds. But that all changed around the 4 th century BC, when a common set of 24 letters was agreed upon. This was named the Euclidean alphabet and it’s the one still used today.

You will notice that individual letters look very different to letters in English. That’s because Greek makes use of a whole different script. In fact, writing in Greek looks more like Cyrillic Russian writing than most European languages.

Luckily, Greek is similar to English in that it has five vowels and distinct consonants. It’s also mostly phonetic (meaning every letter makes a sound that doesn’t change, unlike in English), although vowel sounds can change when two vowels are added together to make a letter known as a diphthong.

Here’s a look at the whole Greek alphabet, from alpha to omega, with sounds and examples thrown in to help you get to grips with it:

• Α α – Alpha, pronounced like the a in car in English.
• Β β – Beta, pronounced likethe v in very in English.
• Γ γ – Gamma, pronounced like the y in yew in English.
• Δ δ – Delta, pronounced like a th sound in English.
• Ε ε – Epsilon, pronounced like the e in let in English.
• Ζ ζ – Zeta, pronounced like an English z.
• Η η – Eta, pronounced like theLatin ae .
• Θ θ – Theta, pronounced like a th sound in English.
• Ι ι – Iota, pronounced like a short, sharp ee sound.
• Κ κ – Kappa, pronounced like the k in take in English.
• Λ λ – Lambda, pronounced like thel in lavender in English.
• Μ μ – Mu, pronounced like them in mute in English.
• Ν ν – Nu, pronounced like the n in night in English.
• Ξ ξ – Xi, pronounced like the x in max in English.
• Ο ο – Omicron, pronounced like a deep u sound, or ‘ooh’.
• Π π – Pi, pronounced like thep in pie in English.
• Ρ ρ – Rho, pronounced like a rolled r sound.
• Σ σ – Sigma, pronounced like the s in sand in English.
• Τ τ – Tau, pronounced like thet in cat in English.
• Υ υ – Upsilon, pronounced like a short, sharp i sound.
• Φ φ – Phi, pronounced like the f in found in English.
• Χ χ – Chi, pronounced like a long, guttural h.
• Ψ ψ – Psi, pronounced like theps in lapse in English.
• Ω ω – Omega, pronounced like the o in cost in English.

Basic Greek phrases for greeting people

Where better to begin than with greeting phrases in Greek? You’ll need these ones from the moment you step off the plane and out into the balmy airs of Athens. You could even try them out at passport control if you’re feeling confident…

• Ναί (Ne) – Yes
• Οχι (Ochi) – No
• Γεια σου (Yassu) – Hello & goodbye.
• Γειά σας (Yassa) – Hello & goodbye, but a slightly more formal version.
• Χάρηκα (Harika)– Nice to meet you.
• Καλημέρα (Kalimera)– Good morning.
• Καλησπέρα (Kalispera)– Good afternoon/good evening.
• Πώς σε λένε; (Pos se leneh?) – What is your name?
• Με λένε … (Mi leneh…) – My name is…
• Που μένεις; (Pou meneis) – Where do you live?

Common day-to-day basic Greek phrases

Let’s move on to the 101 of phrases for folk looking to travel to Greece. These are the words you’ll be using in the simplest of human interactions, from buying your feta-packed pastries in the bakery to saying hello to your hotel host when you arrive in sunny Crete…

• Παρακαλώ (Parakalo) – Please.
• Ευχαριστώ (Efkaristo) – Thank you.
• Πόσο κάνει; (Poso cani) – How much does this cost?
• Eναν καφέ παρακαλώ (Enan kafe parakalo) – One coffee please.
• Να παραγγείλω; (Na parageelo) – Can I order?
• Θα ήθελα… (Tha ithela) – I would like…
• Τι λέει ο μουσακάς; (Ti leei o mousakas?) – How do you like the moussaka?
• Είμαι χορτοφάγος (Ime horto-fagos) – I am a vegetarian.
• Καλή όρεξη (Kali orexi) – Enjoy your meal!
• Ωραίο (Oreo) – Tasty/nice/beautiful.

Basic Greek phrases to help you travel around

From the soaring Parthenon in Athens to the jaw-dropping beaches of Zakynthos, the bars of Ios to the lookout points of Santorini, Greece is brimming with awesome things to see and do. You can use the following phrases to help you seek out the bucket-list draws wherever you may be in the country…

• Που είσαι (Pou eisai) – Where are you?
• Μπορειτε να με βοηθησετε; (Borite na me voithisete?) – Can you help me?
• Kοντά (Konda) – Near.
• Μακριά (Makriá) – Far.
• Aπέναντι από (Apénandi apó) – Across the street.
• Που βρίσκεται… (Pou vrísketai) – Where is…

Greek phrases for hitting the bars

Heading out to hit the rollicking 18-30s pubs of Malia? Looking to get stuck into the pumping EDM bars in the heart of whitewashed Ios Chora? Be sure to do some swatting up on this list of helpful phrases for Greek nightlife…

• Στην υγειά μας! (Stineh yahmas) – To our health!
• Ασπρο πάτο! (Aspro Pato) – Bottoms up!
• Θα ιθελα μια μπυρα (Tha ithela mia bira)– Can I have a beer?
• Τι ώρα θα συναντήσουμε; (Ti ora tha synantisoume?) – What time shall we meet?
• Τι ώρα είναι… (Ti ora einai…) – What time is…

Reading the menu

We know that food is one of the most important things in Greece for many a traveler. We couldn’t agree more. From sizzling saganaki cheeses to creamy tzatziki, there’s all sorts here just waiting to be sampled. Most tavernas in most touristy spots will have English menus at hand. Some won’t though, so remember…

• Φέτα πίτα (Feta) – Feta cheese, the most iconic Greek cheese of all. Order it with honey and sesame seeds straight out of the oven.
• Πίτα (Pita) – Pita, the famous local bread.
• Tαραμοσαλάτα (Taramasalata) – A fish roe dip.
• Yύρος (Yiros/gyros) – One of Greece’s most popular street food snacks.
• Xόρτα (Horta) – Boiled highland greens that are served with a lemon slice. Tasty and healthy.
• Xυλόπιτες (hilopites) – A very tasty Greek version of pasta.
• Yίγαντες (Gigantes) – Greece’s hearty bean stew. One of our all-time favs!
• Μπακλαβά (Baklava) – Uber-sweet, layered Greek cake. Probably the most iconic desert in the country.
• Mουσακάς (Moussaka) – Moussaka is Greece’s national dish. It’s one for lovers of aubergine and slow-cooked meat! There are also some great veggie versions on offer.

Some intriguing Greek slang so you can speak like a local

If you really want to fit in and sound like you’ve been speaking Greek since birth, there’s nothing for it but a few classic slang words and terms. These are the phrases that only the locals should know, so get ready to impress your travel buddies…

• Eλα (Ela) – Used all the time, this essentially means ‘let’s go’.
• Ya – Say ya as the most causal form of hello. It’s like ‘hi’ between friends.
• Παιδί μου (Padi mou) – Literally meaning ‘my child’, this is a term of close endearment often used by family and friends.
• Τι λέει; (Tee leei) – What’s up? But, literally, what are you saying?
• Τέσπα (Telos pandon) – Whatever, usually said to mean ‘nevermind’ or it doesn’t matter’.
• Λολ (lol) – Laughing out load, but you knew that one already right?
• βαράει μύγες – Swatting flies, meaning to do nothing or be idle.
• Eχω χάσει τα αυγά και τα καλάθια (Eho hasi ta avga ke ta kalathia) – Roughly translating to ‘I’ve lost my eggs and my baskets’, this means the speaker has no idea what’s going on!

Last but not least…

Just in case you ever get stuck and simply can’t remember this guide to the most important basic Greek phrases, there’s one get-out-of-jail free card that everyone should memorize…

• Μιλάτε Αγγλικά; (Milate Agglika?) – Do you speak English?

Oh, yep. And you will almost certainly want to proclaim:

• Αγαπώ την Ελλάδα (Agapoh teen elatha) – I love Greece!

Reece is the creator and editor of Travel Snippet. He has visited more than 38 countries over a 10-year period. His travels have taken him through the majestic mountains of Italy, into the cities of central Europe, across the islands of Indonesia, and to the beaches of Thailand, where he is currently living. He is passionate about travel and shares his expertise by providing the best travel tips and tricks to help you plan your next adventure.

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• Travel Tips

Essential Greek Words, Phrases, and Slang for Your Journey

Exploring the fascinating world of Greece is like nothing else you've ever done. It has a lot of history, beautiful scenery, and delicious food. You should learn some simple Greek words and phrases, though, before you go to this beautiful country. Learning a few common Greek phrases can really make your trip more fun, from getting food at local taverns to talking to friendly locals. However, let's look at some travel tips for the best experience.

A Quick Look at Going to Greece

People come from all over the world to visit Greece, which is known for its old ruins, beautiful islands, and lively culture. When you visit Greece, you can see the famous Acropolis, relax on the beaches of Santorini, or eat traditional Greek food in Thessaloniki. There are so many things to see and do.

How Hard It Is to Learn Greek

There's no denying that Greece is beautiful, but learning the Greek language is not easy. It might seem hard to start learning Greek because of the strange letters in the alphabet and the difficult speech. But getting past these problems is well worth the work because it leads to important connections and experiences.

Benefits of Learning Greek

The Advantages of Studying Greek-speaking Greek allows for more meaningful contact with locals and offers possibilities for deeper cultural immersion. Travelers may establish real friendships, learn insider information, and confidently navigate Greek life by learning even a few simple Greek phrases. Recommendations from experienced tourists highlight the significant influence that knowing Greek can have on a person's trip experience.

Simple Travel Greek Words and Phrases

Prepare yourself for common travel situations by learning key phrases and vocabulary before setting off on your Greek vacation. Every expression, from hellos like "Geia sou" (hello) to useful inquiries like "Πoύ είναι η τουαλέτα?" (where's the bathroom?), opens a door to genuine encounters. Travelers can be assured of ease of use as each sentence is accompanied by an English translation and phonetic transcription.

Greetings and Common Phrases:

• Hello – Γειά σου (YAH-soo) 
• Good morning – Καλημέρα (kah-lee-MER-ah) 
• Thank you – Ευχαριστώ (eff-kha-ri-STOE) 
• Please/You're welcome – Παρακαλώ (para-kah-LOE) 
• Excuse me/Sorry – Συγνώμη (See-GHNO-mee) 
• Yes – Ναί (neh) 
• No – όχι (OH-hee) 
• Goodbye – Αντίο (AN-dee-oh) 

Directions and Transportation

Navigate Greece with ease by mastering essential phrases related to directions and transportation. Whether you're asking for directions to a tourist attraction or inquiring about public transportation options, these phrases will prove invaluable:

• Where is...? – Πού είναι...; (Pou ee-ne)
• How do I get to...? – Πώς πάω στο...; (Pos pao sto)
• Is it far? – Είναι μακριά; (Eene makria)
• Bus station – Στάση λεωφορείων (Stasi leoforeion)
• Train station – Σιδηροδρομικός σταθμός (Sidirodromikos stathmos)
• Airport – Αεροδρόμιο (Aerodromio)

Food and Beverage

Indulge in Greece's culinary delights and confidently order from menus with these handy food and beverage phrases:

• Menu, please – Μενού, παρακαλώ (Menou, parakalo)
• I would like... – Θα ήθελα... (Tha ithela)
• Water – Νερό (Nero)
• Wine – Κρασί (Krasi)
• Coffee – Καφές (Kafes)
• Bill, please – Τον λογαριασμό, παρακαλώ (Ton logariasmo, parakalo)

Immerse yourself in Greek culture by learning some common slang expressions used by locals:

• Cool/awesome – καλό/φοβερό (kalo/fovero)
• Friend – φίλος (filos)
• To party – για να διασκεδάσει (ya na diaskedasi)
• Mone y – λεφτά (lefta)
• To eat a lot – τρώει πολύ (troei poli)
• Cheers! – Γειά μας! (Yah mas)

Tips for learning Greek

Discover Greek language mastery secrets with practical advice. Many techniques exist to enhance Greek, from language study applications and online courses to native speaker pronunciation practice. Accept mistakes and embrace the learning process—every effort puts you closer to fluency.

As you plan your Greek adventure, remember that learning basic Greek words and phrases is a gateway to cultural immersion and wonderful encounters. Use the chance to get to know the people and visit Greece confidently. Experience the charm of the Greek language with a simple "Nαί" (Yes) to start your journey.

Useful Greek Words and Phrases for your Trip to Greece

Key Takeaways

• The  pronunciation of Greek words may differ slightly, as the Greek language has various regional dialects, and .
• The vast majority of Greeks know English , so you'll face no problem communicating your needs.
• A simple 'Kalimera' will get you far, as  hospitality runs in Greeks' blood , and your effort to learn a bit of the language will be much appreciated.
• If you find yourself needing to speak Greek,  make Google Translate your best friend !

The word 'barbarian' derives from the Greek word ‘ barabaros ,’ which means 'one who babbles in an unknown language.'

People who spoke in languages that the ancient Greeks could not understand were considered ' babbelers .'

Thus, according to ancient Greek standards, if you choose one of our Greece vacation packages  or Greece tours ,  visit Greece, and don’t speak a few words, you are a barbarian!

In order to make sure you can practice a bit before you come to Greece, and to ensure you avoid the babbler status, look at some of the most useful Greek words and a few phrases that will help you get by during your stay. 

Kalimera/Kalispera/Kalinihta

Translation: Good morning, good dawn/Good evening/Goodnight Break Down: Kalo/i = good, mera=day, nihta=night

If you’re wondering how to say good morning in Greek , it’s really easy: just say ‘ kalimera .’ It can also be loosely translated into ‘have a good day’ in Greek.

Please note that ‘ good morning’ in Greece goes best with a smile! 

Although these may seem like formal ways to say greetings to someone, these are possibly some of the most commonly used words in modern-day Greece.

‘ Kalispera ’ means ‘good afternoon’ in Greek and is appropriate to say standard greeting only after 12.00 pm and until nighttime.

We know that ‘ kalinihta ,’ which means goodnight in Greek , is particularly hard to say, however, it is worth the effort.

Greeks are a feisty lot but are also very polite and are always quick to wish everyone and anyone well.

You will hear this over and over again in many different forms (if you hear Kalo/i before a word, you can be sure it is something positive, as ‘ kalo ’ means ‘good’ or ‘great’ in Greek!). 

Translation: Hello

This is the Greek word for ‘hello .’

No matter when or where you come across someone, saying ‘ yia ’ will earn you a smile and probably a ‘ yia ’ back. Hello in the Greek language can be expressed in many different ways.

Hey, there is a reason why Greek is considered one of the most difficult languages in the world! Regardless, ‘ yia ’ is the easiest and most all-encompassing one you can use.

So, if you don’t remember how to say good morning in Greek  or how to say good afternoon in Greek , a simple ‘y ia ’ will save the day.  

Parakalo/Efharistw/Parakalo

Translation: Please/ Thank you/ you’re welcome

The word ‘ parakalo ’ is used in many ways in Greek - it is even used to answer a phone call or a knock at the door.

Perhaps the most common way you can use it, however, is in order to say ‘please’ and ‘you are welcome.’ If you are buying a coffee or cheese pie, add ‘ parakalo ’ at the end of your request to be polite.

When you get your coffee or cheese pie, say ‘ efharisto ,’ one of the hardest words to get your tongue around.

This is how to say thank you in the Greek language and earn an extra smile from your server.

The Greek thank you from the lips of a foreigner is especially endearing, as it shows the effort they have put into being polite.

We love it when travelers make an effort to not speak English, but in our local language too!

If you want to be extra polite, you can even say ‘ efharisto para poli ’ which translates to ‘thank you very much’ in Greek. 

Of course, as mentioned before, you can also say ‘parakalo’ to express gratitude.

Thankfully, 'you’re welcome' in Greek is rather easy to say. So, if you hear someone say ‘ efharisto ,’ you reply with ‘ parakalo ’! 

Translation: I’m sorry/excuse me

The Greek language is weird in the sense that it uses the same word to express many different feelings and meanings. ‘ Signomi ’, for example, is the Greek way of saying both ‘I am sorry’ and ‘excuse me.’

Therefore, if you are being polite in an overcrowded room and want to make your way to the bathroom, for example, you will have to walk through the people while saying ‘ signomi ’ to anyone you bump into.

At the same time, if you want to express repentance for your behavior, ' signomi ' is also the way to do so. One little word can have so much meaning behind it!  

Translation: How much is it?

Unless you’re Kim Kardashian or the Queen of England, this is one of the most useful phrases you will need during your trip to Greece .

‘ Poso kani ? ’ is how you say ‘how much does it cost’ in Greek, and it can be used for anything.

If you can’t find the price of the item you’re about to buy or you don't have a clear idea of how much a service costs, don’t hesitate to ask this question. 

It is the best way to avoid tourist traps and make sure you spend your money wisely. 

Not to mention that with this question you can also figure out how much a trip to Greece costs !

Translation: How are you? Breakdown: pos=how eisai=you are

Keeping with the theme of politeness, you are sure to hear the question directed to you at least a couple of times a day.

These are some of the most considerate words in Greece. You might even hear the question ‘ pos eisai esi ?’. It means exactly the same, as ‘ esi ’ means ‘you’ in Greek , so don’t get these basic words confused.

It’s just how you say ‘how are you?’ in greek. If you want to know how to say in Greek that you’re good , ‘ eimai kala ’ or ‘ eimai ok’ will do the trick.

'Good' in Greek can be expressed through a multitude of words, but these two will get the point across more than adequately.   

Translation: Where is….

Where is the Acropolis ? Where is the nearest souvlaki shop ?

Perhaps you won’t have excelled enough in the Greek and the Greek alphabet to ask those crucial questions in full, but how about just the first -and most important- part of the sentence?

If you have a map or a picture of a souvlaki wrap in your pocket and are looking for your way around, grab the nearest bystander, point to where you want to go, and say the magic words ' pou einai ' ?  

Tha ithela ena freddo espresso/cappuccino parakalo!

Translation: I would like a cold espresso/cappuccino, please!

Is it close to 40 degrees Celsius in the middle of Greek summer and you are looking for something cold to drink to start your day?

It’s a good thing you’re in Greece because this is perhaps the best place to get an iced coffee.

Greek coffee is a very special and necessary part of the average Greek’s consumer habits, so you probably won’t go a block without finding a place that sells it.

You can have iced espresso or iced cappuccino (with a bit of cinnamon on top) even with inexpensive coffee machines.

Please remember that ‘ena’ means one in Greek, so if you want more than one, you have to replace this word with another one or a hand gesture.

All you have to do is say: 'Tha ithela ena freddo espresso/cappuccino parakalo'.

Your server’s next question to you will be: Zahari ? Which means 'sugar?' So, if you really want to up your game, see below how to order your coffee just how you like it.

• Black (no sugar): Sketo
• Sweet (2 sugars): Glyko 
• Very Sweet (2+sugars): Poly Glyko

Nai, Thelo/ Ohi, Den Thelo

Translation: 'Yes, I want / No, I don’t want'

‘Yes, I want a piece of baklava’ will definitely be something you will want to say at some point during your trip to Greece .

‘Nai’ may sound more like no to English speaking backgrounds , so get your ear used to that sound meaning 'yes'!

And If someone tries to push that baklava on you, it is probably because you said 'no' instead of the Greek word 'ohi' - another difficult word to pronounce.

The Greek ‘yes’ and ‘no’ will prove valuable during your stay, so even if you don’t remember anything else, make sure to jot these ones down! 

Useful Greek phrases in case of an emergency

If you find yourself in a difficult or unexpected situation, which we hope you won’t, you need to be prepared to communicate your trouble through this basic vocabulary of Greek phrases .

They may prove to be the best Greek phrases in certain situations.

The Greek word for ‘help’ is ‘ voithia ’. Say it whenever you need it, and helpful people will come to the rescue.

Another one of the most useful Greek travel phrases is ‘ eho xathi ,’ which means ‘I’m lost’ and will earn you directions to your desired destination or even, in some cases, even a ride there.

Fun fact: If you’re wondering how to say ‘Greece’ in Greek , you’ll be surprised to know it is actually nothing like the English word.

Greece is ‘Ellada’ in Greek, which means that ‘ Hellas ’ is actually a much more accurate name for the country than the one that prevailed throughout history.

Final Thoughts

If you want something, you have to ask for it! These basic Greek words will hopefully help you get around our magnificent country with ease, even if you speak English exclusively.

You’ll be able to get your point across and save yourselves from any difficult situation that might come upon you or a person around you.

And if verbal communication fails you, don't worry, that's what body language is for! With a good mood and a bit of patience, you'll go far in Greece !

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some basic greek phrases for travelers.

Common Greek phrases for travelers include 'hello' (Yia sas), 'thank you' ( Efcharistó), 'please' (Parakaló), 'excuse me' (Signómi), and 'goodbye' (Adío).

How can I ask for directions in Greek?

To ask for directions, you can use the phrase 'Where is...?' (Pou íne...?) followed by your desired destination.

How can I greet people in Greek?

Common Greek greetings include 'Good morning' (Kaliméra), 'Good afternoon' (Kalispéra), and 'Good night' (Kaliníkhta). Handshakes and kisses on the cheek are also typical forms of greeting.

Are English speakers common in Greece?

In tourist areas and larger cities, you'll often find English speakers. However, learning a few basic Greek phrases can enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture. Greeks appreciate when visitors make an effort to speak their language.

• , July 26, 2023

Greek Travel Phrases: #1 Accurate Guide

Looking to belt out some useful Greek travel phrases seriously? We cannot blame you since Greece has always been a tourist destination that most of us crave. Before you plan out a tour or move to the country, we highly recommend that you first try to learn the language so that you can navigate the place like a pro, discover the rich history that can be reflected through the everyday words and expressions, and connect with the locals more deeply.

Greece holds a special place in our hearts no matter where we are in the world. Most of us have learned about this country and its history through literature, and we somehow fell in love with gods and their particular stories. In fact, if you will ask anyone if they know any Greek personality, even high school students can list down all the famous names such as Zeus, Aphrodite, Hera, Poseidon, and Athena! If you come across a fan, they might even give you a full-blown explanation of the entire family tree!

But aside from all that, another notable thing about Greece is its distinct natural wonders and dazzling cityscape! Almost anyone can immediately associate it with Greece from the classic pictures of stone houses with  white and blue  colors. Perhaps, this is the reason why you also landed on this page… you probably want to visit and have a glimpse of this remarkable place!

Basic Greek Travel Phrases

In order to make your trip much more exciting (and survivable), you can never go wrong when you try to learn the basic Greek greetings. The greetings and expressions we have below are perfect to use for casual interactions.

What Are The Most Common Greek Phrases For Travel

While it is true that you can speak English, especially if you are visiting tourist destinations in Greece, it is still better if you know how to speak some of the local Greek language words, phrases, and expressions. Below is the list of what you can use:

Basic Emergency Greek Phrases

In as much as we want our trip to Athens or Greece, in general, to go according to plan, there are still instances that we might find ourselves having trouble with something. We can usually call 112 (the European emergency phone number) and describe to them what is happening. But, what if you have no one with you who can translate or understand English? To navigate this world like a total pro and not become a “sorry” tourist, take note of the emergency phrases you can use today:

As we reach this part of the post, we hope that you were able to get a good grasp of the local language used in Greece through this post. If you enjoyed this post, don’t forget to read our previous language tips, like how to say yes in Czech , thank you in Finnish , and Italian love phrases . Also, if you’d like to discover a Greek word translation for something, then you’d better check out our most recommended app you can check today!

Ready To Learn The Greek Language?

Before you hop on the plane and prepare for the islands you will visit in Greece, let me ask you a question: Are you interested in immersing yourself fully in the Greek culture, language, and traditions? Or are you someone looking to expand your knowledge of Greek words? Then, search no more because we’ve got something just for you!

Learn the best ways to say Greek expressions using the correct accent and words through the Ling app . This language learning application allows tourists and language enthusiasts worldwide to learn about 60+ languages through its platform, available for download and web access.

Unlike other platforms, the lessons from the inside are actually developed and crosschecked by native speakers and language professionals to ensure consistency in meaning and correctness.

Each lesson comes in a gamified package, hitting critical language points such as the alphabet and writing system, pronunciation guides (through sounds and audio files), grammar rules, and formal expressions. This makes it a good resource as it also comes with an AI-based chatbot to practice learned words like you are speaking with a real person! So, what are you waiting for? Download this today in the  Play Store  and  App Store  and join the millions of people learning Greek right now!

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100 Unique and Creative Travel Words with Beautiful Meanings

Disclaimer: This article includes affiliate links to the products we earnestly love and recommend, meaning at no extra cost to you, we might make a teeny-weeny commission if you click on the link and decide to buy something. The money will be used to sustain this little cozy blog we call our virtual home.

Everyone (who knows me) knows how I love words. I hoard words . Everyone also knows how I love to travel. I eat, drink, and sleep travel 🙂 Here, in this post, I’ve blended two of my passions – words and travel. The post rounds up the creative travel words that describe wanderlust perfectly. You’ll never be at a loss for words while narrating your travel experiences once you equip yourself with these unique words about travel.

Unusual Travel Words with Beautiful Meanings

Wanderlust (n.).

Origin: German Pronunciation: vawn-duh-luhst Meaning: a strong desire to travel

Resfeber (n.)

Origin: Swedish Pronunciation: race-fay-ber Meaning: the restless race of the traveler’s heart before the journey begins, when anxiety and anticipation are tangled together; the nervous feeling before undertaking a journey

Related Read: 27 Cool Swedish Words You Must Know

Strikhedonia (n.)

Origin: Greek Pronunciation: strik-he-don-e-a Meaning: the joy of being able to say “to hell with it”

Eleutheromania (n.)

Origin: Greek Pronunciation: eleuthero-ma-nia Meaning: an intense and irresistible desire for freedom

Origin: Hawaiian Pronunciation: ak-i-hi Meaning: listening to directions and then walking off and promptly forgetting them

Exulansis (n.)

Origin: The Dictionary of Obscure Sorrows Pronunciation: exu-lan-sis Meaning: the tendency to give up trying to talk about an experience because people are unable to relate to it — whether through envy or pity or simple foreignness—which allows it to drift away from the rest of your life story, until the memory itself feels out of place, almost mythical, wandering restlessly in the fog, no longer even looking for a place to land.

Hodophile (n.)

Origin: Greek Pronunciation: hodo-phile Meaning: a lover of roads; one who loves to travel

Saudade (n.)

Origin: Portuguese Pronunciation: sau-da-de Meaning: a nostalgic longing for something or someone that was loved and then lost, with the knowledge that it or they might never return; “the love that remains”

Fernweh (n.)

Origin: German Pronunciation: feirn-veyh Meaning: an ache for distant places; a longing for far-off places; an urge to travel even stronger than wanderlust; being homesick for a place you’ve never been

Selcouth (adj.)

Origin: Old English Pronunciation: sel-kooth Meaning: unfamiliar, rare, strange, and yet marvelous

Serendipity (n.)

Origin: English Pronunciation: seh-ruhn-di-puh-tee Meaning: finding something good without looking for it

Pilgrimage (n.)

Origin: Latin Pronunciation: pil-gruh-mij Meaning: a journey, especially a long one, made to some sacred place as an act of religious devotion

Gökotta (n.)

Origin: Swedish Pronunciation: yo-kot-ah Meaning: literally translates to the early cuckoo morning or dawn picnic to hear the first birdsong; the act of rising early in the morning to hear the birds sing at sunrise and appreciate nature

Schwellenangst (n.)

Origin: German Pronunciation: shwel-en-ahngst Meaning: fear of embarking on something new; fear of crossing a threshold

Voyage (n.)

Origin: Latin Pronunciation: voy-ij Meaning: a long journey involving travel by sea or in space

Origin: Japanese Pronunciation: yoo-gehn Meaning: a profound awareness of the universe that triggers emotional responses too deep, powerful, and mysterious for words

Origin: Danish Pronunciation: hue-gah Meaning: the Danish practice of creating warmth, connection, and well-being; a complete absence of anything annoying or emotionally overwhelming; taking pleasure from the presence of gentle, soothing things; celebrating the everyday

You Might Like: Cool Danish Words We Need in English Now

Vagary (n.)

Origin: Latin Pronunciation: va-ga-re Meaning: an unpredictable instance, a wandering journey; a whimsical, wild, and unusual idea, desire, or action

Origin: Dictionary of Obscure Sorrows Pronunciation: mo-rii Meaning: the desire to capture a fleeting experience

“With every click of the shutter, you’re trying to press pause on your life. If only so you can feel a little more comfortable moving on living in a world stuck on the play.”

Musafir (n.)

Origin: Arabic Pronunciation: mu-sa-fir Meaning: traveler

Musafir remains one of my most favorite words associated with travel.

Odyssey (n.)

Origin: Greek Pronunciation: aw-duh-see Meaning: a long and eventful or adventurous journey or experience

Sonder (n.)

Origin: The Dictionary of Obscure Sorrows Pronunciation: sohn-dehrr Meaning: the realization that each random passerby is living a life as vivid and complex as your own—populated with their own ambitions, friends, routines, worries and inherited craziness—an epic story that continues invisibly around you like an anthill sprawling deep underground, with elaborate passageways to thousands of other lives that you’ll never know existed, in which you might appear only once, as an extra sipping coffee in the background, as a blur of traffic passing on the highway, as a lighted window at dusk.

Gadabout (n.)

Origin: Middle English Pronunciation: gad-uh-bout Meaning: a habitual pleasure-seeker; a person who moves about restlessly and aimlessly, especially from one social activity to another; a person who travels often or to many different places, especially for pleasure

Acatalepsy (n.)

Origin: Greek Pronunciation: ey-kat-l-ep-see Meaning: incomprehensibleness; the impossibility of comprehending the universe; the belief that human knowledge can never have true certainty

Origin: Greek Pronunciation: noh-mad Meaning: a person who does not stay long in the same place; a wanderer

Cockaigne (n.)

Origin: Middle English Pronunciation: ko-keyn Meaning: an imaginary or fabled land of luxury and idleness

Origin: The Dictionary of Obscure Sorrows Pronunciation: o-ni-sm Meaning: the awareness of how little of the world you’ll experience

“The frustration of being stuck in just one body, that inhabits only one place at a time, which is like standing in front of the departures screen at an airport, flickering over with strange place names like other people’s passwords, each representing one more thing you’ll never get to see before you die—and all because, as the arrow on the map helpfully points out, you are here.”

Nemophilist (n.)

Origin: Greek Pronunciation: ni-mo-fi-list Meaning: a haunter of the woods; one who loves the forest for its beauty and solitude

Trouvaille (n.)

Origin: French Pronunciation: troo-vee Meaning: a lucky find; a chance encounter with something wonderful and valuable

Safarnama (n.)

Origin: Persian Pronunciation: su-fur-nama Meaning: travelogue; an account of the travels

Smultronställe (n.)

Origin: Swedish Pronunciation: smool-tron-stall-uh Meaning: literally translates to place of wild strawberries; a special place discovered, treasured, returned to for solace and relaxation; a personal idyll free from stress or sadness

Livsnjutare (n.)

Origin: Swedish Pronunciation: livs-noo-tuhreh Meaning: literally translates to enjoyer of life; someone who loves life deeply and lives it to the extreme

Wayfarer (n.)

Origin: Old English Pronunciation: wey-fair-er Meaning: someone who travels, especially on foot

Kopfkino (n.)

Origin: German Pronunciation: kof-kino Meaning: literally translates to head cinema; the act of playing out an entire scenario in your mind

Hireath (n.)

Origin: Welsh Pronunciation: her-rith Meaning: a homesickness for a home to which you cannot return, a home which maybe never was; the nostalgia, the yearning, the grief for the lost places of your past

Peripatetic (n.)

Origin: Greek Pronunciation: per-uh-puh-tet-ik Meaning: a person who travels from place to place

Luftmensch (n.)

Origin: Yiddish Pronunciation: looft-mensh Meaning: literally translates to an air person; an impractical dreamer with improbable plans and no business sense; one with their head in the clouds

Solivagant (adj.)

Origin: Latin Pronunciation: soh-lih-va-ghent Meaning: wandering alone

Waldeinsamkeit (n.)

Origin: German Pronunciation: vahyd-ahyn-zahm-kahyt Meaning: literally translates to woodland solitude; the feeling of being alone in the woods

Ecophobia (n.)

Origin: English Pronunciation: eco-phobia Meaning: a fear or dislike of one’s home

Origin: Japanese Pronunciation: u-key-yo Meaning: literally translates to the floating world; living in the moment, detached from the bothers of life

Meraki (n.)

Origin: Greek Pronunciation: may-rah-kee Meaning: to do something with soul, creativity, and love; when you leave a piece of yourself in your work

Wabi-sabi (n.)

Origin: Japanese Pronunciation: wabe-sabe Meaning: finding beauty in imperfections; an acceptance of things as they are

Vorfreude (n.)

Origin: German Pronunciation: vor-froy-dah Meaning: the joyful, intense anticipation that comes from imagining future pleasures

Cosmopolitan (n.)

Origin: English Pronunciation: koz-muh-pahl-i-ten Meaning: belonging to all the world; not limited to just one part of the world; someone who has traveled a lot and feels at home in any part of the world

Peregrinate (v.)

Origin: Middle English Pronunciation: per-i-gruh-neyt Meaning: to travel or wander from place to place

Sojourn (n.)

Origin: Latin Pronunciation: soh-jurn Meaning: a temporary stay

Shinrin-yoku (n.)

Origin: Japanese Pronunciation: shin-rin-yo-ku Meaning: literally translates to forest bathing; a leisurely trip to the forest for recreation, relaxation, meditation, and therapy

Origin: Thai Pronunciation: ti-eow Meaning: to wander or roam around in a carefree way

Origin: Serbian Pronunciation: mir-ak Meaning: enjoyment of the simple things in life; the feeling of bliss and sense of oneness with the universe that comes from the simplest of pleasures; the pursuit of small, daily pleasures that all add up to a great sense of happiness and fulfillment

Dépaysement (n.)

Origin: French Pronunciation: de-pe-iz-ma Meaning: the feeling that comes from not being in one’s home country; disorientation due to experience of unfamiliar surroundings; being out of your element like a fish out of water

Itinerant (n.)

Origin: Latin Pronunciation: ai-ti-nr-uhnt Meaning: one who travels from place to place

Numinous (adj.)

Origin: Latin Pronunciation: noo-muh-nuhs Meaning: having a strong religious or spiritual or supernatural quality; indicating or suggesting the presence of divinity; describing an experience that makes you fearful yet fascinated, wed yet attracted – the powerful, personal feeling of being overwhelmed and inspired

Heimweh (n.)

Origin: German Pronunciation: haim-ve Meaning: homesickness; nostalgia; a longing for home

Sprachgefühl (n.)

Origin: German Pronunciation: shprahkh-guh-fyl Meaning: the character and spirit of a language; an intuitive sense of the rule and rhythm of language

Mångata (n.)

Origin: Swedish Pronunciation: mo-an-gaa-tah Meaning: the glimmering, roadlike reflection of the moonlight on water

Dromomania (n.)

Origin: Greek Pronunciation: dro-mo-ma-nia Meaning: an uncontrollable impulse or desire to wander or travel

Sehnsucht (n.)

Origin: German Pronunciation: zen-zukt Meaning: the inconsolable longing in the human heart for we know not what; a yearning for a far, familiar, non-earthly land one can identify as one’s home

Dérive (v.)

Origin: French Pronunciation: de-rive Meaning: literally translates to drift; a spontaneous and unplanned journey where the traveler leaves their life behind for a time to let the spirit of the landscape and architecture attract and move them

Absquatulate (v.)

Origin: English Pronunciation: ab-skwoch-uh-leyt Meaning: to leave abruptly without saying goodbye

Thalassophile (n.)

Origin: Greek Pronunciation: thal-as-o-fahyl Meaning: a lover of the sea; someone who loves the sea or ocean

Yoko meshi (n.)

Origin: Japanese Pronunciation: yoh-koh-mesh-ee Meaning: literally translates to a meal eaten sideways; refers to the peculiar stress of speaking a foreign language

Forelsket (v.)

Origin: Norwegian Pronunciation: phor-rel-sket Meaning: the euphoria you experience when you are first falling in love

Read More: 14 Beautiful Norwegian Words We Need in English Now

Rückkehrunruhe (n.)

Origin: The Dictionary of Obscure Sorrows Pronunciation: rukee-ren-ruhee Meaning: the feeling of returning home after an immersive trip only to find it fading rapidly from your awareness—to the extent you have to keep reminding yourself that it happened at all, even though it felt so vivid just days ago—which makes you wish you could smoothly cross-dissolve back into everyday life, or just hold the shutter open indefinitely and let one scene become superimposed on the next, so all your days would run together and you’d never have to call cut.

Eudaimonia (n.)

Origin: Greek Pronunciation: u-de-mon-e-a Meaning: literally translates to human flourishing; a contented state of being happy, healthy, and prosperous

Sturmfrei (adj.)

Origin: German Pronunciation: stirm-fra Meaning: literally translates to storm-free; the freedom of not being watched by a parent or superior; being alone in a place and having the ability to do what you want

Origin: Mandarin Chinese Pronunciation: yu-yi Meaning: the desire to see with fresh eyes, and feel things just as powerfully as you did when you were younger-before expectations, before memory, before words

Photophile (n.)

Origin: English Pronunciation: pho-to-phile Meaning: Derived from the biological term “photophilic” for an organism that thrives in full light, it means a person who loves photography and light

Traipse (v.)

Origin: Unknown Pronunciation: trayps Meaning: to walk or go aimlessly or idly or without finding or reaching one’s goal

 Neophile (n.)

Origin: Greek Pronunciation: neo-phile Meaning: one who loves or has a strong affinity for anything new or novel

Ballagàrraidh (n.)

Origin: The Dictionary of Obscure Sorrows Pronunciation: bal-la-ga-rye Meaning: the awareness that you are not at home in the wilderness

Vacilando (v.)

Origin: Spanish Pronunciation: vah-see-lan-doh Meaning: to wander or travel with the knowledge that the journey is more important than the destination

Quaquaversal (adj.)

Origin: Latin Pronunciation: kwey-kwuh-vur-sul Meaning: moving or happening in every direction instantaneously

Coddiwomple (v.)

Origin: English Pronunciation: kod-ee-wom-pul Meaning: to travel in a purposeful manner towards a vague destination

Vemödalen (n.)

Origin: The Dictionary of Obscure Sorrows Pronunciation: ve-mo-da-len Meaning: the fear that everything has already been done

“The frustration of photographing something amazing when thousands of identical photos already exist—the same sunset, the same waterfall, the same curve of a hip, the same closeup of an eye—which can turn a unique subject into something hollow and pulpy and cheap, like a mass-produced piece of furniture you happen to have assembled yourself.”

Commuovere (v.)

Origin: Italian Pronunciation: com-muo-ve-re Meaning: a story that touches or stirs you and moves you to tears

Natsukashii (adj.)

Origin: Japanese Pronunciation: nat-soo-kash-ee Meaning: of some small thing that brings you suddenly, joyously back to fond memories, not with a wistful longing for what’s past, but with an appreciation of the good times

Querencia (n.)

Origin: Spanish Pronunciation: keh-rehn-syah Meaning: a place from which one’s strength is drawn, where one feels at home; the place where you are your most authentic self

Novaturient (adj.)

Origin: Latin Pronunciation: no-vah-ter-y-ent Meaning: desiring or seeking powerful change in one’s life, behavior, or situation

Komorebi (n.)

Origin: Japanese Pronunciation: koh-moh-ray-bee Meaning: sunlight that filters through the leaves of trees

Flâneur (n.)

Origin: French Pronunciation: flah-nœr Meaning: one who strolls around aimlessly but enjoyably, observing life and his surroundings

Hanyauku (v.)

Origin: Kwangali Pronunciation: ha-ahn-yoh-kuu Meaning: to walk on tiptoes across the warm sand

Dès Vu (n.)

Origin: Dictionary of Obscure Sorrows Pronunciation: des-vu Meaning: the awareness that this will become a memory

Gallivant (v.)

Origin: English Pronunciation: gal-uh-vant Meaning: go around from one place to another in the pursuit of pleasure or entertainment

Nefelibata (n.)

Origin: Portuguese Pronunciation: ne-fe-le-ba-ta Meaning: literally translates to cloud-walker; one who lives in the clouds of their own imagination or dreams, or one who does not obey the conventions of society, literature, or art; an unconventional or unorthodox person

Petrichor (n.)

Origin: English Pronunciation: pet-ri-kawr Meaning: a distinctive scent, usually described as earthy, pleasant, or sweet, produced by rainfall on very dry ground; the smell of earth after rain

Circumnavigate (v.)

Origin: Latin Pronunciation: suh-kuhm-na-vuh-gayt Meaning: to sail or travel all the way around the world

Hitoritabi (n.)

Origin: Japanese Pronunciation: hitori-tabi Meaning: traveling alone; a solitary journey

Torschlusspanik (n.)

Origin: German Pronunciation: tursh-luss-pan-ik Meaning: literally translates to gate-closing panic; a sense of anxiety or fear caused by the feeling that life’s opportunities are passing by and diminishing as one ages

Globetrotter (n.)

Origin: English Pronunciation: globe-trawt-uh Meaning: a person who travels widely

Menggonceng (v.)

Origin: Indonesian Pronunciation: menggon-ceng Meaning: to travel by getting a free ride, usually on the back of a friend’s bicycle

Vagabond (n.)

Origin : Old French Pronunciation: va-guh-baand Meaning: a person who wanders from place to place without a home or job

Gemütlichkeit (n.)

Origin: German Pronunciation: guh-myt-likh-kahyt Meaning: a feeling of cozy warmth, friendliness, and good cheer with a sense of belonging

Erlebnisse (n.)

Origin: German Pronunciation: ayr-leeb-nis-eh Meaning: an experience that one feels most deeply, and, in a sense, ‘lives through’ – not just mere life experience, but something memorable which happens to someone

Livslogga (v.)

Origin: Swedish Pronunciation: Meaning: literally translates to life log; continually capturing and documenting one’s life through pictures

Poudrerie (n.)

Origin: French Pronunciation: pu-dre-ri Meaning: fallen snow blown by the wind from the ground, appearing like fine powdery particles across the streets and highways

Yeoubi (n.)

Origin: Korean Pronunciation: yu-bi Meaning: literally translates to fox rain; a sunshower – the event of having a light rain while the sun is still shining

Morriña (n.)

Origin: Galician Pronunciation: mo-rina Meaning: a very deep, nostalgic, and melancholic homesickness experienced as one intensely longs to return home; “a ‘saudade’ so strong it can even kill”

 Víðsýni (adj.)

Origin: Icelandic Pronunciation: vith-see-nee Meaning: a panoramic view

Xenophilia (n.)

Origin: Greek Pronunciation: zen-uh-fil-ee-uh Meaning: love for, attraction to, or appreciation of foreign people, manners, customs, or cultures

Do you have other words that describe travel? Send them over! We’d be happy to add them to our list of words for travel lovers.

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Travel Words for Greek Foods and Drinks

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Common Words for Food and Drink

Below are the Modern Greek and phonetic pronunciations for popular foods and drinks for tourists, that you can at the local cafe (καφενείο - ka-fe-nio) while traveling in Greece.

• Chicken: Κοτόπουλο (Kow-tow-pu-low)
• Feta (cheese): Φέτα (Fe-ta)
• Fish: Ψάρι (Psah-ree)
• Meat: Κρέας (Kray-ahs)
• Salad: Σαλάτα (Sah-lah-tah)
• Spanakopita: Σπανακόπιτα (Spa-na-ko-pee-ta)
• Souvlaki (shish kabob): Σουβλάκι (Sou-vla-kee)
• Tzatziki (Yogurt Sauce): Τζατζίκι (Tzaa-tzee-kee)
• Beer: Μπύρα (Bee-rah)
• Coffee: Καφές (Ka-fes)
• Milk: Γάλα (Ga-la)
• Metaxa: Μεταξά (Me-ta-xa)
• Retsina: Ρετσίνα (Ret-si-na)
• Tea: Τσάι (Tsaey)
• Tea with milk: Τσάι με γάλα (Tsaey me ga-la)
• Ouzo: Ούζο (Oo-zow)
• Water: Νερό (Neh-row)
• Wine: Κρασί (Krah-see)

Learn More Phrases

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